diff options
| author | www-data <www-data@mail.pglaf.org> | 2026-06-03 04:42:36 -0700 |
|---|---|---|
| committer | www-data <www-data@mail.pglaf.org> | 2026-06-03 04:42:36 -0700 |
| commit | f9eb1bee6e689120a3d51dcf09f9921614ea1542 (patch) | |
| tree | f7cd98e1a6b3ba11035ab065e95064a58336503f | |
| -rw-r--r-- | .gitattributes | 3 | ||||
| -rw-r--r-- | 78809-0.txt | 15550 | ||||
| -rw-r--r-- | 78809-h/78809-h.htm | 21587 | ||||
| -rw-r--r-- | 78809-h/images/cover.jpg | bin | 0 -> 236456 bytes | |||
| -rw-r--r-- | LICENSE.txt | 11 | ||||
| -rw-r--r-- | README.md | 2 |
6 files changed, 37153 insertions, 0 deletions
diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6833f05 --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,3 @@ +* text=auto +*.txt text +*.md text diff --git a/78809-0.txt b/78809-0.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..48ebac5 --- /dev/null +++ b/78809-0.txt @@ -0,0 +1,15550 @@ +*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 78809 *** + + + Transcriber’s Notes + + Text between _undrscores_ represents text printed in italics in + the source document. Small capitals have been transcribed as ALL + CAPITALS. Text between hash marks (#) represents a note printed + in the margin. + + Volume I of this text is available at Project Gutenberg as well. + + More Transcriber’s Notes may be found at the end of this text. + + + + + MORE + SECRET REMEDIES. + + WHAT THEY COST & WHAT THEY CONTAIN. + BASED ON ANALYSES MADE FOR THE + BRITISH MEDICAL ASSOCIATION. + + SECRET REMEDIES--SECOND SERIES. + + LONDON: + BRITISH MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, + 429, STRAND, W.C. + 1912. + COPYRIGHT. + + + + +TABLE OF CONTENTS. + + + PAGE + + CHAPTER I.--Remedies for Rheumatism, Gout and Neuralgia 1 + + „ II.--Preparations for Eczema and other Skin Affections 30 + + „ III.--Nerve Tonics and “Elixirs of Life” 44 + + „ IV.--Medicines for Coughs, Consumption, Catarrh etc. 71 + + „ V.--Medicines for Indigestion, Constipation, etc. 87 + + „ VI.--Kidney Medicines 102 + + „ VII.--Obesity Cures, and a “Flesh Producer” 112 + + „ VIII.--Medicines for Alcoholism and for the Tobacco Habit 128 + + „ IX.--Soothing Syrups for Infants 147 + + „ X.--Medicines for Epilepsy 152 + + „ XI.--The “Tremol Treatment” for Bad Legs 167 + + „ XII.--The “Crimson Cross Remedies” 178 + + „ XIII.--Medicines for Amenorrhœa, etc. 184 + + „ XIV.--Wallace’s Specific Remedies--“An Absolute System + of Medicine” 210 + + „ XV.--Preparations for the Hair 222 + + „ XVI.--Some Miscellaneous Medicines 231 + + „ XVII.--Unqualified Practice through the Post 241 + + „ XVIII.--The Advertising of Proprietary Medicines 252 + + „ XIX.--The “Expert” behind the Proprietary Medicine 256 + + „ XX.--Some Echoes of Volume I. 259 + + INDEX 265 + + + + +PREFACE. + + +The publication by the British Medical Association--under the title +“Secret Remedies: What they Cost and What they Contain”--of the +results of a series of analyses of some of the most advertised of the +many proprietary medicines put forward for the cure of disease, has +perhaps done more than anything else to open the eyes of the public, +the authorities, and the Legislature to the true facts in regard to +the nature of such articles and of the enormous traffic that goes +on in them. At the time of the publication of this second volume, a +public inquiry into the matter by a Parliamentary Committee has just +been opened, with a view to deciding on what alterations of the law +are necessary or desirable. The present state of the law in regard +to the matter, and of its administration, undoubtedly leave room for +much amendment. But the surest enemy of quackery in this department +is increased publicity in regard to the facts, and the recognition by +the public of the great disparity that exists in many cases between +the actual composition of many nostrums on the one hand, and the +extravagant claims that are made for their curative powers on the +other. As a further contribution to a general enlightenment on the +subject, the British Medical Association publishes in the present +volume the results of a further series of analyses of proprietary +medicines which have been carried out for the purpose, together with +extracts from the statements of the proprietors of the medicines. The +number of those at present existing is so vast that it is only possible +to deal with comparatively a few, and these have been selected, as a +rule, as being some of the most widely advertised or the most largely +sold. + +It will be recognised at once that there is a very wide variation in +the degree of exaggeration in the claims put forward. In a few cases--a +small minority--the advertisements appear to consist of very little but +an indication of the disorders for which the medicine is recommended. +At the other end of the scale there are nostrums put forward with the +greatest assurance for even the most serious disorders, including +consumption, smallpox, cancer, etc., etc., and in many cases one and +the same article is asserted to be a cure for almost every disease to +which the human body is liable. As a rule, the more extravagant the +claims made, the more surely does the composition of the article, as +revealed by analysis, show it to be of little or no value, if not even +harmful, for the diseases named. Between these extremes, of the modest +proprietary medicine--more or less of the nature of a harmless domestic +medicine--on the one hand, and the most fraudulent quackery on the +other, are to be found all gradations. The medicines described in this +book have not been chosen as inclining more in one direction than the +other, but include the various grades. From the facts stated the reader +will be able to draw his own conclusions; it has not been necessary, as +a rule, to express opinions on the articles described, a juxtaposition +of the claims made and the facts shown by analysis being sufficient. + +The analyses here published have been made with the greatest care +during the last few years. Since it is open to the maker of a +proprietary medicine to alter its composition at any time without +warning (and very great alterations have been proved in some cases), +it is, of course, possible that some of those described may have been +altered since the analyses were made, though there is no reason to +suppose that such has been the case. It is desirable to repeat here +the caution that was expressed in the first volume: most of the active +substances employed in medicine can be detected with certainty, even +in complex mixtures, by sufficiently painstaking work on the part +of the analyst; but this is not the case with preparations of some +organic drugs, usually of vegetable origin, that have never been fully +investigated, and especially with mixtures of the extracts of several +vegetable drugs; in such cases analysis can only give approximate +results, and constituents having no well-defined characters may +escape detection. Since the maker of a secret medicine is in no wise +limited to the Pharmacopœia or to drugs in ordinary use, but may +employ, for example, a mixture of extracts of a dozen plants, none +of which possesses any medicinal virtue or is recognised as a drug, +it is no matter for surprise if all the constituents of a nostrum +cannot be named as the result of analysis. But if it is remembered +that the _active_ ingredients of most substances having medicinal +properties possess well-defined characters by means of which they can +be identified, it will be seen that the limitations of the powers of +analysis here referred to are of comparatively little importance in +regard to exposing the _essential_ nature of a given medicine, or +substance put forward as such. + +The figures given in this book as the “estimated cost of ingredients” +of the various articles refer only to the ingredients, the cost prices +being taken from a wholesale druggist’s list; nothing is allowed for +the cost of making up the ingredients into the form in which they +are sold, or for bottles, boxes, packages, etc. Where the results of +analysis are not sufficiently definite for the cost of ingredients to +be estimated with reasonable fairness, the figure is omitted. + +Dr. F. Zernik, of Berlin, has continued the publication in the +_Deutsche Medicinische Wochenschrift_ of the results of his analyses +of various nostrums sold in Germany, and some of his results are here +included. + + + + +MORE + +SECRET REMEDIES. + +WHAT THEY COST AND WHAT THEY CONTAIN. + + + + +CHAPTER I. + +REMEDIES FOR GOUT, RHEUMATISM, AND NEURALGIA. + + + The medicines described in this chapter include some of those most + widely advertised for the treatment of these complaints. They show a + great variety in the methods of treating them, including as they do + powders, pills, tablets, drops, and mixtures to be taken; liniments + to be applied externally (one of these being also taken internally), + paint, ointment, and plasters to be stuck on to the soles of the + feet. The medicaments employed also vary much, but for the most part + consist of articles in common use. The advertisements are in several + respects instructive; for example, there is undoubtedly a prejudice + among the more ignorant section of the public in favour of drugs + coming from other and less civilised countries where they have been + discovered by “natives,” or introduced in some other way than through + careful experimenting, and some of the statements made are clearly + intended to turn such prejudices to account. Thus in one case it is + stated that the discoverer “went back to the heart of Nature in an + endeavour to wrest from it the secret of an ideal liniment. In the + course of his searches he was favourably impressed with the healing + properties of many herbs used by native tribes,” etc.; in another, + “this wonderful preparation is the discovery of a Hindu doctor in the + Himalayan Mountains.” In their varied forms of appeals to “Nature” + some of the advertisers do not hesitate to ascribe high intelligence + to the medicines or to parts of the body other than the brain. + Thus one states that “No one can reasonably deny an instinctive + knowledge and a physical power exerted in the stomach by a conscious + principle which selects and rejects, and which in its natural purity + may be ranked as a nerve of sense”; another that “Immediately the + liniment has been applied it sets out upon its message of discovery + and healing, travelling with lightning rapidity to the seat of the + trouble”; yet another calls his preparation “A subtle extract from + the vegetable kingdom, the hidden fire or life of plants and flowers, + the ‘Quintessence of Life.’” + + Among these articles, as in most other groups of nostrums, the + claims made by rival proprietors are mutually exclusive; those dealt + with in this chapter include the following: “Greatest and latest + discovery in medicine ... there is nothing known in medicine which + will compare with it”; “the only efficient remedy ever discovered + for these disorders”; “the finest cure for these complaints,” curing + “when all other remedies fail”; “we guarantee magic foot drafts to + cure any case of rheumatism”; “it is the one remedy that achieves a + complete and permanent cure”; “the most effective scientific remedy.” + Obviously, such claims cannot all be true. + + Most advertisers of proprietary medicines seem unable to resist + dragging in references to the medical profession into their + advertisements. There are two principal ways in which this is done: + the one is to claim to be receiving the support and recommendations + of medical men, and the other is to vilify and slander them as rogues + and fools, or both. These two methods are both illustrated here; the + former includes “highly endorsed by the leading medical profession” + and “physicians are already using them in their regular practice, + and recommending them”; the latter is exemplified by “certain + medical men have done their best by tongue and pen to persuade the + public that Box’s Golden Fire is poisonous.... Those who raise the + cry of ‘poison’ are wholesale traffickers in the same--it is their + stock-in-trade; poisons bring grist to their mills, while the poor + victims who swallow them perish by thousands.” It is hardly necessary + to remark that statements of the former kind are as a rule just as + baseless as those of the latter. + + One preparation described below--Bengué’s Balsam--cannot be properly + described as a “secret remedy,” since the principal constituents are + mentioned on the label; seeing, however, that it is advertised in + somewhat the same way as others, it is useful to include it here. + + +DR. HOFFMAN’S RHEUMATIC POWDERS. + +These powders are supplied by “The International Chemical Co.,” from an +address in London. They are advertised in the following terms: + + Greatest and latest discovery in medicine. + + Dr. Hoffman’s Celebrated Rheumatic Powders. + + Great German Rheumatic Cure. + + Will cure permanently all forms of Rheumatism, Gout, Neuralgia, + Sciatica, Excess of Uric Acid, etc. + + Highly endorsed by the leading Medical Profession, Analytical and + Consulting Chemists, and general public in all parts of the world. + Contain absolutely no injurious drugs, poison, or any kind of + Narcotic. Its manufacture is based on scientific principles. + + Relief is felt after the First Dose. + + There is nothing known in medicine which will compare with it. + +A circular enclosed in the package contained statements similar to the +above, accompanied by a so-called “analysis” in the following terms: + + I hereby certify that “Dr. Hoffman’s Rheumatic Powders” have been + tested in these laboratories, the data obtained being of a most + satisfactory character, and indicating them to be judicious and + skilful preparations that are well suited for the purposes for which + they are designed. They are valuable powders for rheumatism, gout, + and kindred complaints. These powders are free from narcotics, + poisons, or undesirable constituents, but are powerful uric acid + solvents. I consider them to be perfectly safe, reliable, and + effective medicines. + +This recommendation, or testimonial, bears the name of an individual +who has made himself conspicuous by giving such puffs under the guise +of analyses; his name is followed by a long paragraph setting forth +his title to speak with authority, commencing with “Ph.D.,” and +concluding with “Ph.D., etc.,” but with no mention of the university +which conferred this duplicate degree. Such distinctions as “author +of ... ‘The Physiology of the Invertebrate,’ ‘Respiratory Proteids,’ +etc.... Analytical Chemist, Assayer and Chemical Engineer, Consulting +Chemist, and Expert Adviser to Foreign Governments, Corporations, +Collieries, Companies, Pharmaceutical and Chemical Manufacturers; +... Bacteriological and Agricultural Expert,” are no doubt intended +to display his ability to pronounce with authority on the merits of +powders for rheumatism or on any other subject whatever. + +The powders are supplied in boxes at 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. and 2s. 9d. A 1s. +1¹⁄₂d. box was found to contain 12 powders. The directions are: + + Take one powder every three or four hours; place on the tongue, and + wash it down with a draught of water. + +It would appear that the amount taken at one time is not regarded as +of great importance, as the powders in one box varied in weight from +11.3 to 20.8 grains, the average of the 12 being 15.8 grains. Analysis +showed the powder to have the following composition: + + Acetyl-salicylic acid 66.4 per cent. + Phenacetin 11.4 „ + Caffeine 1.3 „ + Sugar 20.1 „ + Moisture 0.8 „ + +Acetyl-salicylic acid is also known by the shortened name of the B.P. +Codex, acetosalic acid, and by the trade names Aspirin, Xaxa, etc. The +estimated cost of the materials for 12 powders is 1d. + + +EADE’S GOUT AND RHEUMATIC PILLS. + +These pills are supplied by a firm in London. In an advertisement it is +stated that they + + instantly relieve and rapidly cure the worst form of gout, + rheumatism, rheumatic gout, pains in the head, face, and limbs. + +The extracts which follow are from a circular enclosed in the package +with the pills: + + They are specially recommended to the afflicted, with confidence + arising from experience, as one of the valuable results of the + improved state of medical science, and the only efficient remedy + ever discovered for these disorders. + + The never-failing effects of Eade’s Gout and Rheumatic Pills in + curing these distressingly painful diseases have secured to them a + celebrity unequalled by any medicine of past or present times. They + not only give relief in a few hours where the patient has been driven + to madness by the horrible, excruciating tortures of this disease, + but restore to perfect health in an inconceivably short space of + time--in most cases giving relief from the intolerable pain in one or + two hours; one bottle will frequently carry off the attack in two or + three days, even when the patient has kept his bed for as many weeks, + and sometimes months. + + These Pills have repeatedly succeeded after all the usual internal + and external remedies have failed; and it is their peculiar property + that the first dose completely arrests the frequent tendency of those + diseases to attack some vital part while, if attacked, the symptoms + are immediately and effectually removed. + +The pills are supplied in bottles at 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. and 2s. 9d.; a 1s. +1¹⁄₂d. bottle was found to contain 18 pills, and a 2s. 9d. bottle 60 +pills. The directions are: “Take one pill three times a day, and two +at bedtime; for delicate females and weak persons, one pill night and +morning.” + +The pills were not coated, as ordinarily understood, but had a thin +irregular layer of adherent powder, which proved to be carbonate of +magnesia; the average weight of one pill was 5.4 grains. Analysis +showed the presence of aloes, powdered colchicum corm, and extractive, +with cane sugar, glucose, gum and dextrin, various characters +indicating that the sugars were added in the form of treacle; the +amount of colchicine was determined (and the alkaloid identified) and +was found to be considerably more than would be proper to the amount of +corm present, and this fact and the presence of an extract pointed to +extract of colchicum being present as well as the corm. The amounts of +the different constituents were determined as accurately as possible; +the amount of aloes, not being determinable with any exactness, was +arrived at by comparing the pills by various tests with a mass of known +composition. The formula was found to be approximately as follows: + + Barbadoes aloes 10 per cent. + Extract of colchicum 18 „ + Powdered colchicum corm 35 „ + Treacle 27 „ + Gum and dextrin 10 „ + +Estimated cost of materials for 18 pills, ³⁄₄d.; for 60 pills, 2¹⁄₂d. + + +URICURA DROPS AND LINIMENT. + +These preparations, also known as Hammond’s Specifics, are made by a +firm in Glamorganshire. An advertisement inquires: + + Have you tried to eliminate the cause of Rheumatism, Gout, Lumbago, + and Sciatica? Uricura Drops will do this for you, being the finest + cure for these complaints. + +The price of each is 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. A bottle of the drops contained half a +fluid ounce, and of the liniment 4 fluid ounces. On the package of the +former appears: + + N.B.--In conjunction with the drops it is strongly recommended to use + Uricura Liniment. + +And on the package of the liniment: + + _N.B._--It is strongly recommended that for Rheumatism, Lumbago, and + Sciatica, Uricura Drops be taken in conjunction with the Liniment. + +In a circular enclosed in each package it is stated that: + + “Uricura” Liniment and Drops (Hammond’s Specifics) Cure Rheumatism, + Gout, Sciatica, Lumbago and Neuralgia When All other Remedies fail. + + These invaluable preparations have permanently cured many bad cases + of from One to Twenty Years’ standing. They give immediate relief, + and effect a Cure quickly if Regularly and Persistently used as + directed.... + + For Colds in the Chest, Sore Throat, and Swollen Glands, nothing + better than the Liniment can be used. + + Athletes and others will find the Liniment a most efficacious remedy + for Sprains, Bruises, Stiffness and Cramp. It has been used with + remarkable results by leading Football Players. + +_Uricura Drops._--The directions are: + + Dose.--Four Drops on sugar, night and morning. Increase two drops + each day up to 10, and then reduce two drops each day. + +Analysis showed the liquid to contain oil of turpentine, terebene, and +oil of amber; no other ingredient could be detected. The proportions +of the constituents were ascertained as nearly as possible by +analytical methods and checked by comparison with made-up mixtures. The +approximate formula arrived at was: + + Oil of amber 5 per cent. + Terebene 47.5 „ + Oil of turpentine 47.5 „ + +Estimated cost of ingredients of half a fluid ounce, ¹⁄₃d. + +_Uricura Liniment._--The directions are: + + To be gently rubbed in for 10 to 15 minutes, night and morning. + +The liniment consisted of a partly separated emulsion, which was +found to contain oil of turpentine, acetic acid, ammonia, alcohol, +egg-substance (as emulsifying agent), and water; a trace (under +0.01 per cent.) of alkaloid was found, but this did not possess any +properties by which it could be identified, and may have consisted +of bases derived from the egg. The acetic acid and ammonia of course +combine, but the former was in excess and the liniment moderately +acid, about one-fourth of the acetic acid being in the free state. +The quantities of the different ingredients were determined (the +egg-substance only approximately) and the formula arrived at was as +follows: + + Oil of turpentine 42 parts (by measure) + Acetic acid (_B.P._) 10 „ „ + Strong solution of ammonia 2.3 „ „ + Alcohol 9.0 „ „ + Egg-substance 2.0 „ „ + Alkaloid (?) 0.01 „ „ + Water, to 100 „ „ + +In estimating the cost of ingredients, the alkaloid is neglected; if +the alcohol present were added in the form of rectified spirit, the +cost of the ingredients for 4 fluid ounces would be about 1¹⁄₂d.; but +if, as is more likely, “non-mineralised methylated spirit” were used, +the different odour and other characters would be covered by the other +ingredients, and the cost would be about ³⁄₄d. + + +CHAMELEON OIL. + +This is made by a limited company giving an address in London. It is +advertised as “The Only Perfect Liniment,” but the directions show that +it is intended to be taken internally as well as applied externally. +Besides being recommended for human patients, it is described as “The +Best Veterinary Medicine Known.” + +It is stated on the package that: + + Chamelion Oil Relieves and cures Rheumatism, Sciatica, Lumbago, + Neuritis, Neuralgia, Toothache, Headache, Earache, Backache, Colds, + Sore Throats, Sprains and Strains, Stiff and Swollen Joints, + Chilblains, Chapped Hands, Insect Bites, etc., etc. + +A pamphlet enclosed in the package gives further particulars; +paragraphs headed “The Story of its Birth” and “Discovery of an Ideal +Liniment” do not actually give much information, but the references to +the heart of Nature and herbs used by native tribes seem to indicate +a method of discovery common to a very large number of nostrums. The +following are extracts from these paragraphs: + + When a Roman Scholar coined the word “Liniment” which, literally + translated, means “to anoint” he had in mind the germ idea of what + a perfect liniment should be. In his day the physician anointed + his patient with a healing balm which had the magical effect of + curing muscular trouble without the aid of that tiresome modern + invention--massage. Such a thing was totally unnecessary with Romans, + who possessed a supreme knowledge of the curative action of simple + herbs upon the human frame.... But the priceless secret of that + painless balm was lost, and so it happens, at the present day, when + an embrocation or a liniment is mentioned one instantly conceives of + some crude preparation which must be rubbed into the skin violently. + + ... It was left to Dr. Chas. F. Roberts to bring the word back to + its original meaning, as being an ointment whose sole method of + action would consist of simply anointing the affected part, and thus + painlessly effecting the cure. The task he had set himself was to + produce an external application which, to the two other virtues of + being “soothing and pain-killing,” should add a third, and the most + important of all, “a healing power.” As an advanced medical man he + realised that the ideal of the healing art should be to relieve + human pain by natural means. And so like the ancient physician, he + went back to the heart of Nature in an endeavour to wrest from it + the secret of an ideal liniment. In the course of his searches he + was favourably impressed with the healing properties of many herbs + used by native tribes, because being a rational person he believed, + like the late Rev. Charles Spurgeon, that there was a deal to be + gained from the use of “Sanctified commonsense,” which, after all, + is the sum of a man’s own tried and trusted experience. Armed with + this knowledge, which he further tested by very careful laboratory + research, his industry was at length rewarded in finding a perfect + liniment with the treble merit of being “healing, soothing, and + pain-killing,” the result of which is embodied in Chameleon Oil + Liniment. + + The action of Chameleon Oil is simplicity itself. Immediately the + Liniment has been applied it sets out upon its message of discovery + and healing, travelling with lightning rapidity to the seat of + the trouble. This found, it restores to the affected part all + that pristine freshness which pain and suffering has caused it to + lose, quickens the action of the blood, and renews the patient’s + vitality.... The principle of Chameleon Oil Liniment may be summed up + in a few words--it releases those healing powers which nature itself + has set in the human body in order to overcome the constant wastage + and ravages of disease. + +The general directions are: + + Shake the bottle thoroughly until the contents become cream coloured. + Rub the Oil gently into the affected part (use plenty of the Oil) + until the pores of the skin refuse to take any more and sweating + begins; then cover with a layer of wool, flannel, or other porous + material, and fix with a bandage. FOR STRONGER EFFECT, wash affected + part with hot water and apply Oil as above after drying. FOR VERY + POWERFUL EFFECT, wash first with very hot water, apply Oil as above + after drying, and bandage with flannel or absorbent cotton wool + soaked in the Oil or solution of it. Keep on bandage as long as + possible; note that if kept on too long it will raise a blister. + +Special directions are given for its use in various complaints. The +following will serve as a sample: + + FOR COUGHS AND COLDS. FOR COLD ON THE CHEST.--Rub the throat, chest, + and the back between the shoulder blades thoroughly with the Oil, + and while the skin is still moist apply a fold of warm flannel; take + 15 to 20 drops of the Oil in a little sweetened water, or gruel, at + bedtime. FOR CATARRH OR COLD IN THE HEAD.--Mix one part of the Oil + with eight parts of warm water, gargle the throat, inhale the fumes + up the nostrils, and a few applications will cure. FOR CONTINUED + COLDS.--Rub the chest thoroughly every night with the Oil, and cover + with a piece of flannel. Take 15 drops of the Oil in a wineglassful + of water three times a day between meals. + +A 1s. 1d. bottle which was examined contained 3 fluid ounces, and a 2s. +9d. bottle 9¹⁄₄ fluid ounces. The liquid in the two bottles differed in +composition; it consisted of an oily and an aqueous layer, these being +in the ratio of 1 to 1.66 in the one case and 1 to 2 in the other. The +figures given on the next page refer to the mean composition of the two. + +The oily layer consisted of a mixture of essential oils; this +was submitted to fractional distillation, and the following were +recognised: Oils of turpentine, camphor, mustard, spearmint, pimento, +and cassia (or cinnamon). The aqueous layer contained some alcohol, +free ammonia in considerable quantity, and a resin in combination with +ammonia as a soluble resinate; some of the resin was extracted and +examined, but its characters did not agree with those of any single +resin in ordinary use; various mixtures were made and compared with +it, but complete agreement in all characters was not arrived at, and +it is not possible to speak positively as to the nature of the resins +present. By making a mixture of balsam of tolu (4 parts) and storax +(1 part), boiling with ammonia, and filtering from the undissolved +portion, a solution of ammonium resinates was obtained which agreed +fairly well with that present in the Chameleon oil. + +The amounts of all the other constituents were determined with as much +exactness as is possible with such a mixture, and the following formula +was arrived at: + + Essential oil of mustard 0.75 part by measure + Essential oil of spearmint 0.45 „ „ + Essential oil of pimento 1.5 parts by measure + Essential oil of cassia 1.5 „ „ + Essential oil of camphor 15.0 „ „ + Oil of turpentine 15.0 „ „ + Alcohol (90 per cent.) 7.3 „ „ + Strong solution of ammonia 8.0 „ „ + Resins (as above) 1.6 „ „ + Water, to 100.0 „ „ + +A mixture prepared by this formula agreed in physical and chemical +properties with the original, except in regard to some minor characters +of the resins. + +Assuming the resins to be of the nature indicated, the estimated cost +of the ingredients for 3 fluid ounces is 3¹⁄₁₀ pence if rectified +spirit were used, and about 2¹⁄₂d. if non-mineralised methylated spirit +were used. + + +LEVASCO. + +The address given on the package of this article is merely “Levasco +Depôt, Dover”; it is described as “The Great Indian Gout and Rheumatic +Cure.” + +The following extracts are from a pamphlet contained in the package: + + Levasco.--This wonderful preparation is the discovery of a Hindu + Doctor in the Himalayan Mountains, and if you but give it a trial you + will find yourself Quickly freed from pain and anguish. + + Levasco is for outward application only, is not an oil, and requires + no rubbing, it can be conveniently used at any time. Two or three + applications daily Cures the most Chronic cases.... + + Levasco is not being advertised altogether as a business venture, but + partly from extreme gratitude of one who for many years was a great + sufferer. + + Levasco has an exhilarating effect on every nerve and muscle similar + to a soothing electric current, which diffuses a gentle warmth, goes + direct to the pain centres, and gives immediate relief. + + Levasco penetrates the skin, breaks up the Uric Acid, causing the + blood to flow freely, the pain then ceases. + + Levasco will effect a permanent Cure after years of suffering if the + directions are followed and persevered with.... + + Levasco has a pleasant and invigorating odour, the relief is + marvellous. Sufferers will sometimes resort to ordinary remedies, and + the continual pouring of drugs into an already weakened system will + snap the vitality, and cause their lives to become a misery, which + brings habitual users to an early grave. + + Gout cured in a few hours--Apply Levasco upon the affected parts.... + The first application will give immediate relief. After a few hours’ + treatment--during which time Levasco should be applied as often as + possible--your Gout will have entirely disappeared. + + Levasco applied freely will cure Lumbago or Sciatica in one night. + + _Neuritis._--Levasco rubbed upon the affected part gives immediate + relief, and after three or four applications the pain will be + gone, but do not cease using to effect the cure. You must continue + to use for a week or two--two or three times daily, or when the + pain is felt. This is a most difficult complaint to cure, and some + great authorities say it is incurable, but we have evidence where + perseverance and regular use of Levasco has effected the cure. + + No athlete should be without a bottle of Levasco. A little rubbed + on the limbs previous to and after any extra exertion ensures your + fitness for the next event. + + Headache Cured in a few minutes. + + Earache Cured in 2 minutes. + + Toothache Cured in 2 minutes. + + Great care should be taken that Levasco is not applied to wounds, + cuts, or embrasures (_sic_). + +A 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. bottle was found to hold rather less than 1 fluid +ounce. Analysis showed the presence of oleo-resin of capsicum, oils +of rosemary and lavender, camphor, alcohol, and what appeared to be +a trace of soap. The quantities of the different ingredients were +determined as exactly as possible, and the results indicated the +following formula, and a mixture prepared in accordance with it was +practically indistinguishable from the original: + + Oleo-resin of capsicum 3 grains + Camphor 6 „ + Oil of lavender 3 minims + Oil of rosemary 4 „ + Soap ¹⁄₈ grain + Alcohol (90 per cent.) to 1 fluid ounce + +Estimated cost of ingredients, ¹⁄₂d. if methylated spirit were used; +about 2¹⁄₂d. if made with rectified spirit. + + +DYXOL. + +This preparation is supplied by a firm in a small town near London. It +is stated on the package that: + + Dyxol cures Neuralgia, Toothache, Cold in the Head, Headache, + Stiff-neck, Lumbago, Rheumatism, etc., etc. + +Further particulars are given in a circular enclosed with the bottle, +from which the following extracts are taken: + + This is a simple Preparation of great value for the removal of all + kinds of Pains. Most of these are caused by Congestion of the Blood + in certain parts of the body. Relieve this Congestion and you drive + away the Pain. + + Dyxol has the power, above all other known preparations, of almost + instantly dispersing congested blood. Its efficacy in this direction + can be easily demonstrated. Rub one drop of Dyxol on the face, when, + in less than one minute, the spot will temporarily redden through the + flow of blood to the surface. + +In another advertisement the following statements occur: + + Simply rub on or inhale Dyxol according to directions, and neuralgia + vanishes like magic. Muscular Rheumatism is speedily relieved by + rubbing in a little Dyxol. Dyxol quickly removes the most obstinate + cold in the head and on the chest, and it is an excellent remedy for + Headache, Toothache, and Earache. Dyxol inhaled prevents influenza. + +A 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. bottle contained 2 fluid drachms. The general directions +are: + + No rubbing is necessary. Apply one or two drops to the part affected. + When using, fan away the vapour which arises. This will prevent + discomfort to the eyes. To produce a milder action add a small + quantity of Dyxol to an equal quantity of pure Olive Oil. + +Analysis showed the principal constituent to be volatile oil of +mustard, others being oils of pimento and nutmeg, liquid paraffin +(heavy and light), and a fixed oil; the latter appeared to be +cottonseed oil, but the quantity was too small for positive +identification. The results of quantitative analysis indicated the +following formula, and a mixture prepared in accordance with it was +practically indistinguishable from the original: + + Essential oil of mustard 20 per cent. by volume. + Essential oil of nutmeg 20 „ „ + Essential oil of pimento 4 „ „ + Cottonseed oil 6 „ „ + Liquid paraffin, yellow 17 „ „ + Kerosene 33 „ „ + +Estimated cost of ingredients for ¹⁄₄ oz., 2d. + + +POND’S ARTHRITICUS. + +This preparation is supplied by a firm in London. It is stated on the +label that it + + cures Gout, Rheumatism, Rheumatic Gout, Lumbago, Sciatica, and + all Rheumatic Affections.... It contains no drugs, no colchicum. + Arthriticus neutralises all Gouty and Rheumatic Acidity in the + Stomach, Liver and Bowels; removes the offending matter from the + System, the Blood is purified, the Liver and Kidneys are relieved, + the Joints become supple, and there is a general freedom from pain. + The Skin, participating in the improvement, loses any Gouty Eczema + which may exist, and assumes a healthy appearance. + +A pamphlet enclosed in the package bears the title: + + Gout and Goutiness. Their cause, treatment, cure, and prevention. By + Geo. P. Pond, M.P.S., Surgeon-Chiropodist. In practice since 1857. + +The degree of enlightenment to be obtained from this treatise may be +judged from the following extracts: + + No food or drink is gouty; yet, no alcoholic drink can be said to be + good for gout; that is, anti-gout; it is the quantity and quality + which are so.... + + No one can reasonably deny an instinctive knowledge and a physical + power exerted in the stomach by a conscious principle which selects + and rejects, and which in its natural purity may be ranked as a nerve + of sense.... + + Air, again, is as necessary with every mouthful in the process of + digestion as the gastric juice itself; it mixes with the saliva which + pours out of four different glands of different kinds and forms a + powerful solvent for the food.... + + Water, like air, is nourishing.... + + Cold is death, warmth is life. Cold is, perhaps, the greatest cause + of disease.... Of all supposed remedies to strengthen the body, cold + baths in cold weather are the most dangerous. + +Several other preparations from the same maker are recommended in the +pamphlet. + +The price of “Arthriticus” is 2s. 6d. per package; this was found +to contain a bottle holding nearly 13 fluid ounces of liquid and 16 +powders. The directions are: + + One of the Powders to be taken with every dose, mixed thus: In a + tumbler pour a wineglassful of water, mix with it a sixteenth part of + the Arthriticus, then add one of the Powders and drink immediately, + while effervescing. + +It is ordered to be taken night and morning for gravel and affections +of the kidneys and bladder, and all abnormal conditions of the urine; +twice or thrice daily for rheumatism, sciatica, lumbago, etc.; and +similarly in other cases. + +The powders varied in weight from 10.9 grains to 17.4 grains, the +average being 14.2 grains; they consisted of tartaric acid. Analysis +showed the mixture to have the following composition: + + In one dose, + approximately. + Lithium citrate 1.4 parts 5.0 grains + Potassium citrate 0.9 part 3.0 „ + Sodium citrate 0.2 „ 0.7 grain + Sodium salicylate 1.5 parts 5.3 grains + Potassium bromide 1.6 „ 5.6 „ + Potassium bicarbonate 8.0 „ 28.0 „ + Glycerine 5.1 „ 18.0 „ + Chloroform water, about 10 „ by measure + Water, to 100 „ „ + +On mixing a dose of the liquid with one powder, the resulting draught +would be alkaline even with the heaviest powder; the alkalinity would +of course be greater when the lighter powders were used. + +Estimated cost of ingredients for mixture and powders, 2¹⁄₂d. + + +MAGIC FOOT DRAFTS. + +This is the name by which plasters, to be applied to the soles of the +feet for the cure of rheumatism, are supplied by the Magic Foot Draft +Company, London, the price being 4s. 6d. per pair. In addition to the +numerous advertisements of the article by name, others have appeared +recently, offering in the name of R. A. Oliver to send “my Celebrated +External Treatment [for Rheumatism] ... to try free” to anyone sending +his name and address. On sending a name and address a pair of the “Foot +Drafts” was received (differing from those sold in the ordinary way by +bearing no revenue stamp), together with a long letter and a printed +sheet of testimonials. The letter states: + + the Drafts cannot be purchased for less than 4s. 6d. per pair + anywhere, and you can see that we could not afford to send them on + approval if they did not really cure. + + To introduce our great discovery most favourably to you, and through + you to your friends, we are going to make this extraordinary + inducement: Give this pair of Drafts a careful trial; if the results + give you faith in our wonderful absorption method, as they must, we + shall be pleased to send you three more pairs of our Foot Drafts on + receipt of 11s., and as we make no charge for the first pair to all + those who accept this offer, this will make four pairs (18s. worth) + of Magic Foot Drafts for only 11s.... We have found by careful study + of this disease, based on years of experience, that this number of + Drafts will effect a cure in nine out of ten patients, because it + nearly always takes all the power of the first two pairs to open up + the clogged pores and start the removal of all poisonous acid urates. + It is the third and fourth pair that invariably bring that sense of + relief and freedom from pain that every poor sufferer is looking for. + +This was followed at short intervals by other letters pressing for +money to be sent. In the second it is stated: + + We take a sincere interest in your case [no case had been even + mentioned in sending for the “cure”], and we are going to cure you. + Now that the cure has been started, every day’s delay makes it more + difficult for the Drafts to do their work, and we trust that we shall + hear from you by return post. + +From the third letter: + + We prefer to think that the promise you made us two weeks ago has + escaped your memory. + +[Of course no sort of promise had been made.] + +From the fourth: + + We think that we are justified in asking to hear from you, for we + have spent some considerable time and money in your case; frankly, + because we were interested in it.... According to our terms, which + you accepted when writing for the first pair of Drafts, we must have + by return either 4s. 6d. (for which another pair of drafts will be + sent) or your statement on honour that you received no benefit.... We + guarantee to cure you. + +The letters quoted freely from alleged testimonials, and further +printed sheets of these were also sent. On one of these is printed in +large capitals: “We guarantee Magic Foot Drafts to cure any case of +rheumatism!” + +Curious discrepancies are shown by some of the testimonials. Thus in +the advertisement, referred to above, in which the name “Foot Drafts” +is carefully avoided, we read: + + A marvellous cure has been effected in the case of Mr. James Bodman, + 8, The Mount, Frome. Mr. Bodman writes: “I have suffered from + Rheumatism for the past seven years, and was almost a hopeless wreck. + I tried all sorts of remedies and doctors, but to no avail, and was + sinking fast when I tried your treatment. I am glad to say that it + has cured all my sufferings, and I have had no aches or pains since. + I may add that I am 72 years old, and feel as supple in my joints as + a young man.” + +The following is printed on one of the sheets mentioned above: + + 8, The Mount, Frome, + 1st Feb., /09. + + The Magic Foot Draft Co., + Shoe Lane, E.C. + + Dear Sir,--I received your letter of recent date, and am pleased + to give you the following account of my case of Rheumatism. I have + suffered from this complaint for the past seven years, and was almost + a hopeless wreck. I could neither dress nor undress without help. I + could get no rest in bed or up, and my life was a perfect misery. I + tried all sorts of remedies, too numerous to mention, which did not + give me the least comfort. I also saw a doctor, who stated that he + could not cure me. He, however, gave me something to relieve the pain + for a couple of nights, but then I became even worse than before. At + last I gave up all hopes of ever getting better; in fact, I felt I + was fast sinking, until a kind friend called to inquire after me. She + said it grieved her to see me walk about such a pitiful sight, and + asked if I would try Magic Foot Drafts, as she had received such good + results from them. I consented, and she wrote to you for me. I only + used three pairs, which cured me of all my sufferings, and I have had + no aches or pains or any other complaint since. I may add that I am + in my 72nd year, and feel as lissom in all my joints as a young man. + I cannot estimate the value of your Magic Foot Drafts to sufferers + from Rheumatism. I have highly recommended them to several sufferers + since my cure. I scarcely ever go out without someone asking me how I + got so well. It makes me feel almost like an agent of the Magic Foot + Draft Co. Please send me another of your books, so that I may bring + your treatment more directly before my friends and acquaintances. + Again thanking you, + + I remain, yours faithfully, + JAMES BODMAN. + +Yet again, in one of the letters from the Magic Foot Draft Co., already +quoted from, dated “June 2nd/10,” it is stated that: + + Mr. James Bodman, of 8, The Mount, Frome, Somerset, has just written + us regarding the result of three pairs of Drafts. “I have suffered + from Rheumatism for the past seven years, and was almost a hopeless + wreck, as I could not rest in bed nor when I was up, so that my + life was a perfect misery. I tried various remedies, and also saw a + doctor, who, while he could not cure me, gave me something to relieve + the pain for a couple of nights, but I became worse after this. I had + given up all hope when a friend who called to see me stated that she + had received wonderful results from Magic Foot Drafts, and asked for + permission to send for a pair for me. I am now delighted to tell you + that after wearing three pairs of Drafts, I have not an ache or pain, + and I am completely cured of all my sufferings. I am in my 72nd year, + and I feel as supple now in all my joints as a young man. I cannot + estimate the value of your Magic Foot Drafts, and I can never thank + you enough for the benefit they have given me.” + +This had been “just received” on June 2nd, 1910. The phraseology +has not changed much in the interval of sixteen months; but as the +gentleman is still in his 72nd year, evidently time stands still with +him; curiously, though, in the letter first quoted, which appeared in a +newspaper advertisement on May 18th, 1910, he is already 72 years old. + +One wonders how Mr. Bodman was induced to send three variants of his +letter, one of them obligingly omitting any reference to Foot Drafts by +name and substituting “your treatment.” + +The same differences are shown in other letters; in one place is a +letter over the name of J. W. Ludell, ascribing two cures to Magic Foot +Drafts, while in the advertisement in which the latter name is not used +he is represented as saying that one cure was due to “your Antiseptic +Plasters” and the other to “your treatment”; two variants are given in +different places of a letter from Mr. J. Bull, in one of which he says: +“I am thankful to think I tried the Foot Drafts, for they are worth +double what you charge for them,” and in the other: “I am thankful +that I tried your Foot Drafts, for they are worth a good many times +the money that I paid.” All this appears to suggest either that the +writers of the testimonials are very obliging in supplying varying +readings of them, or else that the advertiser alters them according to +his fancy; unless indeed, they are entirely manufactured. + +A booklet which is also sent, entitled “Rheumatism, Its Cause and +Cure,” contains various plain and coloured pictures professing to +represent nerves, arteries, etc., of the leg and foot, and gives an +account of how the “Drafts” are supposed to act; the following extract +will suffice: + + The rheumatic sufferer faces this situation:--His or her system + has become more or less clogged with rheumatic poisons--lithic + acid, uric acid, lactic acid, or any other toxin, as the case may + be. This poison may be either driven out or drawn out. Certain + agents--salicylic acid, for example--will sometimes accomplish the + former result; but the system will then contain a poison worse than + the rheumatism. In fact, remedies which are strong enough to be + effective against rheumatism almost invariably ruin the digestive + organs. Magic Foot Drafts, as the name implies, draws the poisons + out through the pores of the tender skin on the bottom of the feet. + The Drafts absorb this poison. A pair should be worn only six days, + as they become filled with the waste matter from the body and need + renewing in that length of time, if the case is a bad one.... + Physicians are already using them in their regular practice, and + recommending them. + +The “drafts” consisted of plasters spread on a sort of jaconet backing, +of oblong shape and measuring about 5 in. by 3¹⁄₂ in.; the darker +central portion measured about 3³⁄₄ in. by 2¹⁄₂ in. The margin was +coated with about 10 grains of sticky material, which had the physical +and chemical characters of “Venice turpentine”; the darker portion, +or the plaster itself, weighed about 80 grains and was found to be a +mixture of Stockholm tar and the powdered rhizome of white hellebore +(_Veratrum album_); determination of their proportions showed the +formula to be, approximately: + + Powdered white hellebore 40 per cent. + Stockholm tar 60 „ + +No other ingredients could be detected. + +Estimated cost of ingredients for one pair ¹⁄₆d. + + +CELMO. + +This preparation is supplied by the Celmo Company, London. It is in the +form of tablets, of which a 2s. 9d. bottle contained thirty-six. In a +booklet contained in the package the tablets are described as: + + Specific for all uric acid ailments, viz.: Gout, Rheumatism, + Rheumatic Gout, Lumbago, Gouty Dyspepsia, Sciatica, Eczema, Neuritis, + Gouty Eczema, Suppressed Gout, etc. + +Other extracts are: + + In order to effect a cure the first requisite is to remove the cause. + This can only be accomplished by administering a remedy which has + the power of dissolving uric acid, and which will also restore the + normal alkalinity of the blood so as to prevent fresh depositions. + This remedy we present in “Celmo” Tablets. It is the One remedy that + achieves a complete and permanent cure, and is the only medicine + in the world that has a direct and combined action on the Kidneys, + Liver, Stomach, Bladder, Bowels, and Digestive Organs.... + + We find, in the large majority of cases, from five to eight bottles, + 4s. 6d. size, sufficient. The tablets must be taken with absolute + regularity, and there should be no interval whatever between the + bottles. It is always advisable to state your ailment and order of us + direct. We then can change the dose as and when required to expedite + a cure. + +A so-called “analysis” is published, which is as follows: + + I have made a careful Chemical examination of the above-described + sample of Compressed Tablets known as “Celmo,” and from my results + I am able to certify that they are absolutely free from Arsenic, + Mercury, Opium, Digitalis, and Colchicum. + + I find that these tablets have been prepared from pure drugs of the + best possible quality, and contain nothing of an injurious nature + whatsoever. The formula from which they are made has been submitted + to me, and I am of opinion that it is an excellent one in every way, + and one which is not capable of improvement. + +After reading in the booklet quoted from that Celmo is “the One +remedy,” and “the only medicine in the world that,” etc., it is +somewhat surprising to read, in another circular also enclosed in the +package, that: + + Every intelligent person is aware it is impossible to prepare any + one medicine for Rheumatism, Gout, etc., to suit every system. We + overcome this difficulty by supplying “Celmo” Tablets in two forms, + both for Uric Acid ailments. + +It further appears that there is also a “Celmo No. 2” for indigestion, +etc. (described in Chapter V.), “Celmo Laxative,” “Celmo Ointment,” and +“Celmo Liniment.” + +The directions are: + + In commencing treatment, take two tablets with half an ordinary glass + of water just before or after each of the three meals, making six + tablets per day. In very severe cases three tablets can be taken at + a dose until pain is relieved, then two as above. A child’s dose, + one-half to one tablet at times stated. + +The tablets had an average weight of 5¹⁄₂ grains. They had a slight +smell of oil of juniper, but the amount present was far too small to be +determined, and can only be described as a trace. Analysis showed the +presence of acetyl-salicylic acid (commonly known as aspirin), powdered +charcoal, maltose, glucose, and dextrin (these three being evidently +present as malt extract, used for binding the powders together), +magnesium silicate, alkaloid, extractive, and the mineral constituents +commonly found in vegetable extracts; a slight trace of a pungent +substance resembling capsicum oleo-resin was also present. Ordinary +talc is magnesium silicate, but the mineral of that composition here +present did not have the physical properties of ordinary talc; it is, +of course, quite inert, talc being commonly added to tablets as a +lubricant to facilitate their production by a machine. The alkaloid and +extractive did not show any characters by which they could be certainly +identified; the alkaloid did not agree, in its behaviour to various +tests, with any of the alkaloids in ordinary medicinal use. + +The proportions of the various constituents were determined as +accurately as practicable, and indicated the following formula: + + Acetyl-salicylic acid 35.5 per cent. + Powdered charcoal, about 8.0 „ + Malt extract, dry 18.0 „ + Magnesium silicate 14.5 „ + Other mineral constituents 2.8 „ + Water 12.3 „ + Alkaloid 0.5 „ + Extractive, about 8.0 „ + Oleo-resin of capsicum trace. + Oil of juniper „ + + +DR. BENGUÉ’S BALSAM. + +This preparation, made by a firm giving addresses in Paris and London, +differs from most of those dealt with here in the important respect +that the principal constituents are stated on the label, and it is, +therefore, not altogether a “secret remedy.” It is included in this +series, since it is advertised to the public as + +“A wonderful Remedy for Rheumatism, Gout, Neuralgia.” + +In a circular enclosed in the package it is stated that: + + The following is an enumeration of the different diseases in which + Dr. Bengué’s Balsam has proved to be the most effective scientific + remedy. + + Acute or Chronic Rheumatism; } + Gout; } + Various forms of Neuralgia, } Spread the Balsam on the affected + Facial, Intercostal, Lumbar, } part and cover up carefully with + Ovarian, Sciatical; } cotton wool. After two or three + Locomotor Ataxy; } applications the parts affected + Various forms of Hyperæsthesia;} should be cleansed with warm water + Saturnine Colics; } so as to facilitate the absorption + Nephritic Colics; } of the Balsam when the next + Peritonitis; } dressing of the Balsam is applied. + Gastralgia; } + Torticollis; Zona. } + +The “Balsam” is supplied in collapsible tubes; a 2s. package contained +1¹⁄₅ oz. On the label, following the name, are the words “Menthol, +Methyl-Salicylate, Lanolin,” and these three substances were found to +be present. Analysis showed the composition to be: + + Menthol 18 per cent. + Methyl salicylate 20 „ + Lanoline, anhydrous 54 „ + A fat, apparently lard 8 „ + +Estimated cost of ingredients, 1¹⁄₄d. + + +BOX’S PILLS AND GOLDEN FIRE. + +These preparations are supplied from an address in a south-coast town. +The “Golden Fire” is more especially recommended for rheumatism, but +it is stated that “in severe cases of Rheumatism, etc., Box’s Pills +should be taken in conjunction with the ‘Golden Fire,’” and the two +are associated in many of the statements made. The following specimen +extracts are from circulars enclosed in the packages, and other +advertisements: + + Box’s Golden Fire is a New Discovery for the removal of diseases, + being an Electric Fluid of Intense Power in rapidly attenuating, + dissolving, and removing obstructions in any part of the system. + + Box’s Golden Fire, which is used internally and externally, is a + subtle extract from the vegetable kingdom, the hidden fire or life + of plants and flowers, the “Quint-essence of Life!” Call it, if you + please, “Bottled Fire!” “Bottled Health!” “Bottled Life!” + + This Great Remedy and its accompaniment are sure cures for + rheumatism, diphtheria, etc. + +In some advertisements the medicines are described as “The Giant +Remedy,” and it is explained that + + The Giants have declared war against unbelief, and are determined to + push the battle to the gate. The Giants ask for no quarter nor will + they show any, therefore one of the contending parties must be wiped + out. The Giants in fight are a noble race and are of ancient origin. + Their fathers lived in Eden, and their seed rising upon the wings of + the wind, ultimately spread over the whole earth. + + They have lived since the days of creation in the fields, without a + covering, sipping the dew and drinking in the sunshine and the rain. + When in their prime they were translated to ---- ---- ---- where + they sleep. And when the proprietor of the Giant Remedy calls them + they awake, and, springing upon the foe, they quickly overwhelm and + annihilate him, and joyfully hand back the captive to his friends + in perfect health. Their origin is Divine. As you now see them so + they came from the hands of their Creator, filled with the nectar of + health and life from root to leaf. + +In a circular dealing more especially with the pills directions are +given for their use for costiveness, bad taste in the mouth, heart +disease, corpulency, sick headache, wind and swelling after meals, +toothache, influenza, inflammation of brain, stomach, bowels, lungs, +kidneys, etc., fevers, sore throats, diphtheria, and tumours. One of +the “testimonials” is headed, in large letters, “Cancer Cured.” The +full directions in the case of influenza will serve as a sample: + + Take as directed on the label. Also make a strong tea of Elder + Blossom and Peppermint Herb, and drink a pint at bedtime. Repeat + the tea at bedtime for two or three nights, if necessary. It seldom + requires repeating. This will save when on the brink of death. + +The thrilling nature of some of the testimonials may be judged by an +extract: + + My brother-in-law had his leg jammed in South Africa between rocks, + just above the ankle. He came home, and feared he would be a cripple + for life. I advised him to get your Pills and “Golden Fire,” which he + did, and after 6 days a spot came out under the heel as Black As Your + Hat. He has since left for America Quite Cured. + +Another circular states: + + As certain medical men have done their best by tongue and pen to + persuade the public that Box’s Golden Fire is poisonous, the said + Golden Fire in consequence has been submitted to a rigid Chemical + Analysis. The following Report from the Eminent Analyst will + effectually sew up the lying lips. + +Then follows the report, which is in the usual style of such +“analyses,” and states that the “Golden Fire” was found to consist +of “certain carefully selected and powerful, but perfectly innocent, +ingredients, which combined (as in the mixture) may be taken internally +or applied externally without fear or hesitation.” + +The circular continues: + + Those who raise the cry of “Poison” are wholesale traffickers in the + same--it is their stock-in-trade: Poisons bring grist to their mills, + while the poor victims who swallow them perish by thousands. + +The directions for use are: + + For Rheumatism, Lumbago, Gout, Neuralgia, Sprains, Chest Affections, + Asthma, Bronchitis, Swellings, Tumours, Enlarged Joints, etc., the + Golden Fire should be rubbed in briskly three or four times a day; + and in extreme cases a piece of flannel should be saturated with the + Golden Fire and applied after each application. + + For Sore Throat, Quinsy, and Diphtheria, rub in several times a day; + and to one tablespoonful of Golden Fire add one tablespoonful of + water and gargle every two hours. + + For the above, Golden Fire should be taken internally three times a + day, in a little water, beginning with six drops and increasing a few + drops each dose until a teaspoonful is reached, and continue until + well. + + For toothache, apply Golden Fire to the Tooth and rub it well into + the gums. For Neuralgia, Bruises, Sprains, etc., rub it briskly over + the seat of pain. For Polypus, apply with a camel-hair brush, and rub + in on the outside twice a day. + +A 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. bottle of the “Golden Fire” contained nearly 2¹⁄₂ fluid +ounces of liquid. Analysis showed this to contain acetic acid, sodium +chloride, volatile oils, a little alcohol, starch, dextrin, extractive, +and the pungent principle of capsicum. The mixture of essential oils +appeared to consist of oils of camphor, eucalyptus, rosemary, and +amber. After determining the quantities of the other ingredients, the +amount left to be described as starch, dextrin, and extractive was +about 7 per cent. of the liquid; this part possessed no characters +by which its source could be determined, but the liquid contained +solid particles which appeared to be due to defective straining, and +microscopical examination of these showed them unmistakably to consist +of barley, lobelia, and capsicum, and the liquid appears, therefore, +to be a decoction of these, with the addition of the other ingredients +named. The pungency was just similar to that of an aqueous decoction +of capsicum; the proportions of barley and lobelia could not be +determined; the amounts of the other substances found are given in the +following formula: + + Oil of amber 0.16 per cent. + Oil of rosemary 0.16 „ + Oil of eucalyptus 0.32 „ + Oil of camphor (essential) 1.3 „ + Sodium chloride 6.4 „ + Glacial acetic acid 6.4 „ + Alcohol 1.0 „ + Decoction of capsicum. + Decoction of barley. + Decoction of lobelia. + +It is hardly necessary to point out that lobelia is a dangerous drug to +be administered and taken by ignorant people. + +A 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. box of the pills contained fifty-three of various sizes +and shapes, roughly coated with talc, and having an average weight of +2¹⁄₂ grains each. The directions on the label are, “Dose--Two pills +morning and evening, after meals.” Analysis showed the presence of +powdered capsicum in considerable quantity, this drug forming, in +fact, so large a proportion of the pill, that the recognition of other +ingredients was a difficult matter; microscopic examination showed +also powdered gentian, and a flour which did not agree perfectly +in character with any ordinary flour, though having a considerable +resemblance to barley flour; small quantities of soap and aloes +appeared to be present, and a trace of an essential oil or other +aromatic substance which was not identified. The following formula +gave a pill substantially agreeing in characters with the pill under +examination: + + Powdered capsicum 35 parts. + Powdered gentian 15 „ + Flour 15 „ + Aloes 20 „ + Soap 5 „ + Water to 100 „ + + +BOWDEN’S INDIAN BALM. + +This article is supplied by a firm in the West of England at prices +from 7¹⁄₂d. to 10s. A tin priced 2s. 9d. was found to contain about 4 +oz. + +It is described on the package as + + For all Inflammations, Muscular Complaints, Skin Diseases, etc., as + Inflamed Eyes, Neuralgia, Face-ache, Bronchitis, Rheumatism, Eczema, + Ringworm, Cuts, Stings, Wounds, Scalds, Burns, Strains, Piles, + Chilblains, Chaps, etc. + +Circulars enclosed in the package also contained recommendations +of the use of the Balm for colds, congested nostrils, catarrh, +whooping-cough and croup, lumbago, stiff-neck, erysipelas, bedsores, +irritation after fever or vaccination, eruptions, abscesses, boils, +ulcers, itching at the anus, sores, sprains, bruises, mumps, abrasions, +stings of mosquitos and other insects, sunburn, sore and tender feet, +inflammation of the bowels, cancerous sores, asthma, coughs and chest +complaints, sore throats, whitlow, corns and warts. + +It is further stated that: + + This Preparation contains no less than seventeen ingredients, + including Valuable Balsams, Extracts, Essences, Indian Oils, + etc., and so is a veritable little Medicine Chest in itself. Few + other remedies will be required where it is kept at hand and used + habitually. + + The most delicate Lady or Child, as well as the strongest Athlete, + will find the Indian Balm to be a treasure. It can be used with + perfect safety upon an open wound, be placed upon the Eyeball for + Inflammation, or be used internally for Complaints of Throat and + Chest. It will draw out every particle of injurious matter before + healing any Ulcer or Sore, thus preventing a return of the trouble. + Prompt application to Wound, Scald, or Burn is the best preventive of + Blood Poisoning. + +Lengthy directions are given for its use in a variety of cases; the +following will suffice as examples: + + Ophthalmia and Inflammation of the Eye.--Rub the Indian Balm round + the Eyes two or three times a day. In acute cases apply inside the + lids. + + Inflammation of the Gums, Toothache, and Faceache.--Well rub the + Balm on the Gums and Face. When the Tooth is hollow the Balm can be + inserted on cotton wadding. + + Inflammation of the Bowels and Pain in the Small of the Back.--Foment + the parts with hot water, and briskly rub with Balm (10 to 15 minutes + at a time) till relieved. + +It would appear to be equally efficacious when administered internally, +for we read: + + Sufferers from Asthma, Croup, Bronchitis, and all Throat or Chest + Complaints find the soothing and healing effects of Indian Balm, when + taken internally on lump sugar, to be immediate and remarkable. It + also enables patients to get rid of injurious phlegm. Public Speakers + and Singers should use it. The Balm is pleasant to use and effectual + in operation. + +The “Balm” consisted of a brownish-yellow ointment. Analysis showed +the presence of about 7 per cent. of volatile oil, in which oil of +eucalyptus predominated, and a fatty basis. The oil did not contain as +much cineol as an ordinary good specimen of eucalyptus oil, and some +evidence was obtained of the presence of essential oil of camphor, +terebene, and oil of lemon. The solid basis contained, besides fatty +constituents, a very small amount of ammonia, and a little of a +resinous substance; the latter was not ordinary resin, but showed no +distinctive characters sufficing for its identification. It may have +been derived from balsam of Peru, or some similar ingredient, but +comparison of its properties pointed to the probability of a mixture +of balsamic substances. The statement that seventeen ingredients are +present may be true, for the essential ingredients are a fatty basis, a +mixture of volatile oils, and resinous material, and each one of these +can easily be made of an almost unlimited number of ingredients mixed +together; no other active substance was found. An ointment prepared +from the following formula, which is based on the analytical results +obtained with the “balm,” strongly resembled the latter, and only +differed from it in minor points: + + Lard 35 per cent. + Cocoanut oil 35 „ + Tallow 10 „ + Rape oil 5 „ + Lanoline, anhydrous 4.5 „ + Balsam of Peru 1 „ + Oil of eucalyptus 5 „ + Terebene 1.5 „ + Essential oil of camphor 1.5 „ + Essential oil of lemon 0.5 „ + Solution of ammonia 1 „ + Annatto colouring a sufficiency. + + +BATH SALTS FOR RHEUMATISM. + +Recently certain “bath salts” have been largely advertised for the +treatment of complaints of this kind by means of baths. We give here +the results of analysis of some of the principal articles of this kind. + + +OZONIA. + +This is supplied by a firm in Dublin, in a packet, price 1s., +containing about 3 oz. The package contained a descriptive leaflet, +from which the following extracts are taken: + + The introduction of Ozonia marks a new era in the treatment of + Rheumatism, Gout, and allied complaints. This remarkable preparation + is used in the bathing water, where it reaches the source of the + trouble through the pores of the skin. The whole body is treated + at once, and not the least trouble is entailed to the sufferer. + The system is thoroughly cleansed--the poisonous uric acid is + neutralised, and the patient is reinvigorated. The method is new, but + it has hundreds of wonderful cures to its credit already--so try one + packet, and judge by results.... + + The Bath Cure. Bathe in it--that’s all. + + There are many complaints which are acknowledged to have one root + cause. The cause of Rheumatism, Sciatica, Lumbago, and Gout is the + presence of too much uric acid in the blood. The problem of how to + remove this poison has hitherto proved unsolvable, but now Ozonia + has been proved to be the proper means. The worst cases of uric acid + troubles yield to the soothing medicated waters of Ozonia.... + + “Ozone,” the health-giving principle of Fresh Sea Breezes, is + liberated in the “Ozonia” bath, and has a marvellous exhilarating + effect on the patient; this, combined with the stimulating effect + of the other constituents of the bath, induces a feeling of bodily + well-being which is most gratifying. + + How to use “Ozonia.” + + Dissolve one packet in an ordinary bath of hot water, and immerse the + body in it, keeping the face and back of the neck sponged. + + Remain in the bath at least 15 or 20 minutes, even longer if desired. + + The best time for taking the Bath is before going to bed, but this is + not imperative. + + Number of Baths to be taken. In severe cases a bath every second + night is advised, but when the acute symptoms have disappeared, a + bath once or twice a week is sufficient; in most cases, a series of + 12 baths will be found to effect a perfect cure. + + If total immersion is not feasible, stuping with a hot solution (a + tablespoonful of “Ozonia” to a gallon of water) is very beneficial, + but complete immersion gives best results. + +Analysis showed the composition of the salt to be: + + Sodium carbonate, reckoned as anhydrous 77.00 per cent. + Water 22.30 per cent. + Chloride, reckoned as sodium chloride 0.46 per cent. + Potassium salt a trace. + +In view of the statement, quoted above, that ozone is liberated in the +bath, special search was made for any ingredient, such as percarbonate, +perborate, or peroxide, which could yield oxygen, but no trace was +found of any such substance. Commercial sodium carbonate commonly +contains a little chloride, such as the quantity found. + + +ANTURIC BATH SALTS. + +This preparation is supplied by a limited company in London. A tin, +price 1s. 6d., contained about 4¹⁄₂ oz. It is described on the package +as: + + For Gout, Rheumatism, Sciatica. + + Directions. Dissolve the contents of one tin in a bath full of hot + water. Take two baths weekly for six weeks. The water should be as + hot as can be comfortably borne. In severe cases the contents of two + tins may be used for one bath. + + If it is inconvenient to use a full bath, or for local affections + fomentations may be used; for this purpose dissolve a tablespoonful + of the Anturic Salts in a gallon of hot water, and bathe the part + affected. + + After the cure an occasional bath is desirable. + +Analysis showed the salt to consist of: + + Sodium carbonate, reckoned as anhydrous 96.86 per cent. + Water 2.70 „ + Chloride trace + Potassium salt „ + Perfume „ + + +RHEUMSOL BATH SALTS. + +This is supplied from an address near London. A tin, price 1s., +contained about 5 oz. It is described on the tin as: + + Uric Acid Solvent. For Rheumatism, Gout, etc. + + Directions for use. Add the contents of this tin to a full-sized bath + of hot water. For a smaller bath less in proportion. A bath should be + taken every third night for a month. + +Analysis showed the salt to consist of: + + Sodium carbonate, reckoned as anhydrous 87.96 per cent. + Water 11.18 „ + Chloride considerable trace + Potassium salt trace + +Exsiccated sodium carbonate (_B.P._) is practically anhydrous, and +is priced in a wholesale druggist’s list at 7d. per lb. One pound of +anhydrous sodium carbonate of commercial quality represents about 2³⁄₄ +lb. of common washing soda crystals. + + +SOME GERMAN NOSTRUMS. + +Dr. F. Zernik, of Berlin, has continued the publication in the +_Deutsche Medicinische Wochenschrift_ of the results of his examination +of various German nostrums. The following notes refer to preparations +advertised for rheumatism. + + _Dr. Richter’s Orudon Essence_ preparation has been introduced + at the “Hof-Apotheke” (a pharmacy holding the right of using the + affix “Court”) in Elbing as a remedy for rheumatic and analogous + affections. The directions for use are that the essence should be + taken in doses of from 4 to 6 teaspoonfuls according to the severity + of the case, diluted in a tumblerful of sugar water. It is claimed + that it contains a new chemical substance--namely, _ammonium iodatum + salicyl. solubl._--as well as other ingredients which the medical + profession has found to be most useful during the past decades. + Among these is mentioned “_diaethyl-diamin_,” aromatic extract + and brandy (cognac). It is sold in bottles, containing 135 c.cm., + at 6s. the bottle. The fluid, which is dark brown and bitter, was + found to contain ammonium salicylate and iodide, but not a trace + of the “new” chemical substance, which Zernik points out has long + been recognised in chemistry, piperazin, which is diaethylen-diamin + and not diaethyl-diamin, as well as alcohol and some extractives + and perfumes, the nature of which could not be identified. _Orudon + Salt_ is supposed to act well in the same conditions as the essence. + A bottle of this powder costs 5s. 6d., and is stated by the + manufacturers to contain basic citrate of urea (an imaginary chemical + substance!), magnesium, sodium, lithium carbonate, citric acid, + sodium sulphate, and extract of almonds. The analysis proved it to + be a mixture of about 10 per cent. theobromine-sodio-salicylate, 10 + per cent. sodium sulphate, 4 per cent. urea, 16 per cent. magnesium + citrate, 4 per cent. sodium citrate, 2 per cent. lithium citrate, + and fully 40 per cent. citric acid, together with a bitter extract. + No trace of a substance which could correspond to the alleged basic + citrate of urea was found. + + _J. Völlner’s World-renowned Rheumatism Cotton-wool_ is, it is + stated, manufactured by W. Völlner, Hamburg, London, and New York. It + is claimed by the manufacturers that it produces five times as much + warmth as ordinary cotton-wool, being impregnated with the finest + kinds of resins. The packet costs 1s. and contains 86 grams of a + cotton-wool sheet, measuring 1 cm. in thickness, 36 cm. in width, and + 80 cm. in length. On analysis Zernik found that the cotton-wool was + ordinary raw cotton-wool, which had been superficially singed on one + side and which was not even fat-freed. There was nothing else in the + wonderful rheumatic wool. + + _Limosan_ is vaunted as a certain cure for rheumatism, gout, and + “stone.” In one of the booklets accompanying the preparation + testimonials galore were reproduced. It consists of white limosan + tablets and greyish-green laxative tablets; 30 of the former + tablets contained in a tube cost 6s., while 15 of the latter cost + 6d. Several tubes are required for a course, since the patient is + told to take 10 of the white and 4 or 5 of the laxative tablets + daily. The composition is given as follows: Aethylenimin, 1 gram; + glycocol-para-phenyledin (basic), 4.5 grams; lithium carbonate, + 0.1 gram; salicylic salt, 1 gram; and acetic salt, 0.4 gram. The + first-named ingredient is merely a synonym for piperazin, the second + name on the list is used instead of phenocoll, while the salicylic + salt has the same form as the substance usually known as salocoll. + The laxative tablets are stated to contain Tinavelly senna, rhamnus + purshianus, and frangula, of each 20 parts; liquorice root, rhizoma + root, of each 10 parts; peppermint, marigold, and poplar tree leaf, + of each 5 parts. The action, therefore, would depend on the senna, + cascara sagrada, and frangula. The manufacturers have, it is stated, + repeatedly been punished in courts of law for the puffing nature of + the advertisements of these limosan preparations. + + _Professor Tissander’s cure for rheumatism, gout, and sciatica_ is + stated by Zernik to be sent for 4s. 6d. by “The Sabalek Syndicate,” + of London. Quoting from a letter received from this firm, the “cure” + is said to be composed of a number of reagents which act against + uric acid. These reagents, together with a kidney stimulant and a + blood purifier, are combined by “Professor” Tissander in a very + concentrated form. It is pleasant to take, and does not produce any + deleterious effects of any kind. The examination revealed that the + tablets contained sulphur, salts (chiefly alkali phosphates), and an + emodin-containing vegetable powder (rhubarb, senna). Zernik concludes + by saying: “This composition indicates sufficiently in how far the + preparation can possess the action ascribed to it.” + + + + +CHAPTER II. + +PREPARATIONS FOR ECZEMA AND OTHER SKIN AFFECTIONS. + + + A selection from the numerous proprietary articles advertised for the + cure of skin diseases, including ointments, lotions, dusting powders, + and medicines to be taken internally, is described in this chapter. + It will be seen from the extracts from advertisements which are given + that the claims made for the respective preparations are to a large + extent contradictory and mutually destructive, as, for example, + “sulpholine lotion is the only external skin remedy,” “eczema and + all skin ailments are completely cured by sulpholine lotion,” and, + on the other hand, “the potent ingredients of a remedy, which are + necessary to the successful cure of eczema, cannot be contained in + the form of a liquid. Lotions, besides containing mercury, must + necessarily contain some alcohol or water, which are irritants and + should be rigidly avoided.” (The apparent implication that all + lotions contain mercury is novel and surprising.) It is not always + even necessary to take statements from rival makers in order to find + contradictions; statements made by one firm in different parts of + their advertisements are sometimes quite inconsistent, as in the + case described below where on one page it is stated that “there is + not one among the many healing extracts used which is not highly + lauded by skin specialists the world over,” and on the next page of + the same pamphlet “several of the medicaments used in the ointments + and blood tablets are very rare and not in use in Great Britain, and + do not form any part of the British doctor’s medical outfit.” One + of the commonest inconsistencies, of course, is that between the + extravagant prospects of speedy cure held out to attract in the first + place, and the far more guarded statements made when the patient has + paid for the article and is beginning to find out for himself what + its curative powers amount to. The first preparation mentioned below + furnishes an example of this; in a Press advertisement readers are + assured that “just a drop or two of D.D.D., the Guaranteed cure for + Eczema and all Skin Diseases, applied to the burning skin, and that + torturing, endless, nerve-racking itching is at an end”; “not only + does D.D.D. stop all irritation and pain immediately--we guarantee + it--but the cures that invariably follow are permanent,” while in + a pamphlet supplied with this very article it is stated that “the + person fortunate enough to become familiar with D.D.D. Prescription + in the early stages of his disease may commit the error of being + impatient of cure.... The eruption may have appeared only on a few + spots of his body, but this is evidence that the disease germ is + lodged in his skin. The germs will grow and multiply and spread; ... + it may take some time to dislodge the germs from his skin.... Is it + not worth careful study, a few months’ patience, to be rid of that + horrible malady?” + + A limited company, which uses the name of “Dr. Cassell,” sends + a list of questions to be answered and endeavours to persuade + sufferers that it deals with them just as a qualified practitioner + would do: “When you consult a doctor, he first inquires into the + causes leading up to your trouble, then carefully examines all the + symptoms and indications. Upon the results he forms his diagnosis, + which in turn suggests the treatment. We do exactly the same when + you return the examination form filled up.” The trifling omissions + of the years of study, training, and experience requisite for a + medical qualification, and of personal examination of the patient, + are treated as of no consequence; naturally, some illuminating + diagnoses may be looked for under such circumstances, as in the case + described, where having received the answer “Eczema” to the question + “What are you suffering from?” and after “carefully studying” the + answers to this and other questions, the company gravely informs the + patient “You are suffering from a severe and disagreeable form of + eczema.” + + +D.D.D. + +The preparation sold under this name is supplied by a firm in London at +2s. 3d. and 4s. 6d. per bottle; a 2s. 3d. bottle was found to contain +2.1 fluid ounces. + +A Press advertisement is headed: + + Psoriasis, Dry and Wet ECZEMA, and all skin diseases cured by D.D.D., + the new liquid remedy, which gives instant relief, and a positive + cure when everything else has failed. + +and the following claims are made: + + Just a drop or two of D.D.D., the Guaranteed Cure for Eczema and + all Skin Diseases, applied to the burning skin, and that torturing, + endless, nerve-racking itching is at an end.... Not only does D.D.D. + stop all irritation and pain immediately--we guarantee it--but the + cures that invariably follow are permanent--the disease never returns. + +The following are extracts from a pamphlet enclosed in the package, +entitled “Cause and Cure of Skin Diseases”: + + D.D.D. is no ordinary patent medicine, but the prescription of the + skin specialist, Dr. D. D. Dennis, who used the compound now known + as D.D.D. successfully for years on all patients suffering with skin + diseases. On urgent advice of his patients, Dr. Dennis was prevailed + upon to have the compound put up as a proprietary article for sale + through drug stores.... + +In spite of the “guarantee” quoted above that D.D.D. stops all +irritation and pain immediately, a caution is given against +discouragement: + + Occasionally in bringing the disease to the surface, D.D.D. will + spread the eruption temporarily over a much larger area. THIS IS NOT + A SIGN THAT THE MALADY IS GROWING MORE SERIOUS, BUT ON THE CONTRARY + IT SHOWS THAT THE DISEASE IS BEING UPROOTED. + +It appears that more patience may be required, even when the sufferer +is only “in the early stages,” than the advertisement quoted might have +led him to suppose: + + The person fortunate enough to become familiar with D.D.D. + Prescription in the early stages of his disease may commit the error + of being impatient of cure.... The eruption may have appeared only + on a few spots of his body, but this is evidence that the disease + germ is lodged in his skin. The germs will grow and multiply and + spread; ... it may take some time to dislodge the germs from his + skin.... Is it not worth careful study, a few months’ patience, to be + rid of that horrible malady? + +“The germs” are, of course, freely utilized to give an air of +scientific knowledge: + + The reader familiar with the deeper questions of medical science + knows that there is still some dispute among the best authorities on + the germ theories, but it is pretty well understood now, largely as a + result of Dr. Dennis’s discoveries, that eczema is purely and simply + a germ disease caused by germs that lodge in the skin. According + to the germ theory, there must be several species of eczema germs, + causing the several diseases known as eczema, psoriasis, ringworm, + dandruff, etc. The germs are all of the same type, and produce + ailments with varying symptoms, all eczematous. The germs live only + in the skin, feeding on the oily ingredients of the epidermis. + +It might be interesting to know where “Dr. Dennis’ discoveries” were +published. + +D.D.D. is put up in two forms, called “D.D.D. Ordinary” and “D.D.D. +Strong”; the “Ordinary” was taken for analysis. The directions for this +are: + + The remedy may be applied in various ways; it is best, however, to + rub the skin as little as possible while making the application; + hence we recommend it to be applied by saturating a piece of + absorbent cotton with D.D.D. and dabbing this gently on the parts + affected, or applying it with a small camel hair brush, so that the + pores will absorb the remedy. + +Analysis showed the liquid to be composed as follows: + + Salicylic acid 0.75 part + Phenol 1.18 parts + Methyl salicylate (oil of wintergreen) 1.00 part + Glycerin 9.28 parts + Alcohol 65.10 parts by measure + Water, to 100 parts by measure + +It had a slight yellow colour, which may have been due to a trace +of colouring matter, or may have been developed from the oil of +wintergreen. + +The alcohol is by far the most costly ingredient, and the estimated +cost of ingredients for 2.1 fluid ounces is 3³⁄₄d. + + +HOMOCEA. + +This preparation is made by a limited company in London. A 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. +tin contained about ³⁄₄ ounce, and a 2s. 9d. tin about 2¹⁄₂ ounces. It +is recommended for a very large number of disorders, as is shown by the +following extracts from a circular enclosed in the package: + + Homocea ... Ointment ... is far and away the best remedy known for + Open Wounds, Sores, Cuts, Ulcers, Bad Legs, Burns, Scalds, Chaps, + Wasp, Bee, and Insect Stings, Earache, Inflamed Spots, Skin or Flesh + Troubles of all sorts, Broken Chilblains, etc. In treating any of the + above lay Homocea lightly with the finger, or spread some on clean + rags or lint and apply to the parts affected. For Bruises, Blotches, + Chaps, Chilblains (unbroken), Eruptions, Swellings, Mumps, Croup, + Sore Eyes, Rashes, Ringworm, Jelly Fish Stings, Sunburns, etc., etc., + smear or gently rub in Homocea where required. + + For Piles (bleeding or blind) Homocea stands alone amongst remedies. + It affords immediate relief at all times, and in many cases + absolutely cures. + + For Internal Piles the insertion of Homocea Suppositories is + recommended. + + Cold in the Head is cured by putting Homocea up the nostrils and + rubbing the bridge of the nose well with the Ointment at night. + + Soft Corns and Bunions are cured by applying Homocea as a pad, to be + kept on day and night. + + Eczema (in many forms), Hay Fever, Prickly Heat Jigger, and Veldt + Sores, Warts, etc., cured by Homocea. + + Homocea will cure the Bites and Stings of Mosquito, Gnats, Sand + Flies, and, better still, will prevent these pests from attacking + you, if the face, neck, hands, and other exposed parts of the body + are smeared with the Ointment. + + It is impossible to bring within the compass of a short circular all + that Homocea in its various forms will do, but we claim, without + fear of contradiction, that there are few of the ordinary everyday + ailments incidental to the human frame that Homocea, if promptly and + properly applied, will not immediately alleviate and cure. + + The efficacy of Homocea is easily and unanswerably explained. It + kills inflammation immediately it comes in contact with it, and you + can readily understand why pain vanishes and wounds heal so quickly. + +Analysis showed the presence of eucalyptus oil in considerable +proportion, with beeswax, a soft fat, and a very small quantity of +ammonia; evidence was also obtained of a small proportion of another +essential oil, apparently oil of lemon, though, as essential oils are +complex in composition, it is not possible to speak positively on +this point. Other medicinal ingredients were found to be absent. The +quantities of the ingredients found were determined as accurately as +possible, and the results gave the following formula: + + Oil of eucalyptus 25 per cent. + Oil of lemon 0.2 „ + Beeswax 25 „ + Fat 49 „ + Solution of ammonia 0.8 „ + +The characters of the fat agreed with those of a mixture of lard and +cocoanut oil in about equal parts. An ointment prepared according to +this formula was practically indistinguishable from the original. + +Estimated cost of ingredients for 2¹⁄₂ ounces (2s. 9d. tin), 2¹⁄₂d. + + +ECZOLINE TREATMENT. + +This “treatment” is supplied by a firm at Swindon, and consists of +ointment, tablets, and soap; the two former were taken for examination. + +An advertisement contains the following somewhat disconnected +expressions: + + A wonderful Remedy. Eczema, Rashes, Pimples, Spots, Sores, Ringworm, + Chaps, Chilblains, Rough Skin, Bad Legs. Stops all irritation at + once. Cured by the Eczoline Treatment. Worth its weight in gold. + +_Eczoline Ointment._--A 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. box contained about 1 ounce. On the +box it is described as + + A positive cure for Eczema, and good for all skin diseases. + +Analysis showed the presence of zinc oxide, sulphur (flowers), +glycerin, a little water, and a fat which agreed well in its characters +with lard, with a trace of oil of lemon; no other constituents were +found. The quantities of the respective ingredients were determined, +and the results gave the following formula: + + Flowers of sulphur 39 per cent. + Zinc oxide 3.7 „ + Glycerin 13.5 „ + Lard 39.8 „ + Water 4 „ + Oil of lemon a trace + +Estimated cost of ingredients for 1 ounce, ¹⁄₂d. + +_Eczoline Tablets._--A 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. box contained 43 sugar-coated +tablets, having an average weight, without the coating, of 5.2 grains +each. These are described on the label as + + For Cooling, Purifying, and Strengthening the Blood. Dose--One or two + Tablets three times a day after meals. + +Analysis showed the tablets, from which the coating had been removed to +consist of + + Ferrous sulphate 16.5 per cent. + Sulphur (precipitated) 56 „ + Talc 3.4 „ + Starch 7.3 „ + Extractive 16.8 „ + +The extractive was bitter, and showed the reactions of extract of +cascara sagrada, but it was not bitter enough or dark enough to consist +only of this extract, and appeared to be a mixture of cascara sagrada, +and an inert extract, the former constituting about 5 per cent. of the +substance of the tablets. + +Taking the whole of the extract as being of the same price as extract +of cascara sagrada, the estimated cost of the ingredients for 43 +tablets is ¹⁄₂d. + + +DR. CASSELL’S MEDICINES. + +These are supplied by a limited company in a town in Lancashire. This +firm is described on its notepaper as “Sole Agents for Great Britain, +India, Africa, Australia, and all European Countries for Dr. Cassell’s +Specialities,” and the “Specialities” appear to be really of American +origin. The form of advertisement which appears to be most in favour is +a small announcement of + + An indispensable illustrated book written by an expert, dealing in + a clear, common-sense way with a safe and speedy home cure of Skin + Diseases of all kinds, with special chapters on Diseased Blood, + Ulcers, Bad Legs, and “The Woman Beautiful,” + +to be sent free on application. A request for a copy of this brought +a pamphlet of 31 pages, together with a “self-examination form,” and +a letter urging that the form should be filled up and returned. In a +further circular the following statement is made with regard to the +mode of procedure: + + When you consult a doctor he first inquires into the causes leading + up to your trouble, then carefully examines all the symptoms and + indications. Upon the results he forms his diagnosis, which in turn + suggests the treatment. + + We do exactly the same when you return the examination form filled + up; we carefully examine it, and from the answers you give to the + questions we are able at once to select for you, from the numerous + Ointments, Powders, Mixtures, and Medicated Tablets manufactured for + this Company from the formulas of that world-famed specialist, Dr. + Cassell, a treatment perfect in every detail with the requirements of + your case. + +It is further stated that: + + There is not one among the many healing extracts used which is not + highly lauded by skin specialists the world over. + +Which seems rather inconsistent with the statement on the next page +that: + + Several of the medicaments used in the Ointments and Blood Tablets + are very rare and not in use in Great Britain, and do not form + any part of the British doctors’ medical outfit, yet are of such + incalculable value as to constitute the basic strength and great + healing virtue of the treatment. + +The “self-examination form” was as follows; the words in italics are +the answers which were filled in: + + QUESTIONS. + + Date 19 + + Name in full ....................... + + Address in full .................... + + Age. _37._ Sex. _Male._ + + Occupation. _Groom-Gardener._ Stout or thin? _Medium._ + + Married or single? _Single._ How long suffered? _About two years._ + + Are you able to work? _Yes._ If not, how long have you been disabled. + + What are you suffering from? _Eczema._ + + What was your previous health? _Good._ + + Where are you affected? _Arms worst; also neck and shoulders._ + + What do doctors call your trouble? _I don’t know._ + + Have you been treated for it? _Not by doctors._ If so, how? _I have + used some lotions._ + + Have you attended any hospital? _No._ + + Is your general health good? _Yes._ + + Are you constipated? _No._ + + Have you indigestion? _No._ + + Do you stand much? _Yes._ + + Are you in contact with much heat? _No._ + + Do you perspire freely? _Yes._ + + Are your hands much in soap and water? _No._ + + Do you use much soda? _No._ + + Does your employment entail contact with gritty or irritating + material, and if so, what? _No._ + + Have you much itching? _Yes._ + + Have you a scaly eruption? _No._ + + Is the part red or inflamed? _Yes._ + + Is there any discharge? _Sometimes._ If so, what colour is it, and + does it smell? _Like water._ + + Have you any bleeding from the part? _No._ + + Have you any pain? _Yes._ + + Is your trouble inclined to spread? _Yes._ + + Do you suffer from varicose veins? _No._ + + Do little blisters form? _No._ + + Did the trouble start with a pimple? _No._ + + Have you any rash? No. If so, where? _No._ + + Have you a sore throat? _No._ + + Have you recently had measles or any fever? _No._ + + Have you ever suffered from any specific blood disease? _No._ If so, + what? + + What is your usual diet? _Porridge, bread and butter, coffee, meat + and potatoes, beer, cheese._ + + Do you eat much oatmeal, shellfish, or tinned food? _A good deal of + oatmeal porridge._ + + Are you a teetotaler? _No, but very moderate._ + + Are you worse more at one season than another? _No._ + + What is your own opinion as to the cause? _I don’t know._ + + Here fill in any other details you may think of use. + +As the question, “What are you suffering from?” was answered by the +word “eczema,” it was not altogether surprising to be told in the +letter which was received in reply: + + Your Examination Form has been duly received and carefully studied. + You are suffering from a severe and disagreeable form of eczema. + +The letter proceeds with a warning that it is + + inadvisable to use ordinary salves, lotions, etc., indiscriminately, + as you will readily realise that what will suit one person will + not necessarily suit another, and many doctors don’t appear to + reconise [_sic_] the fact that the complaint should be treated both + locally and constitutionally, therefore their treatment often proves + ineffective. We make a special point of treating every case entirely + upon its merits, and yours is one in which Dr. Cassell’s combined + treatment will produce speediest and most brilliant results. + +It appears, however, that even these “speediest and most brilliant +results” are not very speedy, as a further paragraph states: + + Although it may take a few months to effect a permanent cure, we are + quite confident, if you make up your mind to have yourself properly + treated now, it will save much suffering and expense in the future. + +The letter further intimated that the treatment would consist of a +dusting powder, tablets to be taken internally, and an ointment, and +that the charge would be 12s. 6d. + +As no reply was sent at once, this was followed about a week later +with another letter, offering to send the medicines for 9s. 6d., and +containing the statement: + + We are quite safe in guaranteeing a cure in your case provided you + make up your mind to persevere for a reasonable length of time. + +The sum required was then sent, and the articles named were received. +The powder, in a pill-box, weighed a little less than 1 ounce; the +bottle of tablets contained 90, of average weight 6 grains; and the pot +of ointment contained just over 1 ounce. They were accompanied by an +intimation that a further supply would cost 9s. 6d., and the following +directions: + + Ointment. Wash the hands thoroughly clean in hot water and apply a + little of the Ointment to the affected parts every night on retiring. + It is not necessary to use a great quantity, the chief thing being to + have it evenly distributed on the parts requiring treatment. + + Powder. A small portion should be dusted on with a piece of clean + lint every morning on arising. + + Tablets. One to be swallowed whole in water three times daily, + between meals. + +_Cassell’s Dusting Powder._--This was labelled “Antiseptic Dusting +Powder No. 2.” Analysis showed it to contain boric acid, talc, maize +starch, and powdered slippery elm bark. The proportions of the first +two ingredients were determined and the other two estimated as +accurately as possible, and the formula given below was obtained. A +powder prepared in accordance with this formula agreed in all respects +with the original, except that the latter had a faint perfume and a +creamy tint; the traces of colouring matter and perfume were far too +minute to be identified. + + Powdered talc 60 per cent. + Powdered boric acid 20 „ + Powdered maize starch 17 „ + Powdered slippery elm bark 3 „ + +Estimated cost of ingredients for 1 ounce, ¹⁄₃d. + +_Cassell’s Blood Cleansing Tablets._--The label was marked “Price 4s. +6d. a bottle,” and, as stated above, the bottle contained 90 tablets of +about 6 grains each. + +Analysis showed the tablets to contain: + + Phenolphthalein 0.75 per cent. + Potassium iodide 1.25 „ + Sugar 81 „ + Talc, approximately 11 „ + Calcium carbonate and sulphate, approximately 2 „ + Water 1 „ + Extractive 3 „ + +The extractive showed no distinctive characters by which it could be +identified; the tablets had a faint anise-like odour; no alkaloid or +other active principle was found. The dose of phenolphthalein in one +tablet is 0.045 grain, the usual dose being 1 to 8 grains; the dose of +potassium iodide in one tablet is 0.075 grain, the official dose being +5 to 20 grains. + +If the extract present is taken as being of the same price as extract +of taraxacum, the estimated cost of the ingredients for 90 tablets is +¹⁄₂d. + +_Cassell’s Ointment._--This was labelled “Ointment No. 2,” and the +pot contained just over 1 ounce. Analysis showed it to contain oils +of wintergreen and eucalyptus, lanoline, a fat or oil, soft paraffin, +boric acid, a small quantity of alkali, and a powdered vegetable +tissue. The latter appeared to consist chiefly of a bark; it was +carefully compared with a number of powdered drugs, but was not +found to agree with any drug in ordinary use; it showed a good deal +of resemblance to powdered krameria root, and agreed exactly with +it in the colour changes caused by various reagents, and while not +identical with either of the species of krameria compared with it, the +resemblance suggested that it might be from a nearly related plant. The +proportions of the different constituents were determined as closely as +possible, and the following formula was arrived at: + + Boric acid 8 per cent. + Borax 2 „ + Oil of eucalyptus 2 „ + Oil of wintergreen 3 „ + Anhydrous lanoline 4 „ + Oil (? olive) 8 „ + Soft paraffin 63 „ + Powdered drug 7 „ + Water 3 „ + +An ointment prepared in accordance with this formula, with krameria +root as the drug, closely resembled the original. + + +SULPHOLINE LOTION. + +This lotion is prepared by a limited company in London. A 1s. bottle +contained 2 fluid ounces. This preparation is advertised in the +following terms: + + Eczema and all skin ailments are completely cured by Sulpholine + Lotion, which directly attacks all forms of Eczema, Eruptions, + Pimples, Acne, Spots, Blackheads, or Disfiguring Rashes, leaving the + skin in the soft, clear, supple, attractive condition designed by + Nature. + +And in a pamphlet enclosed in the package it is further stated that + + Sulpholine Lotion is the only external skin remedy. + + There is no phase of Eczema, chronic or acute, red, dry, scaly, or + pustular (moist), psoriasis, pityriasis, impetigo, prickly heat, + tetter, salt-rheum, or even superficial scorbutic ulcerations, but + Sulpholine will grapple with, and in most cases completely eradicate, + leaving the skin its natural, clear, smooth, pliable surface. + +The directions on the label are: + + To be damped on with a handkerchief or piece of cotton wool, and + allowed to dry. One application of the Lotion should be at bedtime. + +Analysis showed it to contain: + + Sulphur, precipitated 3 parts. + Zinc oxide 2.1 „ + Calcium sulphate 0.6 part. + Glycerin 9 parts. + Strong rose water, to 100 parts by measure. + +The rose water is by far the most expensive ingredient, and the +estimated cost of ingredients for 2 fluid ounces is 1¹⁄₄d. + + +CADUM. + +Supplied by Omega, Limited. A 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. tin contained just over 1 oz. + +This is described in a circular enclosed in the package as: + + The New Medical Discovery for the Treatment of Eczema, Psoriasis, + Ringworm, Acne, Pimples, Blackheads, Itch, Facial Eruptions, Salt + Rheum, Shingles, Herpes, Hives, Prickly Heat, Boils, Rash, Itching + Piles, Cuts, Sores, Burns, Chafing, Sunburn, Scabies and other Skin + Troubles. + +Its origin is thus described: + + The discovery of Cadum, the wonderful new skin remedy, was not the + result of mere chance or accident, but of patient, painstaking + investigations, extending over a long period, by an eminent chemist + who became possessed of the conviction that the old method of taking + internal remedies to cure external diseases was erroneous. After a + careful study of all the best-known products, it was discovered that + an extract from a particular part of a well-known tree possessed + superior antiseptic and curative properties, and exerted a powerful, + beneficial effect on the skin tissues. It was, however, found that + this valuable vegetable extract possessing such desirable qualities + was difficult to compound with other ingredients necessary to present + it in a form convenient to use. After further investigations and + experiments, a method of special treatment was devised by which + this seemingly insurmountable difficulty was overcome, resulting in + a unique combination of ingredients, possessing to a marked degree + valuable therapeutic properties, the like of which has never before + been produced. + +Directions are given for the use of this preparation in some thirty +affections of the skin. + +Analysis showed the presence of zinc oxide, sulphur, boric and +salicylic acids, oil of cade, and a paraffin basis. The proportions +of the several ingredients were determined as accurately as possible; +since oil of cade is variable in composition, and there is no direct +means of determining its quantity in such a mixture, this was estimated +from a number of comparisons with known mixtures, and the figure given +is certainly not far from exact. The formula arrived at is: + + Zinc oxide 11.3 per cent. + Flowers of sulphur 8.0 „ + Boric Acid 3.1 „ + Salicylic acid 0.8 „ + Oil of cade 7 „ + Hard paraffin 10 „ + Soft paraffin 60 „ + +Estimated cost of ingredients for 1 ounce, ¹⁄₃d. + + +POSLAM. + +This is supplied by the Emergency Laboratories, New York. A 2s. 3d. tin +contained ²⁄₃ ounce. + +It is described in a circular enclosed in the package as + + The Newest Medical Discovery for the treatment of Eczema and all + other skin affections. + +Some further extracts from this circular are as follows: + + It is a singular fact that, notwithstanding the great strides that + have been made in medicine for the past decade or two, skin diseases, + and particularly eczema--the worst of them--are about as little + understood by the medical profession to-day as they were a generation + back. + + Eczema is one of the most prevalent diseases, and statistics shows + that at least _50 per cent. of humanity have it in some form or + other_. It may be that physicians have failed to give this trouble + the proper amount of study because, not being a fatal disease, + they have considered it unimportant enough to wilfully neglect its + thorough diagnosis. + + Another reason may be that the _advertised preparations for eczema + have been so exploited as to convey wrong impressions about the + disease_, ascribing it to causes most ridiculous, and harping on the + erroneous idea that it is a blood trouble, only curable by internal + remedies. Doctors, in the absence of any recognised specific for the + disease, have given either internal remedies or ordered the use of + special soaps, both of which courses show that the average medical + man is helpless to combat the growing trouble of skin diseases.... + + LOTIONS AND INEFFECTUAL “REMEDIES.”--_The potent ingredients of a + remedy, which are necessary to the successful cure of eczema, cannot + be contained in the form of a liquid. Lotions, besides containing + mercury, must necessarily contain some alcohol or water, which are + irritants and should be rigidly avoided._.... + + _There is no need of an extended course of treatment in the cure of + eczema. If the remedy is the right one, its effects will be apparent + immediately, and the progress of its work may be noted daily._.... + + POSLAM, THE CURE.--_The success of Poslam in the cure of eczema + and all kindred skin diseases, has been absolute since its first + introduction to the public and the medical profession. It is entirely + different from anything yet used, and as a remedial agent in skin + diseases, may be said to be positively infallible in its action._ + Hitherto there has been a common base to all ointments and salves + that were supposed to be “remedies” for eczema. _Poslam has a base + of its own, and contains no grease, poisons, mercury, or any other + harmful constituent._ + +The general directions are: + + Apply Poslam twice daily, night and morning, directly to the parts + affected. + + Do not rub or irritate, but apply gently. + +Analysis showed the presence of zinc oxide, sulphur, starch, salicylic +acid, oil of birch tar, oil of cade, lanoline, and soft paraffin. +Since oil of birch tar and oil of cade are both very complex bodies +of variable composition, it is not possible to determine exactly the +quantities present in such a mixture; it is even possible that some +samples of oil of birch tar might possess the properties observed, +without the presence of oil of cade, and the latter is given in the +formula with this reservation. The various ingredients were determined +or estimated as exactly as possible, and the following formula was +arrived at: + + Zinc oxide 12 per cent. + Flowers of sulphur 8 „ + Maize starch 18 „ + Salicylic acid 1.5 „ + Oil of cade 1.5 „ + Oil of birch tar 8 „ + Anhydrous lanoline 25.5 „ + Soft paraffin 25.5 „ + +Estimated cost of ingredients of ²⁄₃ ounce, ¹⁄₂d. + + + + +CHAPTER III. + +NERVE TONICS AND “ELIXIRS OF LIFE.” + + + A very large class of proprietary medicines consists of those + advertised as nerve tonics and restoratives of lost vitality, and + a number of these are described in the present chapter. Some of + them are conspicuously advertised in the newspapers, and are sold + through retailers in the ordinary way; while in other cases the + interest of those likely to become purchasers is usually aroused by + a small advertisement with a bold headline to catch the eye--such + as “Lost Manhood Restored”--in which a free book is offered, to be + sent by post on application. The applicant is not only urged by the + contents of the book which is sent to place himself at once under + the advertiser’s treatment, but this advice is further pressed on + him by letters at intervals. Medicines of this kind are not usually + sold through retailers, but only direct from the advertiser to the + consumer. The latter is often supplied with a list of questions to + be answered, and--to judge from the examples described--when he + has answered them, and paid the one or two guineas demanded, he is + likely to be told that his is a complicated case requiring additional + treatment, for which, of course, further payment is to be made. In + some cases references occur to “our consulting physician,” or “our + specialist,” etc. In regard to specialists of this anonymous kind, + some facts elicited at a coroner’s inquest, mentioned in chapter + XIX., throw some light on the probable value of such references. + Obviously, no real expert would consent to work under such conditions + as those indicated; but even if that difficulty could be got over, + no satisfactory diagnosis could be made in the manner pretended, + and the paying of a fee for advice in such circumstances is a very + different thing from paying for the attention and skill of an expert + who really investigates his cases. + + In regard to the nerve tonics supplied through retailers, it will + be seen that some of these consist of a few simple and commonplace + drugs, the cost of which is almost negligible compared to the + price charged. Others, which have only recently appeared on the + market, appear to be based--at least in regard to the wording of + the advertisements--on the orchitic fluid suggested by the late Dr. + Brown-Séquard, and a good deal of play is made with a few terms + having a scientific appearance, but serving--as, for example, “the + red corpuscles or phagocytes,” and “a vital extract (C₂H₅N₁)”--only + to display to anyone understanding them the ignorance of the + advertiser. The last of the articles dealt with has been very + extensively advertised as a “brain and nerve food”; our advertisement + shows that the daily dose of this preparation, costing ninepence, + represents about a teaspoonful of beaten-up egg and a wineglassful of + skim milk. + + +PHOSFERINE. + +This widely-advertised preparation is supplied at 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. and 2s. +9d. by a limited company in London. A 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. bottle was found to +contain 2 fluid drachms, and a 2s. 9d. bottle just over 1 fluid ounce. + +Phosferine is described in an advertisement as + + The Greatest of all Tonics. + + A Proven Remedy for + + Nervous Debility, Influenza, Indigestion, Sleeplessness, Exhaustion, + Neuralgia, Maternity Weakness, Premature Decay, Mental Exhaustion, + Loss of Appetite, Lassitude, Neuritis, Faintness, Brain Fag, Anæmia, + Backache, Rheumatism, Headache, Hysteria, Sciatica, and disorders + consequent upon a reduced state of the nervous system. + +In a circular enclosed in the package it is stated that + + Phosferine is a potent strengthening medicine, withal gentle in its + action and perfectly harmless; being akin to gastric juice, it rests + and restores the digestive organs and regulates the bowels to normal + action. + + The public cannot be too strongly warned against the many purging + medicines advertised for indigestion, etc., which are not only a + fruitful source of piles, but injure the coating of the stomach and + sap the very gastric juice Nature is straining herself to supply. + + Unlike other tonic medicines, Phosferine does not injure the teeth or + upset the stomach and cause constipation; on the contrary, it will be + found beneficial in these conditions. + + Phosferine may be taken at all times with benefit; there is no + possible objection to its continued use either as an appetiser or a + general strengthening and nerve remedy. + +Somewhat varying directions are given as to the quantity to be taken +for different ailments, the dose being stated as from five to ten +drops, to be taken from twice to four times a day. + +Analysis showed the presence of alcohol, quinine, phosphoric acid, and +a little sulphuric acid; a trace of sodium salt was found, but this +was probably an accidental impurity in the phosphoric acid; no other +ingredient could be detected. Expressing the acids as the dilute acids +of the _British Pharmacopœia_, and the quinine as the ordinary official +sulphate, the formula arrived at is + + Quinine sulphate 0.67 part + Diluted sulphuric acid 2.5 parts by measure + Diluted phosphoric acid 54.6 „ „ + Alcohol 8.1 „ „ + Water, to 100 „ „ + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for 1 fluid ounce (2s. 9d. +bottle) is ¹⁄₂d. + + +GUY’S TONIC. + +This is a liquid prepared by a London firm; a bottle priced 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. +contained 6 fluid ounces. In a circular enclosed in the package it is +stated that: + + Guy’s Tonic is a rich Cordial prepared from Vegetable Tinctures and + other curative agents found in the British Pharmacopœia.... Guy’s + Tonic is not put forward as a Remedy for “all the ills to which flesh + is heir,” for no such thing as a “Cure-all” exists. It is, however, + confidently recommended for the specific Ailments enumerated.... The + use of Guy’s Tonic will be attended with the happiest results in:-- + + 1. Disorders of the Digestive System: Dyspepsia, Heartburn, Loss + of Appetite, Pain after Food, Flatulence or Wind, a sensation of + Nausea (Sickness), Furred or white-coated Tongue, unpleasant Breath, + disagreeable Taste in the Mouth, Drowsiness after Eating, a feeling + of weight or discomfort in the Chest, palpitation of the Heart, + shortness of Breath and Acidity of the Stomach. + + 2. Functional Derangements of the Liver: Sluggishness, Congestion, + Constipation, Biliousness, Despondency, Dizziness, Sallowness of the + Complexion, Blotches on the Skin, dull pains between the Shoulders, + variable Appetite, Headache, disturbed Sleep, Lassitude, and + Irritability. + + 3. Disorders of the Blood: Anæmia, Emaciation, Paleness, Weariness, + and Disorders dependent upon a Vitiated or Impoverished condition of + the Vital Fluid. + + 4. Nervous Maladies: Neuralgia, Nervousness, Hysteria, Giddiness, + Alcoholism, disturbed Sleep, unpleasant Dreams, confused Thoughts, + lack of Confidence, Loss of Memory, Depression, Melancholy, + Exhaustion, Languor, and affections due to Malnutrition of the Brain + and Spinal Cord. + + 5. General Diseases: Gout, Rheumatism, Rheumatic Gout, Lumbago, and + Disorders characterised by Perverted Nutrition and Lack of Vital + Force. + + 6. Convalescence from Acute Diseases: also in cases of recovery from + Influenza, Fevers, Bronchitis, and other exhausting Diseases, and in + General Debility and Prostration from whatever cause arising. + +The dose is stated on the label to be: + + For adults, one tablespoonful. Under 9 years, one dessertspoonful. + Under 2 years, one teaspoonful. + +Analysis showed it to contain small quantities of hydrochloric and +phosphoric acids, alcohol, bitter and aromatic substances and colouring +matter, and a trace of chloroform. No alkaloid was present; the bitter +and aromatic substances present in very small amount agreed well with +those of the official compound infusion of gentian; the behaviour of +the colouring matter indicated that it was cochineal. The quantities +of the two acids and the alcohol were determined, and the amounts of +the other ingredients estimated by methods of comparison. The following +formula gives an exactly similar mixture: + + Diluted hydrochloric acid 0.59 parts by measure + Diluted phosphoric acid 0.52 „ „ + Alcohol 2.27 „ „ + Compound infusion of gentian 40 „ „ + Chloroform water 50 „ „ + Cochineal colouring a sufficiency + Water, to 100 parts by measure + +The estimated cost of the ingredients of 6 fluid ounces is ¹⁄₂d. + + +VITAE ORE. + +The article sold under this name is supplied by a limited company in +London, price 4s. 6d. per package. + +An offer to send a package, containing sufficient for one month, to +be paid for only if benefit is received, is largely advertised. The +advertisement usually includes an illustration of a man’s head, said to +represent “Prof. Theo. Noel,” described as “the well-known geologist.” +The following are extracts from one of these advertisements: + + I discovered by accident the dried residue of the greatest curative + spring in the world. It seemed worth while to try whether this, + when redissolved, would have mineral spring virtues. The results + astonished me and those who experienced them. The spring was a + marvel--far exceeding anything that Homburg, Harrogate, Aix, Bath, + or any other spa can show. Some untraceable element defying the + chemist’s analysis--is it Radium?--enters into the rock. Whatever + the element may be, its effect can be distinctly felt when the drink + made from this deposit, which I call Vitae Ore, or “life-rock,” is + taken as a beverage. Those who use it say that it gives a degree of + buoyant, cheerful energy, which they never, perhaps, experienced + before. + + Everyone knows a few people with health and vigour to spare--the men + whose breezy personality carries all before it, so that no one can + resist them; the women whose warm bloom and feminine grace capture + all hearts. Well, Vitae Ore will give these things to ALL, if used as + I will tell you how to use it. No artificial drug enters into it. No + artificial drug can rival its effects. + + Whether you are well or ill--strong or weak--Vitae Ore will give you + new life. Under its influence Nature herself cures + + _Rheumatism_ + _Sciatica_ + _Gout_ + _Anæmia_ + _Dropsy_ + _Catarrh_ + _Indigestion_ + _Constipation_ + _Nervous Exhaustion_ + _and all Liver, Blood, and Stomach Diseases...._ + + Its effect in giving new vigour and nerve-force to people of mere + ordinary health, turning them into noticeably and radiantly strong + men and women, makes it worth using in every case.... + + + How to use Vitae Ore. + + Vitae Ore comes to you as a box of powder. You simply dissolve it in + a pint of cold water, and of this mixture drink a teaspoonful in a + half-tumbler of water three times a day, and at bedtime, for a month. + In a few days, a week, or later, according to your present condition, + you will begin to notice greater strength, better digestion, higher + spirits, a clearer complexion, a healthier appetite. These are the + effects of the new vitality in Vitae Ore. + +A 4s. 6d. package contained 137 grains of the substance; analysis +showed it to contain a slightly basic but soluble iron sulphate, +magnesium sulphate, and combined water; the quantity of each +constituent was determined and found to be as follows: + + Ferric oxysulphate, calculated as anhydrous 47.57 per cent. + Magnesium sulphate, calculated as anhydrous 15.89 „ + Water, in combination 36.54 „ + +No other substance was detected. The iron, magnesium, sulphate, and +water were all determined separately, and, as the figures add up to +100.00 per cent., not much is left for “some untraceable element +defying the chemist’s analysis.” If the directions, quoted above, are +followed, each dose would contain: + + Iron oxysulphate, anhydrous 0.47 grain. + Magnesium sulphate, anhydrous 0.15 „ + +The estimated cost of the ingredients contained in one package is about +one-eighth of a penny. + + +COCAPHOS. + +This preparation is supplied by a firm in London. A box priced 4s. 6d. +contained 94 tablets. + +The following extracts are from an advertisement in a magazine: + + Gavin’s “Cocaphos” Puts New Life Into You.... You cannot do your + work if you are in a nervous state; the worry and stress of modern + life tells on the best of constitutions. Many fly to stimulants + and find temporary relief, but as there is always reaction, they + find it necessary to continue taking them, and thus a bad habit is + formed. When you feel run down and need energy and go the finest + thing to take to brace you up and allow you to make the most of + your opportunities, to remove that tired feeling, and to build up + your nervous system is “COCAPHOS.” This is composed of the finest + ingredients for the purpose, acknowledged by the Medical Profession + to be a fine recuperative tonic. + +The dose is given on the label as “One tablet after each meal.” + +The tablets were sugar-coated, and coloured red externally; after +removal of the coating the average weight was 3.9 grains. Analysis +showed the presence of: + + In one tablet. + Iron hypophosphite 20 per cent. 0.78 grain. + Quinine sulphate 2.8 „ 0.10 „ + Extract (probably damiana) about 50 „ 2 grains. + Sugar + Talc 11 „ + +The extract agreed in characters and tests with extract of damiana; it +was not possible to determine exactly how much was present. The name +of the article appears to imply that a preparation of coca is present; +no evidence was obtained of any, but a small proportion of extract +of coca, if present, could not be identified in the presence of the +extract of damiana. + +The estimated cost of ingredients for 94 tablets is 8¹⁄₄d. The most +costly ingredient is the extract of damiana, which is also the least +certain in quantity; probably the figure given is a liberal estimate. + + +DAMAROIDS. + +The tablets sold under the name “Damaroids” are supplied by a limited +company in London at 2s. 9d. and 4s. 6d. per box. A 2s. 9d. box +contained 36 tablets. + +“Damaroids” are thus described in an advertisement: + + They are a Safe and Sure Cure of General Weakness, Physical Decay, + and Loss of Nerve Power, Varicocele, etc., etc. They are a Unique and + Wonderful Specific for men. Effectually Restore Lost Vitality and + Stamina, counteract result of late hours, etc. “Damaroids” is The + True Nervo-Spinal Tonic, the Safest and most effective medicine yet + introduced for nervous and all exhausting diseases. + + They have cured thousands of cases--and they Do cure. + +On the label they are described as: + + A Safe and Sure Remedy for General Weakness, Spinal Exhaustion, + Neurasthenia, Physical Decay, and Loss of Nerve Power. + + Directions:--One to be swallowed three times a day, after meals. + +The tablets were sugar-coated and coloured red externally; after +removal of the coating they had an average weight of 3.9 grains. They +exactly resembled the tablets just described as “Cocaphos” and showed +the same composition, with some difference in the proportions of the +ingredients. The figures arrived at are: + + In one tablet. + Iron hypophosphite 14.2 per cent. 0.55 grain. + Quinine sulphate 3.4 „ 0.13 „ + Extract (probably damiana) about 50 „ 2 grains. + Sugar + Talc 16 „ + +The same remarks apply here as in the preceding case, and the cost +would be approximately the same, about 3d. for the ingredients of 36 +tablets. + + +INVIGOROIDS. + +The tablets sold under the name Invigoroids are supplied from an +address in Yorkshire at 2s. 9d. per box containing 54 tablets. + +They are thus described in a circular: + + Invigoroids are a pure and powerful nerve and organic tonic and + food, designed to replace (at a reasonable price) the highly priced + and pernicious remedies that are so common. With results much more + beneficial and yet with no evil after-effects, Invigoroids are worth + their weight in gold to suffering, sorrowful men, and are regularly + prescribed by leading specialists. Invigoroids create blood, nerve + force and energy. Fill weak and worn-out men with healthy life and + rampant vigour. Make existence a perfect pleasure, and render the + system disease-proof and capable of sustaining prolonged exertion in + any form. + + The only Cure for Impotence in Men.... + + We Speak to You If your complaint is amongst the following: Back + Pains, Brain Fag, Dejection, General Weakness, Head Pains, Hysteria, + Impotence, Loss of Flesh, Lost Vitality, Nerve Paralysis, Nervous + Debility, Senile Decay, Unnatural Forebodings, Weakness of Generative + Organs, etc. + +In a newspaper advertisement it is stated that: + + Invigoroids contain free phosphorus (nerve and brain food) and rare + herbal blood and flesh-forming specifics. + +The directions on the label were: “Take one three times daily.” The +label was printed, “Take two, twice or three times daily,” but this was +altered in ink, not very clearly, to the preceding. + +The tablets were sugar-coated and coloured red externally, after +removal of the coating they had an average weight of 2.8 grains. +Analysis showed the presence of asafœtida, ferrous carbonate, zinc +phosphide, strychnine, brucine, and sugar of milk. The alkaloids were +probably added in the form of extract of nux vomica, and the amount +of this is calculated from the proportion of alkaloids found; the +asafœtida was estimated from the proportion of resin found. The results +of tests for the zinc phosphide were somewhat obscured by the other +substances present; the amount was calculated from the proportion +of zinc found. The ferrous carbonate is calculated as the official +saccharated carbonate. The formula so arrived at is: + + In One Tablet. + Extract of nux vomica 1.0 per cent. 0.028 grain. + Zinc phosphide 2.4 „ 0.067 „ + Saccharated carbonate of iron 18.0 „ 0.50 „ + Asafœtida 9.0 „ 0.25 „ + Sugar of milk. + +The package was not labelled “Poison,” although it would appear to come +within the schedule of the Poisons and Pharmacy Act. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for fifty-four tablets is ¹⁄₂d. + + +DR. MORGAN’S RADIO-VIMETTES. + +This preparation is supplied by a limited company in London at 2s. 9d. +per box, containing 20 pills. They are advertised in the following +terms: + + Proved by thousands to be unsurpassed in restoring lost vitality and + strength in all cases of Debility, Nervous Exhaustion, Lost Vitality, + Varicocele, and all Diseases of the Blood, Nerves, and Brain. Not + a quack remedy, but compounded from the Private prescription of a + celebrated Doctor. + +A supply was obtained by post, and a few days later a letter was +received from the makers as follows: + + Dear Sir, + + We sent you a week ago a course of Dr. Morgan’s “Radio-Vimettes,” + and as in every case in which these are sent, we take, not merely + an interest to sell the Vimettes, but a genuine interest in your + ailment and its cure, we are writing now to know just what benefit + has accrued from the course of treatment you have had. + + If your case is a mild one we have no doubt that by this time your + nerves are strengthened, your energy restored and your general + vitality and health renewed, and it only remains for us to say how + glad we are that the Vimettes have once more vindicated their claim + to supremacy. + + If, on the other hand, you had not regarded the first signs of + disease and wrote us only when nature positively demanded relief + from suffering we know that you cannot possibly be ENTIRELY CURED, + and if such is your ailment, our interest in its eradication still + continues firm. For all such ailments our primary desire is to + relieve, and should you still be suffering we beg you to let us know + AT ONCE, not merely saying “I am not cured,” but by writing a quiet, + friendly letter saying just how you feel, giving particulars of your + case,--the cause--and the result. Direct this to “The Specialist” + marked “Private,” and it will then be read only by him, regarded by + him as most strictly confidential and, if desired, returned to you. + Enclose a stamp for return postage and you will then obtain full + advice on your case FREE OF ALL CHARGE, and we sincerely trust that + by so writing health, strength, and vitality may be yours again. + +A leaflet was enclosed on “Special Courses of Radio-Vimette Treatment,” +from which it appears that there are three such courses, referred to +as: “No. 1. Neurasthenic; No. 2. Urinary; No. 3. Impotence.” + + The Courses of Treatment in each case enumerated above are put up in + two forms, the supply being sufficient approximately for one month’s + treatment. + + No. 1. SPECIAL STRENGTH for mild cases, 11s. per Course, Carriage + Paid. + + No. 2. CONCENTRATED for severe cases and cases of long standing, 21s. + per Course, Carriage Paid. + + The best advice of the Specialist is at the services of every Patient + free of all charge, and in every case correspondence is treated in + the strictest confidence. + +A list of questions to be answered was also sent. + +The dose is given, in a circular of “General Directions,” as follows: + + The Ordinary Strength Radio-Vimettes will be found sufficiently + powerful for all mild cases of Nerve trouble, such as NERVOUS + DYSPEPSIA, HEADACHES, etc. + + For these troubles One Radio-Vimette should be taken night and + morning after meals. + +The pills were ovoid in shape, sugar-coated, and coloured purple +externally. After removal of the coating they had an average weight of +3.7 grains. Analysis showed the presence of free phosphorus, reduced +iron, quinine sulphate, and excipient. The amounts found were: + + In One Pill. + Reduced iron 70 per cent. 2.6 grains. + Quinine sulphate 11.8 „ 0.44 grain. + Phosphorus 0.13 „ 0.005 „ + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for twenty pills is ¹⁄₂d. + + +GORDON’S VITAL SEXUALINE RESTORATIVE. + +This preparation and a number of others are supplied by a firm in a +Yorkshire town. The price of this “restorative” is 22s. per bottle, +holding 21 fluid ounces. + +The usual advertisement is of a pamphlet called “Strength, How Lost, +How Regained,” which is thus referred to: + + Interesting and instructive remarks to young and middle-aged men on + “How to Preserve Strength and Retain the Powers.” A Brief Treatise + on Nervous Exhaustion, Loss of Strength, and Debility in Men. This + book not only contains valuable remarks on how to preserve Strength + and retain the Powers to an advanced age, but points out the best + means of restoring Exhausted Vitality, Poverty of Nerve Force, Mental + Depression, and will especially interest those who wish to create + Vitality, increase Nerve Stamina, renew the Vital Forces, or fit + themselves for business, study, or marriage. + +The pamphlet is further entitled: + + “A Confidential Treatise on Nervous Exhaustion, Spermatorrhœa, + Varicocele, Generative Weakness, Debility, Special Diseases and + Urinary Derangements in Men, THEIR CAUSE AND CURE, By Concentrated + Herbal Remedies. A Popular, Practical, and Moral Exposition of Some + of the Fundamental Problems of Sociology. By Charles Gordon, P.M.B.” + +“P.M.B.,” it may be noted, does not represent any known medical +qualification, but is of unknown signification, and is probably +intended to suggest to the ignorant some sort of medical degree. + +It is a booklet of 43 pages, with sections on Onanism, Spermatorrhœa, +Marriage, Varicocele, Impotence, Gonorrhœa, Gleet, Syphilis, etc. An +“advice form” was also sent, containing a list of questions to be +answered by those desiring medicine. + +A price list gives the prices of the following: Vital Sexualine +Restorative (described as “for Onanism, Night Emissions, Seminal +Losses, Waste of Vitality, Brain Fag, Depression, General Weakness, +Loss of Energy, Nervous Debility, Spermatorrhœa, and Varicocele”), +Viro-Erectile Elixir, Anti-Syphilitic Mixture, Bubo Compound, Gleet +Compound, Gonorrhœal Mixture, and Gravolene, all at 22s. per bottle, +and Gentiana Tonic and Varixolene Liniment, at 11s. per bottle. + +On the label of the “Vital Sexualine” it is called: + + The Great Nerve Restorative, Brain Fertilizer, and Vital Tonic. + Feeds, Strengthens, and Sustains the Nerves, prevents Losses and + waste of Vitality, Creates Nervous Fluid, Brain Matter and Nerve + Force. Brightens the intellect, improves the memory and mental + faculties, restores strength, and promotes a renewal of life in the + entire system. A proven remedy for all weakened conditions of the + system dependent upon the deficiency of the vital forces. + + Permanently Cures--Neurasthenia, Nervous Breakdown, Brain Fag, + Depression, Loss of Energy, Sleeplessness, Nervous Headache, + Melancholia, Trembling, Poverty of Nerve Force, Nervous Prostration, + General Weakness, Loss of Strength, Exhausted Vitality, Premature + Decay, Brain Wreckage, Neuralgia, Nerve Tire, etc. + + Dose.--One small teaspoonful in a wineglassful of cold water three + times a day, immediately after meals. + +The liquid was reddish-brown in colour, and syrupy. Analysis showed it +to contain: + + In One Dose. + Iron hypophosphite 0.50 part 0.27 grains. + Calcium hypophosphite 0.50 „ 0.27 „ + Sodium hypophosphite 0.60 „ 0.32 „ + Potassium hypophosphite 0.14 „ 0.07 „ + Quinine sulphate 0.50 „ 0.27 „ + Citric acid 0.90 „ 0.48 „ + Sugar (approx.) 51 parts + Glycerine „ 36 parts by measure + Colouring matter + Water to 100 „ „ „ + +Metallic hypophosphites are not generally considered to be +“concentrated herbal remedies.” + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for 21 fluid ounces is 10¹⁄₂d. + + +THE MARSTON TREATMENT. + +This is supplied by a firm in London, and is advertised as follows: + + EVERY MAN + + Suffering from GENERAL and PHYSICAL DEBILITY should send for a + Valuable Pamphlet explaining how all Nervous and Organic Derangement + may be successfully treated without stomach medication. The method is + easy and pleasant, and will effect a perfect and permanent cure. Sent + in a plain sealed envelope post free 2 stamps. + +Application to the address given brought a paper-covered book of +seventy-two pages, entitled _A Treatise on the Modern Treatment of +Nervous Diseases and Exhaustion in Men by Local Absorption_, the scope +of which is indicated by the following extracts: + + The object of this treatise is to describe, in as clear and simple + a manner as possible, for the non-professional reader, the various + diseases and affections resulting in the nervous and sexual systems + from the indulgence of early pernicious habits, excessive venery, + fast living, and other irregularities, the product of our modern + civilisation.... + + In issuing this edition of our treatise on NERVOUS DISEASES, we + desire especially to point out that ours is not an empirical or + secret treatment, nor do we use merely one single preparation and + designate it a cure-all and panacea for every variety of disease. + On the contrary, the Remedies used are varied, and such as long + experience in the treatment of Nervous and Sexual ailments have + proved to be the most valuable in their cure. Our object is to + prescribe the course necessary to be taken to ensure the result + expected or hoped for; we claim no new or occult discoveries in the + domain of Medicine or Pharmacy, but we do claim that our method of + combining medicinal drugs, in the form of a suppository and applying + them directly to the immediate locality of the diseases described + in this treatise, is not only more successful in its results but is + more effectual and rational than purely stomach drugging for nervous + Diseases allied with sexual troubles. + +The book was accompanied by various other papers, and a letter from +which the following extracts are taken: + + If for any reason after a perusal of our book you are unable to + select the course of treatment necessary, you may give us a full and + as clear a statement as possible of your symptoms, and we will submit + it to the consulting physician, when such course as will meet the + requirements of your case will be prescribed. The treatment can be + sent to you by post, together with the necessary medical and hygienic + advice suitable for your case. + + Should you still have any doubt as to the advantages of rectal + treatment in your case, possibly owing to some complication that does + not enter within the scope of our treatise, we shall be glad to hear + from you, and any letters will be treated in the fullest confidence. + Consultation personally or by letter free of charge. + +In a subsequent letter the following occurs: + + We are well aware that there are firms in existence which treat + nervous debility on similar lines to our own, but we again + emphatically claim and challenge all rivals to contradict the + fact, viz., that we are the oldest established advertising medical + business, and that we were the first to originate the Rectal Method + for the cure of Nervous and Sexual Diseases. + +From the papers sent it appears that five kinds of treatment are +supplied, as follows: + + Graded Course for the cure of Seminal Losses, Spermatorrhœa, etc. + + Impotence Course for the cure of Impotence, Loss of Sexual Vigour, + Erectile Power, etc. + + Urinary and Prostatic Course for all troubles of the Prostate Gland, + Bladder, Kidneys, etc. + + Developing Course for Atrophy or Wasting and Shrinkage of the Organs, + etc. + + Neurasthenic or Nervine Tonic Course for General Weakness, Debility, + Loss of Memory, Sleeplessness, Melancholy, Despondency, Depression, + Neuralgia, Brain Exhaustion, and all those conditions arising from + Debility associated with Nervous Diseases. + +The price of the treatment is the same in all cases, namely, £1 1s. for +one month’s treatment, and £2 2s. for three months’ treatment, of any +course. + +In a third letter it was stated that-- + + To convince you of our confidence in our Treatment to effect your + cure, we will send you a three months’ course of treatment upon + receipt of One-Half the Regular Price, namely, 21s., and you need not + pay the balance of 21s. unless you are perfectly satisfied with the + results. + +A guinea was accordingly sent for a three months’ supply of the Nervine +Tonic Course; this elicited a request for answers to the printed +questions that were sent, and a sample of urine, for “our Consulting +Physician.” The question paper was therefore filled in with particulars +of an imaginary case of nocturnal emissions, and sent with a sample of +normal healthy urine to which some glycerine and water had been added. +Three boxes of suppositories were received, with a letter, of which the +principal parts were as follows: + + We have your favour with answers to questions and sample of urine + enclosed, and our Consulting Physician has submitted the latter to + a careful examination, and we are pleased to inform you that it was + found to be of normal specific gravity, and showed no evidence of any + organic kidney disease, but an examination of the urinary débris, + together with the statements made in the diagnosis form discloses + sufficient evidence to convince us that your nerve and sexual system + is very much below par, and in order to bring about your complete + restoration to sexual health and strength it will be necessary for + you to undergo the treatment our Consulting Physician has prescribed + in your case.... + + You will therefore see that it is absolutely necessary in your case + for you to undergo, in addition to the Tonic Course which you ordered + in your previous letter, a three months’ treatment of the Graded + Course to permanently check all losses either at stool, in your + urine, or by nightly emissions, and by this means a reinvigoration of + the exhausted seminal secreting organs will be gradually effected. + This course could be used every night whilst you are using the Tonic + Course every morning ... we forward you herewith a three months’ + treatment of the Tonic Course.... Use from box No. 1 the first month, + box No. 2 the second month, and box No. 3 the third month.... If you + would like to follow our advice and use the Graded Course at night + and will remit the reduced fee of 21s. for the same, the further + remedy will be at once prepared and sent you.... + +Each box contained 29 suppositories, or 87 in all, having an +average weight of 16¹⁄₂ grains. All three kinds were found to be +similar in composition; they differed a little in the proportions +of the ingredients, but, as the drugs are not soluble in the fat, +suppositories of such a composition, if prepared by melting and pouring +into moulds, would show such differences in strength as those found, +unless prepared in very small quantities and with extreme care. The +composition shown by analysis was: + + ----------------------+-------------+-------------+------------- + | No. 1. | No. 2. | No. 3. + ---- +-----+-------+-----+-------+-----+------- + | Per |Grains | Per |Grains | Per |Grains + |Cent.|in One.|Cent.|in One.|Cent.|in One. + ----------------------+-----+-------+-----+-------+-----+------- + Calcium hypophosphite | 0.4| 0.07 | 0.3| 0.05 | 0.3| 0.05 + Powdered gentian and | | | | | | + powdered cinchona bark| 2.1| 0.35 | 3.7| 0.61 | 2.7| 0.45 + Oil of theobroma | 97.5| -- | 96.0| -- | 97.0| -- + ----------------------+-----+-------+-----+-------+-----+------- + +The two vegetable drugs could not, of course, be determined separately; +they appeared to be present in something like equal quantities. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for the eighty-seven +suppositories (ordinary charge 42s.) is 5d. + + +MURRAY’S COMBINED TREATMENT. + +This “treatment,” which has so great a resemblance in many respects to +the preceding as to suggest that it can hardly be merely accidental, is +supplied by another London firm. + +It is advertised as follows: + + BOON TO MAN. + + All Men suffering from Nervous Exhaustion, Physical Debility, and + all Allied Troubles, should send for my Illustrated Book, fully + describing Symptoms, together with most modern scientific method + of cure, including hundreds of testimonials of complete cures. No + Trusses. No Electricity. Sent sealed Post free two stamps. + +On application to the address given two paper books and a small +pamphlet were sent. The first entitled _The Combined Stomach and +Rectal Treatment for the Permanent Cure of Nervous Debility and Sexual +Diseases, including Spermatorrhœa, Impotence, and other Disorders, +resulting from these Conditions_, is a booklet of eighty-four pages, +from which some extracts are given below; the second is a booklet of +forty pages, entitled _Varicocele: Its Symptoms and Cure_; and the +pamphlet, of eight pages, is entitled _A Treatise on Venereal Diseases +Gonorrhœa, Gleet, Stricture, etc._ + +The “Treatment” is thus explained: + + The present therapeutic methods of treating Nervous Debility may be + described as three distinct systems, viz.:--Treatment by the Stomach + alone, Treatment by Local Absorption, through the means of the Rectum + or opening of the lower bowel, and the Murray system of combined + Rectal and Stomach Treatment. + + The two former methods used separately have proved of considerable + advantage in removing some of the distressing symptoms of this + disease, but the successful cure of Nervous Debility, needless to + say, depends upon the cure and removal of every symptom associated + with the disease.... This result is effected by “Murray’s Treatment,” + which has received the appellation “Combined” from its peculiar means + of administration. It comprises two forms of treatment. The first + consisting of prescribed remedies taken by means of the stomach.... + The second form ... is that of a Rectal Suppository. + +The books were accompanied by various papers and a letter of the usual +type, which was followed at intervals by others, in one of which it was +stated that: + + It is always the earnest endeavour of my Consulting Physician to + carry out to a successful issue the many cases that come under + our care, and I am glad to say that the results have in no way + contradicted my claims as to this satisfactory issue. + + In all cases that are submitted to my opinion, it is honestly given + after consulting with my Physician, and in no case do we encourage + or give hopes of a successful cure in those chronic cases which + sometimes do not yield to treatment. + +From the book it appears that five “courses” are supplied--namely: + + The Nervine Tonic and Brain Food Course. + The Seminal Course. + The Impotence Course. + The Genito-Urinary Course. + The Atrophy Course. + + From a long and varied experience in the treatment of Nervous + Debility my Physician and myself find it very requisite that three + months’ treatment should be prescribed in order to bring about a + thorough and complete cure. + + The fee for a three months’ Treatment is £2 2s. + + The fee for a month’s Treatment is £1 1s. + +No order having been sent, a further letter was received, containing +the following offer: + + ... I shall be most happy to make such reduction in the cost of the + treatment as I hope will adapt itself to your means; and to show + you the confidence I have in the value and benefits of my method of + cure, I am willing to meet you in the matter of payment, and would + suggest your paying me, say, 20s. for a three months’ course, and the + balance of 22s. I shall only expect or look for, provided that you + are perfectly satisfied with the results obtained from its use. + +Twenty shillings was then sent for the “Nervine Course,” and brought +a request for answers to the questions on a sheet forwarded, and a +sample of urine. The questions were answered in the same way as for the +Marston Treatment (above), and a sample of the same mixture of urine, +glycerine, and water was sent. Not only was the result the same, that +is, a discovery that an additional course--at an additional fee--was +necessary, but it was conveyed in very similar words: + + It is evident that your case is more complicated than your first + letter indicated, and from the full particulars to hand, together + with result of examination of urine, your case needs in addition to + the Nervine Tonic Course a Special Seminal Course to permanently + check all seminal losses, whether at stool, in the urine, nightly or + otherwise, and it will strengthen the now weakened seminal secreting + ducts. This extra Course would have to be used in the morning, and in + conjunction with the night Course they will act in harmony with each + other and attack every symptom of your case.... I shall be pleased + to let you have this extra Course on the same reduced terms, viz., + 20s., and upon receipt of this amount it will immediately be prepared + and sent you with full directions, and I trust you will see your way + clear to order the same at once so that they may be used conjointly. + +The preparations sent consisted of three boxes of gelatine perles +(called “gelatinoids”) marked “No. 1,” “No. 2,” and “No. 3,” each box +containing 10, and three boxes of suppositories, similarly marked, each +containing 30. It was explained that: + + I am only sending you the first month’s gelatinoids, as it may be + necessary to modify these next month. + +The general directions were to use a suppository + + from box No. 1 first day, box No. 2 second day, and box No. 3 third + day, recommencing with box No. 1 again on fourth day, and so on in + this order day after day. The Stomach Gelatinoids are to be swallowed + and in same alternative order as Rectal Treatment. + +The directions on the gelatinoids were “Take one every morning after +breakfast.” + +_Gelatinoids No. 1._ + +Each contained 0.75 grain of quinine sulphate, partly dehydrated, +equivalent to 0.84 grain of the _B.P._ salt. No other substance was +present. + +_Gelatinoids No. 2._ + +The contents of one had an average weight of 1.35 grains, and contained: + + Ferrous phosphate (Fe₃2PO₄,8H₂O) 26 per cent. + Quinine phosphate (Q₂H₃PO₄,8H₂O) 35 „ + Strychnine. + Talc 11 „ + Milk-sugar. + +The strychnine was only a small proportion of the alkaloid, and +the amount of material available did not suffice for its separate +determination. + +_Gelatinoids No. 3._ + +The contents of one had an average weight of 1.66 grains, and consisted +of a brown extract agreeing in most characters and tests with extract +of damiana. No other ingredient could be detected, but some other +extract _might_ have been present, as a mixture of some vegetable +extracts could not be separated with such a small quantity as was +available. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients of the 30 gelatinoids is 1¹⁄₄d. + +_The Suppositories._ + +All the three kinds of suppositories had the same constituents, only +showing such small variations in the amounts as would be inevitable in +making a large quantity in the usual way; the average weight was 16 +grains. Analysis showed the presence of: + + ----------------------+-------------+-------------+------------- + | No. 1. | No. 2. | No. 3. + ---- +-----+-------+-----+-------+-----+------- + | Per |Grains | Per |Grains | Per |Grains + |cent.|in One.|cent.|in One.|cent.|in One. + ----------------------+-----+-------+-----+-------+-----+------- + Calcium hypophosphite | 4·05| 0·7 | 3·54| 0·6 | 3·70| 0·6 + Powdered gentian and | | | | | | + powdered cinchona bark| 3·90| 0·6 | 4·30| 0·7 | 5·30| 0·9 + Oil of theobroma |92·05| -- |92·16| -- |91·00| -- + ----------------------+-------+-----+-----+-------+-----+------- + +In the mixture of powdered gentian and cinchona, the former appeared to +constitute more than half. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for 90 suppositories is 5¹⁄₂d., +and therefore of the entire “combined treatment” 6³⁄₄d. + + +SEQUARINE. + +Sequarine is supplied by a firm in London, at the price of 8s. a +bottle, holding 1 fluid ounce. It is advertised as “The New Serum +Cure,” and both newspaper advertisements and the descriptive pamphlet +sent on application include what is stated to be a portrait of “The +Discoverer, Dr. Brown-Sequard, F.R.S.” It is stated in the pamphlet +that: + + Since the discovery of blood circulation by Harvey there has been + no greater addition to the forces of medical science than the + strength producing element discovered by Professor Brown-Sequard, + F.R.C.P. (London), L.L.D. (Cambridge). This element, which is + the Serum-Sequarine, has already become an indispensable aid to + physicians.... The new serum has been given various names, such + as “Sequard Fluid” and “Spermine,” etc., but the registered and + generally recognised name of Professor Brown-Sequard’s discovery is + “Sequarine”--a name derived from that of the discoverer himself, + thus: Sequar--ine. + +Since the general nature of the preparation is thus indicated, it is +not altogether a “secret” remedy; but from the way in which it is +advertised to the public, and the attempt to identify Brown-Séquard’s +orchitic fluid (which, of course, is _not_ a serum) with the +preparation supplied by this particular firm under a registered trade +name, it is fairly to be classed among nostrums. + +The following is an extract from a newspaper advertisement: + + Nature and Action of the Serum. + + According to leading physicians the nature of Sequarine and the + manner of action on the human organism in curing disease may be + briefly summarised as follows: + + Within every animal body there exists a “power of disease + resistance,” the principle of “natural immunity”; this power + resists the entrance of any disease into the body, and if it is of + normal strength readily repels the disease even after it has gained + entrance. In treating disease doctors are aided greatly by the + principle of “natural immunity.” The homœopaths rely on it almost + entirely--and in a great many instances drugs get the credit for + a cure when vital resistance has really effected it. The greatest + scientists have always been baffled in their endeavours to discover + the element or force which is the basis of this peculiar power. In + his search for this element Professor Brown-Sequard discovered that + there exists in the blood infinitesimal quantities of a fluid which + subsequently proved to be the _basis of the power of natural immunity + from disease_. + + This fluid is the serum which has been named Sequarine in his honour. + + What Sequarine Cures. + + Sequarine is a cure for any ailment or weakness brought about by lack + of nerve power or an accumulation of impurities in any part of the + body. + +The attempt to secure the prestige of the name of the late Dr. +Brown-Séquard, without stating precisely that he was in any way +responsible for the article now sold as Sequarine, is very obvious in +a circular letter sent with the pamphlet referred to above, from which +the following is an extract: + + Since the introduction of Sequarine into England an ever-increasing + number of sufferers have taken this treatment with remarkable + success. The name of Dr. Brown-Sequard, L.L.D. (Cambridge), Fellow + of the Royal Society and Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians + (London), is a sufficient guarantee of its efficacy. + +The directions on the label are: + + Dose.--Adults, 20-30 drops; children, 5-15 drops in half-a-glass + of water (soda-water or water which has been previously boiled + preferred). + + To be taken three times daily, half-an-hour before meals. + +The liquid contained 35.8 per cent. by volume of alcohol, and +a sufficient trace of oil of peppermint to give a flavour; on +evaporation it left 1.9 per cent. of solid residue, of which 0.6 was +ash--principally sodium and potassium phosphates. The nitrogen present +was 0.22 per cent., equivalent to 1.4 per cent. of protein, but a small +portion of it was present as ammonia, perhaps formed by decomposition +of nitrogenous organic matter. The liquid was thus shown to be of the +nature of an animal extract, with alcohol; definite constituents could +not, of course, be isolated. + + +NEUROVRIL. + +The preparation known as Neurovril is supplied by the Neurovril +Company, London. The price is 21s. per bottle, “sufficient for one +month,” or 7s. 6d. for a smaller bottle, “sufficient for one week.” +The smaller bottle was found to contain nearly 3 fluid ounces. An +advertisement occupying the space of a column in a London daily paper, +is headed, in large letters, + + HAS THE ELIXIR OF LIFE BEEN DISCOVERED? + + Amazing Results of Great Health Discovery announced To-day. + +And the first paragraphs are as follows: + + There is announced to-day a mysterious serum, which, whilst according + relief in cases of severe illnesses, apparently, from the statements + made, actually introduces into the body not a mere stimulating + force, but life itself. Although the discovery has been made by + a Continental scientist, he has already sent particulars to his + confrères all over the world, and so important do British scientists + consider this matter, that they are making every effort to place the + information at once in the hands of those who are ailing. + + The amazing successes that have attended the application of this + wonderful new health discovery have aroused on all hands the + question: “Has the Elixir of Life at last been discovered?” + +After much more of the same sort, it continues: + + The new serum is a new food for use in cases of + + Loss of Memory, + Headache, + Exhaustion, + Nervous Weakness, + Brain Fag, + Melancholia, + Irritability, + Slackness, + Nervous Prostration, + Partial Paralysis. + + It is a blood food for use in cases of + + Anæmia, + Rheumatism, + Sciatica, + Impoverished Blood, + Kidney Troubles, + Disordered Liver. + + It is a physical food for use in cases of + + Wasting Tissue, + Lack of Muscular Vigour, + Weak Back, + Thinness, + Aged Appearance, + Premature Decline. + + The wonderful result after even the first dose will be a delightful + sensation to those who have long lost the vigour of full manhood or + womanhood. + +A booklet is sent on application, from which the following passages are +quoted: + + When it is said that old men and women are made young, that the + decrepit take on a new virility, that the yellow-hued cheeks assume + the roses of youth, and the worn out brain gains new power to think + and control action--these are facts beyond all disputing. + + The great new basic serum makes it possible to defy the approach + of age, and, better still, enables men and women to come back from + the realms of senile decay and continuous illness to the vigour + of perfect man and womanhood. Tissue by tissue, new flesh, new + energy-creating cells are formed, and as the basic serum is absorbed + into the system, throughout the whole body is carried on a work of + rejuvenation.... + + Realising the inutility of conducting investigation on stereotyped + lines, elaborate search was made for a new idea, and in a most + singular manner the secret that proved the keynote of our scientist’s + success was found. His work involved ceaseless laboratory experiments + through the realms of organic chemistry and physiological science, + and demanded abnormal patience.... + + Further experiments proved that the new basic serum not only supplied + vitality and strength to the body, but could be prepared in such + a way as to prove an anti-toxin, a means of resisting and curing + illness.... + + To say that Neurovril contains protoplasmic life is no rash + assertion; it is a perfectly true statement proven by exhaustive + laboratory tests. + + Teeming with millions of life centres, every drop of Neurovril + introduced into the body effects a wonderful change. The life centres + develop and give up their energy to the body.... + +The following appears on the label: + + Analysis of Active Principle: + + 75 per cent. phosphates, immediately assimilable. + 20 „ albumen, remarkable for creating virility. + 2 „ carbonate calcic. + 3 „ water. Total = 100 per cent. + +The directions are: + + Take of this Tonic, regularly, half of a Neurovril glass (supplied + with this bottle) night and morning directly after meals. + +“Half of a neurovril glass” is about 5 fluid drachms. Analysis showed +that 100 parts (by measure) of “neurovril” contained 18.9 parts (by +measure) of alcohol, and gave 19.1 parts of residue on evaporation, +of which 18.1 parts consisted of sugar. A trace of oil of cloves was +present, giving a slight clove odour, and a faint odour like that of +an animal extract in a state of incipient decomposition could also be +detected. + +The liquid was slightly turbid, and a trace of fatty substance was +present. No appreciable amount of “serum” or other animal substance was +present; only the slightest indication of a trace of nitrogenous matter +could be detected, this being of the nature of an organic base, and +the amount of phosphate was so small that it was doubtful, even with +a very delicate test, whether any at all were present. The total ash +was 0.03 per cent., and it contained a little lime. The 1 part per 100 +fluid parts which was not sugar was probably chiefly glycerine, but a +small quantity of glycerine in presence of a large quantity of sugar +can hardly be positively identified by examining a reasonable quantity +of the material. + +If the “active principle” contains, as stated on the label, 75 per +cent. of phosphate and 20 per cent. of albumen, it follows from the +analysis that only a minute trace of it is present in the liquid, which +is practically a mixture of simple syrup and diluted alcohol. + + +OSOGEN. + +Osogen is supplied by a firm in London at 2s. 9d., 7s. 9d., and 11s. a +bottle. A bottle price 2s. 9d. was found to contain 1 fluid ounce, and +a bottle price 11s. 5 fluid ounces. + +An advertisement, occupying the space of a column in a London daily +paper, is headed: + + MYSTERIOUS SERU-PHOS.--Amazing Elemental Combination Startles + Scientists. More Effective than the most powerful Serum. + +Some extracts from it are: + + Scientific discussion is at present rife anent a mysterious + new combination of organic elements. Some time ago Professor + Brown-Sequard, F.R.S., F.R.C.P. (formerly head of Queen Square + Hospital, London), discovered a serum (Sequard Fluid) which was used + with success in treating various ailments. Another eminent scientist + has now discovered that by combining this serum with organic + reconstituent elements its curative value is more than doubled. + After Professor Brown-Sequard announced his discovery to the Paris + Biological Society, Professor Prince Tarkanhov (St. Petersburg) and + other scientists began experiments with the serum, and hence the new + remedy is a direct product of the labour and learning of some of the + greatest scientific men of their age. This seru-phos combination + (called Osogen) has been pronounced absolutely certain in curative + effect and more swift in action than the most powerful serum used + alone. Scientists who investigated it were amazed by its wonderful + potency, and Physicians, both in London and on the Continent, predict + that Osogen will supersede many other forms of treatment.... + + Osogen is not a secret remedy. It is a vital extract (C₂H₅N₁), + combined with organic reconstituent elements (glycerophosphates), all + of which are now recognised by the Medical Profession, and appear + in Pharmacopœias throughout the world. One of the ingredients has + been called by famous scientists “More powerful than the interchange + of blood.” The whole is almost an exact replica of the elements + which combine to form the human economy. The vital extract increases + disease-fighting corpuscles, another constituent forms nerve cells + (especially cells of the Spinal Nerves), another forms tissue cells, + etc. Its action is restorative in every part of the body, and its + use is especially recommended in cases where the serum alone has not + effected a thorough cure. + +In a small pamphlet enclosed in the package, “Osogen” is described as + + Serum and Glycerophosphates. A Natural Remedy for Neurasthenia, + Nervous Disorders, Brain Fag, General Debility, Anæmia, Bright’s + Disease, Influenza, Sciatica, Functional Weakness, Loss of Vital + Power, Indigestion, Dyspepsia, Rheumatism, Kidney Disease, Dropsy, + Diabetes, Asthma, Consumption, Locomotor Ataxy, and Paralysis. + +The directions on the label are: + + 20 to 30 drops in a wineglass of water after meals three times daily. + Children over six: 5 to 15 drops as above. + +Analysis showed the liquid to contain glycerophosphates of iron, +magnesium, sodium and quinine, a little alcohol and a trace of +chloroform, with glycerine in large quantity. Not more than a trace of +nitrogenous matter was present in addition to the quinine, showing that +if the mixture contained any of Brown-Sequard’s Orchitic Fluid, the +amount was very small. Determination of the quantities of the various +ingredients gave the following formula: + + Quinine glycerophosphate 0.75 part + Iron glycerophosphate 2.14 parts + Magnesium glycerophosphate 0.77 part + Sodium glycerophosphate 0.90 „ + Spirit of chloroform 3.8 parts by measure + Glycerine 73 „ „ + Water to 100 „ „ + + +DR. LECOY’S VIGOROIDS. + +These consisted of sugar-coated tablets, coloured blue externally. +After removing the coating, the tablets had an average weight of 2.2 +grains. The dose is stated to be two, three times daily. + +Analysis showed them to contain: + + Ferrous phosphate. + Quinine. + Strychnine. + A vegetable extract. + Sugar. + Starch. + Talc. + +The ferrous phosphate, calculated as Fe₃(PO₄)₂,8H₂O, from the iron +found, was 8.7 per cent., or 0.19 grain in each tablet. The quinine +and strychnine together amounted to 4.35 per cent., or 0.09 grain in +one tablet; the strychnine was clearly not more than one-twentieth +of the total alkaloid (= 0.005 grain in one tablet), but it was not +possible to determine the amount exactly on the quantity available. The +vegetable extract showed no well-marked properties by which it could be +identified; the amount was small, the sugar constituting the largest +part of the tablet. + + +ANTINEURASTHIN, A BRAIN AND NERVE FOOD. + +Readers of daily or weekly papers or magazines who allow their +eyes occasionally to travel over the advertisement pages of these +journals can hardly fail to have seen somewhat frequently a lengthy +advertisement of a preparation called Dr. Hartmann’s Antineurasthin. +The advertisement is usually headed “The Twentieth Century Disease.” +This, it appears, is neurasthenia, and the various stages of its +manifestations are set out in a sort of table, beginning with +“Sensitiveness” and ending with “Suicidal Tendency.” Antineurasthin, +referred to as “this marvellous twentieth century brain and nerve food +discovery,” is put forward as a specific for the cure of neurasthenia: + + Dr. Hartmann’s discovery is one that should personally and very + deeply interest brain-workers in all walks of life. Every day are + heard and seen all too serious evidences of the undue strain of their + intense work on the vital power of the body. And now, on the highest + possible authority, it is heralded that science has proved equal to + the stern necessity which demanded the discovery of “Antineurasthin,” + the brain and nerve food. + + For greater convenience “Antineurasthin” is compressed into small + tablets, and although its beneficial effect on the brain and senses + is so immediate, yet there is none of the depressing reaction + that follows the administration of artificial drug stimulants, + “Antineurasthin” being a special brain and nerve nutrient, and not + a brain and nerve drug-irritant. No longer need the brain-worker + struggle on under the cloud of fear of failing powers of brain and + body. He or she may, by including “Antineurasthin” as an article + vitally necessary in the daily dietary, build up and maintain that + perfect balance of mental and physical power which alone can uphold + health and happiness. + +It appears that this article was sold in Germany before being +introduced here, and it was included in the series of proprietary +preparations analysed by Dr. Zernik. According to Zernik’s analysis, it +consists of dry yolk of egg, milk sugar, a small quantity of starch, +dextrin, and an aromatic substance. + +A detailed quantitative analysis of “Antineurasthin” as sold in this +country gave the results described below. A 4s. 6d. box contained +twenty-four tablets, having an average weight of 30¹⁄₂ grains each. The +directions are: + + To be taken when and as required, particularly before or after great + exertions (bodily and mental); in all cases of nervous disorders and + mental affections, general debility, etc. + + Usual dose 3-4 tablets a day between meals. Antineurasthin contains + no injurious ingredients, and is therefore absolutely harmless to the + most delicate, even if taken in large quantities. + +Analysis showed the presence of: + + Protein 26.4 per cent. + Fat 2.5 per cent. + Sugar of milk 32.8 per cent. + Ash 5.7 per cent. + Water 8.3 per cent. + Gum about 2.0 per cent. + Aromatic substances traces. + Potato starch (by difference) about 22.0 per cent. + +The material of the tablets is nearly white, with yellow particles like +dried egg-yolk distributed through it; extraction with appropriate +solvents proved a fair trace of lecithin to be present; if the whole +of the fat present were derived from egg-yolk it would represent 3.8 +per cent. of dried yolk, equivalent to 7.7 per cent. of fresh liquid +yolk in the tablets; this accounts for 1.3 out of the 26.4 per cent. of +protein. Sulphur in organic combination was found to be present to the +extent of 0.09 per cent.; sulphur is practically absent from the yolk, +but occurs in the white of eggs, and the amount found corresponds to +5.4 per cent. of dried, or about 38.6 per cent. of liquid, egg-albumen +in the tablet; a further 5.1 out of the 26.4 per cent. of protein is +thus accounted for. This leaves 20 per cent. of protein, and this +stands in about the same ratio to 32.8 per cent. of milk sugar, and +about 5 per cent. of ash (deducting the ash of the egg and gum), as +corresponds to the composition of a dried separated milk. The ash +consisted principally of calcium phosphate, like the ash of milk. The +aromatic substances appeared to include a trace of vanilla and of some +other substance that could not be identified; these are probably added +to serve at the same time as flavouring agents and preservatives. + +The starch was seen by the microscope to be very abundant, +corresponding in appearance to the amount required by difference. +On the above assumptions the composition of the tablets would be +approximately:-- + + Dry yolk of egg 3.8 per cent. + Dry white of egg 5.4 per cent. + Dry separated milk 57.8 per cent. + Gum 2.0 per cent. + Potato starch 22.7 per cent. + Moisture 8.3 per cent. + Aromatic substances traces. + +The daily dose of four tablets, or 122 grains, would, according to this +formula, contain the equivalent of 10 grains of yolk and 43 grains of +white of egg (not dried); the ratio between these is about the same as +exists in an average egg, and the two may be put together and regarded +as about a teaspoonful of fresh egg; in addition, the daily dose would +represent about 2 oz., or a quarter of a tumblerful, of separated milk, +and a little starch. + + +A GERMAN NOSTRUM. + +According to Dr. Zernik: + + _Dr. J. Schäfert’s physiological nutrient (nerve) salts for + neurasthenia_ is a preparation made in Barmen. The prospectus states + that it is composed of glycerine phosphate compound with certain + physiological salts, which act on the formation of the red blood + corpuscles and improve the circulation generally; 100 grams of the + salts put up in a glass vessel costs 4s. It consists of 40 parts of + glycerine phosphate of calcium, 30 parts of glycerine phosphate of + sodium, and 20 parts of sodium chloride with a trace of iron. + + + + +CHAPTER IV. + +MEDICINES FOR COUGHS, CONSUMPTION, CATARRH, ETC. + + + The medicines described in this chapter include both old and new + nostrums, and vary from simple pills and lozenges to more or less + complex “treatments.” The claims advanced for them also vary + considerably, but are in most cases very wide. A pill containing + ipecacuanha only is put forward, not merely as sometimes useful for + coughs, but as “The Best Remedy to Cure all Coughs, Colds, Asthmas, + etc.” A lozenge containing cubeb and liquorice is similarly described + as “the best article before the public for Coughs, Colds, Bronchitis, + Asthma, Catarrh, the Hacking Cough in Consumption, and numerous + affections of the throat.” These, however, are modest claims compared + to some of the others. A lozenge, in which the only medicinal agent + found in any considerable quantity was extract of liquorice, is + not only put forward for most of the above disorders and others + allied to them, but also for “many cases of Headache, Flatulence, + and Indigestion.” A liquid which is said to be “the best-known + remedy for Colds, Influenza, Sore Throat, etc.,” is also described + as a valuable remedy for, among other things, diarrhœa, disordered + stomach, bad circulation of the blood, and quinsy. The “treatments” + are more especially put forward for catarrh, but here, too, the net + is cast rather wide; in one case, asthma, whooping cough, croup and + consumption are among the diseases for which it is put forward as a + cure, while in another the comprehensive, if awkward, description + of those to whom it is recommended is “all who wish to quickly cure + Catarrh, Asthma, Adenoids, Polypi, or other Nose-breathing, Chest or + Lung, and Voice or Hearing or Throat Bronchial Trouble.” Needless to + say, their claims are mutually exclusive; one of them, an inhalation + “treatment,” claims to be “the only treatment through which the + diseased parts of the head, throat, and lungs can be reached”; while + the proprietor of another modestly says: “I assert, without fear + of contradiction, that mine is the only apparatus which sends the + medicated vapour over every membrane that air can reach, and I also + assert with equal firmness that there are no preparations for similar + object which can compare in effectiveness with those supplied by me.” + Two of the treatments are supplied at somewhat high prices; and, + although no exact estimate is given of the cost of the ingredients, + it is evident that it is quite out of proportion to the amounts + charged for them. + + +FENNINGS’ LUNG-HEALERS. + +The article advertised under this name is in the form of small pills, +and is supplied by a firm in the Isle of Wight at 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. a box, +containing thirty pills. + +The pills are advertised as “The Best Remedy to Cure all Coughs, Colds, +Asthmas, etc.” The following quotations are from a circular enclosed in +the package: + + Directions for taking Fennings’ Lung-Healers. The Certain Remedy to + cure all Colds, Coughs, Bronchitis, Influenza, Incipient Consumption, + The Coughs of Measles and Scarlet Fever, Asthmas, and other + complaints of the Lungs. + + The Dose is the same for all ages. + + These Lung-Healers, although so beneficial in curing Inflammation, + quelling Fevers, and eradicating the _virus_ of disease, are + perfectly harmless and innocent, and can with equal safety be given + to the most tender infant as well as to the fullgrown person. + + To Cure Colds, Coughs, or Asthma.--One of these Lung-Healers should + be given to the infant, or person, in jam, or by itself, every + morning or evening. + + For Bronchitis, Influenza, Incipient Consumption, the Cough + of Measles, of Scarlatina, or Scarlet Fever, give one of the + Lung-Healers, in jam, or by itself, three times a day.... If, when + freely taking of these Lung-Healers, the child or person should + perchance become sick, it need not be heeded, or reckoned as a bad + symptom, for sickness often proves of great benefit in a complaint, + and advantageously assists in lessening all Fever and Inflammation. + +The average weight of one pill was 0.22 grain. Chemical analysis and +microscopical examination showed that practically the whole of the +material consisted of ipecacuanha; the amount of alkaloid present was +1.8 per cent., which is a little below the average for ipecacuanha, +and the alkaloid extracted possessed the characters of ipecacuanha +alkaloid. Careful search for other ingredients, and comparison with +powdered ipecacuanha, showed nothing else to be present but the trace +of excipient used to bind the powder into pills. Estimated cost of +ingredients for thirty pills is ¹⁄₇d. + + +PEPS. + +These much-advertised lozenges are supplied by a firm in a Yorkshire +town in boxes at 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. and 2s. 9d. per box. A 2s. 9d. box was +found to contain ninety-eight lozenges. The name of the article appears +to be derived from the initial letters of “Pine extract pastilles.” The +nature of the claims made is shown by the following extracts from a +booklet issued by the makers:-- + + In the course of scientific research singular freedom from bronchial + disease was noticed among the dwellers amidst the rich pine forests + of Europe. The great healing power of the odours and balsams of + the pine tree was also observed; and at last a striking connection + between the two facts made itself apparent.... + + A study of the peculiar property of pine balsams led to their great + medicinal value becoming more fully recognised, and the idea was + evolved of capturing and storing up these rich essences in some form + convenient for the great masses who are not able to spend winter in + the far-famed forest resorts. It was practically a matter of finding + how to transfer to our crowded homes all the real benefits of the + pine woods, so that those victims of bronchitis, consumption, asthma, + colds and other throat and chest affections, who could not go to pine + woods, should have the pine woods and the rich pine air brought to + them--into the very rooms in which they dwell. + + A novel tablet, containing the richest pine extracts--that is, with + all the best pine essences and odours held captive in them--was + eventually perfected; and these tablets, or Peps, as they are + called, undoubtedly supply a long-felt want in the family medicine + cupboard. The need is one that has never yet been properly met by + any of the cough mixtures, lozenges, jujubes, and gums, which no + medical attendant can conscientiously recommend, chiefly through the + pernicious drug habits they encourage and their sheer inability to + grant real, lasting relief. “A Pine Forest in every Home” aptly and + pithily describes this new remedy.... + + As a Household Medicine they are of unequalled service in cases of + Colds, Coughs, Bronchitis, Sore or Relaxed Throat, Huskiness, Loss of + Voice, Asthma, Influenza, Pneumonia, Pleurisy, the Hacking Cough of + Consumption, Lung Weakness, Children’s Colds, Whooping Cough, Croup, + Chill or Tightness of the Chest, that old Breathing Difficulty, as + well as for many cases of Headache, Flatulence and Indigestion. For + Clergymen, Lawyers, Teachers, and all Public Speakers, they are an + invaluable boon. + +The lozenges had an average weight of 21 grains. The taste and odour +did not suggest pine oil, but peppermint with a trace of anise, and +on distilling out the oils it was evident that the principal one +present was oil of peppermint, but the quantity was far too small to +be determined quantitatively. Resinous matter was only present to the +extent of 0.7 per cent., and this did not show the characters of pine +resin. No alkaloid was found, showing the absence of preparations of +both opium and ipecacuanha. Extract of liquorice was present in rather +considerable quantity, as was proved by extraction of the glycyrrhizin. +Sugars constituted about 75 per cent. of the tablet, but a little +of this would be derived from the extract of liquorice; probably 70 +per cent. would about represent the sugar added as such. Talc was +present to the extent of about 4 per cent., and was doubtless added +as a lubricant to aid in making the lozenges by compression. No other +ingredient was found beyond those named; some sort of pine extract +might have been present if it were free from resin or oil, but in that +case it could not be expected to possess much medicinal value. + +The results of the analysis may be thus summarised: + + Sugar about 70 per cent. + Extract of liquorice about 25 „ + Resinous matter 0.7 „ + Oil of peppermint trace. + Oil of anise „ + Talc about 4 „ + + +BROWN’S BRONCHIAL TROCHES. + +These are supplied by a firm in Boston, U.S.A. A 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. box was +found to contain forty-eight lozenges. + +In a circular enclosed in the package it is stated that: + + “_Brown’s Bronchial Troches_” or Cough Lozenges, allay irritation + which induces coughing, giving instant relief in Consumptive, + Bronchial, and Asthmatic complaints. + + “BROWN’S BRONCHIAL TROCHES” were first introduced in the year 1850. + _It has been proved that they are the best article before the + public_ for Coughs, Colds, Bronchitis, Asthma, Catarrh, the _Hacking + Cough_ of Consumption, and numerous affections of the Throat, giving + _immediate relief_.... + + The Troches are efficacious for children with Whooping Cough, or + other affections of the chest, having a soothing influence, assisting + expectoration, and preventing the accumulation of phlegm, which + causes the sense of suffocation so common with this disorder. + + _There are no particular directions to be observed in the use of the + Bronchial Troches. One or two should be allowed to dissolve slowly in + the mouth, repeating when necessary. We have seen instances of their + good effects in cases of inflammation of the Bronchial Tubes and the + hoarseness of children._ + +The lozenges had an average weight of 11.3 grains. Chemical analysis +and microscopical examination showed the presence of powdered cubeb +(about 6 per cent.), extract of liquorice in small quantity, gum, and +sugar (about 70 per cent.). No other substance was found; if a little +extract of cubeb were present as well as the powdered drug, it could +not have been detected with certainty. + + +DR. WHITE’S KOMPO. + +This is supplied by a firm in Yorkshire in bottles at 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. and +2s. 9d. A 2s. 9d. bottle was found to contain 11¹⁄₂ fluid ounces. + +It is stated in an advertisement that: + + Dr. White’s “Kompo” is the best-known remedy for Colds, Influenza, + Sore Throats, etc. + +with other similar statements. But a wider application is claimed on +the label, in the following words: + + A Valuable Remedy for Colds, Influenza, Diarrhœa, Pains in the + Stomach and Bowels, Disordered Stomach, Headache, Cold Feet, Cold + Sweats, Bad Circulation of the Blood, Sore Throat, Quinsy, etc. + + As a Pure Stimulant it is far better than Brandy, or any other + Intoxicating Drink. + +The dose is given as + + One or two teaspoonfuls in a cupful of warm water, well sweetened, + several times a day. + +The bottle contained a brown, somewhat turbid liquid, smelling of +cloves and cinnamon. Analysis showed it to contain 6.42 per cent. +by volume of alcohol, and only 2.4 per cent. of solid matter; this +consisted largely of a tannic acid resembling that of red gum. No +alkaloid was present, but constituents of capsicum, cinnamon, and +cloves were recognised, and a small proportion (0.07 per cent.) of +salicylic acid was found. The following formula gave a mixture +scarcely distinguishable from the original by either physical or +chemical means: + + Eucalyptus gum (red gum) 1.5 part. + Caustic soda 0.08 „ + Oil of cinnamon (or cassia) 0.25 „ + Oil of cloves 0.25 „ + Tincture of capsicum 7.5 parts. + Salicylic acid 0.07 part. + Rectified spirit 1.5 „ + Decoction of cinnamon and cloves to 100 parts by measure. + +The decoction was made by boiling 5 parts each of cloves and cinnamon +with 200 of water until the volume was reduced by half, straining and +adjusting the volume to 100 by measure. + +The caustic soda in the above formula was used to darken the colour of +the red gum. A similar result may be obtained by adding a very little +burnt sugar, and there were some indications of the presence of this in +the original. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for 11¹⁄₂ fluid ounces is about +6d. + + +GLYKALINE. + +This is a liquid supplied by a London firm of homœopathic chemists. A +1s. 1¹⁄₂d. bottle was found to contain about 1¹⁄₂ fluid drachms. It is +described in an advertisement as: + + A Sure Cure for all Coughs, Colds, Catarrhs, Hay Fever, Influenza, + Asthma, Bronchitis, etc. Rapid and reliable in its effects. Checks a + slight cold with one dose. Cures a severe cold in 24 hours. + +And in a circular enclosed in the package it is stated that: + + There is no medicine to equal it for promptly relieving those + distressing colds where there is a constant flow of a thin watery + discharge from the nose, accompanied by continual sneezing, throbbing + of the head, and smarting pains in the eyes, etc.--a few hours + sufficing to overcome all these unpleasant systems. + +The dose is given on the label as: + + Three drops every hour in a tablespoonful of water until relieved, + then every two or three hours until quite well. Children under five + years, a third of the above quantity. + +Analysis showed the liquid to contain 35 per cent. by volume of +alcohol, but only 0.15 per cent. of solid matter. This consisted partly +of potassium iodide and partly of organic matter. Not the slightest +trace of any alkaloid could be found. + +Each dose would contain approximately ¹⁄₃₅₀ grain of potassium iodide, +with a trace of organic matter, which _may_ be derived from some drug. + +The cost of the preparation is practically that of the alcohol which it +contains, or about ¹⁄₆d. for the contents of the bottle. + + +LIQUFRUTA MEDICA. + +The preparation sold under this name is supplied from “The Liqufruta +Laboratory.” There appear to be two varieties of the medicine, the one +being called simply “Liqufruta,” and described on the label as “cure +for consumption cough, whooping and every other cough,” while the other +is called “Liqufruta Medica,” and is described on the label as “The +Great Consumption Cure.” The price of the latter is 2s. 9d., and the +bottle was found to contain 12¹⁄₂ fluid ounces. + +Other particulars given on the label are as follows: + + Liqufruta Medica the Only Safe Cure for Pulmonary Consumption, + Chronic Asthma, Bronchitis, Catarrh. + + Certain of the germicidal constituents contained in this remedy are + otherwise unobtainable throughout the world. + + Guaranteed free of poison, laudanum, copper solution, cocaine, + morphia, opium, chloral, calomel, paregoric, narcotics, or + preservatives.... + + Liqufruta Medica heals the chest, lungs, and throat, arrests the + inflammation, loosens the phlegm, and effectually destroys the + bacilli of consumption, etc., which no other medicine can reach. + Whilst the cough will be eased at once, the expectoration will be + more profuse for a short time. + + Directions. One dessertspoonful every two hours; in severe cases + every hour, and also during the night whenever cough is troublesome; + take a dose when getting into bed and the moment of awakening in + the morning. When symptoms moderate and pronounced benefit has been + obtained the doses may be administered with one and a-half to two + hours’ interval if desired. + +The mixture was found to be a dark brown, rather thick liquid, smelling +like a mixture of garlic or onion and peppermint. On distilling, a +trace of volatile oil was obtained, the distillate closely resembling +the liquid obtained by distilling onion and a trace of oil of +peppermint with water; 100 parts by measure of the mixture contained +10.05 parts of solids; of these, 2.05 parts were of mucilaginous +or pectinous nature, 3.44 parts were glucose, and 2.28 parts were +cane sugar. A decoction of onion was found to contain a mucilaginous +substance somewhat similar to that obtained from the mixture. + +The liquid was acid, and on evaporation and ignition yielded an ash +which was alkaline, the acidity before and the alkalinity after +ignition being approximately equivalent. This is characteristic of acid +salts containing an alkali-metal and an organic acid, such as potassium +bitartrate. The ash contained a considerable proportion of potassium, +but in the presence of the sugars and vegetable extractive the small +quantity of tartaric acid could not be identified; the acidity and +alkalinity indicated 0.4 part (in 100 fluid parts) of potassium +bitartrate, accounting for 0.16 part of ash; the total ash was 0.4 +part, and the other constituents were such as are found in the ash of +most vegetable extracts. + +Alkaloidal matter was present in very small quantity, the amount being +about 0.01 per cent.; this consisted of two (or more) alkaloids, +neither of which gave the reactions of any of the ordinary medicinal +alkaloids. The other constituents consisted of tannin, a trace of +resin, and extractive. The original liquid had a very slightly pungent +taste, such as would be given by a trace of a preparation of capsicum +or ginger. + +The results of the analysis thus showed: + + Oil of peppermint } + Oil of onion, or garlic } traces + Alkaloids } + Potassium bitartrate 0.4 part + Glucose 3.44 parts + Cane sugar 2.28 „ + Mucilaginous matter 2.05 „ + Tannin } + Extractive } together 1.9 „ + Resin } + Water to 100 parts by measure + +No alcohol was present, and no metallic salts beyond the traces +ordinarily accompanying plant extracts. + +Examination of the plain Liqufruta (for cough) did not show any +important differences between it and “Liqufruta Medica.” + + +HYOMEI. + +The preparation sold under the name Hyomei is supplied by a firm in +London. The price of an “outfit” is 2s. 6d., and this consists of an +inhaler (consisting of a vulcanite tube), ¹⁄₂ fluid ounce of inhalant, +with pieces of gauze and a dropper; a 3s. 9d. “refill” of the inhalant +alone was found to contain 2 fluid ounces. + +Hyomei has been widely advertised in the Press for some time past, +advertisements in the daily newspapers usually occupying a column or +so. The following is the first paragraph of one of these: + + Mr. R. T. Booth, who issues the following announcement, is the + world-famous temperance orator, who some years ago, in co-operation + with such friends and co-workers as the late Rev. C. H. Spurgeon, + Rev. F. B. Meyer, and the late Rev. Newman Hall, Archdeacon + Wilberforce, Lord Mount Temple, and others, founded the Blue Ribbon + Army, which ultimately led a million to temperance. This glorious + work was cut short by acute catarrh and threatened consumption, which + sent him, by the order of the late Sir Andrew Clark, health-seeking + to Australia. There he made his great discovery of Hyomei (pronounced + Hi-o-me), which not only cured him, but has since cured multitudes + of other sufferers. Hyomei is an inhalant which, being a powerful + germicide, cures by just breathing it. + +In a booklet enclosed in the package it is thus described: + + Hyomei, the new Australian Dry-Air Treatment for the Cure of Asthma, + Bronchitis, Catarrh, Catarrhal Deafness, Coughs, Rose Colds, Whooping + Cough, Colds, Croup and Consumption. + + The only Natural Method of Cure. + + The First and only Treatment for all Diseases of the Air Passages and + Lungs ever Endorsed by the Medical Profession.... + + What “Hyomei” Is. + + Hyomei is a vegetable compound the result of recent scientific + research. It is a powerful germicide, and absolute destroyer of the + germs which cause diseases of the respiratory organs. + + Hyomei is a cure given by a new method--the only treatment through + which the diseased parts of the head, throat, and lungs can be + reached. + + What “Hyomei” Does. + + Hyomei cures all diseases of the air passages. Cures them by just + breathing; cures them through the air you breathe, impregnated + with Nature’s own antiseptic. No douches, sprays, atomizers, or + stomach medicines are used. It at once kills the bacilli of catarrh, + bronchitis, consumption, asthma, and hay fever, bringing a complete + cure that can be obtained in no other way. + +Another circular enclosed in the package is in the form of a letter, +beginning “Dear Friend.” From the heading of the paper it appears +that the company are the proprietors of “Hyomei,” “Hyomei Balm, the +wonderful ointment,” “Hyomei Skin Soap, a medicated toilet soap,” and +“Hyomei Catarmel, for catarrh and catarrhal deafness.” The letter +invites correspondence, as follows: + + ... if you are a sufferer from any breathing trouble or from any form + of skin trouble I can help you. That is why I here invite you to + write me personally a letter telling me of your ailment, how long you + have had it, and what you have done so far to cure it. Then I will + consider your case from the particulars you give me, and if suitable + for my treatment, will, without charging you any fee, send you a + letter telling you what you must do to get your cure, and at the same + time will send you sufficient of what I recommend to give you a trial + treatment, free. + +“Hyomei” is a liquid smelling strongly of eucalyptus oil. Analysis +showed the presence of eucalyptol, which is the chief constituent +of this oil, together with alcohol and liquid paraffin. Since many +essential oils possess common constituents, and for the separation +of the constituents of one oil, and still more of a mixture, it is +necessary to work on a large quantity of the material, a full and +precise analysis of the mixture in question was not practicable. It +was submitted to fractional distillation _in vacuo_, and the various +fractions were tested and compared with, the corresponding fractions +of mixtures made up to imitate the original. It was concluded that +the alcohol and liquid paraffin formed each about 10 per cent. of +the whole, and a determination of the amount of eucalyptol showed +nearly all the remaining 80 per cent. to be oil of eucalyptus. A small +quantity (under 0.2 per cent.) of solid matter, not resinous, was +obtained on distilling the Hyomei, and this could not be identified, +but agreed in some respects with the solid obtained in a corresponding +way from a mixture containing a little wood tar. A small proportion of +creosote was also indicated. + + +THE RHYCOL TREATMENT. + +This is supplied by a firm in London. The price of an “outfit” is 17s. +6d. The advertisements of the preparations sold under this name are +mostly very lengthy, and application to the address given led to the +receipt of several circular letters and a good deal of printed matter. +A few extracts will sufficiently indicate the nature of the statements +made: + + Free Information how to cure Catarrh and Nose-Breathing Difficulty. + Patient and Physician tell of how they found a cure. It is the hearty + desire of the discoverers of the new cure that all who suffer from + the above complaints should write for a gratis copy of the book + they have just published, under the title of “Rhycol Respiratory + Re-Education: The Physiological Cure for Catarrh, Adenoids, Polypi, + and other Nose-Breathing Difficulties, Catarrhal Deafness and Head + Noises, Loss of Sense of Smell or Taste, Coated Tongue, Bad Breath, + Asthma, Bronchitis, and Weak Chest and Lungs.” + + The cure is remarkable, inasmuch as it calls for no sprays or + injections, no powders to be snuffed--no lozenges or tablets to + suck--no operations, and no painful cauterizing (burning) of the + inflamed mucous membrane.... + + The joint authors of the discovery--as the result of a fruitless + quest for relief and cure--were led to experiment along the line of + the “First Cause”--the nose and its respiratory functions. + + The layman it was who made the first enlightening discovery. A + singer, he discovered How _the nose could be freed_.... + + Upon this first-step discovery has been built the new “Rhycol” cure, + the details of which are given fully (and illustrated) in the book.... + + In the book is explained how to stop + + Nasty Dropping in the Throat, + Head Stuffiness, + Nose Stuffiness, + Throat Dryness, + Loss of Smell, + Spitting of Thick Phlegm, + Discharge from the Nose, + Loss of Taste, or Offensive Taste in Mouth + Catarrhal (Coated) Tongue, + Catarrhal Deafness, + Gurgling in Ears, + Bad Breath, + Snapping Noise in Ears, + Voice Troubles, + Hay-Fever, + Physical and Mental Dulness arising from Respiratory Inefficiency. + + ... all who wish to quickly cure Catarrh, Asthma, Adenoids, Polypi, + or other Nose-Breathing, Chest or Lung, and Voice or Hearing, or + Throat Bronchial Trouble should send for a copy. + +The “outfit” consisted of two “inspirators,” 56 tampons, a collapsible +tube of lubricant, and a bottle of “Rhycol Antiseptic Solution.” + +The “inspirators” were small celluloid shells, open at both ends and +along one side, to be placed in the nostrils to form a lining. They +were marked “R” and “L” respectively, and the sides intended to lie +against the septum and the outer wall respectively were shaped rather +differently; it was not easy, however, to feel quite such enthusiasm +about their beauty, as is shown in the description which accompanied +the outfit: + + The Inspirators ... are hand-modelled and made by one of the + most skilful Anatomical Instrument Makers in the world. They are + constructed on perfect anatomical principles, and from a material + that is not only completely Asceptic in itself, but which cannot + be in any way contaminated or infected by noxious or morbific + matters, and is entirely unaffected by oxidation. The inner + side--that part inclined to the middle septum of the nose--is + exquisitely modelled, so as to adapt itself perfectly to all the + sinuosities and flexuations of the central cartilages and, by a most + skilful conformation, the current of air on each inspiration is + most favourably directed through the spongy nasal passages to the + air-openings (nares) at the upper and back of the pharynx. + +Since the “inspirators” are supplied to fit (or otherwise) a strange +pair of nostrils, the “exquisite hand-modelling” of one of the most +skilful anatomical instrument makers in the world appears to be rather +wasted. Possibly it is referred to as some justification of the price +of 7s. 6d., which is charged for these without the remainder of the +outfit, but to a disinterested eye they appear likely to have cost at +most a few pence per pair. It may be remarked that each of the articles +constituting the outfit, even including the box, is elaborately +described in a similar laudatory strain. + +The tampons were small cylinders of cotton-wool, medicated with a +substance having a fragrant and rather terebinthinate odour. The +instructions are to place an “inspirator” in each nostril and a tampon +in each “inspirator,” so that air is drawn into the nose through the +tampons. They are to be kept in position for about a quarter of an +hour the first time, gradually increasing the time until they can be +worn all night. On extraction with a suitable solvent the tampons +yielded a small quantity of a volatile oil, the average quantity being +¹⁄₁₀ minim. This had the odour of a mixture of oil of eucalyptus and +essential oil of camphor with a little terebene and a trace of oil of +wintergreen, but the total quantity was far too small for analysis. The +price of the tampons alone is 8s. + +The tube of Rhycol lubricant, which is priced 1s., contained one-third +of an ounce of soft paraffin with the addition of a very small quantity +of carbolic acid. It is directed to be applied to the inspirators to +facilitate their introduction into the nostrils. + +The Rhycol Antiseptic is to be added in small quantity to water, to +make a liquid in which the inspirators are to be laid, after washing, +when not in use. The bottle contained 1¹⁄₂ fluid drachms of the +antiseptic, which was a solution of formaldehyde. Thus the actual +medicament supplied for the 17s. 6d. consists of some 6 drops or so +of essential oils, distributed on a number of small wads of cotton +wool, the other articles being merely accessories to facilitate the +inhalation of this oil. + + +THE COLMAN METHOD. + +Under the name “The Colman Method” various medicaments and apparatus +are supplied by Erasmus Colman, London. + +The following are extracts from an advertisement headed: + + Dangerous Catarrh! or, Chronic Cold in the Head. + + It is a fearful mistake to neglect catarrh. It is quite certain to + develop into something worse. It will not cure itself. + + I, Erasmus Colman, declare that I have a perfect and speedy cure for + nasal and throat catarrh. It is a system of vapourised medication, + complemented by other highly effective therapeutic aids. It is a + home treatment, occupying but a moment or two of one’s time daily. + The benefit becomes obvious from the first hour. The healing of the + diseased condition is gradual, yet speedy and certain. There is + nothing complex about it. Anybody can easily understand it. It is a + pleasant form of cure. It is permanent. + + I offer a perfectly genuine system of treatment. You cannot obtain it + anywhere else, because it is the result of years of study and active + experience, coupled with extraordinary ability in this particular + line of ailment. + + Any sufferer, regardless of his or her position, can obtain my + treatment upon simple and easy terms by confiding in me. I know + that I have the complete cure for catarrh and its consequent ills, + including asthma, deafness, etc. I want to cure every man, woman, and + child that suffers. + +In a booklet which is sent to inquirers, entitled _Book of Information +concerning My System_, etc., many statements are made in which the +modesty of the above claims of “extraordinary ability” and “the +complete cure” are quite equalled: + + I assert, without fear of contradiction, that mine is the only + apparatus which sends the medicated vapour over every membrane + that air can reach, and I also assert with equal firmness that + there are no preparations for a similar object which can compare + in effectiveness with those supplied by me.... It is seldom that a + sufferer who applies to me for treatment does not mention that he has + paid out a considerable sum to doctors, and has never succeeded in + getting more than temporary relief. After treating a sufferer until + a patient’s patience (excuse pun) is exhausted, he, the medical man, + usually advises a change of climate or method of living. This is + sometimes practically impossible, and can only be adopted at serious + and, perhaps, total sacrifice of one’s opportunity for supporting his + family. He is, therefore, a true martyr--remains where he is, and + bears the distress of his asthmatic attacks. I want all such persons + to come or write to me. I assert, upon my word of honour, that I have + the true cure, and being the genuine--it is the most inexpensive that + money can buy. + +Such statements about the medical profession are, of course, commonly +met with in the utterances of nostrum vendors. It is not always, +however, that contempt for “ethics” is so plainly expressed as in the +following: + + Because of a narrow-minded custom, which, like other relics of + barbarism, will ultimately be swept away by modern ideas, the + practitioners of medicine are bound together by a sort of mysterious + girdle, outside of which they dare not step. If they do--they + are boycotted by their fellows. One of the rules of the medical + fraternity is that they may not advertise in the newspapers. They + must keep their light hidden under a bushel, and, no matter how + skilful they are, they are almost hopelessly smothered by that large, + heavy blanket called “ethics.” ... It is a cruel and erstwhile stupid + form of “protection”--medical ethics. If a registered medical man + dares to advertise, his name is soon struck from the register. My + nature is independent--I am frank, straightforward, outspoken, and + honest. I may be considered as outclassed by medical men, who choose + to remain fettered by the barbaric bonds of so-called etiquette; but + I know that I am near to the hearts of my patients, whose shower + of letters by every post represents an unparalleled outpouring of + sincere gratitude. That is the reason why I stand aloof from medical + societies and their old-fashioned rules of etiquette. I advertise--I + cure--and the world is the better for it. + +Since medical societies consist of qualified medical practitioners, it +is just possible that the fact of his not possessing a qualification +may be another reason for this gentleman “standing aloof.” + +“Patient’s Report Forms,” with a long list of questions to be answered, +were sent to be filled up and returned. One of these has a space headed: + + Particulars of Previous Treatment. + + (_Patients should here state what doctors have said about case, and + give particulars of treatment previously followed._) + +However, on applying for a “treatment” and sending the money, without +any particulars of any case, the articles described below were +supplied. The price charged was 14s. 6d., but it appears that a larger +amount is usually asked at first. + +The “outfit” sent comprised: + +An atomiser, for producing a spray, with indiarubber ball. + +A “nasal irrigator,” consisting of a bent glass cylinder for pouring +liquid into the nostrils. + +Two boxes of “Nebular Tablets,” together containing 41. + +A box of “Gargle Tablets,” containing 21. + +A bottle of “Atomising Fluid,” containing 1 fluid ounce. + +A box of pearl-coated pills, containing 21. + +Lengthy directions were enclosed, which may be summarised as +follows:--Every morning: One Nebular Tablet is to be dissolved in +two tablespoonfuls of warm water and the liquid passed into the nose +through one nostril by means of the nasal irrigator until the nasal +cavity is full, retained for two minutes, and run out; this is then +repeated through the other nostril; then, after gently blowing the +nose, the atomising fluid is applied through each nostril by means of +the atomiser. Every evening: Repeat the above treatment, then dissolve +one Gargle Tablet in two tablespoonfuls of cold water and gargle the +throat with the solution. Take one of the pills daily, after the midday +meal. + +The nebular tablets had an average weight of 20 grains. Analysis showed +them to consist of + + Sodium chloride 28.3 per cent. + Borax, slightly dehydrated, equivalent to crystalline + borax 28.7 „ „ + Sodium bicarbonate 29.5 „ „ + Sugar 12.3 „ „ + Talc 3.1 „ „ + Oil of wintergreen--sufficient to impart a fairly strong smell. + +The atomising liquid was shown by analysis to consist of liquid +paraffin, with small quantities of menthol and oil of cinnamon (far too +small to be determined quantitatively). Traces of other essential oils +may have been present. + +The gargle tablets had an average weight of 20 grains. Analysis showed +them to contain: + + Borax, equivalent to crystalline borax 4.6 per cent. + Sodium bicarbonate 87.0 „ „ + Sugar 4.0 „ „ + Talc 2.1 „ „ + Powdered vegetable drug about 1.5 „ „ + +They had a faint terebinthinate odour, such as might be given by a +trace of turpentine. The histological characters of the powdered drug, +and the properties and behaviour of the trace of alkaloid extracted +from it, agreed with those of powdered hydrastis rhizome. + +The pills, being only subsidiary to the other articles, were not fully +analysed. They had an average weight of about ²⁄₃ grain, and contained +aloin; indications of the presence of jalap resin and podophyllin were +also obtained. + +The following extracts from “Truth Cautionary List for 1912,” with +reference to the advertiser of the “treatment” just described, require +no comment: + + “Colman, Erasmus, Gray’s Inn Road, London, W.C.--Under this name + Edward Marr poses as a ‘catarrh specialist,’ and sells an appliance + for spraying the nostrils. Asks 15s. at first, but in ‘follow-up + letters’ gradually reduces the price to 7s. 6d. for a three weeks’ + trial.” + + “Aural Remedies Co., Craven-house, Kingsway, London, W.C.--One + of the numerous aliases of the aural quack Edward Marr, who also + exploits the deaf as ‘Professor Keith Harvey.’ This concern is run + on the lines of the late Drouet Institute. It had for ‘consulting + specialist’ the notorious H. H. Crippen, who was executed in + November, 1910, for the murder of his wife. Testimonials given to + the Aural Remedies Co. have been used for advertising purposes by E. + Colman and by Elmer Shirley.” + + +A GERMAN NOSTRUM. + +According to Dr. Zernik: + + _Victoria Asthma Drops_ are put up by the “Victoria Apotheke” in + Berlin, and are supposed to be taken in doses of from 25 to 30 drops + during an attack every half-hour, and 25 drops regularly three times + a day as a preventive. The bottle contains a brownish-yellow fluid, + which was found to consist of tincture of lobelia, tincture of opium, + liquor ammonii anisatus, acetic ether, and potassium iodate. + + + + +CHAPTER V. + +MEDICINES FOR INDIGESTION, CONSTIPATION, ETC. + + + The present chapter includes the results obtained on examining a + number of the most widely advertised pills and other proprietary + preparations put forward as remedies for indigestion or as general + aperients. The majority of these are in the form of pills, which + show much similarity in their composition; aloes or aloin is a + constituent of all of them, and is accompanied by one or more of a + small series of drugs in regular use, comprising colocynth, jalap, + rhubarb, podophyllin, ginger, capsicum, cardamoms, soap, and oils of + peppermint, and cinnamon. The secrecy of the formula in these cases + does not apparently conceal any facts which would be damaging to the + sale of the articles if revealed; but this is, of course, no argument + in favour of secrecy. Two others of the articles here described, both + in the form of tablets, and put forward especially for indigestion, + were found to contain pepsin and diastase, with a small dose of a + vegetable bitter aperient; the dose of both the digestive ferments + was small, the diastatic action of the tablets being so slight as + to be practically negligible. The lengths of mendacity to which + advertisers may go when the real composition of their wares is + unknown is well illustrated by another nostrum dealt with in this + chapter, which is stated to be composed of the active principles of + rare herbs growing on the Himalaya mountains, and to have the magical + property, when swallowed, of seeking out any organ or portion of the + body which is in an unhealthy state and proceeding to cure it. It is + further asserted, with the emphasis of italics, that “it _cures in + one dose_.” The booklet in which this pretended treasure is puffed + shows the most gross ignorance on the part of the writer, who gravely + asserts that “beetles, spider’s web, crab’s eyes, tiger’s tongue, + rhinoceros’s horn, and other repulsive objects form part of the + materia medica now in vogue with the medical profession,” and that + “all organic substances defy detection by any means known to chemical + science,” with much more preposterous nonsense of the same sort. + Analysis, however, showed the powder to consist of potato flour, and + no other substance could be detected in it. + + In the examination of pills or tablets containing mixtures of such + substances as aloes or extract of aloes, extract of colocynth, resins + of jalap, scammony, or podophyllin, oils of peppermint, clove, or + cinnamon, with powdered drugs like ginger, capsicum, cardamoms, + colocynth, rhubarb (all yielding extracts as soon as the pills are + treated with solvents), and the whole probably massed with the aid + of syrup, glucose, liquorice powder, etc., the difficulties to be + encountered by the analyst are far greater than in many of the + combinations that are dealt with in other chapters; and it is not + possible as the result of any reasonable and practicable amount + of investigation to assign a quantitative formula for any such + combination of articles which are themselves variable, and it may + easily happen that some constituents will escape detection, or will + be impossible of identification. It is, therefore, better to avoid + naming any quantities of the different ingredients found, even when + the quantitative determinations (which have been made in every case) + have left very little doubt as to the amount of some particular + substance present in a given combination. And it must be remembered + that with several of the pills other ingredients than those named may + have been present in small quantity and escaped detection, though + it may fairly be said that this does not apply to powerful or very + important ingredients. + + +MER-SYREN. + +This consists of powders which are supplied at 2s. 9d. per box of +twenty by Mer-Syren, Ltd., London. There are several indications that +the claims made for this article have undergone progressive evolution. +The earliest advertisement of it which is before us is a handbill +apparently issued three or four years ago, which commences thus: + + “They that go down to the sea in ships” and Suffer from the + distressing Malady of Sea-sickness will find a Safe and Sure + Preventive and Antidote in Mersyren. + + Mersyren is a never-failing Rapid Remedy. + + Mersyren is not a Drug. + +The name at the foot being: + + The Mersyren Syndicate, ---- London, E.C., and Singapore Dispensary, + ---- Singapore. + +A little later a lengthy advertisement in a weekly paper is headed: + + Try this “quick cure” for Biliousness and Indigestion--Free of Cost. + +The following extracts are from what follows the heading: + + Digestive troubles are the curse of the present generation. And drug + remedies for digestive ailments are almost a bigger curse still.... + + Here is a way (and a free way) by which you can absolutely cure your + Digestive trouble by a remedy which is neither a drug nor a purgative. + + Here is a way by which you can absolutely cure:-- + + Biliousness, + Sick Headache, + Dyspepsia, + Gastritis, + Indigestion, + Liver Trouble, and other + Digestive Disorders. + + Free of Charge. + + Here is a perfect natural remedy which will be freely sent to + every reader who writes for it, and which will quickly, almost + instantaneously, cure your trouble and enable you to regain that good + health, those unburdened spirits, to which, perhaps, you have been a + stranger for so very long. + + You have heard of “Mer-Syren,” of course! + + You have heard of it as a non-drug, non-purging remedy for Stomach + and Liver Trouble. + + But perhaps you have not as yet quite realised what a wonderful + remedy it is.... + + “Mer-Syren” is a _tasteless powder_. It is pleasant to take, and + swift and sure in action. It is neither a drug nor an aperient. And + it _cures in one dose_. + +A little later again appears a whole-page advertisement in a London +daily; the heading of the first two columns is-- + + “Remarkable New Book on Health + by Dr. Pearson. + ‘How the Body Cures Itself.’” + +and the remainder is headed: + + “The ‘10 Minute Mer-Syren Health Lessons.’” + +The first part is devoted to a description of the book, and a summary +of its twenty so-called chapters. The following extracts will suffice +as a specimen: + + Originally published at 2s. 6d., a popular Second Edition is now + being given free to all who will put to the practical test of + personal trial the Author’s “10 Minute Health Lessons.”... + + The book tells what every good Doctor knows, but is, for many + reasons, unable to tell his patients. + + The whole book is written in straightforwardly candid appreciation of + the fact that the Layman Needs--and Desires--Health Knowledge of this + vital kind.... + + “Mer-Syren” is the name of a tasteless powder derived from a herb + which powerfully aids the health-reparative power of the body. + + It is not a pill--not a purgative--not weakening--not + stomach-upsetting--but just a “Mer-Syren 10-Minute Health-Lesson” to + that part of your body which needs it.... + + ... first of all, get and read Dr. Pearson’s book, _How the + Body Cures Itself_ (by means of the “Mer-Syren 10-Minute + Health-Lessons”).... + + The book itself is free. + + You have only to get a 2s. 9d. packet of 20 “Mer-Syren 10-Minute + Health-Lesson” Powders. + +The “book” is unquestionably the _pièce de résistance_ of all this +advertising. It is a paper-covered pamphlet of 63 pages, each of the +“chapters” referred to in the advertisement occupying an average space +of less than three pages. It is described as-- + + By Dr. Pearson, Author of + “The Liver in Health and Disease,” + “What to Eat and What to Avoid,” + “The Abuse of Phosphorus,” + “The Etiology of Cholera,” + etc., etc. + (Late Principal Medical Officer, North Bhangulpore, India). + +Reference to the volume of maps in the _Encyclopædia Britannica_ failed +to discover any place named Bhangulpore or North Bhangulpore in India. + +The knowledge possessed by this “Late Principal Medical Officer,” who +curiously omits to give his initials, or his degrees or qualifications +justifying the prefix “Dr.,” may be judged from the following extracts: + + This pamphlet has been compiled for the benefit of the myriads of + afflicted in every part of the globe, who, after trying the ordinary + means of cure at present obtaining to no purpose, are casting about + to discover a method of treatment for disease which shall cure their + ailments and restore them to their former healthy condition.... + + This remedy--Mer-Syren--the direct outcome of many years’ careful and + painstaking study on the part of a few men who may be said to have + devoted their whole lives to investigations as to the Cause and Cure + of Disease--is assuredly one of the greatest boons ever conferred + upon suffering humanity. + + The plain fact is that, as regards the nature of disease, the + Medical Profession is pretty much where Harvey left it nearly three + centuries ago, whilst the means of cure are little better than those + employed by Celsus or Galen, and diseases are arranged in a few + haphazard groups, as motley and incongruous in their composition and + disposition as the various sections of, say, a political party. + + We are, therefore, driven to accept the dictum of Hippocrates: “_All + diseases spring from one cause, and the types of all diseases are the + same._” This common origin of all diseases is to be found in that + condition, which, for want of a better definition, we shall call + “_Debility of the Cells_,” either _partial or general_. Systems and + theories may follow each other like the waves of the sea, but the + trend of medical opinion is setting in this direction, and, to the + opinion expressed by the Father of Medicine, all Schools of Medicine + must come at last.... + + The Mineral Acids, Nitric, Hydrochloric and Sulphuric, and Mineral + Oils (Petroleum) are in everyday use as remedies, whilst many of the + Earths are diverted from the uses for which they were intended by + the Creator, and forced into the human stomach. Animal substances, + many of the most repulsive nature and origin, are almost universally + used by Medical Men the world over.... beetles, spider’s web, crab’s + eyes, tiger’s tongue, rhinoceros’ horn, and other repulsive objects + form part of the Materia Medica now in vogue with the Medical + Profession.... + + The old Blue Pill and Black Draught of our forefathers has given + place to various Salines and the waters of many Spas in the treatment + of Bilious affections, but all to no purpose, the discovery of + Mer-Syren ushered in a new era in the History of Medicine; not only + so far as the Liver was concerned, but also in the case of many + other affections regarding the treatment of which medical men of + every school confessed themselves to be nonplussed.... Under its + specific and benign--yet effective--operation the powers of Nature + have been reinforced and strengthened so that she has been enabled to + quickly relieve herself from the incubus of disease, and phœnix-like, + arise from her ashes renewed, invigorated, and endowed with all her + pristine vitality. + + This is the sober opinion gleaned from an experience of one versed in + medicine for a period of nearly forty years.... + + Mer-Syren is composed of the active principles of certain rare plants + which flourish in the valleys situated on the southern slopes of the + Himalaya, between the immense gorge separating Nepaul from Bhutan + on the East, and Almorah on the North-West--the very names of which + are unknown to Western Science, and are therefore not included in + any Pharmacopœia extant. Mer-Syren, therefore, cannot be imitated + either in Europe or the two Americas. Nevertheless, purchasers should + protect themselves by observing that the name of the Mer-Syren + Company appears on every box, and that the place of origin is clearly + stated thereon. The alkaloids upon which its extraordinary and + startling effects depend cannot be determined by analysis, as _all + organic substances defy detection by any means known to chemical + science_.... + + There are, in fact, no diseased states or conditions in which the use + of Mer-Syren does not produce beneficial results. + +Thus the “powder derived from a herb” of the newspaper advertisement +has become the “active principles of certain rare plants” in the book, +just as the syndicate has become the limited company, and the remedy +for sea-sickness has become the cure-all: + + for Mer-Syren possesses the wonderful property of permeating every + part of the organism with the same good influences. Moreover, + although its gentle stimulating and strengthening powers are felt + throughout the entire organism, yet its specific healing actions + are principally directed to any part labouring under diseased or + disordered action. By virtue of its unique and specific properties, + Mer-Syren immediately operates upon any organ or tissue whose + functions may be in any way deranged, or whose structures may be + breaking down in consequence of disease. And all structures in either + of the two just-named abnormal conditions will instantly respond to + the gentle action of Mer-Syren, when every other form of treatment + produces no effect whatever. + +The directions supplied with the powders were as follows: + + For Indigestion and Dyspepsia: Upon rising place two Powders dry upon + the tongue and wash down with a draught of hot water. For Bilious + Headaches: Take one Powder, or two if the attack be very severe, and + wash down with cold water. + + In chronic cases it is obvious that in order to effect a complete + recovery the Powders should be taken regularly until cured. + +The powders had an average weight of 25¹⁄₂ grains. Analysis showed +the material to consist principally of starch, with a little broken +vegetable tissue. Microscopical examination showed the starch to be +that of the potato, while the histological elements of the tissue also +agreed exactly with those of the potato. Some raw potato was therefore +dried without heat and powdered, and the two powders compared in their +behaviour to a large number of tests, qualitative and quantitative, +and also by means of the microscope. The potato which was prepared +as described became greyish in colour during the drying, whereas the +Mer-Syren powder was of a creamy colour; no other difference was found +between them, and no other substance but potato could be detected. + + +CICFA. + +This medicine, which has had four different names, but appears to be +called Cicfa at present, is supplied at 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. and 2s. 9d. per +package by a London limited company. A 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. package was found to +contain 21 tablets, and a 2s. 9d. package 63. + +The original name of these tablets appears to have been “Tablones,” +but in consequence of legal action taken by another firm, whose trade +mark this word was considered to resemble too closely, it was changed +to “Cicfa.” The derivation of this word is supplied by the phrase which +occurs freely in the advertisements, “Cures Indigestion, Constipation, +Flatulence, Acidity.” Later, however, this word was dropped, and the +medicine advertised as “Mother’s Advice”; more recently still it was +advertised as “Tablenes,” while now the former name of Cicfa seems to +have been re-adopted. + +The preparation is advertised in the following terms: + + You may eat what you please when you please as your Indigestion, + Flatulence and Constipation are not merely Relieved but permanently + cured by “Mother’s Advice” (Formerly called “Cicfa”). Purgatives + often relieve Indigestion and make you feel better for a few days. + “Mother’s Advice” cures absolutely and permanently, because while + purgatives simply remove the undigested food, “Mother’s Advice” + completely digests everything you eat. + + WHY “CICFA” MUST CURE EVERY CASE. + + All the tortures of Indigestion, the Acidity and Heartburn, with + Teeth on Edge, the Burning Spot behind the Left Shoulder Blade, with + pains shooting through towards the Heart, the Heart Palpitation, with + Cold Hands and Feet and General Weakness, the Flatulence and Pressure + and Discomfort, the rumbling and often excruciating Bowel pain, are + all due to your failure to digest your food, and three-quarters of + it is due to Failure To Digest Starchy Food Like Bread, Potatoes, + Bananas, etc.; but you like to eat those, and you need them, and if + you could digest them you would have none of this pain, discomfort, + and misery, and you would have all the nourishment which comes from + such food when well digested + + You do not digest the food because you have not enough digestive + juices in the Stomach and Bowels. “Cicfa” contains just enough + digestive material to make sure that the albuminous food like meat, + eggs, etc., will be digested in your stomach, and just enough of + that wonderful digestive material Which Is Not Found In Any Other + Proprietary Medicine which digests all starchy food like bread, + potatoes, bananas, etc. + + DOSE.--One with the early part of each meal three times daily. Severe + cases may take two with each meal for a short time, and then reduce + the dose as the cure proceeds. + +The tablets had a chocolate-coloured sugar coating; after removal of +this they had an average weight of 1.85 grains. Analysis showed the +presence of pepsin, diastase, reducing sugar (apparently maltose), a +bitter extract agreeing in characters with extract of cascara sagrada, +a small quantity of a pungent substance which appeared to be oleo-resin +of capsicum, together with talc and a little starch, the last being +probably derived from the coating. The digestive power on egg-albumen +and on starch was determined; the former corresponded to about ²⁄₃ +grain of pepsin of B.P. strength in each tablet; the material digested +about 1.4 times its own weight of starch in half an hour at 40°, which +corresponds to a very small proportion of diastase, but as commercial +diastase varies much in strength, no quantity can be specified as +equivalent; from a comparison of the bitterness and pungency of a +mixture made up to imitate the tablets the amount of extract of cascara +appeared to be about ¹⁄₄ grain in each, and of oleo-resin of capsicum +about ¹⁄₃₀₀th grain. + + +CELMO NO. 2. + +This is supplied by the same makers as Celmo, reported on in Chapter I. +It is recommended for “indigestion, gouty dyspepsia, flatulence, etc., +etc.” + +A bottle, price 2s. 9d., contained 30 tablets, of average weight 5.8 +grains. The principal ingredients were found to be pepsin and diastase. +The amount of pepsin was found, by its digestive action on albumen, to +be equivalent to about 3 grains of pepsin (_B.P._) in each tablet. The +amount of diastase could only be inferred from the diastatic power of +the mixture, but, as commercial diastase is very variable in strength, +no exact quantity can be stated as the amount present; the diastatic +power was such that a tablet digested 1.9 times its weight of starch +in half an hour under the conditions of the test of the _British +Pharmaceutical Codex_, so that about 100 tablets would be required +to have as much effect in the digestion of starch as an average +teaspoonful of a good active malt extract. Maltose was also present, +suggesting that the diastase may have been added in the form of malt +extract. + +A small quantity of a bitter substance was present, which agreed in its +characters with Socotrine aloes, the amount being about ¹⁄₂ grain in +each tablet. Stearic acid and starch were present in small quantity; +these materials are commonly employed as accessories in tablet making. +No evidence was found of any other ingredients. + + +WHELPTON’S PURIFYING PILLS. + +Whelpton’s Purifying Pills are supplied by a firm in London at 1s. +1¹⁄₂d. per box containing 60 pills. + +They are advertised in the following terms: + + Indigestion is the primary cause of most of the ills to which we are + subject. Hence a medicine that stimulates the digestive organs will + relieve quite a number of complaints. Whelpton’s Vegetable Purifying + Pills arouse the stomach to action, promote the flow of gastric + juice, and give tone to the whole system. Headache flies away. + Biliousness, Kidney Disorders, and Skin Complaints disappear, while + cheerful spirits and clear complexions follow in due course.... The + occasional or regular use of Whelpton’s Pills, by assisting Nature + to get rid of superfluous matter, relieves the congested condition + of skin and kidneys, and speedily restores the natural functions of + these important organs. Whelpton’s Purifying Pills are thus a direct + purifier of the blood.... Daily doses of Whelpton’s Purifying Pills + will arouse the Liver to proper action, and, by removing the cause of + obstruction, speedily restore the general health of the body. + + These Pills may be taken at any time, but it is generally found most + convenient to take them at bed-time. In ordinary cases two will be + a sufficient dose, but three or four may sometimes be necessary + according to the age and strength of the patient or obstinacy of the + complaint. + +The pills had an average weight of 2¹⁄₂ grains. Chemical and +microscopical examination showed the presence of aloes (apparently +Socotrine), powdered colocynth, ginger, and gentian, the last-named +ingredient being less positively indicated than the others. No evidence +of the presence of mercury or calomel was obtained. + + +CHAS. FORDE’S BILE BEANS. + +These “beans,” which consist of ovoid, coated pills, are supplied by a +firm in London. A box, price 1s. 1¹⁄₂d., was found to contain 30 pills, +and a 2s. 9d. box 90. + +In a circular enclosed in the package they are described as “absolutely +unequalled” for biliousness and other complaints, of which thirty-eight +are named, including anæmia, piles, influenza, despondency, blackheads, +rheumatism, etc. It is further stated that: + + Chas. Forde’s also cure Fatty and Waxy Degeneration of the Liver, + “Hob-nailed” or “Gin-drinker’s” Liver (Cirrhosis), and the host of + ailments having a common origin in impaired digestion, assimilation, + and secretion, and in defective working of the excretory organs. + Chas. Forde’s are likewise of inestimable service in all the + disorders peculiar to women, while as a general aperient and tonic + remedy they are unsurpassed. + + Chas. Forde’s bile beans do not contain a single particle of Mercury, + Bismuth, or other poisonous mineral substance, and are also devoid of + Aloes.... + + As a General Aperient.--Two to four beans as occasion may require. + + As a Tonic.--One bean after the midday meal, and one upon going to + bed. + +The pills were coated with gelatine, the coating being coloured black. +The average weight after removal of the coating was 2.3 grains. + +The statement that they are devoid of aloes appears to be true only +if it is taken to refer to aloes itself and not to preparations of +aloes, as tests showed very clear evidence of the presence of aloin; +other constituents shown by chemical and microscopical examination were +powdered cardamoms, oil of peppermint, and wheat flour; some evidence +was obtained of extract of colocynth, but not sufficiently conclusive +for its presence to be definitely asserted. No evidence of the presence +of mercury or calomel was obtained. + + +CARTER’S LITTLE LIVER PILLS. + +These are supplied by a New York firm; they are largely advertised +and sold in Great Britain. A package, price 1s. 1¹⁄₂d., was found to +contain 42. + +They are described on the package as: + + Purely Vegetable. For Headache. For Dizziness. For Biliousness. For + Torpid Liver. For Constipation. For Sallow Skin. For the Complexion, + +and in a circular contained in the package as: + + designed to act upon the Liver and Bile in such a manner as to secure + all the benefits of a prompt and active medicine, without any of the + unpleasant effects which usually attend the use of ordinary liver + remedies. + +The pills were sugar-coated, and after removing the coating had an +average weight of ¹⁄₃ grain. Chemical and microscopical examination +gave evidence of the presence of aloes (Barbados) or a preparation of +aloes, podophyllin, powdered liquorice root, and wheat starch, the last +probably from the coating. No other ingredient could be detected. + + +HOLLOWAY’S PILLS. + +These are supplied by Thomas Holloway, London. A box, price 1s. 1¹⁄₂d., +was found to contain 49 pills. + +It is stated in the advertisement that: + + They have positively no equal for thoroughly cleansing the system and + putting the liver and kidneys in functional order, without pain or + griping. + +A pamphlet which was wrapped round the box is entitled: + + A Key to Health!!! The Hollowayian System of Medicine and its + adaptation for the treatment of many Diseases incident to the human + frame. + +It appears from the pamphlet that “the Hollowayian System of Medicine” +might be summoned up in the words: Take Holloway’s Pills; apply +Holloway’s Ointment. Among the complaints for which this “system” is +prescribed are gout, rheumatism, sciatica, paralysis, liver complaints, +asthma, inflammation of the kidneys, bronchitis, quinsy, bad legs, bad +breasts, ulcers, wounds, sores, tumours, piles and fistulas, the turn +of life, floodings and the whites, obstruction of the menses, dropsies, +jaundice, youthful indiscretion, impotency, palpitation of the heart, +debility, indigestion, constipation, gravel, stone, venereal diseases, +influenza, erysipelas, lepra blotches, scald heads and ringworms, +scrofula, ague, diarrhœa, etc. The dose recommended in different cases +varies from two pills a day to seven pills night and morning. + +The pills had an average weight of 1.4 grain. Chemical and +microscopical examination showed the presence of aloes (Barbados), or a +preparation of aloes, powdered ginger, and soap. There was no evidence +of the presence of mercury or calomel. + + +PAGE WOODCOCK’S WIND PILLS. + +These pills are supplied by Page Woodcock, Limited. The price of a box +containing 32 pills was 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. + +They are thus described in a circular enclosed in the package: + + The Most Effectual Medicine Yet Discovered for the Prevention and + Cure of Disease.... + + In all cases of Indigestion, Liver Complaints, Biliousness, + Constipation, Palpitation, Debility, Anæmia, Irregularities, Bad + Assimilation, Wind in the Stomach and Bowels, Spasms, Heartburn, + Giddiness, Disturbed Slumbers, Piles, Toothache, Neuralgia, etc., + they will, if taken in accordance with the following directions, + effect a positive and permanent cure in the most stubborn and + deep-rooted cases. + +The directions in various cases are from three to nine pills to be +taken daily. + +The pills were pearl-coated, and after removal of the coating had an +average weight of 1.6 grain. Chemical and microscopical examination +showed the presence of aloes (Barbados) or a preparation of aloes, +a little ginger, a little soap, a trace of capsicum, and oils of +peppermint and cinnamon; some other vegetable tissue was also present, +but it did not possess any characters by which it could be identified. +No mercury or calomel was present. + + +SCOTT’S PILLS. + +Scott’s Pills are supplied by W. Lambert, London, in boxes, price 1s. +1¹⁄₂d., containing 24 pills. A circular sent with the pills is headed: + + Bilious and Liver Complaints, Indigestion, Costiveness, Loss of + Appetite, Worms, Gout, Inflammations, Rheumatism, Lumbago, etc., + effectually removed by the use of Dr. Scott’s Bilious and Liver + Pills.... Prepared from the Recipe of Dr. Scott, of Bromley, Kent. + +The recommendations for their employment include the following:-- + + The evil effects arising from intemperance will be prevented + if recourse is had to them after excess of eating or drinking. + Preparatory to Sea or Cold Bathing they are particularly necessary; + by taking a Pill or two for a few nights previous the bowels will be + cleansed from any crudities that may adhere to them, and the body + rendered in a proper state for the prevention of many uncomfortable + complaints. They are also the most excellent alterative and cleanser + of sallow complexions, caused by obstructions of the Liver. To + seafaring persons they are particularly recommended, as the use of + them will prevent many disorders incident to such a life, which + frequently prove fatal. Pregnant women will find them a most + efficacious medicine in preventing Bilious Vomitings, Nervous + Headaches, and other complaints peculiar to their situation.... + + Mr. Lambert wishes to impress on parents the necessity of + administering these Pills to their children; they will find them a + most efficacious Medicine for eradicating Worms, Fevers, Coughs, + Inflammations, and all disorders of the Stomach and Bowels; the + child will be strengthened, saved from all sickness, and the parents + themselves much trouble and uneasiness. + +The pills had an average weight of 2.4 grains. Chemical and +microscopical examination indicated the presence of aloes (Socotrine) +in rather small quantity, ginger, rhubarb, and soap. No mercury or +calomel was present. + + +KER-NAK. + +Ker-Nak, or Ker-Nak Pills, are supplied by a company in Leeds at 1s. +1¹⁄₂d. per package, containing 41 pills. They are thus described in a +circular accompanying the package: + + Ker-Nak is a natural and valuable remedy which marks an important + step in advance of old-fashioned purges and drastic mineral + pills. These latter, with their mercury, bismuth, and other crude + ingredients, only irritate, inflame, and, in the end, seriously + injure, the delicate linings of the stomach and bowels. All such + mineral drugs, doubtful in their physiological action and paralysing + and harmful in their eventual effect, do not in any way, directly + or indirectly, enter into the composition of Ker-Nak, which, on + the contrary, contains certain essences and oils, the valuable + constituents of fresh ripe fruit, together with valuable vegetable + extracts and internal disinfectants reputed for their purity and + medicinal worth.... The unapproachable excellence of Ker-Nak from a + medicinal or healing standpoint, as well as its greater suitability + for sickness contracted under present-day conditions ... renders + this _natural_ treatment, so invaluable in cases of: Constipation, + Headache, Indigestion ... Sleeplessness, Neuralgia, Palpitation ... + Anæmia, and most Female Ailments (in youth, motherhood, middle-age, + and declining years), Piles ... Hysterics, Shortness of Breath ... + Rheumatic Affections, Influenza, and its after-effects.... + +The lengthy circular concludes with a paragraph headed: + + FREE ADVICE. + + Any reader in need of sound advice upon his or her own ailment can + have, Free of Cost, the assistance of our fully qualified Medical + Staff. + + Describe in detail all the symptoms of your illness, say how long the + illness has lasted, and what you have been doing for it in the past: + and have no hesitation in stating fully any matter which troubles + you. The medical staff will tell you frankly and in confidence what + is the best treatment for you to adopt. + +The directions on the package are: + + Dose--1 to 3, or in severe cases, two doses of 2 each, one dose at + night and repeat after the next mid-day meal. + +The pills were coated with orange-coloured pearl-coating; after +removing it they had an average weight of 1¹⁄₂ grain. Chemical and +microscopical examination indicated the presence of aloes (Barbados) +or a preparation of aloes, a little soap, a very little oleo-resin +of capsicum, and a little vegetable tissue which appeared to be +marshmallow root (used as an excipient). There was no evidence of the +presence of mercury or calomel. + + +COCKLE’S PILLS. + +The present maker’s name of these is not given, but they are described +in the circulars which accompany them as being “Prepared by the late +James Cockle, Surgeon and Apothecary, 4, Great Ormond Street, London.” +A box, price 1s. 1¹⁄₂d., was found to contain 16 pills. It was also +stated that: + + These pills consist of a careful and peculiar admixture of the + best and mildest vegetable aperients, with the pure extract of the + flowers of the camomile. They will be found a most efficacious remedy + for derangement of the digestive organs, and for obstructions and + torpid action of the liver and bowels, which produce Indigestion + and the several varieties of Bilious and Liver Complaints ... these + Pills are not recommended as containing any new or dangerously + active ingredients; on the contrary, they are characterised by a + remarkable simplicity of combination, and whatever merit they may + be found to possess depends as much upon the selection of pure + drugs and the unusual labour and attention bestowed upon their + subsequent preparation, as upon the acknowledged peculiarity of + their composition. They are not recommended as a panacea, nor are + they adapted to all complaints; but as a mild and efficacious + _aperient_ and _tonic_ in the various forms of Indigestion, with + intestinal irregularity admitting their use, it will not, perhaps, be + an exaggeration to state that they have been resorted to under all + systems of diet, changes of climate, or atmospheric alternations, + with an extraordinary degree of success, for a period extending over + more than half a century. + +The directions vary from “One Pill to be taken an hour before dinner” +to “Two or three at any time.” + +The pills had an average weight of 4 grains. Chemical and microscopical +examination indicated the presence of aloes (Socotrine), a little soap, +powdered colocynth, powdered jalap, and another vegetable tissue which +did not agree in characters with any drug now in ordinary use, and +which could not be identified. No evidence of the presence of mercury +or calomel was detected. + + +BURGESS’ LION PILLS. + +The first volume of this book contained the results of analysis of +Burgess’ Lion Ointment, and the Pills are a companion medicine. A box, +price 1s. 1¹⁄₂d., was found to contain 24 pills. In a circular enclosed +in the package it is stated that: + + The Pills act beneficially by imparting a healthy action to the + Liver and Digestive Organs, removing Obstructions and purifying the + Blood, completely renovating the health by expelling and preventing + the recurrence of disease. When suffering from Headache, Giddiness, + Pains in the Back or Loins, Loss of Appetite, or a feeling of General + Debility, these Pills will be found most invaluable. + +The directions on the label are “Two to be taken at bedtime.” + +The pills were pearl-coated; after removal of the coating they had an +average weight of 4¹⁄₄ grains. Chemical and microscopical examination +indicated the presence of ipecacuanha, rhubarb, a little jalap, +probably aloes (Socotrine), and oil of peppermint, and soap. There was +no evidence of the presence of mercury or calomel. + + +HOOD’S VEGETABLE PILLS. + +These are supplied by a limited company in London, in bottles, price +1s. 1¹⁄₂d., containing 34 pills. + +They are described on the package as: + + The great Liver Invigorator. A mild, efficient cathartic, purely + vegetable, unequalled as a family physic and after-dinner pill. + A valuable remedy for Liver Complaint, Constipation, Nausea, + Billiousness, Headache, Indigestion, Sour Stomach, Distress after + Eating, Jaundice. + +The directions, given in a circular enclosed in the package, are: + + For Biliousness, Jaundice, Sick Headache, Constipation, Flatulence, + Dizziness, Nausea, and all Liver Troubles, and to Relieve or Prevent + Malaria and Influenza. For laxative effect, the usual dose is one, + two, or three pills taken at bedtime in a draught of water; for + purgative effect, from three to six pills, taken in the same way.... + + For Indigestion, Heartburn, Distress in the Stomach, Fulness after + Eating: The usual dose is one pill taken immediately after eating, in + a draught of water. + +The pills were sugar-coated, and, after removal of the coating, +they had an average weight of ¹⁄₂ grain. Chemical and microscopical +examination showed the presence of aloes (Barbados) or a preparation of +aloes--probably aloin, ginger, capsicum, colocynth, soap, and probably +a little jalap. There was no evidence of the presence of mercury or +calomel. + + + + +CHAPTER VI. + +KIDNEY MEDICINES. + + +The secret remedies dealt with in this chapter comprise a further +selection from those advertised for the cure of backache and kidney +disorders. Several of those which were described in the previous report +on nostrums of this class (_Secret Remedies_, p. 66) were pills, +nearly all containing potassium nitrate and oil of juniper. Of the +four pills now reported on, only one contains these ingredients; two +consist chiefly of soap and sodium carbonate, and the fourth contains +copaiba as the only active substance found; this, although advertised +for backache and kidney troubles, appears to be principally put forward +for gonorrhœa, gleet, and similar disorders. Neither of the two liquids +described in the report appears to contain any very active substance; +one of these, of American origin, and stated to contain more effectual +doses and more medicine in each dose than any other remedy at the same +price, proved to contain 10.5 per cent. of alcohol and 46.5 per cent. +of sugars, with only 2.4 per cent. of vegetable extractive, which +appeared to be partly derived from cascara sagrada, a trace of oil +of wintergreen giving an aromatic flavour to the whole. Needless to +say, the claims advanced for this combination do not show more modesty +than is displayed in other cases, including as they do the assertions +that it cures Bright’s disease, expels gall stones, cures impotence, +drives malarial poison out of the system, is the best remedy for liver +complaint, torpid liver, and biliousness, and possesses the rarest +electric and therapeutic properties in a very concentrated form. +The other liquid preparation appears to depend chiefly on magnesium +sulphate and potassium citrate, with a very little sweet spirit of +nitre and some vegetable extractive in which no active substances were +recognised. The extraordinary carelessness with which the ingredients +of nostrums may be thrown together is shown by comparing the contents +of different bottles; one contained five times as much magnesium +sulphate as the other. This preparation is foisted upon the public as +an ingredient in a “prescription” which is published in various papers +in the guise of an item of information; readers are advised to take it +only to “chemists of well-known standing,” in order to avoid some other +ingredient being substituted for one of those named; probably chemists +of well-known standing who received such a “prescription” would take +good care to inform the purchaser that one of the ingredients was a +secret nostrum and not a recognised preparation of known composition +like the others, and our analysis may allow of a little further +information being now given. One of the pills reported on is one +member of a series called “The Home Doctor Remedies,” which furnishes +a good illustration of the advantage to the proprietor of a nostrum +in supplying directly to the public. In this case the proprietor is a +limited company--though using the name of an individual--claiming to be +“Specialists in the Treatment and Cure of Rupture,” and inviting every +one suffering from rupture to submit particulars and measurements, +etc., in order to be supplied with an appliance and the application, +shown in a previous report to be a tincture of capsicum with certain +essential oils, which is to “cure” the rupture. In this way large +numbers of names and addresses are doubtless obtained, and the persons +applying are not only furnished with particulars of the rupture +“treatment,” but also--in due course--with the particulars of “The +Home Doctor Remedies” for various disorders, remedies said to have been +evolved for the treatment of complications interfering with the cure +of rupture; they no doubt provide a remunerative subsidiary business. +The pamphlet describing them contains the statement “we have no large +advertising expenses, and are thus in a position to exclude all but +the very best quality of articles used in their manufacture, and still +supply the articles at a reasonable price”; how reasonable the price is +may be seen by comparing the estimated cost of the ingredients (about +¹⁄₂d.) with the price charged for the pills (1s. 9d.). + + +HOLDROYD’S GRAVEL PILLS. + +These are supplied by a firm in the north of England in boxes at 1s. +1¹⁄₂d., containing twenty-five. + +They are advertised as: + + A positive cure for Gravel, Pains in the Back, Dropsy, Diseases of + the Kidneys, Gout, Sciatica. + +Some extracts from circulars enclosed in the package are: + + Have you Pains in the Back, Between the Shoulders, In the Joints? If + so, don’t go on suffering day after day when you can be quickly and + permanently cured by Holdroyd’s Gravel Pills, which are guaranteed to + give Immediate Relief in all cases of Gravel, Lumbago, Pains in Back, + Dropsy, Wind and Water Complaints, Rheumatism, Gleet, Kidney Disease, + Gout, Sciatica, etc. + + They have never been known to fail and never can. They have cured + diseases after long years of suffering, when various remedies, + hospitals, and medical men have tried in vain. A steady perseverance + with these marvellous Pills has effected wonderful cures. + +The directions are: + + Two Pills three times a day, morning, afternoon, and night. + +The pills were not regularly coated, but had a thick covering of +loosely adhering magnesia, more or less impregnated with oil of anise +and colouring matter from the pill. After removal of this layer their +average weight was 4.3 grains. Analysis showed the presence of oil of +anise, soap, sodium carbonate, and powdered rhubarb. The proportions of +the different ingredients were determined as nearly as possible, and +the following formula was arrived at: + + Soap 40 per cent. + Dried sodium carbonate 20 „ + Powdered rhubarb 20 „ + Oil of anise 10 „ + Syrup 10 „ + +Estimated cost of ingredients for twenty-five pills ¹⁄₃d. + + +DR. DE ROOS’ COMPOUND RENAL PILLS. + +These pills are supplied by a firm in London at 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. per box, +containing fifteen pills. + +They are advertised as follows: + + Dr. De Roos’ Compound Renal Pills have over Fifty years’ reputation + as the most safe and speedy remedy for Pains in the Back, Gravel, + Lumbago, Gout, Rheumatism, Weakness across the Loins, Sandy or other + deposits, Stone, Stricture, and Diseases of Kidneys and Urinary + Organs generally. + +And in a pamphlet enclosed in the package it is stated that: + + By their use alone many thousands are annually restored to health, + and the agonies of gout and rheumatism may now be considered a + voluntary affliction, as no one need suffer these excruciating + torments if they will only have recourse to these Pills, which are + confidently recommended by the proprietor as the only real specific, + and being entirely free from colchicum, mercury, and other injurious + ingredients, may be taken with perfect safety by sufferers of + either sex. For weakness across the loins, sandy or other deposits, + discharges, and diseases of the urinary organs generally, they are + altogether unrivalled. They correct acidity of the stomach, promote + the functions of the kidneys, thereby preventing stone in the + bladder, and many other serious disorders to which these important + organs are liable. Many complaints, long supposed to be nervous, + often arise solely from contamination of the blood with certain + impurities which should have been carried off by the kidneys. Several + unsightly eruptions of the skin and face also arise from the same + cause, and may be as readily removed by these Pills. + +Varying directions are given for different cases, the dose varying from +“one or two” to “two or more” to be taken either every night, or every +morning, or both night and morning. + +The pills were not regularly coated, but had a thick covering of +powdered liquorice. After removing this, their average weight was +4.5 grains. Analysis showed the presence of soap (34.2 per cent., +calculated as anhydrous), sodium carbonate (19.7 per cent. of the dried +salt), a resin (3.3 per cent.), and a small quantity of vegetable +tissue with moisture and extractive. The resin did not contain +colophony, and did not show the characteristic behaviour of galbanum, +but may have been derived from ammoniacum. It possessed no characters +by which its source could be determined. The vegetable tissue appeared +to be derived from a leaf, but could not be identified with any drug in +ordinary use. No other active ingredient was found. + + +RED CROSS PILLS. + +Red Cross Pills are supplied by a limited company in Liverpool. A 2s. +9d. box was found to contain sixty-one pills. + +An advertisement of the pills is as follows: + + Red Cross Pills are the Wonder of the Day. Cure for Kidney, Bladder, + Backache, Gravel, and all discharge from any cause. 30 years’ + Reputation. Thousands of Testimonials. Send 2s. 9d. postal order. + +A box of the pills was sent for, no reference being made to the purpose +for which they were required. They were received by post with the +following letter (the punctuation is unaltered): + + Dear Sir, + + We thank you for your letter, Pills herewith. You will make better + progress if you do not touch any intoxicants drink Soda and Lime + Juice or a little Claret instead; at home plenty of Barley Water, if + can help you in any way, please write to us, and we will do our best + for you in the way of advice. With our best wishes for a speedy cure. + Yours truly. + +The following is an extract from a pamphlet enclosed in the package: + + If you suffer from pains in the back and Lumbago, take the Red Cross + Pills; thousands have been cured by their use. + + If you suffer from Gravel, the Kidneys, and Inflamation of the + Bladder, take Red Cross Pills; thousands have been cured by their use. + + If you suffer from old standing ailments which are the curse of + manhood, and which bring premature decay of Nervous and Physical + Strength, such as Strictures, Spermatorrhoe, Nocturnal Emissions, + Prostate Affections, etc., etc., take the Red Cross Pills; thousands + have been cured by their use. + + If you suffer from what is generally known to be red sand deposit in + the urine, or urine unclear and cloudy, take the Red Cross Pills; + thousands are relieved every day by their use for the same complaints. + + If you suffer from want of energy caused by old standing ailments and + impurity of the Blood, take the Red Cross Pills: thousands have been + cured by their use. + + If you suffer from Gonorrhœa, Gleet, or discharges of any + description, accidental, recent, or chronic cases, arising from any + causes, take the Red Cross Pills; thousands have been cured by their + use. + + The Red Cross Pills are warranted to be purely vegetable and not to + contain a particle of mercury. + +Directions are given in which the dose varies from two pills twice a +day to three pills three times a day. The pills were sugar-coated, +and coloured pink externally. After removal of the coating they had +an average weight of 2.6 grains. Analysis showed the presence of a +resin (24.3 per cent.) which appeared to be copaiba resin, a much +smaller quantity of oil of copaiba, magnesia (about 8 per cent.), +with liquorice and starch; no other active ingredients were found. +The principal constituent thus appears to be copaiba, from which most +of the oil has been removed to facilitate its preparation as a pill, +the remainder being apparently of the nature of excipient. Such pills +sugar-coated, can be obtained wholesale at less than 1s. per gross. + + +THE HOME DOCTOR BACKACHE AND KIDNEY PILLS. + +These pills belong to a series called “The Home Doctor Remedies,” +supplied by a limited company in London, which advertises largely a +“treatment for rupture.” In a previous report (_Secret Remedies_, pp. +158-160) is published the result of analysis of their “Developing +Lymphol,” supplied as part of the treatment; the connection of this +side of the business with “The Home Doctor Remedies” is thus described +in a pamphlet sent to a person who had previously purchased an +appliance for rupture: + + In successfully treating rupture it is necessary to take into + consideration the other physical disabilities of the patient as well + as devoting attention to the rupture, and as there are some diseases + which directly, and others indirectly, affect the cure of rupture, we + have found it necessary to give special attention to those which are + most likely to delay a cure. + + We are not general Patent Medicine dealers, but we are Specialists in + the Treatment and Cure of Rupture, and it is to the fact that we give + the closest attention to all the various conditions connected with + each individual case that we have been able to attain such remarkable + success in curing rupture. Whenever we find any complication that + has any tendency to delay the cure, we endeavour to overcome this + complication, so that the cure of the rupture may proceed without + interruption. To that end we have gradually evolved a series of + medicines for these complications, accepting none that had not been + thoroughly tested and recommended by the best authorities, or that + could in any way be harmful to the patient. The ingredients of each + of our formulas are practically all vegetable products, and the + formulas themselves are recommended and used by medical men of high + standing. + + We, ourselves, can strongly recommend these remedies, and patients + can use them with confidence, knowing that in them they have the very + best that actual experience can produce. + + We supply these remedies at Prices which cannot be equalled where + results are considered. + +There are six other “Home Doctor Remedies” besides the Backache and +Kidney Pills. The latter are thus referred to: + + Our remedy for backache cannot be surpassed. In nearly every other + remedy used it is necessary to gradually increase the size of the + dose, as well as the frequency of it. With our remedy the same dose + is taken at all times and will give exactly the same results. It + is absolutely harmless and will at once relieve all disagreeable + symptoms, and induce the kidneys to perform their proper functions. + +The price is 1s. 9d. per bottle, post paid; a bottle was found to +contain fifty-three pills, ovoid in shape, and coated with gelatine +coloured black. After removal of the coating the pills had an average +weight of 3.3 grains. Analysis showed the presence of potassium +nitrate, powdered capsicum, a very little oil of juniper, with soap, +sugar, magnesia, starch, and gum. There was no evidence that the +extractive present came from anything besides the capsicum, but a small +quantity of some other extract possessing no distinctive characters +might have been present. The quantities of the different ingredients +were determined as nearly as possible, and the formula was found to be, +approximately: + + Oil of juniper 3 per cent. + Potassium nitrate 26 „ + Magnesia 8 „ + Powdered capsicum 20 „ + Sugar 17 „ + Soap 1 „ + Starch, gum, moisture, etc., to 100. + +Estimated cost of ingredients for fifty-three pills about ¹⁄₂d. + + +DR. KILMER’S SWAMP-ROOT. + +This preparation is stated to be prepared only by a firm giving a +London address; the package, however, bears the words, “made in U.S.A.” +The price of the small-size bottle is 1s. 1¹⁄₂d., and this was found to +contain just over 3 fluid ounces. + +An advertisement in an English periodical is headed: + + Are your kidneys weak? Thousands of Men and Women have Kidney Trouble + and Never Suspect It. + +And other statements which follow include: + + Most people do not realise the alarming increase and remarkable + prevalence of kidney disease. While kidney disorders are the most + common diseases that prevail, they are almost the last recognised by + patients and physicians, _who content themselves with doctoring the + effects_, while the _original disease_ undermines the system.... In + taking Swamp-Root, you afford natural help to Nature, for it is the + most perfect healer and gentle aid to the kidneys that has ever been + discovered. + +On the front page of a pamphlet enclosed in the package appears the +following: + +How To Find Out. + + Fill a bottle or common glass with urine and let it stand twenty-four + hours; a sediment or settling indicates an unhealthy condition of the + kidneys. When urine stains linen it is evidence of kidney trouble. + Too frequent desire to urinate, scanty supply, pain or dull ache in + the back, is also convincing proof that the kidneys or bladder are + out of order. + +What To Do. + + There is comfort in the knowledge so often expressed, that Dr. + Kilmer’s Swamp-Root, the great kidney, liver, and bladder remedy, + fulfils every wish in quickly relieving pain in the back, kidneys, + liver, bladder, and every part of the urinary passage. + +And on the package it is stated that: + + This great specific cures Acute and Chronic Diseases of the Kidneys, + Liver, Bladder, or Urinary Organs, Kidney Complaint, and all Uric + Acid Troubles. Cures Bright’s Disease. Dissolves, expels Gravel, + Stone in Bladder. It heals and cures Irritation, Inflammation, + Ulceration, or Catarrh of Bladder, Blood or Mucus in Urine, Retention + of Urine, Pain in Urinating, Frequent Calls, Highly Coloured Urine, + Brick Dust in Urine, Stoppage of Urine, Thick, Sluggish, Scanty + Urine. Builds up a run down Constitution, and is the _Best Remedy_ + and most reliable for Liver Complaint, Torpid Liver and Biliousness, + Expels Gall Stones, Diabetes, Dropsy. It cures Enlargement of + Prostate Gland, Seminal Weakness, Spermatorrhœa, Impotence, + Generative Debility, and General Languor. Drives Malarial Poison + out of system. Gravel. It removes the causes producing Nervousness, + Sleeplessness, Headache, Neuralgia, Slime Fever, Inward Heat and + Thirst, and cures when all other remedies have failed. It purifies + the blood! + + The contents of this bottle is a PURE MEDICINE, and contains _more + effectual doses_, and each dose contains MORE MEDICINE than any other + remedy at the same price. + + Contains the active medicinal properties of Swamp Roots, Field Herbs, + Sea Weeds, Native Balms and Balsams, possessing the rarest Electric + and Therapeutic properties in a very concentrated form. + +The directions on the label are: + + May Take one, two, or three teaspoonfuls before or after meals, and + at bedtime. Children less according to age. May commence with small + doses and increase to full dose or more, as the case would seem to + require. + +The liquid was brown in colour and turbid, giving a small deposit on +standing. Analysis showed that 100 parts by measure contained 48.9 +parts by weight of solid matter, of which 46.5 parts consisted of +sugars; 10.5 per cent. of alcohol (by measure) was present, with a +trace of oil of wintergreen. The mineral constituents only amounted +to 0.05 per cent., and consisted of the elements usually found in +vegetable drugs; no alkaloid was present. The extractive was bitter, +and contained emodin, agreeing in these respects with extract of +cascara sagrada. A liquid containing 2 parts of extract of cascara +sagrada and 0.5 parts of oil of wintergreen in 100 parts by measure, +together with sugar and alcohol in the proportions found in the +original, agreed well with it in regard to degree of bitterness and +the strength of the wintergreen flavour; but small quantities of +extractives of “swamp roots, field herbs, sea weeds,” etc., if present, +could not have been detected in presence of so large a proportion of +sugar and the bitter substance. Definite active constituents could, of +course, have been found. The sediment of the original mixture, when +examined with the microscope, showed traces of vegetable tissue in +considerable variety. + + +KAROX COMPOUND. + +This is supplied by the Karox Manufacturing Company from an address in +the north of England, in bottles containing one fluid ounce, price 1s. +1¹⁄₂d. + +The method of advertising chiefly employed in this case is the +insertion in newspapers of small paragraphs having the appearance +of news paragraphs, and so worded as to appear to be disinterested +information supplied by the paper to its readers. The following is an +example of such a paragraph: + + We have recently published a prescription for the relief and cure + of Kidney and Liver Diseases, Rheumatism, etc. We regret to learn + from some of our readers that in some cases the prescription has not + been accurately dispensed, one of the ingredients being apparently + substituted by other cheaper drugs for the sake of extra profit. As + it is essential that the prescription should be dispensed accurately + if the remedy is to be beneficial, we desire to warn the readers of + this paper against such substitution, and would advise them to have + the prescription dispensed only by chemists of well-known standing, + or purchase the ingredients separately and mix them at home by + shaking well in a bottle. The correct prescription is Tincture of + Buchu, 1 oz.; Karox Compound, 1 oz.; Syrup of Lemons, 2 oz. Dose: One + teaspoonful in a wineglass of water three times daily after meals, + and at bedtime. + +On the wrapper of the package “Karox Compound” is described as: + + A Natural Remedy invaluable for promoting the regular action of the + Liver, Kidneys, Bowels, and Kindred Organs, purifying the blood and + building up the whole body. + + Karox Compound is not a cure-all. + + A large proportion of disease is the direct result of Sluggishness + of the Liver and Kidneys, and by gently stimulating these important + organs it cures Biliousness, Headaches, Constipation, Indigestion, + Jaundice, Offensive Breath, Skin Eruptions, Pains in the Back, Female + Ailments, etc. + +The contents of several bottles of this preparation were examined, and +were found to differ very considerably in composition. The ingredients +found were magnesium sulphate, potassium citrate, alcohol, spirit +of nitrous ether, sugars, vegetable extractive, and faint traces of +alkaloid and formaldehyde. The magnesium sulphate varied from 1.45 to +6.87 parts per 100 parts by measure, and the potassium citrate from +4.76 to 6.55; the sugars were about 8 per cent., and the alcohol in +one specimen was found to be 6 per cent. by volume. The liquid smelt +strongly of spirit of nitrous ether and gave qualitative evidence of +the presence of nitrite, but the amount was not sufficient to give any +nitric oxide when tested in a nitrometer. The vegetable extractive was +between 1 and 2 per cent., but showed no characters indicative of its +source. There was a trace of sediment in the liquid, and microscopical +examination of this showed the presence of yeast or yeast-like cells +and the minute plants known as desmids. + + + + +CHAPTER VII. + +OBESITY CURES, AND A “FLESH PRODUCER.” + + + A good many nostrums advertised for the treatment of obesity were + dealt with in the previous volume of this book, and some of those + described which were formerly advertised extensively are now but + little in evidence, if, indeed, they have not disappeared altogether; + how far this may be due to the exposure which was there made, we + are unable to say. But others have appeared on the market, and the + extent to which such preparations are advertised suggests either + that obesity is on the increase, or that people are becoming more + conscious of its disadvantages and, therefore, more ready to lay + out money on medicines promising to restore them to normal weight. + Somewhat curiously, while advertisements appeared numerous and + lengthy advertisements of an article intended to cure the opposite + condition, that of excessive leanness. In the present chapter we give + an account of some nostrums for obesity not previously dealt with, + and also of the “flesh producer” just referred to. + + It was shown by the analyses published in the former volume that + extract of bladderwrack was the basis of several of the medicines + described, and the same substance appears in nearly all those now + dealt with. Bladderwrack (_Fucus vesiculosus_) is a common seaweed + found on and around our shores, and, in common with other seaweeds, + it contains considerable quantities of the salts occurring in + sea-water, including a small quantity of a compound of iodine; + the extract was at one time credited with having some effect in + reducing superfluous fat, but it does not appear to be used at all + in legitimate medicine now, and there is no official process for + preparing it. Since it contains no definite active constituent and + is likely to be very variable in composition, it is not possible to + determine exactly the amount that is present in a mixture with other + substances. Another drug which has been given for obesity is thyroid + extract, or some other preparation of the thyroid gland; this appears + to have been present in one or two of the articles examined, but + there is the same difficulty in regard to determining the quantity + of it present in a mixture, or even identifying it beyond the + possibility of question, as that just referred to in connection with + extract of bladderwrack. + + It is not only in the composition of their wares that the makers of + these preparations show similarity of practice; even the devices + used in advertising and selling them have a strong family likeness. + The plan of giving away a free sample and accompanying it with + statements as to the importance of following it up with a “full + treatment” are characteristic of nearly all the advertisers dealt + with. It is, moreover, quite in keeping with what we are accustomed + to find that each should advance the claim that his own preparation, + though found on examination to contain the same drug as those of + his rivals, is totally different from all others, and that each + should claim to be the discoverer of this wonderful substance. The + absurdity of the claims becomes more striking when they are brought + together. The first of the nostrums described is put forward with + the assertions, “I know I have found a cure at last,” “My method is + unlike any other.” The next maker says that his pills “in any case + will do more to reduce corpulency than any other remedy extant,” + and they “present a striking contrast to many so-called remedies so + freely offered at extravagant prices to the public, some of which are + useless and others dangerous.” A third calls his “the only safe and + certain remedy,” “the most remarkable scientific discovery of the + present age,” and guarantees to cure; and so on. Such vague titles + as “specialist” and “certified chemist” are so used as to imply that + they are qualifications; and the usual feature, exorbitant price--the + mainspring of the whole business--is, of course, conspicuous, drugs + costing a few pence being supplied for various sums up to £2 1s. 1d. + One advertiser appears to have hit on a little novelty with the claim + that “my remedy is a woman’s cure for women only. Nobody but a woman + could have discovered it, and it is offered to women only,” while + a certain amount of originality must be allowed to the statement, + emanating from the same source, that, “what happens in these cases” + (of heart failure) “is fatty penetration of the heart, which leads of + syncope.” + + +A. GORDON WALLACE’S “TREATMENT.” + +This is advertised by A. Gordon Wallace, London. It is priced at one +guinea for a month’s “treatment,” but as the first fortnight’s medicine +is supplied free, the actual amount to be paid for it is 10s. 6d. The +following extracts from advertisements will show the nature of the +claims advanced:-- + +ARE YOU TOO STOUT? + + Famous Obesity Specialist tells how everyone can lose Superfluous + Flesh and Improve their General Health.... + + If you are one of the thousands of much-enduring men and women who + are unhealthily stout, or growing too stout, this article will bring + new hope to you. If your appearance is marred by a double chin, or + an ungainly bust, or a protruding abdomen, or any other disagreeable + evidence of Obesity, here is an offer that will help you to remove + the ugly defects in your physical appearance. If your health is + threatened--as it must be--by superfluous flesh, which generally + carries in its train gout, or rheumatism, or palpitation, or “fatty” + heart, or some other serious ailment, read and profit by this advice + from a famous Obesity Specialist.... + + I do guarantee to reduce your weight safely and scientifically, and + strictly according to well-defined and recognised physiological laws, + if you will conscientiously follow out my directions while you are + taking a course of my Treatment. + + Medical men, have, on their own admission, been so far baffled for A + REAL AND EFFECTIVE CURE that will bring in its train no other injury + to the patient’s system. I know I have found a cure at last. I know + what it has done for thousands of others and I know it will do the + same for you. All you need do is to write to me to-day, and you will + receive my book, which will be of invaluable service to you, by + return post, free of charge.... I will send securely and privately + packed, to any reader who forwards me 3d. for postage, a full-size + fortnight’s package of my remedy free of charge.... You will not have + to wait for weeks, or even days, before deriving benefit. You will + experience at once a wonderful feeling of lightness and brightness; + you will be able to walk longer distances without being fagged; your + heart will beat more regularly; and your breathing will be better. + +The “fortnight’s package” was accompanied by a letter, of which the +following is a part: + + As a rule, One Month’s Treatment is sufficient, though, of course, + I need scarcely say that in some cases the Treatment must extend to + two or even three months, in order to secure complete and permanent + results. My usual fee for an ordinary month’s course is One Guinea + (credit, of course, being given for the cost of the free fortnight’s + trial treatment enclosed), and on receipt therefore of P.O. for + 10s. 6d., together with the accompanying Consultation Form, fully + filled up, I will at once formulate and send you the directions and + various preparations suited to your requirements, thus enabling + you to complete the full month’s course at half price without any + interruption. + + The second fortnight’s treatment really begins the actual + flesh-reducing portion of my system following upon the elimination of + the impurities that are robbing you of your vital NERVE FORCE, and + I would emphasise the importance of this continuity of treatment to + ensure a satisfactory reduction of your superfluous flesh, and also + generally improved health. + +The “book” referred to was also sent; it is a small paper booklet of +about fifty pages, entitled “Obesity: Cause and Treatment. By A. Gordon +Wallace, Specialist.” This curious qualification is the only one that +is mentioned on the title page; but on page 33 the following appears +under the heading + + In Plain Language. + + It is apropos for me to here mention that I am a physician holding + diplomas by examination, and I have made the cause and treatment of + Obesity a special study. My methods of treatment are based on sound + physiological grounds, and not merely tentative or empirical. + + This little treatise is not an essay such as I would deliver before + a medical society, but is a talk to the laity, therefore I purposely + avoid the use of technical language. I am to discuss the subject here + in as simple a manner as I possibly can so that everything will be + clearly understood. + + I am confident that this method of stating the facts will be + appreciated. + +On other pages it is stated that + + My method is unlike any other. I give my patients a true + physiological treatment that restores lost Nerve-Force, and Nature + does the rest. + + _My Treatment allows you to eat what you like and drink what you + like._ + +The “fortnight’s package” contained 54 sugar-coated tablets. The +directions on the label were “Two Tablets to be taken three times daily +between food.” At this rate the “fortnight’s” supply would last nine +days. + +After removal of the coating, the tablets had an average weight of +2.9 grains. Analysis showed them to consist of an extract and a +vegetable powder; the extract agreed in characters with extract of +bladderwrack (_Fucus vesiculosus_) which is the basis of a great +many of the nostrums for obesity; although this extract is not known +to contain any definite active principle which can be isolated and +identified, its mineral constituents differ so much from those of +most vegetable extracts that a careful examination of these, together +with the characters of the extract itself, enable it to be identified +with practical, though not absolute, certainty. The vegetable powder +was found by microscopic examination to consist of liquorice root, +together with a large proportion of the cells characteristic of +powdered nutshells, olive stones, etc.; the cheapest liquorice powders +in the market are largely adulterated with powdered nutshells and +olive-stones, and this fact may perhaps account for the presence of the +tissues in question. The quantity of extract in each tablet was about +2 grains. Similar tablets can be obtained wholesale at about 1s. a +thousand. + +Some further information with regard to this “famous obesity +specialist” appears in Chapter XIX. + + +DR. VINCENT’S ANTI-STOUT PILLS. + +These pills are supplied by Dr. Vincent’s Medicine Co., London, at 2s., +4s. 6d., and 10s. per box. A 2s. box was found to contain 38 pills. + +In an advertisement of these pills it is stated that + + One 2s. Box of Dr. Vincent’s Anti-Stout Pills has in hundreds of + instances completely cured, and in any case will do more to reduce + corpulency than any other remedy extant. + + Dr. Vincent’s Anti-Stout Pills are small, harmless, pleasant to take, + and without change of diet will reduce superabundant flesh as much as + 10 lbs. in a week. + +A printed circular and a circular letter were sent with the pills, and +the following are extracts from these: + + Dr. Vincent’s famous and most successful method for the elimination + of superabundant flesh is now well known throughout the English + speaking world.... Where a fair trial has been given it has never + been known to fail.... The pills are purely vegetable, and present + a striking contrast to many so-called remedies so freely offered + at extravagant prices to the public, some of which are useless and + others dangerous. + + Every case is amenable to my treatment if two simple rules are + followed. First, the treatment must be carried on with regularity, + and second, without interruption.... Naturally you want to complete + your cure and I have a special offer to make you. The Ten Shilling + Box of Dr. Vincent’s Treatment is usually sufficient for a complete + and lasting cure, and so as to encourage you to continue the process + of reducing your weight, I shall be pleased to send a Regulation Full + Size 10s. box for a remittance of 8s. In other words, I allow you the + 2s. you have paid for the Trial box sent herewith off the price of + the 10s. Treatment, if you apply within 21 days of the date of this + letter. + +(The letter, however, was undated.) + +The directions on the box are: “Dose--Two Pills every night, also One +Pill every morning.” + +The pills were coated with talc; after removal of the coating they had +an average weight of 2.6 grains. Nearly half the mass consisted of +“extract”--apparently a mixture, about 15 per cent. was resinous in +nature, and the remainder consisted chiefly of the tissues and cell +contents of powdered vegetable substances. The nature of these was +investigated with the aid of the microscope, and from the histological +characters of the powder, together with the results of tests applied to +the pill, evidence was obtained of the presence of + + Jalap + Colocynth + Cloves + Aloes, or extract of aloes + Extract of _Fucus vesiculosus_ + +The last named could not be identified as fully as in the preceding +case, owing to its being present in not very large proportion in +admixture with the other drugs named, but the evidence for its presence +appeared adequate. + +It is not possible in such a mixture to give with any certain near +approximation the proportions in which the different ingredients were +present. + + +PHATOLENE TABLETS. + +“Phatolene” Tablets are sold by the Phatolene Co., Limited, London, at +6d., 4s., and 10s. per box. + +An advertisement of these tablets is in the following terms: + + Don’t be fat when Phatolene Tablets will cure you absolutely. The + only safe and certain remedy. Registered by Government. Thousands + of Testimonials. Phatolene Tablets are guaranteed to cure you of + stoutness without starvation, aperients, or interference with your + ordinary method of living. Phatolene Tablets are the most remarkable + scientific discovery of the present age. Phatolene Tablets are an aid + to health, make you look younger, and produce a charming figure. We + are so confident that Phatolene Tablets will reduce your weight daily + that we offer to send you a large trial box in return for a sixpenny + postal order only. + +The box which was sent bore no patent medicine stamps, and so +presumably “registered by Government” refers to the name being +registered as a trade-mark; it is clearly intended to suggest much more +than this. A letter sent with the “trial box” was headed: + + The Phatolene Co., Ltd. + (Sole Agents for the Discoverer of the “Phatolene” Remedy), + F. Lawrence, Manager and Certified Chemist. + +It should be observed that “certified chemist” is not a legal +qualification, and may mean anything or nothing; it is not to be +confused with “registered chemist and druggist” or “pharmaceutical +chemist.” Some extracts from the letter are: + + As a chemist of over 20 years’ practice I have often been personally + consulted by my clients of both sexes in regard to obesity and + local over-fatness. But it is even more pleasure to me to come in + touch with those who prefer to do so under the Government-guarded + secret service of His Majesty’s Post Office.... As a matter of + fact I have to charge more if people use up my time as well as + their own in personal consultations. And there is no necessity for + this time-wasting or money-wasting, as I know that my Phatolene + discovery will succeed in your case as it has done in others.... My + One Week’s Trial Supply is not sufficient, of course, to overcome a + bodily condition that may have been developing for nearly a year. My + Phatolene reduces all fat within the body at a steady and safe rate, + and one, two, or three months’ supply is sufficient to restore all + but the unusually fat to their proper size, weight, and appearance. + + What quantity may I send you? For your guidance I may point out that + my experience enables me to inform you that you will require the + following quantities according to these conditions. + + If you have been fat or growing fat less than one year, you will + require one month’s supply for 4s., post free. If fat or growing fat + one year, and not two years, you will require three months’ supply + for 10s., post free. + +From a second letter: + + To cure any ordinary case takes about 12 weeks, for if the reduction + is forced in a more violent way the stoutness is sure to return and + thus you gain only a temporary relief, and you should therefore + take advantage of our 12 weeks’ treatment, which will cost you 10s. + only.... + + You are aware I have made a study of obesity, and you can naturally + understand I am interested in your case and shall be only too pleased + at all times to answer any questions on the subject, but please + enclose stamped directed envelope. + +In a leaflet enclosed with the package occurs the following impudent +attempt to make it appear that the nostrum has the support of medical +practitioners and of the BRITISH MEDICAL JOURNAL: + + The Treatment of obesity should not be quick, but slow. To attempt + to reduce superfluous fat by violent or sudden means is dangerous, + especially if the heart is at all weak, and this is why medical men + invariably recommend Phatolene Tablets.... Doctors cannot dispute the + fact that this preparation has for a long time had the reputation of + reducing corpulence. + + _The Practitioner_ says: “Taken three times a day reduced the fat of + a lad who had suddenly become corpulent.” + + _The British Medical Journal_: “Given to lessen fat with good + results.” + + Again, the same Journal says: “Given with good results and does not + produce dyspepsia or diarrhœa. A lady lost 20 lbs. in 9 weeks when + taking this, and a gentleman 8 lbs. in 3 weeks without bad results.” + +It is scarcely necessary to say that neither the nostrum in question +nor any other has ever been referred to in the BRITISH MEDICAL JOURNAL +in the terms quoted. + +The directions on the package are: + + Dose.--For the first week take one tablet three times a day, and + afterwards increase the dose to three Tablets three times a day, one + hour before meals. Can be swallowed whole or allowed to dissolve in + the mouth. + +The “tablets” were really ovoid pills, coated with talc and coloured +brown externally. The “6d. trial box” contained twenty-one. After +removal of the coating the pills had an average weight of 2.7 grains. +Analysis showed them to consist of an extract agreeing in all respects +with extract of bladderwrack (_Fucus vesiculosus_), together with about +10 per cent. of powdered liquorice root. No other ingredient was found. + + +KELLOGG’S SAFE FAT REDUCER. + +Kellogg’s “Safe Fat Reducer” is an American preparation, supplied by F. +J. Kellogg, Michigan, U.S.A. It is also advertised in Great Britain, +and the following extracts are from an advertisement appearing here: + + 4/- Box of my Safe Fat Reducer Free. + + I Want To Prove To You Before Your Own Eyes and At My Expense That I + Can Reduce You to Normal Weight Safely, Without Starvation Diet or + Tiresome Exercises. + + It Doesn’t Matter What You Have Tried, Send for This Free 4/- Box of + my Safe Fat Reducer To-day. + + My treatment is prepared scientifically. It does not stop or hinder + digestion; on the contrary, it promotes proper digestion and + assimilation of food, which 99 fat people in a hundred haven’t got, + and that’s why they are fat. + +On applying for a sample, it was sent accompanied by a circular letter, +and this was followed by others at intervals. Some extracts from these +are here given: + + Of course, I do not promise that this 4s. treatment alone is going to + cure you of all your fat, but I want to start you on the treatment + without any expense to you so that during the next few days it will + put your system in such a condition that the next treatment may + produce results without any waste of time. + + You have a right to feel sure that Kellogg’s Safe Fat Reducer is + safe. You can depend upon it that it is positively safe, and you need + never fear that it will reduce you too much. + + Kellogg’s Safe Fat Reducer builds up the entire system from one + of fatty weakness to muscular strength, and the results have been + that it makes patients grow remarkably healthy as they continue the + treatment. + + Excess fat, I found, is the result of mal-assimilation of food. My + Kellogg Safe Fat Reducer stops this defect; it prevents the stomach + from its unnatural tendency to produce fat; it makes the stomach + “mill out” the food into muscle fibre, bone, nerve tissues, brain + pigment, and rich blood instead of fat; it resolves the unnatural + fat you have and expels it naturally and harmlessly through Nature’s + channels. + + As a result there is no other treatment in the world like Kellogg’s + Safe Fat Reducer. It does not interfere in the least with your + business. You don’t have to diet yourself, but you can eat all you + want. You don’t have to go through any tiresome exercise at all. All + you have to do is to be faithful to the treatment, take it according + to directions and go about your work as usual; then you should be + happy in feeling that the reduction will be sure to come in a few + days, that you will be healthier than ever before, and more muscular, + energetic, and athletic. A loss of a pound a day is nothing unusual, + and will by no means hurt you.... + + Now that I have started you on the treatment, I want you to continue. + I will send you a full treatment of my Kellogg’s Safe Fat Reducer + for only £2 1s. 1d. There is positively no doubt of the result. And + I know you will appreciate it when after a few days you will be able + to note a distinct relief from the heavy burden you are now carrying, + and the terrible dangers of apoplexy and paralysis which threaten all + fat people are lifted from your mind for ever. + +From the second letter: + + I make each case an individual case, thus I have to have the enclosed + blank filled out, so that I may understand exactly the conditions, + and thus employ the means that will most rapidly, and at the same + time safely reduce your fat and make strong, healthy tissue and + muscle.... + + The price of the treatment is but £2 1s. 1d. Order it to-day, and be + free from your heavy weight in a few weeks. Don’t stop to figure or + argue with yourself. I hope to receive your order by return mail, + but if you cannot order write me frankly what stands in your way of + securing a reduction. + +From the third: + + I really cannot understand why you do not order my wonderful + treatment, and begin at once to reduce your fat that has so long been + a bother and annoyance to you.... I have given much thought to your + case [no case had been even mentioned in sending for the sample] and + I feel sure if you still had any doubts of the splendid power of my + remedy to reduce you of fatness, you would have written me fully at + once. As I have not received any letter from you, I have concluded + that you do not feel that you can afford to take the treatment at + present. I believe so positively that I can reduce you, and I feel + so sure that you would appreciate fully the splendid reduction I + will give you, that I am going to make you a strictly confidential + proposition, by which you can secure the treatment you so much + desire, and at the same time do me some good. + + You certainly know a number of people in your vicinity who are + annoyed by fat, and who would be glad to know of my treatment, so + if you will send me £1 8d. and the names of six fat people I will + send you a regular full month’s treatment. Remember I do not ask you + to become my agent, and I shall not refer to you in any way when I + write to your friends or acquaintances whose names you send me ... if + you have not got the money by you, it seems to me that it would be + no more than right to go to some dear friend and ask a favour for a + short time. Surely no one could refuse you when it means your health + and happiness. + +The “trial box” sent contained 16 tablets and 6 “casca beans,” +recommended as an aperient; the latter were not examined. The +directions are “Eat one tablet before each meal and one at bed-time, +thoroughly masticating them before swallowing.” The tablets had an +average weight of 70 grains each; analysis showed them to contain +starch, dextrin, a sugar (glucose or maltose), protein, mineral +salts, vegetable tissue, and a small quantity of an organic compound +containing iodine. The proportions of the different constituents were +determined as far as practicable, and the figures obtained, together +with microscopical examination of the tissue, showed that the tablets +consisted principally of wheat flour from which much of the starch had +been removed, made into a coherent mass by means of malt extract or +glucose; traces of the germ or embryo of the wheat were found. All this +is, of course, a vehicle for the organic substance containing iodine; +both thyroid gland (or its extract) and extract of bladderwrack are +characterised by containing iodine in combination in small quantity, +and many tests were employed to ascertain which was present; no other +evidence of extract of bladderwrack was obtained, but there was a +good deal of evidence, not quite amounting to positive proof, of the +presence of a preparation of the thyroid gland. It is impossible to +state the quantity present in each tablet, and it would convey no real +information if it could be given, as preparations of thyroid may differ +so widely in their activity and no standardisation has as yet been +attempted. + + +“NORMAL” PILLS. + +These are supplied by the Normal Powder Company, Beauty Specialists, +at 10s. 6d., a “trial box” being priced 6d. They are advertised in the +following terms: + + Too Stout! + + Simply follow our instructions and we will guarantee a perfect cure. + Our treatment is in every way as scientific and complete as that for + which a London Specialist charges £21. + + FREE OFFER! + + To prove the great value of our remedy we will send you a large trial + box--14 days’ supply--Free on receipt of 6d. P.O. to cover cost of + packing and postage, etc. + +The 6d. box was accompanied by a “chart, to be carefully filled up,” +for particulars as to weight, measures, etc., and the following to be +signed by the purchaser: + + I duly received your “free” sample of the “Normal” Pills quite + safely, and since using them I have lost ---- lbs. in weight. I quite + understand that the cure cannot be completed without continuing + the treatment for some time, and in conjunction with the London + Specialist’s diet instructions, which I promise to faithfully follow + out. Please send me per return, carriage paid, in plain wrapper, a + large box of the Pills and the instructions which cost you £21. I + enclose you cheque or P.O. for 10s. 6d. as requested. + +The box, which bore no label, contained 83 pills, which were coated +with talc. After removal of the coating their average weight was +found to be 1.28 grains; analysis showed them to consist of a mixture +of extracts with vegetable powder. The powder consisted partly of +liquorice root, with a large proportion of the tissues characteristic +of ground nutshell, which, as mentioned above, is a regular adulterant +of the lowest grade of liquorice powder; the microscope also gave +indications of traces bladderwrack (_Fucus vesiculosus_), such as are +contained in extract of this substance. Various tests indicated that +the extracts present in the pill were those of cascara sagrada and +bladderwrack the proportions being approximately as follows: + + Extract of cascara sagrada ¹⁄₄ grain + Extract of _Fucus vesiculosus_ ¹⁄₂ „ + Powdered liquorice (adulterated) ¹⁄₄ „ + Talc and moisture ¹⁄₄ „ + in one pill. + + +MRS. SEYMOUR’S TREATMENT. + +This is supplied by Mrs. M. Seymour (London), at 15s. + +An advertisement of this preparation is headed “A woman’s offer to +over-fat women”; some extracts from it are as follows: + + I invite other ladies to participate in a discovery which reduced me + 4 st. 8 lbs. and got rid of my ugly double chin.... My remedy is a + woman’s cure for women only. Nobody but a woman could have discovered + it, and it is offered to women only.... I am presenting 5,000 free + boxes of my cure and copies of my book, _Obesity in Women_. I ask + you to post the coupon below to me now and accept one of these free + packages.... + +The passages which follow are from the “book” in question: + + Every one of the cures I have made is a proof of the all-important + fact that obesity in women is a different ailment from corpulence in + men. It has an absolutely different origin.... There is no case of + obesity in which heart trouble has not been reckoned with.... It is + heart failure that is responsible for 75 per cent. of cases which + end fatally. What happens in these cases is fatty penetration of the + heart, which leads of syncope.... + + Obesity is always due to imperfect nutrition. The food which is + eaten makes fat instead of healthy tissue, muscle, bone, and nerve. + Up to a certain point the process of nutrition (whereby the food is + transformed into the constituents which make up the various parts + of the body) is practically the same in women as in men. Beyond + that point it is obviously an entirely different process, for the + generative organs then become involved. + + Now the all-important secret which governs the whole subject of + obesity in women is this: Obesity is caused as the result of a + species of mal-elimination in those stages of the nutritive processes + wherein the organs peculiar to the sex are involved. In other words, + the unhealthy, fat-forming process is set up because of the imperfect + disposal of those nutrient elements with which the menstruous organs + are concerned. + + You are certain to have noticed how any marked stage or change in the + functions of the menses will influence fat formation. For instance, + girls who from childhood are inclined to fatness invariably become of + normal proportions on attaining puberty, while at least 70 per cent. + of the cases of obesity in women occur at the menopause, between the + ages of 40 and 50. + + Now there are changes connected with the organs under consideration + which occur without any outward or visible signs--changes which + induce obesity. These are changes which result in the fat-loading of + the blood, and the depositing of fat in the different parts of the + body as the blood circulates.... Please remember that I treat women + only. I have no cure for corpulence in men. + +The free sample which was sent with the book consisted of nine capsules +containing a dark extract of bitter taste. The quantity in the sample +was not sufficient for analysis. A “symptom form” was received with the +sample; on sending for a further supply, a letter was received asking +for certain particulars, and the symptom form was accordingly filled up +as follows (the words in italics are the answers given): + + Age.--_38._ Weight.--_13 st. 13._ Height.--_5 ft. 7¹⁄₂ in._ + Waist.--_33 in._ Bust.--_42 in._ Hips.--_50 in._ + + How long have you been about this weight?--_Gradually increasing + for a year or two._ What parts are fattest?--_Abdomen and bust._ + Constipated?--_No._ Have you backache or any kidney trouble?--_No._ + Palpitation?--_No._ If married, how long?--_14 years._ How many + children?--_3._ Age of youngest?--_5._ Any sediment or peculiarity + about the urine, etc.?--_No._ Had miscarriage?--_No._ What is your + general health and condition now?--_Fair._ + +The medicine which was sent in reply was not capsules, but sugar-coated +tablets, 169 in number. Directions were given as follows: + + There are sufficient tablets for you to take four each day, one just + before each meal. If you only take three meals--and I strongly advise + you to--take two tablets before the heaviest meal. + + I want to impress upon you the great importance of keeping the bowels + perfectly free all the time you are taking this treatment. For a day + or two the treatment itself may keep the bowels open, but afterwards + most ladies require an aperient. I have made many experiments, and I + find there is only one way to keep the system clear without hindering + the process of reduction. Pills, Epsom salts, cascara, etc., are + quite useless. You must have genuine Vichy and Kissingen salines. You + can get them in powder form of any good-class chemist, but they must + be guaranteed full strength, be saccharine-sweetened, and contain no + sugar. + + Take them, dissolved in water, half an hour before breakfast, as + follows:--A Vichy powder the first morning, none the second morning; + a Kissingen powder the third morning, none the fourth morning; a + Vichy powder the fifth morning, and so on. If you prefer to purchase + the powders from me I can supply you with sufficient to last the six + weeks’ treatment for 3s. 6d., post free. I can guarantee these to be + full strength, and exactly suited to the purpose. + + Get into the habit of breathing deeply. Take at least a hundred deep + breaths in front of the open window every morning on rising. Breathe + deeply whenever you think of it. It will soon become habitual. For + exercise take a gentle walk every day. + + I have just one other suggestion to make in your case, and that is in + regard to food. You will find on page 15 of my booklet particulars + of the foods and beverages I avoided during the first month of my + cure, and I strongly advise you to do as I did in this matter. I also + advise you to eat only bread, cakes, etc., made from gluten flour; + that is, flour from which the starch has been removed. Masticate your + food thoroughly. Always stop eating just before you feel you have + had enough, and wait until you have finished eating before you take + anything to drink. Drink as much hot water as you can between meals. + +The tablets were sugar-coated, and of a bluish colour externally. After +removal of the coating their average weight was found to be 4 grains. +Examination showed that they consisted, wholly or in part, of roughly +ground up sugar-coated tablets or pills, the coating of which was +coloured pink; since the coating of these had been ground in with the +tablets, it was not possible to separate it, and the mass accordingly +contained a good deal of sugar and starch; besides these, an extract +was found agreeing, as far as its characters could be ascertained, with +extract of bladderwrack; a trace of iodine in combination was present, +such as is found in preparations of bladderwrack and of thyroid gland; +also a very small quantity of boric acid, and a little vegetable +powder. Part of the last-named showed the characters of the débris of +a seaweed, though it could not be definitely identified with _Fucus +vesiculosus_; a further small portion, amounting to an extremely small +proportion of the whole, consisted of woody tissue which did not agree +in characters with any drug in common use. The boric acid points to +the probable presence of an animal gland or a preparation of such, and +some collateral evidence was obtained of the presence of thyroid in +small quantity, but definite proof of the latter is impossible in such +a mixture. + + +A “FLESH PRODUCER.” + +SARGOL. + +A preparation named Sargol has been very widely advertised of late for +the increase of flesh and development of the figure of persons who +are too thin; the advertisements often include pictures intended to +represent the results to be attained. One of these advertisements is +headed: + + We invite every thin man, woman, and child here. Every Person in the + British Isles to Eat With Us at Our Expense. + +Other extracts are: + + This is an invitation that no thin man or woman can afford to ignore. + We’ll tell you why. We are going to give you a food that helps digest + the other foods--a food that puts good solid flesh on people who are + thin and underweight, no matter what the cause may be. A food that + makes brain in five hours and blood in four--a food that puts the + red corpuscles in the blood which every thin man or woman so sadly + needs.... + + Chew one up with every meal, and in five minutes after you take the + first concentrated tablet of this precious food it will commence + to unfold its virtues, and it will by actual demonstration often + increase the weight at the rate of one pound a day. + +Application to the Sargol Co. at the address given brought a small +package of the tablets, with a circular letter, which was followed at +intervals by others. We subjoin a few sentences from these lengthy +documents: + + Whether your lack of bodily weight comes to you by inheritance, by + overwork, by indoor occupation, or no matter what you have done or + how many ineffectual preparations you have tried, Sargol will be a + revelation to you.... + + Remember; until the discovery of Sargol, nothing has ever been known + which could be depended upon to put 10, 15, and even 30 pounds of + permanent, healthy tissue on a thin person’s body. + + As we receive so many letters from people who say they have been + disappointed and deceived by so-called fatteners we think it is best + to take you into our confidence and give you some of the inside facts + relative to Sargol. By a recent discovery it is now possible to + reproduce chemically a very important natural fatty substance which + is found in the yolk of eggs, in the roe of fishes, in the blood, + also in the brain and nerve tissue of human beings. This substance + can now be obtained in a highly concentrated form in combination with + other valuable vitalising and tissue building agents.... + + Each dose of Sargol contains a generous amount of this newly + discovered substance, the very element which thin folks lack. Each + time you take a Sargol tablet you are introducing directly into your + system in concentrated form the actual fat forming substance which + you so sadly need, and yet this is but one of the component parts of + Sargol. Five other strength giving, fat producing elements of known + and acknowledged merit and great potency are carefully combined to + form this peerless preparation. + +A box of Sargol, price 4s. 6d., was found to contain 30 tablets; it is +strongly recommended that a six weeks’ supply, equal to six 4s. 6d. +boxes, should be obtained, the price of this being 21s. The directions +are: + + 1. Take one tablet with each meal and one at bed-time. 2. Be + reasonable as regards diet. + +The tablets were sugar coated and coloured pink. After removal of the +coating they had an average weight of 5.3 grains. Analysis showed them +to contain lecithin, hypophosphites of calcium, sodium, and potassium, +zinc phosphide, sugar, albumen, and insoluble protein, with talc and +kaolin or similar mineral matter, evidently added as excipient. In the +course of the analysis it was necessary to obtain more than one supply +of the tablets, and the different specimens showed a large variation in +the proportions of some of the ingredients. The amounts actually found +were: + + Zinc phosphide 0.7 per cent. + Lecithin 1.9 „ + Calcium hypophosphite 12.9 „ + Sodium and potassium hypophosphites 7.7 „ + Albumen (soluble) 4.2 „ + Insoluble protein (? coagulated albumen) 10.8 „ + Sugar 18.0 „ + Talc, kaolin, moisture, etc. + +Estimated cost of materials for thirty tablets, about 1¹⁄₄d. + + + + +CHAPTER VIII. + +MEDICINES FOR ALCOHOLISM AND FOR THE TOBACCO HABIT. + + + The “treatments” for the drink habit described in this chapter + include some which have only recently been advertised in this + country; two of them are of American origin. With these we include + an account of a “cure” for the tobacco habit, supplied by the same + limited company as one of the drink cures. It will be seen that + with the three first described the claims advanced are a good deal + alike, but the drugs used are almost entirely different. Each of + the preparations is supplied in two forms, the one to be taken + voluntarily by patients desirous of being cured, and the other to + be administered without the patient’s knowledge; obviously, if a + cure can be effected in the latter way, there can be less hesitation + in ascribing the result to the drugs than when the patient has + exercised his will in the same direction, and the preparation for + secret administration was therefore selected for analysis in each + case. The first of the articles examined was found to consist merely + of powdered cinchona bark, diluted with milk-sugar and magnesium + carbonate; of this it is asserted that “it does not contain any + drugs, poison, or minerals of any description,” although cinchona is + generally regarded as a drug and magnesia as a mineral; since the + dose of cinchona which is given is only 6 grains a day, containing + about ¹⁄₃ grain of alkaloids, it is scarcely to be expected that + any great result will be obtained from the administration of this + preparation. In the next article described, which appears to be of + American origin, tartar emetic is the only active ingredient found + in the powders and tablets. What is evidently aimed at is to produce + nausea or vomiting, and to lead the patient to associate these + symptoms with the consumption of alcoholic liquors. Much is said + about the “treatment” being capable of curing any case in three days, + and it purports to be made and sold by an individual who was cured + by it in three days, after having been a heavy drinker for sixteen + years. If the statements are carefully read, it does not appear to + be definitely asserted that the “B treatment,” that is, the remedy + which is administered secretly, will effect a cure in that time, + although the impression might easily be received that three days + will suffice, “between Friday night and Monday night, or any other + 72 hours,” whether the patient is treated with or without his own + knowledge and co-operation; but when the money has been paid and the + medicine is sent, the purchaser is urged to have patience and not to + be discouraged if months should be necessary for the accomplishment + of a cure. In the advertisements, letters and circulars, the first + person singular is largely used, and they are ostensibly issued by + the individual by whose name the preparation is called, and who is + said to have been cured by it; but it appears that the vendor is + really a limited company, which deals also in a large number of other + nostrums having nothing to do with alcoholism, such as “anti-deafness + tablets,” “asthma tablets,” “rheumatism remedy,” etc. The third + article reported on is made in America, but it is advertised in this + country. In this case strychnine in small doses and caffeine are + the principal medicaments, tartar emetic being also employed, in + the hope, no doubt, of causing a feeling of nausea to be associated + with alcoholic drink. The lowest price charged for any of the three + preparations is a sovereign, while each of the other two is priced at + two guineas; in every case the prime cost of the ingredients is shown + to be so small as to be practically negligible. + + The fourth of the medicines described was not purchased for analysis, + but formed part of what was supplied to a patient who ultimately + decided not to take it; it appears that it constituted the second + part of the course, and we did not receive any of the medicines + forming the first part. In this case a very small quantity of a + neutral bitter substance was found, the amount of which did not + suffice for its full identification, but which resembled picrotoxin; + the principal other substance present was a tincture of nux vomica. + + The medicines for the cure of tobacco habit are apparently only + intended to play a subsidiary part; the directions as to the way in + which they are to be taken and for the frequent practice of breathing + exercises, bathing, the use of an enema, etc., are evidently intended + to keep the patient’s mind constantly turned to the breaking off of + the habit; some of the medicines, containing asafetida and methylene + blue, appear to be given for the sake of their subjective effect, + while the others consist principally of bitter tonics and laxatives. + In this case, as in the others, the price charged is such that the + prime cost of the ingredients forms only an insignificant fraction of + it. + + +THE TEMPERANCIA ASSOCIATION TREATMENT. + +The medicines sold under this name are supplied from an address in +London; the price charged for a supply (price stated as two guineas) +was 21s., for which sixty capsules were sent. + +Some extracts from an advertisement of this “treatment” are as follows: + + The “Temperancia” Assn. organised in 1895 by Dr. Alexr. G. Edison, + M.D., L.F.P.S., etc., and the Revd. Henry Martin Janeway, D.D., B.A., + L.H.D., are accepting Free and paying patients for the Treatment of + Alcoholism (Drunkenness in any form). + + With the methods adopted by this Association all desire for alcoholic + stimulants is permanently destroyed, a distaste for alcohol created, + and the nervous and diseased system restored to a healthy and + natural condition at your own home, hotel, or while at work, without + publicity or inconvenience. + + The treatment can be taken either voluntarily, or those who, through + “the grasp of drink,” fail to realise their peril, and will not + listen to reason, can be cured SECRETLY, against their own free + will, and without their co-operation, by any member of the family, + with the special course prepared for this purpose. Either course is + perfectly harmless, adapted for both sexes, of any age, even of the + most delicate health, and is endorsed by the Medical profession, the + Press, the Clergy, and thousands of cured patients. + +Application to the address given brought a booklet on the “treatment,” +various leaflets, and a list of questions to be answered. The following +extracts are from the booklet: + + The treatment is prepared in Two distinct forms, viz.:-- + + LIQUID {To be used in all cases when a patient treats himself + {voluntarily, with his own free will + and + CAPSULES {To be used in all cases where a patient is to be treated + {secretly without his knowledge. + + The treatment in CAPSULE form is absolutely tasteless and odourless, + and is placed in coffee, tea, soup, or any other convenient food.... + To do good by stealth is enjoined upon us by the teachings of the + highest authorities, and is in strict accordance with the highest + morality. + + It does not matter whether a patient is treated secretly or + voluntarily, the results are the same. Almost from the very first + day of its use the appetite improves, he eats and sleeps better, he + becomes less restless than usual, his eyes become bright, his hands + steady, the brain clear, and the spirit buoyant.... + + The “Temperancia” Treatment, both the Liquid or Capsule, can be given + with utmost _safety_. As already explained, it does _not_ contain any + drugs, poison, or minerals of any description, but it is entirely of + a vegetable preparation. An overdose is perfectly harmless; it will + not injure a man, woman, or child even of the most delicate health.... + + Both our Liquid and Capsule treatment are prepared in courses. Each + course of the Liquid treatment contains Two (2) full-sized bottles, + and each course of the Capsules Two (2) full-sized packages. The cost + per course, either the Liquid or Capsules, is Two Guineas (£2/2/0), + or Two courses, if ordered at one time, Three Pounds Ten Shillings + (£3/10/0). + + It is impossible to estimate the time required to effect a permanent + cure in any individual case ... the “Temperancia” Treatment often + effects a complete cure in but a few days. + +After the lapse of an interval, in which no order was sent, a circular +letter was received, from which the following extracts are quoted: + + We are indeed surprised not having received from you an order for + the treatment prepared by this Association.... There is only one + conclusion we can arrive at, namely, that financial circumstances + make the cost of a treatment prohibitive to you. Should this be the + case we would like to say, that this Association being at all times + willing to extend a helping hand to everybody, is prepared to treat + your patient for a fee of only 21s. per course. + +One guinea was then sent for a supply of capsules, together with +answers to the list of questions. These questions were as follows, the +answer given being here printed in italics: + + Name or initials of patient. + + Age? _34._ + + Sex. _M._ + + Married? _Yes._ + + How long? _7 years._ + + Any children? _2._ + + Height? _5ft. 11._ + + Weight? _12 stone._ + + Complexion? _Fair._ + + Occupation? _Clerk._ + + Works hard? _Yes._ + + Is the patient to be treated secretly or voluntarily? _Secretly._ + + How long since he commenced drinking? _Four years._ + + Nature of liquor used? _Whisky; and other spirits._ + + Quantity per day, or as near as possible? _Varies from 2 glasses to a + bottle or more._ + + Does he drink during the night? _No._ + + Before breakfast? _Sometimes._ + + Does he ever become drunk? _Yes._ + + Does he drink daily or periodically? _Daily; but to excess only + periodically._ + + If periodically, how often? and how long does each bout last? + _Sometimes every week, sometimes once in several weeks. One or two + days._ + + When did he have his last bout? _A week ago._ + + What mental effect does he suffer with from drink? _Excitement; + sometimes delusions._ + + How is his appetite, sleep, and digestion, both when drunk or sober? + _Good when sober; not bad when drinking._ + + Is he nervous, irritable, or phlegmatic? _Rather irritable._ + + Is he getting thinner or stouter? _Not changing._ + + Constipated? _No._ + + Does he ever complain of heart trouble? _No._ + + Any disease he was or is suffering with? _No._ + + If so, what was the doctor’s advice? + + Taking any medicine at present, and for what purpose? _No._ + + Any of the parents or grandparents addicted to drink? (state which, + and if not alive, give cause of death) _No._ + + Did the patient ever have delirium tremens? How often, and when? _Two + or three times last year._ + + Does he use Tobacco (state what form, quantity, and if he inhales)? + _Pipe and cigars; about 3 oz. and 6 or 8 cigars a week. Does not + inhale._ + + Does he use any Narcotic Drugs (state which, quantity per day, and + how long used)? _No._ + + Has he ever been treated for the liquor habit (state when, what + treatment, if voluntarily, how long treated, cost of same and + results)? _No._ + + P.S.--Write fully on the other side any additional information + regarding the patient’s past and present condition that the physician + should know of. + +Two boxes of capsules were received, each containing thirty, with +no labels. A written letter was received separately, in which the +following directions were given:-- + + For the first two days take three capsules daily, four the third day, + five the fourth, and then six every day until the course is finished. + +(The sixty would thus last eleven days, and leave three capsules over.) + + The way to take them is in either hot tea, coffee, or soup. Empty the + contents into the cup, not put the whole capsule, and thoroughly stir + until dissolved. Eat plain, wholesome food, good fruit, and keep the + bowels well open. + + The best time for taking the powders is on rising in the morning, + mid-day, and before retiring at night. Should you find it difficult + to give the six daily, two may be taken at one time, but not more, as + they might taste, and they must be well stirred and dissolved. + +(They were previously described as “absolutely tasteless.”) + +The contents of the capsules consisted of a light brown powder, the +average amount in one being 8 grains. Determination of the weight of +the contents of several capsules singly, taken without selection, +showed them to vary from 5 grains to 9.4 grains. Analysis showed the +powder to consist of powdered cinchona, sugar of milk, and magnesium +carbonate. The amount of cinchona was ascertained by weighing the +fibre after removing other ingredients with solvents and comparing it +with the fibre left by powdered cinchona when similarly treated; and +also independently by determining the amount of alkaloid present. Both +results showed the cinchona to form about 13 per cent. of the powder; +milk-sugar was found to amount to 55 per cent., and the magnesium +carbonate to about 32 per cent. Each capsule would thus contain about 1 +grain of cinchona. The estimated cost of the powders for sixty capsules +is 1d. + + +EDWARD J. WOODS TREATMENT. + +The medicines sold under this name are supplied by Edward J. Woods, +Ltd. The price charged is 2 guineas, for which 60 powders and 68 +tablets were sent. + +Advertisements are usually accompanied with a picture of a man’s head, +purporting to represent the advertiser. The following extracts from +such an advertisement show their general tenor: + + I was a Heavy Drinker. + Consumed quart of whisky every 24 hours. + Cured in 3 days. + + If you know anyone who drinks alcohol in any form, regularly or + periodically, let me send my Free Book, “Confessions of an Alcohol + Slave.” + + I drank beer at first, then gradually developed into a drinker of + strong liquors. When drinking heavily I did not hesitate to pawn my + coat or break a public-house window to get spirits. For long periods + I drank over a quart of whisky, rum or gin daily. And some mixed + drinks and beer additionally!... + + For 16 years I kept it up, and I was regarded as a hopeless case. + Various “cures” did me no good. But now I have a joyful message for + drinkers and MOTHERS, WIVES, SISTERS. + + While drifting from bad to worse, as all slaves of King Alcohol do, I + unexpectedly found a true cure. It was (and is) genuine. It saved my + life. My health was quickly restored, I became and am a respectable + man, enjoying every benefit of freedom from the accursed alcohol. I + speedily and naturally lost all desire for drink. I took less and + less. I began to prefer tea, coffee, and other non-alcoholic liquids; + the craving for liquor ceased, I could sleep perfectly, my stomach + became well, and I recovered from other ailments which I now know + were due to my indulgence in strong drink. + + WONDERFUL. + + My cure took 3 days; if I had relied upon will power or faith I + should still be a drunkard, because an alcohol slave has no will + power while drinking. I rejoiced so greatly at having found a true + cure that I decided to devote my life to removing the curse from + others. My success has been marvellous.... + + What I promise is absolutely guaranteed. My remedy is for either + steady or periodical drinkers. Think of it, a complete and permanent + home cure between Friday night and Monday night--or any other 72 + hours! + + Men, or Women, Any Age, Quickly Cured.... + +On application to the address given, the “Confession” referred to +above and various other papers were sent. From these it appears that +the “Treatment” is of American origin, and the business seems to have +attained considerable dimensions in America before being established +in England. Two sets of remedies are supplied--“the A Set of Remedies, +to be given with the knowledge and consent of the person,” and “the B +Set, for conquering his drink habit secretly, so that he will gradually +form a disgust for alcoholic drinks of all kinds and will never know +what saved him unless you chose to tell him.” One of the papers was an +“Information Form No. A 4,” which was as follows--the answers given to +the various questions are printed in italics: + + Sex? _M._ + + Age? _34_ years. + + Married? _Yes._ + + Approximate weight? _12_ stone lbs. + + Height about? _5_ ft. _11_ in. + + Steady drinker, or does he (or she) drink in a bout (spree) after + keeping sober for some time? _Steady drinker in slight excess; bout + occasionally._ + + What kind of alcoholic drink mostly taken? _Whiskey and other + spirits._ + + About how much every 24 hours? _Varies from 2 or 3 glasses to 2 + bottles._ + + Has person ever had delusions? _Yes._ + + Fits? _No._ + + Delirium tremens? _3 times._ + + Insanity? _No._ + + Apoplexy? _No._ + + Will remedies be given with or without person’s knowledge? _Without._ + + Do bowels move freely, or are they constipated? _Alright._ + + About how many years has person been accustomed to use of alcoholic + drinks? _All his life; only to excess about 4 years._ + + Does person sleep soundly through the night? _Usually._ + + Does person need to drink alcohol during the night? _Not as a rule._ + + Is person drinking at present? _Yes._ + + What is occupation (or nature of same) and how much outdoor exercise + is usually taken? _Clerk. Does fair amount of walking and little + cycling._ + + Does person prefer to drink with company, or quietly, alone? _Both._ + + Are any medicines or drugs being taken for any purpose? _No._ + + Here please give further details of case. + +The preparations sent (B set) consisted of 60 powders and 68 tablets. +They were accompanied by a circular letter, in which the following +directions were given: + + The chief rule is that you are to give three No. 777 Powders and + three No. 1010 Tablets every day, if you can, and that these are to + be given at different times, not all together. If you miss doses, you + are not to make them up. + + If the dose should seem to be too strong, it can be reduced by giving + a half or quarter Powder or Tablet. But do not increase the doses + until you have sent me the report, which should come at the end of + your having given 42 each of the Powders and Tablets, i.e., about two + weeks. If it takes a longer period to give these, then your report + can be delayed accordingly. + + Be cheerful and optimistic. Maintain your perseverance and kindly + temper. Watch and wait! Success may come slowly, but it will come + surely. + +This is somewhat different from “a complete and permanent home cure +between Friday night and Monday night, or any other 72 hours”! An +extract from a pamphlet of general directions sent with the medicines +is: + + Even if six months are required to accomplish the desired purpose, + it is a highly satisfactory reward for the expense, time, and effort + used. + + I beg of you, therefore, to treat this matter with calmness. Do not + write me that you are utterly disappointed, that you feel as if + nothing can ever do any good, and other similar remarks, but keep + perseveringly on. + +From another leaflet it appears that Edward J. Woods, Ltd., does +business in other articles as well. A list is given of twenty-six +medicines supplied by the company, which includes such varied ones as: + + No. 444.--Blood Purifier, Liver Regulator, and Stomach Improver. + + No. 555.--Aphrodisiac tablets. + + No. 1111.--Tablets for the kidneys. + + No. 1616.--Rheumatism, gout, lumbago, neuralgia, and sciatica remedy. + + No. 2020.--Tablets to prevent incontinence of urine. + + No. 2222.--Anti-deafness tablets. + + No. 4444.--Asthma tablets. + + No. 5555.--Preparation for darkening grey or white hair to natural + black or dark brown. + + No. 1212.--Special method for reduction of superfluous fat. + + No. 3333.--Anti-nicotine Tablets. + + No. 1515.--Female Remedy. + + No. 44.--Flesh Developing Cream. + +The powders had an average weight of 9.9 grains, single ones varying +from 7.2 to 11.9 grains. Analysis showed them to contain: + + Tartar emetic 3.6 per cent. + Sugar of milk 96.4 „ + +No trace of any other substance was found. A powder of average weight +would thus contain 0.35 grain of tartar emetic. + +The tablets had an average weight of 1.6 grains. Analysis showed them +to contain + + Tartar emetic 13.2 per cent. + Boric acid 10.7 „ + Sugar of milk 76.1 „ + +No trace of any other substance was found. One tablet would thus +contain 0.2 grain of tartar emetic, and the daily dose of three powders +and three tablets would contain 1.65 grains. + +The estimated cost of materials for 60 powders and 68 tablets is about +1d. + + +ALCOLA. + +Alcola is supplied by “Physicians Co-operative Association,” Chicago, +and the price charged for it is £1. + +The method of advertising which appears to be adopted in this case +is for a Mrs. Anderson, of New York, to advertise offering to send, +without charge, information about a medicine which cured her husband of +the drink habit. On writing to the address given, a lithographed letter +was received purporting to be from Mrs. Anderson; its nature is shown +by the following extracts: + + My dear friend + + I have just read your letter asking me how I cured my husband of + drinking, and I will answer it at once as I am sure that you are + anxious to drive drunkenness from your home just as soon as you + possibly can. + + Mr. Anderson was a hard drinker for over 20 years and the disease + had got such a firm hold that it was impossible for him to shake it + off and it continued to grow worse and worse with no sign of ever + stopping. + + Just about this time I received a letter from a lady telling me + about a remedy called Alcola which she said had never been known to + fail and she urged me to send for it at once as she knew it would + certainly cure. + + I had already tried about every remedy that I had seen advertised for + the cure of drunkenness but none of them did any good whatever and + I was tired of spending my money for nothing but you know a person + especially a woman will do anything to save her family and home and + I made up my mind to make one more effort to cure Mr. Anderson if it + was possible so I managed after some trouble to get the money and + took her advice and sent for it and gave it as directed and in a + very short time he lost all the terrible craving for liquor that he + had had for so long. His health improved in every way too. This was + about eight years ago and he has never drank since.... The Physicians + Co-operative Association ... are the only ones who prepare and sell + Alcola and I will write them to-day and ask them to send you full + information.... + +A little later a long circular letter was received from the “Physicians +Co-operative Association,” together with a booklet in which it was +stated that: + + Alcola is the very best treatment for drunkenness that you can + possibly obtain.... + + It cures all stages of the disease, from the beginner to the one + who has drank for years, and is thought beyond hope. It makes no + difference whether the disease was inherited or acquired, nor what + kind of liquor the patient uses. Alcola is absolutely harmless.... + Alcola does not contain even a trace of opium, morphine, cocaine, + chloral, cannabis indica, or any other dangerous narcotic or + habit-producing drug.... + + Alcola is prepared either to be taken with the patient’s knowledge or + to be given secretly. When you send your order state which treatment + you wish. + +A short list of questions, as follows, was also sent; the answers given +are printed in italics: + + Information Regarding Patient. + + Age. _34._ + + Occupation. _Clerk._ + + How long has patient drank? _Five years._ + + Does he keep liquor in the house? _Yes._ + + Has he any chronic disease that you know of? _No._ + + How is his general health? _Fair otherwise._ + + Will the treatment be given secretly? _Yes._ + + Are you yourself to give treatment to the patient? _Yes._ + + What relation is patient to you? _None; we live together._ + + IMPORTANT. + + Will tablet be given twice a day or three times? _Twice._ + + Will you begin treatment at once? _Yes._ + +The medicines sent consisted of three boxes of tablets, labelled +respectively No. 1, No. 2, and No. 3. They were accompanied by a long +printed paper of directions, a long circular letter, a “Report Blank,” +and other papers giving particulars of “our Co-operative Plan,” by +which the purchaser obtains a commission on sales to others resulting +from his introduction of “Alcola.” The chief parts of the directions +are: + + Tablets Nos. 1 and 2 are to be given as follows: One tablet three + times a day at meal time. Give alternately, that is, tablet of No. 1 + at one meal, No. 2 at the next meal, No. 1 the next, No. 2 the next, + and so on. + + They can be given in almost any liquid except water, but strong tea, + coffee, highly seasoned soups, etc., are preferred.... Tablet No. 3. + This tablet is to be used only when the patient has been drinking to + a noticeable degree, or if the patient is a moderate daily drinker, + give every third day. This tablet should be given as soon after the + patient has been drinking as is possible, that is, if the patient + comes home under the influence of Drink give No. 3 at once, if you + can. If patient does not drink, do not use No. 3. + + After you have been using the treatment three weeks fill out the + enclosed report blank carefully and fully, and send it to us. This is + a most important point, for in this way we can judge how your patient + is getting along, and if necessary can give you further advice that + we are sure will be of great assistance and value to you. + + It is absolutely impossible for any physician to tell the length of + time or the amount of medicine it will require to cure any particular + case.... + + The length of time it requires to effect a cure depends entirely upon + the patient’s susceptibility to the action of the medicine.... + + ... we even find cases where but little improvement is noticed with + the use of the first package ... when these cases are found it will + be necessary to continue the use of Alcola longer than the average + amount of time in order to effect a complete cure. + +_No. 1 Tablets._--The box contained 62 tablets of a pale yellow colour; +the average weight of one was 5.7 grains. Analysis showed the presence +of-- + + Strychnine 0.12 per cent. + Caffeine 4.72 „ + Sugar of milk 86.9 „ + Talc 4.1 „ + With starch, a little gum or dextrin, and a trace of colouring matter. + +Each tablet would thus contain 0.007 grain of strychnine and 0.26 grain +of caffeine. + +_No. 2 Tablets._--The box contained 63 tablets of a light chocolate +colour; the average weight of one was 5.7 grains. Analysis showed the +presence of-- + + Strychnine approximately 0.2 per cent. + Boric acid 4.4 „ + Sugar of milk 82.8 „ + Talc 3.0 „ + With starch and colouring matter. + +A trace of vegetable débris was present, perhaps from a small quantity +of some vegetable extract showing no distinctive characters. The +colouring matter was basic in nature and could not be separated from +the strychnine; hence the figure for the latter is approximate only. + +Each tablet would thus contain about 0.011 grain of strychnine. + +_No. 3 Tablets._--The box contained 29 tablets, which were greyish with +a pink tinge; the average weight of one was 2.9 grains. Analysis showed +the presence of-- + + Tartar emetic 16.7 per cent. + Calcium sulphate 61.4 per cent. + Talc 3.1 „ + With starch and colouring matter. + +A trace of a pungent substance was present resembling the pungent +principle of pepper, and a trace of vegetable débris, which may +have been from a small quantity of a vegetable extract showing no +distinctive characters. + +Each tablet would thus contain 0.48 grain of tartar emetic. The +estimated cost of the ingredients for all the tablets in the three +boxes is about 1³⁄₄d. + + +THE “NORMYL” CURE FOR ALCOHOL AND DRUG ADDICTIONS. + +The specimen of this medicine described in the following paragraph was +sent for examination by the medical adviser of a patient who did not +continue the “cure.” It appears from the printed matter on the package +that the full course consists of twenty-four days’ medicine, supplied +in twenty-four bottles; the package sent by our correspondent was +marked “second treatment”; it had contained twelve bottles, but one +had been removed before it reached us, and the eleven sent were marked +respectively “14th day,” “15th day,” etc., to “24th day.” Each bottle +had the cork and neck covered with tinfoil, over which was the label +indicating the day on which the contents were to be taken, showing that +they had not been opened or tampered with. On the outside of the box +was a proprietary medicine stamp for 3s., this being the duty payable +on proprietary medicines of selling price of 20s. to 30s. (exclusive of +stamp); an article bearing a 3s. stamp is usually sold at 33s. + +Each bottle contained about 150 minims of a light reddish-brown liquid. +The directions for use are: + + Secure from your chemist what is known as a flat eight ounce bottle + for pocket use and a dose glass. Mix the contents of vial marked + “1st day” in eight ounces of water and take half-an-ounce (one + tablespoonful) of the mixture every hour while awake. When any of the + mixture remains from the previous day, throw it away, as it loses its + virtue after 24 hours. Mix a fresh bottle every day. Keep the bowels + regular, and in case of constipation take some gentle aperient as + often as may be necessary, and use no intoxicating liquor. Eat of any + food you like. + +It is further stated that: + + As this preparation contains a small medicinal dose of Nux Vomica, it + must, in order to comply with the Pharmacy Act, be labelled poison, + but its composition remains unaltered. + +And: + + N.B.--Although a cure will apparently be effected in a few days, it + is absolutely necessary in order to ensure a Permanent Cure that a + full course of 24 days’ medicine (24 bottles) shall be taken without + a break, so that the alcoholic or drug poison may be thoroughly + eliminated from the system and thus prevent a return of the crave. + +Qualitative examination of the contents of some of the bottles did not +indicate any differences of composition, and as the quantity in one +bottle was far too small for quantitative analysis, the contents of +several were mixed for analysis. The mixed liquid was found to contain: + + Alcohol 75.5 per cent. by volume + Alkaloid 0.09 per cent. (weight in volume) + A soft resin 1.5 „ „ „ + A non-alkaloidal bitter principle A fair trace + Ash 0.1 per cent. (weight in volume) + Extractive, including colouring + matter 2.3 „ „ „ + +The alkaloid consisted principally of strychnine, with a little +brucine; the amount present corresponds to about 25 per cent. (by +volume) of tincture of nux vomica, or 38 minims in one bottle (one +day’s medicine). The resin did not agree in character with jalap or +scammony resin, and the quantity available was too small for its +identification. The non-alkaloidal bitter principle was extracted from +acid solution by chloroform, like the principles of several common +bitter drugs. It agreed in its behaviour to various colour tests with +picrotoxin, and a small quantity of the latter was accordingly prepared +in an impure state from a tincture of _Cocculus indicus_, for special +comparison with it; they agreed very closely, though not perfectly, +in their behaviour with various tests--perfect agreement between +necessarily impure substances was not to be expected--and there appears +a high probability that the substance extracted from the “Normyl” +medicine was picrotoxin, though it was impossible to prove its identity +conclusively with the minute quantity available. The ash, extractive, +and colouring matter did not give any evidence as to the drug from +which they were derived; there was an aromatic flavour in the mixture +resembling that of orange. + + +WOODS’ CURE FOR TOBACCO HABIT. + +This series of tablets and pills is supplied by E. J. Woods, Limited, +the company whose “cure” for alcoholism is described above. Recently +advertisements have been appearing in newspapers and magazines over the +name of E. J. Woods (the “Ltd.” does not appear) offering a three-day +cure for tobacco habit. One of these is worded thus: + + TOBACCO HABIT + + Conquered in 3 Days. + + I offer a genuine guaranteed Remedy for tobacco or snuff habit, in 72 + hours. It is mild, pleasant, strengthening, overcomes that peculiar + nervousness and craving for cigarettes, cigars, pipe, chewing + tobacco, or snuff; they are poisonous and seriously injurious to + health, causing such disorders as nervous dyspepsia, sleeplessness, + gas, belching, gnawing, or other uncomfortable sensation in stomach; + constipation, headache, weak eyes, loss of vigour, red spots on + skin, throat irritation, asthma, bronchitis, heart failure, lung + trouble, catarrh, melancholy, neurasthenia, impotency, loss of + memory and will-power, impure (poisoned) blood, rheumatism, lumbago, + sciatica, neuritis, heartburn, torpid liver, loss of appetite, bad + teeth, foul breath, enervation, lassitude, lack of ambition, falling + out of hair, baldness, and many other disorders. It is unsafe and + torturing to attempt to cure yourself of tobacco or snuff habit by + merely stopping--don’t do it. The gentle, safe, agreeable way is + to eliminate the nicotine poison from the system, strengthen the + weakened irritated membranes and nerves, and genuinely overcome the + craving. You can give up Tobacco and enjoy yourself a thousand times + better, while feeling always in robust health. My Free book tells all + about the wonderful 3 days’ method. Inexpensive, reliable. + +The “Free book” is entitled “How to Speedily and Perfectly Conquer +the Tobacco Smoking and Chewing Habits, also the Snuff Habit”; it is +a pamphlet of thirteen pages, chiefly devoted to describing the awful +effects of the use of tobacco, and evidently intended to impress the +reader and enlist his terrors to aid the “cure.” + +A few extracts will suffice as samples: + + Nicotine is one of the most intense of all poisons, approaching in + its strength the highly powerful prussic acid. + + The other important element is an oil called _nicotianin_; probably + this is Shakespeare’s “juice of the cursed henbane,” mentioned in + “Hamlet.” This is also an intense poison.... + + There are several kinds of cigarettes that are prepared with opium, + cannabis indica (hasheesh), or cocaine. Thus, another very insidious + and killing poison is taken into the system. + + The muscles as well as the nerves become poisoned by nicotine. + + The effect of tobacco upon the nerves and muscles of the eyes is a + reason why oculists and opticians flourish. + + Tobacco causes enfeebling of the mind and too often it leads to + insanity. ... tobacco is a frequent cause of heart failure and + premature death. + + I have been told by medical men that there is a belief, becoming + better founded from year to year, that tobacco is a cause of + appendicitis. + + Falling of the hair, followed by baldness, also the turning of dark + hair to grey shade, is due very often to the poisoning of the blood + nerves by nicotine. + + The nicotine must be removed from the blood, muscles, nerves, + membranes and all other parts of your body. Do not waste time in + trying to accomplish this by the power of the will. No doubt you can + make a gallant fight, but the poison will remain and will continue to + do its mischief, like the uric acid of the rheumatic. + + Thus far, over two hundred cases of leprosy in the United States have + been traced to cigarette smoking. + +A paragraph headed “A Deadly Weed” gives a list of rather more than a +hundred disorders of various kinds, with the statement that “no tobacco +user can escape one or more of the harmful consequences mentioned +in the list.” They are of very miscellaneous nature, “anxiety” and +“softening of the brain” standing together, and “cowardice” coming +between “amaurosis” and “apoplexy.” + +There are two forms of the treatment, at the same price: + + The cost of the Woods C Treatment is one guinea. The result is + absolutely guaranteed. All craving for tobacco in any form should + be completely eradicated and in most cases this result will be + accomplished in only seventy-two hours. + + My C Treatment (regularly) for the Tobacco Habit is to be taken by + the person who desires to be cured. Obviously, he knows that he is + taking it. + + I am asked sometimes if I can provide a Treatment which can be given + without the tobacco user’s knowledge. Yes, I can. This is my C Secret + Treatment. It can be given secretly in any kind of food or drink. + It is tasteless. The person finds that he is losing his desire for + tobacco and soon abandons its use altogether. The price of this C + Secret Treatment is one guinea, the same as the regular C Treatment. + +The “treatment” obtained was the “regular,” to be taken knowingly by +a person desiring to be cured. It was accompanied by a letter, in +which it was stated that “the preparations are very potential,” and a +postscript runs thus: + + I would appreciate a testimonial from you, to add to the great + collection that I am compiling. I hope you will see your way clear to + send this. + +The materials sent consisted of seven different kinds of tablets and +one lot of pills; these bore various numbers as follows: + + No. 301: 7 small pink-coated tablets. + No. 302: 64 small brown tablets, not coated. + No. 303: 15 small pink-coated pills. + No. 304: 6 chocolate-coated tablets. + No. 305: 4 small grey tablets, not coated. + No. 306: 10 grey tablets, not coated. + No. 307: 2 small black-coated tablets. + No. 308: 17 chocolate-coated tablets. + +Since in every case one is directed to be taken for a dose, the total +includes 125 doses for the 72 hours requisite for the cure; the +elaborate 3-day time table sent, however, only provides for one to +be taken at every hour from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., and one on awaking in +the morning and one at bedtime, and “if awake in the night or early +morning, a No. 302 tablet may be taken each two hours. To induce +sleep, if necessary, take one No. 304, followed by another in half an +hour”; so that if five are taken during the night, just seventy-two +doses are directed. For the first twenty-four hours the order of +taking, beginning at 7 p.m., is 301, 302, 303, 302, 303, then the +night interval, 303, 308, 301, 302, 303, 302, 305, 302, 306, 302, 301, +302, 305, and is different for the second and again for the third +twenty-four hours. + + Every dose is to be followed by a medium size glass of hot or cold + water (to be sipped), Vichy or soda with milk, or buttermilk. + Take Nos. 303, 304, 306, 307, and 308 whole. Chew No. 301 before + swallowing. Dissolve Nos. 302 and 305 in a small glass of water. + +Nos. 302, 303, 306, and 308, of which the supply was the largest, were +analysed as fully as possible; for the others, the small quantity +available did not permit of much more than a qualitative analysis. The +results obtained were as follows: + +No. 301 (to be chewed before swallowing).--The average weight of one +tablet after removal of the coating was 1.28 grains; the principal +ingredient was phenol-phthalein, and a resin which appeared to be +podophyllin; no other active substance was found. + +According to the directions, three of these are to be taken in the +first twenty-four hours, two in the second, and four in the third: this +makes a total of nine, but only seven were sent. + +No. 302 (to be dissolved in water before taking).--The average weight +of one tablet was 1.28 grains. Analysis showed the presence of sugar +of milk 63 per cent., a brown dye, and a very bitter non-alkaloidal +extract resembling extract of quassia, which it probably was. No other +substance was found except a little talc; it was not possible to +determine the amount of the bitter extract or of the dye. + +According to the directions, seven are taken during the daytime in the +first twenty-four hours, seven in the second, and four in the third, +and three during each night if awake. There is, therefore, a large +surplus of these in the supply sent. + +No. 303 (pills).--The average weight of one pill after removal of +the coating was 0.9 grain. Analysis showed the principal constituent +to be aloin, with a small proportion of strychnine. According to the +directions, four of these are to be taken in the first twenty-four +hours, three in the second, and one in the third. + +No. 304 (to be swallowed whole).--The average weight of one after +removal of the coating was 4.4 grains. Analysis showed the principal +constituent to be asafœtida; in addition, a minute trace of an +alkaloidal substance, which was far too small in amount to be examined, +but which was not strychnine, was present, and no other medicinal +substance was found. + +These are the tablets to be taken during the night, if necessary, to +induce sleep:-- + +No. 305 (to be dissolved in water before taking).--The average weight +of one was 2.5 grains. Analysis showed that the principal ingredient +was reduced iron, with a trace of a bitter alkaloid which appeared to +be strychnine. The greater part of the tablet being insoluble in water, +the direction to “dissolve” it before taking cannot well be carried out. + +According to the directions, two of these are to be taken in the first +twenty-four hours and one each in the second and third. + +No. 306 (to be swallowed whole).--The average weight of one was 3.7 +grains; analysis showed the presence of ferrous carbonate, potassium +sulphate, strychnine, and brucine, with dextrin, glucose, and starch; +it was thus a form of Blaud’s pill with extract of nux vomica. The +alkaloids amounted to 0.16 per cent., representing about 2 per cent. of +extract of nux vomica, or about ¹⁄₁₃ grain in one tablet; the iron was +9.7 per cent., representing 20 per cent. of ferrous carbonate, or about +³⁄₄ grain in one tablet. + +According to the directions, one of these is to be taken in the first +twenty-four hours, four in the second, and five in the third. + +No. 307 (to be swallowed whole).--One tablet weighed 2 grains, +including the thin coating. Analysis showed the principal constituent +to be a blue dye which agreed in its general characters with methylene +blue. The only other substance found was a little starch. + +According to the directions, one of these is to be taken about the +middle of the period of seventy-two hours and the other just before its +close. + +No. 308 (to be swallowed whole).--The average weight of one, after +removal of the coating, was 3.7 grains. Analysis showed the tablets to +contain chalk 36 per cent., charcoal 20 per cent., sugar 26 per cent., +and a trace of methyl salicylate (oil of wintergreen); the only other +constituents found were small quantities of gum and talc, used, no +doubt, as excipients. + +According to the directions, one of these is to be taken in the first +twenty-four hours, none in the second, and three in the third. + +It appears very evident that suggestion is intended to play a +considerable part in the treatment. The booklet is written in such a +way as to strike an impressionable reader with a strong conviction of +the terrible results to be expected if the tobacco habit is continued, +and the emphatic guaranteeing of a cure in a very short time would, no +doubt, assist the patient’s determination to give it up. The medicines +having to be taken every hour, sometimes chewed, sometimes swallowed +whole, and sometimes dissolved, would ensure the mind being kept well +occupied with the cure; and the full directions include the use of an +enema daily, dieting, breathing exercises, bathing, etc. The medicines +themselves appear to be of three classes--aperients, tonics, and those +intended to produce a subjective effect, like asafœtida and methylene +blue, the colouring effect of which on the urine might perhaps lead the +patient to ask an explanation or to guess for himself that the colour +“shows the nicotine being driven out of the system.” + +A further set of remedies, the “E set,” price £2 2s., is recommended to +be taken immediately after the C set, and is “intended to assist the +natural recuperative powers so that the full benefit of having taken +the other treatments shall be more speedily manifested.” + +As the small amount of material available prevented the analysis of +some of the products being made quantitatively, it is not possible to +estimate exactly the cost price of the ingredients, but it is evident +that a few pence would fully cover it. + +Although three of the different kinds of products contained strychnine, +none of the packages bore any intimation of the fact, or the word +“Poison.” + + + + +CHAPTER IX. + +SOOTHING SYRUPS FOR INFANTS. + + + In the previous volume the results of the analysis of various + “soothing powders” for infants were given. “Soothing syrups” also + are very largely used, and are probably usually purchased as “syrup + of aniseed,” etc., or sometimes compounded in accordance with some + domestic recipe. There are, however, a certain number of proprietary + preparations of this class which have a large sale, and in this + chapter we give the results of the analysis of some of the chief of + these. The principal constituent of three out of the four is shown to + be anethol or carvone, added in the form of one or more of the oils + of anise, dill, and caraway. Two of the three syrups are alkaline, + sodium bicarbonate being used in one case, and a mixture of potassium + bicarbonate and magnesium carbonate in the other. The third contains + potassium bromide. The other syrup examined is directed to be rubbed + on the gums, after which it is of course swallowed gradually by the + child; this is a preparation of hydrochloric acid, common salt, + saffron, and honey. Perhaps the most noteworthy point in connection + with these preparations is that one of them, claiming to have had + a large sale for sixty years, is not now of the same composition + as formerly. At one time this preparation contained morphine, as + was proved in courts of law on several occasions when proceedings + under the Pharmacy Acts were taken against unqualified persons for + selling it, and in fact the presence of morphine was admitted by a + statement on the package. Now, however, as our analysis shows, it + contains no morphine, but potassium bromide. Which of these two is + the more unsuitable for giving to infants of a few weeks old is, + for the moment, not the question; the alteration of the composition + of a medicine which continues to be sold under the old name and + with statements as to its having been made for sixty years, shows + how utterly the public is at the mercy of the proprietors of such + preparations, who are at liberty to omit or add ingredients, or to + alter the composition as they please. + + +MRS. WINSLOW’S SOOTHING SYRUP. + +This much-advertised preparation is supplied by a firm having addresses +in New York and London, at 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. per bottle, containing 1¹⁄₂ fluid +ounces. + +In a circular enclosed in the package it is stated that: + + Mrs. Winslow’s Soothing Syrup, for children teething, greatly + facilitates the process of teething, by softening the gums, reducing + all inflammation--will allay ALL PAIN and spasmodic action, and is + SURE TO REGULATE THE BOWELS. Depend upon it, mothers, it will give + rest to yourselves, and RELIEF AND HEALTH TO YOUR INFANTS. + + We have put up and sold this article for over sixty years, and _can + say in confidence and truth_, of it, what we have never been able + to say of any other medicine--NEVER HAS IT FAILED, IN A SINGLE + INSTANCE, TO EFFECT A CURE, when timely used. Never did we know an + instance of dissatisfaction by anyone who used it. On the contrary, + all are delighted with its operations, and speak in terms of highest + commendation of its magical effects and medical virtues.... + + This valuable preparation is the prescription of one of the MOST + EXPERIENCED AND SKILFUL NURSES in America, and has been used with + _never failing success_ in THOUSANDS OF CASES. + +The following statement appears on the label: + + This Preparation contains no Poisonous Ingredient and may be used + with Perfect Safety. + +A few years ago, however, the package used to bear a statement that +“this preparation contains, among other valuable ingredients, a small +amount of morphine,” and the presence of morphine to the extent +of about 0.08 grain per bottle was proved in court in cases where +unqualified persons were prosecuted for selling the syrup. The labels +now in use do not contain any such statement, and the analysis shows +that morphine is not now present. But the extracts quoted above, as to +the article having been sold for sixty years, and to the prescription +of a nurse, are such as would lead any one to suppose that its +composition is now what it has always been. + +The directions on the label are: + + For a child under one month old, 6 to 10 drops; three months old, + half a teaspoonful; six months old and upwards, a teaspoonful three + or four times a day. For Dysentery, repeat the above dose every two + hours, until the character of the discharges is changed for the + better. + +The syrup was of a straw colour, and flavoured with aniseed. Analysis +showed it to contain, in 100 parts by measure: + + Potassium bromide 2.0 parts + Alcohol 4.3 parts by measure + Essential oil (anise), about 0.1 part + Sugar 56.5 parts + +Emodin was present in small quantity. This substance may be derived +from several drugs--for example, senna, rhubarb, cascara sagrada, etc. +The evidence which was obtainable pointed to senna as the drug from +which it was derived in the present case. A syrup containing 1.2 per +cent. (by measure) of the syrup of senna of the _British Pharmacopœia_ +was of the same depth of colour and showed about the same proportion of +emodin, and agreed in other respects also. No alkaloid was present. The +essential oil may have contained a little oil of dill or caraway, the +quantity being far too small to be separated. There was some evidence +of about 2 per cent. of glycerine, but in presence of so much sugar +this could not be positively proved. + + +WOODWARD’S GRIPE WATER. + +This preparation is supplied by a limited company in Nottingham, at 1s. +1¹⁄₂d. per bottle, containing 5 fluid ounces. It is thus described on +the label: + + Woodward’s Celebrated Gripe Water, or Infant’s Preservative, without + Laudanum, for all disorders of children, viz.: Convulsions, Gripes, + Acidity, Flatulency, Whooping-Cough, and the distressing complaints + incidental to Infants at the period of Cutting their Teeth, allaying + the pain, giving instant relief, and rendering this crisis perfectly + mild and free from danger. + +The directions are: + + For an infant, half a teaspoonful; two months old, one or two + teaspoonfuls. The dose may be gradually increased. + +Analysis showed it to contain, in 100 parts by measure: + + Sodium bicarbonate 1.08 part + Essential oil about 0.03 „ + Alcohol 3.8 parts by measure + Sugar 20.5 parts + +No alkaloid was present. The essential oil appeared to be chiefly oil +of caraway, with a little oil of dill, and possibly also of anise. + + +ATKINSON AND BARKER’S ROYAL INFANTS’ PRESERVATIVE. + +This mixture is supplied by a Manchester firm, at 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. per +bottle, containing 1¹⁄₂ fluid ounces. + +In a circular wrapped round the bottle, this medicine + + Is recommended to all Parents, Nurses, and others, who are entrusted + with the management of Children, as a Medicine of real and approved + efficacy, in preventing and removing those disorders to which + Children in their early infancy are most liable, principally + proceeding from a redundancy of acidity in the first passages, as + Wind, the Watery and Dry Gripes, Convulsions, the Frog, etc., to + which so many children fall victims, but which may in general be + prevented by the use of this Medicine. It is also happily calculated + for allaying those excruciating pains which Children suffer in + Cutting their Teeth, and will, by being judiciously used, render this + operation of nature perfectly mild and free from danger. It is also + equally efficacious in many other disorders to which Children are + liable, as the Rickets, Whooping Cough, Measles, etc.... + +The directions as to dose are: + + Children up to a month 5 to 10 drops in warm water + „ 1 to 3 months 10 to 20 „ + „ 3 to 6 months 20 to 30 „ + „ 6 to 12 months 60 drops, or small teaspoonful + „ 12 months to 3 years 100 „ or moderate-sized teaspoonful + +Analysis showed it to contain, in 100 parts by measure: + + Potassium bicarbonate 1.75 parts + Magnesium carbonate 5.45 „ + Essential oil about 0.06 „ + Alcohol 7.0 parts by measure + Sugar 9.9 „ + Colouring matter trace. + +No alkaloid was present. The essential oil appeared to contain oils of +caraway, dill, anise, and almond. The colouring matter did not appear +to be of vegetable origin, but showed a yellow colour in alkaline and a +pinkish in acid solution, thus agreeing with certain coal-tar dyes. + + +MRS. JOHNSON’S AMERICAN SOOTHING SYRUP. + +This syrup is now supplied by a limited company of dealers in +proprietary medicines in London; according to statements in a circular +accompanying the bottle, it was formerly made by a Mrs. Jane Johnson. A +1s. 1¹⁄₂d. bottle contained about 70 minims. + +It is stated in the circular that: + + This remedy has given relief to thousands of children when suffering + from the pains of teething. As soon as the Syrup is rubbed on the + gums the child will recover, being as innocent as efficacious, and + so pleasant that no child will refuse to let its gums be rubbed with + it. When infants are at the age of four months, though there is no + appearance of teeth, one bottle of the Syrup should be rubbed on the + gums to open the pores. Parents should never be without the Syrup + in the nursery where there are young children; for if a child wakes + in the night with pain in the gums, the Syrup immediately gives + ease, by opening the pores and healing the gums, thereby preventing + Convulsions, Fevers, etc. + +The directions on the label are: + + Rub the gums with the Syrup two or three times daily for several + minutes. + +The syrup was of a deep reddish-yellow colour, and had a strong flavour +of saffron. Analysis showed it to contain in 100 parts by measure: + + Sodium chloride 5.66 parts. + Hydrochloric acid (_B.P._) 2.33 parts by measure. + Reducing sugars, calculated as glucose 66.6 „ + Extractive, colouring, etc. about 5.0 „ + +A little alcohol was present, but the amount was not determined. +The reducing sugars appeared to be present in the form of honey, +representing about 85 parts of this; the extractive was partly derived +from saffron, and would include the non-saccharine constituents of the +honey. + + + + +CHAPTER X. + +MEDICINES FOR EPILEPSY. + + + The present chapter gives the results of analyses of three + much-advertised medicines for the cure of epilepsy, which show + the principal ingredient in all of them, as in five out of the + six dealt with in the previous volume, to be bromide. It is not + uncommon to find that nostrums for any complaint having well-marked + symptoms, such as epilepsy, contain the drugs most commonly used + by the medical profession in treating it; but this does not at all + deter the proprietors from making scornful references to the usual + medical treatment, and intimating that their own preparation owes + its marvellous virtues to some new or different substance. In the + present instances the usual claims are made of the cure of “frightful + cases of long standing, which had been pronounced hopeless by + eminent physicians and hospitals, and after everything which had + been tried had utterly failed,” and so forth, but analysis does not + show the presence of anything but drugs in everyday use; two of the + preparations examined consisting of ammonium bromide and potassium + iodide, and the third of these substances and potassium bromide, + with, in all three, colouring and flavouring agents. The first + two bear on the label the words, “Guaranteed free from Bromide of + Potassium and Poison,” and a great deal is made, in the pamphlets in + which they are recommended, of the absence of this salt, without, + of course, any hint that the very similar ammonium bromide is + substituted for it. In one of these pamphlets it is stated that “any + person who knows anything about epilepsy and fits knows something of + the harm done in many cases by Bromide of Potassium. Almost every + patient I have had during a long and extensive practice has taken + this drug (and in some cases it has been taken for many years), so + that I find it necessary to eliminate the ill effects of Bromide + of Potassium from the system.” In the case of the third, which is + shown to contain 15.6 grains of potassium bromide and 4.2 grains of + ammonium bromide in each fluid drachm, perhaps even more effrontery + is shown in the statement, “the treatment of Epilepsy and Fits is + carried on under some difficulty, as nearly all the great Physicians + prescribe the same remedy--Bromide--Bromide--nothing much except + Bromide, and so the unhappy sufferer consults many doctors without + being cured.” The similarity in composition of the first two of these + preparations is not reflected in the prices, 4s. 6d. being charged + in the first case for an 8 oz. bottle (without a “patent medicine” + stamp) and 2s. 9d. in the second for the same sized bottle, stamped; + even at the lower price, as the figures show, the rate of profit is + very generous, and, as the article is sold direct to the consumer + through the post, there are no intermediate charges to be deducted + from what the maker actually receives, except the cost of postage. + These two medicines show not only a great similarity of composition, + but the pamphlet issued to puff the one of them would seem to have + been adapted or paraphrased from that issued in support of the other. + A similarity among some of the published “testimonials” is striking, + and shows to what great length the arm of coincidence may grow when + circumstances are favourable. + + +J. GILBERT DALE’S TREATMENT, “IMPERATINE.” + +This preparation is supplied by J. Gilbert Dale from an address in +London. The price was formerly 4s. 6d. per bottle, but it appears, +as shown below, that the method of charging for the medicine by the +bottle has been abandoned in favour of charging a monthly fee for the +“treatment,” supplying the medicine “free.” Apparently the principal +difference is that in this way a higher price is obtained. + +This preparation is one of those that are not supplied through +retailers, but direct from the proprietor through the post. The first +three communications received in the case here dealt with are dated +1908, and, like so many of such “letters,” are circulars in imitation +of typewriting, with the name and address, the date, and “Dear Sir or +Madam” typed in. In the first letter it is stated that: + + My remedy contains no Bromide of Potassium, and no Poison, and is + perfectly safe for both delicate adults and young children. + + It has cured completely and permanently, frightful cases of long + standing, which had been pronounced hopeless by eminent physicians + and hospitals, and after everything which had been tried had utterly + failed. + +And in the third that: + + If it is simply a case of mony (_sic_) which deters you, I am + prepared to send you the remedy at the following reduced price, + + TWO 4s. 6d. BOTTLES FOR THE PRICE OF ONE. + + This will give you a month in which to demonstrate the merits of the + cure. Of course it must be understood that the subsequent supplies + must be paid for at the ordinary price.... + + I will keep this offer open for one week from this date. Since you + first wrote me I have received several striking testimonials from + people who applied to me at the same time as yourself, and who + commenced to take my remedy at once. + +This last paragraph, in a circular, points to the remarkable +coincidence that whenever an inquiry about the medicine is not followed +up by purchase, several other people apply at the same time, commence +to take the remedy at once, and send striking testimonials within a few +weeks. An alternative explanation, of course, is that the statement is +simply not true. + +The notepaper used for these communications was headed “Specialist in +Epilepsy and Nervous Diseases. Dale’s Remedy for Epilepsy. Trade-mark +‘Imperatine’ (Reg.),” and also bore the words, “Advice by Post Free. +Personal consultations by appointment, One Guinea; including one +month’s treatment Free.” + +Various pamphlets were sent at one time or another. In one of these, +entitled “_Epilepsy and its Cure_. A few facts. J. Gilbert Dale, +Specialist in Epilepsy and Fits,” it is stated: + + I have no degree, having never sat for any medical examination. + My name does not, therefore, appear on the Medical Register, and + I cannot legally call myself a Doctor; but my long and varied + experience of this dread disease qualifies me to treat Epilepsy and + nervous diseases, of which I have made a special study.... I always + advise my patients to send for their family doctor when they are + suffering from any other ailments than those I treat.... During the + nine or ten years that I have been treating cases in all parts of the + United Kingdom and abroad, I have had to deal with every form of this + terrible disease. There is no form of the complaint which I have not + had the opportunity of studying very closely, and my experience of + these cases (particulars of which have been supplied to me in detail) + has been most valuable, and gives me qualifications for treating + Epilepsy that I could not have obtained in any other way. + +The method appears to be: Do not sit for a medical examination +(requiring long and expensive training), but set up as a Specialist +in Something and advertise. You will then get cases from all parts of +the country, and particulars will be supplied. From the experience +obtained in treating them you will become qualified to treat others. It +certainly seems simple. + +Another of the pamphlets was entitled _Epilepsy and its Treatment_. The +similarity between this and the pamphlet sent out by another firm and +referred to below is remarkably close, as a few extracts will show: + + Of the very many diseases which afflict humanity, few, if any, are + more dreadful than Epilepsy, or Falling Fits. This disease has + existed for centuries, for we read in St. Matthew’s Gospel, chapter + 17 (revised version), verse 15, “Lord, have mercy on my son: for he + is epileptic, and suffereth grievously: for oft times he falleth + into the fire, and oft times into the water.” Also in St. Matthew’s + Gospel, chapter 4, verse 24, we read, “And they brought unto Him all + that were sick, holden with divers diseases and torments, possessed + with devils, and epileptic, and palsied, and He healed them.” + + Epilepsy has claimed for its subjects persons of the highest rank, as + well as of the lowest. Some of the greatest of the earth have been + afflicted by it. Cæsar, Henry IV. of England, Napoleon, Peter the + Great, Mohammed, Byron, Sheridan, the great Duke of Wellington, and + others whose names are written on the pages of the world’s history, + are said to have been afflicted by this terrible disease.... + + I honestly believe it to be the finest treatment in the world for + epilepsy. It is not a Cure-all. It cures epilepsy and some kindred + diseases, but this is all I claim for it.... + + “Imperatine” is a Nerve Food. It is as much a food and as necessary + to epileptics as ordinary food. Some medicines ARE foods, and are + found in the foods we eat.... As we do not get these nerve foods in + correct proportions in the food we eat, they have to be supplied in + the form of medicine.... + +Other medicines recommended in this pamphlet are “Dale’s Imperatone +Pills” and “Dale’s Powerones.” + +A considerable interval elapsed between the receipt of these pamphlets, +etc., and the next step. When finally an order for a bottle of +“Imperatine” was sent, together with 4s. 6d., a letter was received in +reply, signed “W. Bunn, Secretary,” stating that: + + We do not, however, charge for medicine, but Mr. Gilbert Dale charges + a fee for treating the case, as each case is treated individually, + and medicine is prescribed separately for each patient. + + We shall be glad if you will fill in and return the enclosed form and + your case will then be carefully gone into, and a fee for treatment + will be quoted. + +In reply to this a leaf was sent from one of the pamphlets quoting +“Imperatine” at 4s. 6d. per bottle, three bottles 13s., etc., with a +letter pointing out the inconsistency, and demanding a bottle of the +medicine or the return of the money. The following was then received: + + Dear Sir, + + Mr. Gilbert Dale has requested me to acknowledge receipt of your + letter. As you can easily understand, epilepsy is a disease that is + best treated by specially varied medicines for each case, therefore + it has been found desirable, rather than to sell the bottle for each + person, to take each case under the Treatment at so much per month, + all medicines being supplied free. This is done so that the medicines + may be prepared at our own laboratory, and patients may not be + tempted to make the medicine last a longer period. + + Under the circumstances if you would send the enclosed form filled + in so that the medicine may be prepared we are willing to send a + special bottle at the 4s. 6d. I should strongly advise you to take + the Treatment at say 10s. 6d. for a month, this would include all + medicines required for Epilepsy. + + Yours faithfully, + W. BUNN, Secretary. + +According to an earlier letter, quoted above, two 4s. 6d. bottles +would last a month, therefore a monthly fee of 10s. 6d. represents +an increased charge. But the use of the expression, “say 10s. 6d.,” +and the general tone of the letter seem to suggest that if it had not +been for the dispute referred to a higher fee might have been charged. +Another reason for the fiction that all medicine is supplied free may +be a desire to avoid paying stamp duty, which would amount to 6d. on +each bottle. + +The “consultation form” was then filled up and sent; the questions +asked, with the replies given (in italics), were as follows: + + CONSULTATION FORM. + + The information supplied on this form will be treated as of a + _strictly private_ character. It is generally better for a relative + or friend of the sufferer to fill up this form. + + _Date_ ................................... + + _Name of patient (in full)_ ........................................ + + _Address (in full)_ ................................................ + + 1 Age?--_28._ + + 2 Married or single?--_Single._ + + 3 Occupation?--_Clerk._ + + 4 Pale, ruddy, blotchy or sallow complexion?--_Pale._ + + 5 Thin or stout?--_Medium._ + + 6 Weak or strong?--_Fairly strong._ + + 7 Height?--_5 ft. 8._ + + 8 Weight?--_10 st. 7._ + + 9 Is patient of weak intellect?--_No._ + + 10 How long suffered with fits?--_Occasionally for about 12 years: + fits have only been frequent for a year._ + + 11 Do you know the cause? If so, what was it?--_No._ + + 12 How often do attacks occur?--_From once a week to once in 4 or 5 + weeks._ + + 13 During night or day?--_Usually evening._ + + 14 Do the fits generally occur at a certain time? If so, about what + hour usually?--_Usually between 6 and 8 in the evening._ + + 15 How long unconscious in attacks?--_3 to 5 minutes._ + + 16 Is there any warning? If so, what?--_None, except often a severe + headache._ + + 17 Do the bowels act regularly without opening medicine?--_Yes._ + + 18 Is appetite normal?--_Yes._ + + 19 Is digestion good?--_Yes._ + + 20 Does the patient pass a normal quantity of urine?--_Yes._ + + 21 Is it natural in colour and free from sediment?--_Yes._ + + 22 Is monthly health normal (females)? + + 23 Does the patient sleep well?--_Fairly._ + + 24 Is the patient languid during daytime?--_No._ + + 25 Is the patient nervous? If so, in what way?--_Not generally, but + rather apprehensive in regard to attacks._ + + 26 Has the patient any other disease?--_No._ + + 27 Does the patient suffer pain at times? If so, when and in what + part?--_No._ + + 28 Is the patient usually despondent or of a cheerful + disposition?--_Fairly cheerful._ + + 29 Does the patient worry?--_Not particularly._ + + 30 Has the patient had any other serious illness? If so, give + particulars.--_No._ + + 31 Does the patient take intoxicants? If so, to what extent? _One + glass of beer with mid-day meal._ + + 32 Does the patient smoke? If so, how much per week?--_Yes, about + 1¹⁄₂ oz._ + + 33 Give date of last attack?--_April 26th._ + + 34 What doctors and remedies have been tried, and for how + long?--_None._ + + 35 What results from them? Please answer fully. + + Give any further particulars which you think necessary. If you have + a recent photograph, please send it. I will return it with the + medicine. If you have not a photograph, it does not matter. Answer + these questions as well as you can, and describe as far as possible + the character of the patient’s fits, according to the statements of + those who witnessed the attacks. It will help me if you will also + say what is the patient’s mode of life; such as, what time meals are + taken, and what they consist of; what time the patient goes to bed, + and the time of getting up; and so forth: + + _Rises 7.30. Breakfast, bacon or eggs, or fish, etc., bread and + butter, tea. 1.0: Dinner, meat, vegetables, cheese, ¹⁄₂ pint beer. + 6.30: Plain tea. 9.30 to 10.30: Bread and cheese and (in winter only) + cocoa. Bed about 11 to 12._ + +The medicine was then received, with a little book of “_General +instructions to patients, and diet tables_,” and two copies of “_Report +of Progress Form_,” with a request that one of these should be filled +up and sent in after 12 days. The directions on the label were: + + Two small teaspoonfuls (exactly two drachms) to a wineglassful of + cold water on rising each morning and on retiring each evening. + +The bottle contained eight fluid ounces. Analysis showed the presence +of ammonium bromide, potassium iodide, a little sugar and alcohol, and +a small quantity of iron. After determining the amounts of the various +ingredients, about 1 per cent. of matter was unaccounted for; the +liquid was of a very dark brown colour, and no active ingredient was +found possessing such colour; the appearance was best matched by means +of burnt sugar, and this would account for the additional solid matter, +but it is not possible to say positively that some “extractive” other +than caramel was not present, and a minute trace of basic substance, +possibly alkaloidal, was found. The alcohol may have been due to some +tincture having been added, or it may have been employed to dissolve +a little oil of sassafras, the mixture having a sassafras-like aroma. +Sulphate was present, and the iron may have been added as ferrous +sulphate, but there was no direct evidence as to the form in which it +was used. The formula arrived at was: + + In one dose + (2 drachms) + Potassium iodide 1·55 parts 1·7 grains + Ammonium bromide 15·78 „ 17·4 grains + Iron, calculated as ferrous + sulphate 1·0 part 1·1 grain + Alcohol 4·15 parts by measure 5 minims + Sugars 6 parts + Burnt sugar + Oil of sassafras trace + Water to 100 parts by measure + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for eight fluid ounces of this +mixture is 4d. + + +FITZKURE. + +“Fitzkure” is supplied by “The London Medicine Co.”; the price of a +bottle containing eight fluid ounces was 2s. 9d. + +An undated circular sent out by this firm commences: + + Believing you to be specially interested in the treatment and cure + of Epilepsy, Fits, etc., we have taken the liberty of sending you + particulars of “Fitzkure,” which cures Fits, Falling Sickness, + Hysteria, and kindred Nervous Diseases. May we request that you give + the enclosed booklet your careful consideration. + +The reason for supposing the recipient of this circular to be specially +interested in the treatment of epilepsy is not at first apparent; but +the fact that the London Medicine Co.’s booklet and the composition of +their medicine are so similar to those of J. Gilbert Dale, described +above, and that this circular was sent to a person who had previously +written to Mr. Dale for particulars of his “Imperatine,” suggest that +the one business may be the offspring (legitimate or otherwise) of +the other. There is also a curious resemblance between some of the +“testimonials” published; for example, in one of Dale’s pamphlets there +is one marked “Mrs. W.,” from which the following are extracts: + + I am now in perfect health, and am only too pleased to speak for + “Imperatine.”... When I went to sleep I never expected to wake again. + But the _fits stopped with the first dose_ of your medicine, and I + was soon able to get up, and am now able to go anywhere by myself + with comfort.... Three weeks before I commenced your medicine, when + I took to my bed, I was in fits day and night, first screaming, and + then laughing, and got so strange that my friends dared not leave me + a minute. + +And the London Medicine Co.’s circular gives one marked “Mrs. F. W.,” +from which the following are extracts: + + I am in perfect health, thanks to your wonderful cure.... When I went + to sleep I never expected to wake again.... I can go anywhere now + with comfort. About 3 weeks before I started with Fitzkure I had to + take to my bed, and was in fits day and night, first screaming and + then laughing, and I got so strange that my friends dared not leave + me a minute. The last I had was on the Friday morning that I got your + medicine. I took a dose straight away, and it seems too wonderful to + be true that I have not had one fit since. + +Thus there are two women, both having surnames beginning with W., one +taking “Imperatine” and the other “Fitzkure,” both taking to bed “in +fits day and night, first screaming and then laughing,” both taking the +respective medicines just three weeks after taking to bed, both cured +by the first dose, and both using the same phrases in writing about +it. Is it merely an extraordinary coincidence? or is one woman writing +a testimonial about the same case, with a few verbal alterations, on +behalf of two different medicines? or has the one advertiser “lifted” +the testimonial from the other, altering the name of the medicine? or, +finally, is the whole thing a fabrication and imposture? + +The similarity in the pamphlets, already alluded to, will be seen on +comparing the following extracts from _Epilepsy and its Cure_ (The +London Medicine Co.) with those given above from Dale’s pamphlet: + + Epilepsy is generally acknowledged to be one of the most dreadful + diseases which humanity suffers from. For centuries it has existed, + and has baffled the skill of the greatest physicians. The medical + profession are scarcely any nearer being able to cure it than in + the time of our Lord, when, as we read in the Gospel of S. Matthew, + _Chap. IV. verse 24_ (_revised version_), they brought unto Jesus all + that were sick, holden with divers diseases and torments, possessed + with devils, and epileptic and palsied, and He healed them. No + race is free from this appalling disease, and it is no respector + of persons, for many of the great of the earth have suffered with + fits among whom may be mentioned Cæsar, Napoleon, Peter the Great, + Mohammed, Byron, Henry IV. of England, the great Duke of Wellington, + all of whom, among others, are said to have been so afflicted.... + + Fitzkure is not a Cure-all for every disease, but it does and will + cure epilepsy, fits, falling sickness, if steadily persevered with + from 18 months to 2 years.... It is not so much a medicine as a + Nerve Food, and is as much a food and as necessary to epileptics as + ordinary food. Some medicines _are_ foods and are found in the foods + we eat ... when we do not get the medicines that we need from the + foods we eat, these have to be supplied in the form of medicine.... + + Fitzkure ... is guaranteed absolutely free from Bromide of Potassium + and Poison. + +There appears to be some humour in the next paragraph-- + + The history of the remarkable way in which Fitzkure was invented and + developed is indeed a romance which would take too long to describe + in these pages. The inventor is not a Doctor.... Our experience in + treating these cases has been most valuable, extending over many + years. + +Other medicines recommended are “Fitzkure Laxative Pills” and “Fitzkure +Tonic.” + +No “Consultation Form” was sent to be filled up, but in the original +circular certain particulars are asked for: + + When sending for “Fitzkure” please say what the patient has been + taking, and with what result. + + Be sure to give the full name and address, also state the age of the + patient. + +A 2s. 9d. bottle of the medicine was sent for, “for a young woman of +24 years.” It was sent with a circular of directions and diet table, +extracts from which are as follows: + + The dose which is two small teaspoonfuls or two drachms, must be ... + taken in a wine glass of water on waking in the morning, and retiring + at night. Persons over 65, and weak delicate persons will need to + take a smaller dose, from one to one-and-a-half teaspoonfuls for some + weeks till quite used to the medicine. There is a wide difference in + the susceptibility of patients to medicines, the ordinary dose being + too small for some patients, and too large for others. If therefore + the above dose makes you feel poorly or giddy, you must reduce it + till these symptoms have passed away. But, on the other hand, if you + are feeling well in yourself, and the fits have not ceased, you must + increase the dose.... + +Analysis showed the liquid to contain ammonium bromide, potassium +iodide, potassium citrate, a little alcohol and reducing sugar, and +a very small quantity of iron; it was flavoured with aniseed, and +coloured deep brown, approaching black. The colour appeared to be given +by burnt sugar, as in the previous case. The various ingredients were +determined quantitatively, and the formula indicated is: + + In one dose + (2 drachms). + Potassium iodide 1.11 parts 1.22 grains + Ammonium bromide 26.63 „ 29.3 „ + Potassium citrate 1.0 part 1.1 „ + Iron, calculated as ferrous + sulphate 0.5 „ 0.55 grain + Alcohol 1.7 parts by measure 2 minims + Oil of aniseed trace + Burnt sugar + Water to 100 parts by measure + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for eight fluid ounces is 4¹⁄₂d. + + +DR. NIBLETT’S VITAL RENEWER. + +This is supplied by C. P. Niblett, London; a bottle, price 4s. 6d., was +found to contain four fluid ounces. + +In a Press advertisement it is stated that + + Dr. Niblett’s Vital Renewer is the result of the most exhaustive + research by a London Physician, who for upwards of 35 years made + epilepsy his especial study. _Confidence_ can be placed in this + remedy, which for years has been used with the _greatest success_ in + all parts of the world. The One Remedy that cures. + +A pamphlet is also offered free, entitled _A Practical Treatise +on Epilepsy, its treatment and cure_, by S. B. Niblett, M.D., +L.R.C.P.Edi.[1] + + [1] The name does not occur in the _Medical Register_ for 1912. + +On the title page of the pamphlet, however, no “M.D.” appears, but it +is represented to be by “S. Berry Niblett, Licentiate Royal College of +Physicians, Ed., Licentiate Faculty of Physicians and Surgeons, Glas., +Licentiate Society of Apothecaries, Lond.” The “practical” nature of +the treatise is, to say the least, rather diluted by such paragraphs as: + + This disease is called by the German physicians, Fallsucht; by the + French, l’Epilepsie; by the Italian professors, mal caduco, or + falling sickness. + + Epilepsy was termed by the ancient Greeks “the sacred disease,” on + account of the magnitude of the evil, or because persons labouring + under it have been thought possessed by demons. It was said that + Hercules was subject to it, therefore it was denominated the + Herculean disease; but Galen says it was on account of its form or + magnitude. + + The Romans termed this affection “morbus comitialis,” because it + frequently occurred in crowded assemblies in which the passions of + the people were often much excited, and it was customary to dissolve + the comitia if during the sitting any person should be affected by it. + + Many sufferers from epilepsy are possessed of high intellectual + power; the classical cases of Julius Cæsar, Mahomet, and the first + Napoleon, each of whom suffered from the disease, may be cited as + examples.... Epilepsy is a disease which specially attracted the + attention of the ancient physicians; it was termed by the Greeks + “the sacred disease.” Plato ascribes the use of the term “sacred” to + the circumstances of the head or brain being the part of the body + affected in epilepsy. Hippocrates pointed out,.... + +And so on. The section on “Treatment and Cure of Epilepsy” commences: + + Few higher duties can devolve on the medical man than to make + obscure diseases his special study. It should always be the aim of + the physician to cure the disease as rapidly and effectually as + possible.... The general tendency of epilepsy, if left to Nature, is + certainly to proceed from bad to worse.... Efficient treatment is the + very foundation of our art, the alpha as well as the omega. + +Suddenly we come to the “treatment”: + + My Vital Renewer is a real vital antidote, really stopping the + development of the attacks and absolutely curing the disease.... + Under the use of my Vital Renewer the fits will immediately become + less severe and less frequent.... Patients taking my Vital Renewer + will receive explicit directions as to the nature of the food + desirable to be taken at each meal.... I am prepared to prove, beyond + all fear of contradiction, that my Vital Renewer has cured the most + inveterate cases of epilepsy.... The success which has attended + the administration of my Vital Renewer I believe to be due not + only to the peculiar form in which it is prepared, but also to the + unremitting care taken in the skilful manipulation which is required. + +In a circular letter sent with the “_Practical Treatise_” it is stated +that: + + The treatment of Epilepsy or Fits is carried on under some + difficulty, as nearly all the great Physicians prescribe the same + remedy, Bromide--Bromide--nothing much except Bromide, and so the + unhappy sufferer consults many doctors without being cured. + + After prolonged study and extensive experimental research, varying + over a considerable number of years, Dr. S. Berry Niblett, of London, + discovered a certain remedy for all forms of Epilepsy and Fits.... + This medicine is certainly the most valuable contribution that modern + science has made to the treatment of Epilepsy. + +The directions on the label are as follows: + + Shake the bottle previous to use. + + Adults: 1 teaspoonful in a wineglassful of water. + + Children: 6 to 10 years, 20 drops in 1¹⁄₂ teaspoonfuls of water. + + Children: 10 to 12 years, 30 drops in two teaspoonfuls of water. + + Children: 12 to 18 years, ¹⁄₂ teaspoonful in 3 teaspoonfuls of water. + + About the age of 18 the full dose should be taken. + + The medicine must be taken three times a day, two hours after meals + until a period of six months has elapsed since the last fit has + occurred. At the end of that time it may be taken twice a day only, + at 11 in the morning and again at bedtime, for another six months. + + If no further attack occurs during that time the medicine may then be + taken at bedtime only. + + N.B.--If the attacks occur at night, one dose of the medicine should + be taken at bedtime and twice during the day. + +Analysis showed the liquid to contain potassium iodide, potassium +bromide, ammonium bromide, a little alcohol, and a very little reducing +sugar. It contained sufficient traces of oil of aniseed and chloroform +to be recognizable by their odour, and was coloured a dark brown. After +the ingredients named had been determined quantitatively, 0.4 per cent. +remained to be accounted for by the colouring matter, which appeared +to be burnt sugar. A minute trace of a basic substance was present, +which might have been alkaloidal, but the quantity was negligible. +The alcohol may have been added as spirit of aniseed or spirit of +chloroform. The formula indicated by the results is: + + In one dose + (1 drachm). + Potassium iodide 3.75 parts 2.07 grains. + Potassium bromide 30.88 „ 15.6 „ + Ammonium bromide 7.66 „ 4.2 „ + Chloroform trace + Oil of aniseed „ + Alcohol 2.6 parts by measure. + Burnt Sugar + Water to 100 parts by measure. + +Estimated cost of ingredients for four fluid ounces, 3d. + + +BROMOCARPINE. + +A French preparation called Bromocarpine is said to be fairly +extensively used in some districts as a remedy for nervous disorders, +more especially epilepsy. A circular accompanying the preparation has +the title “The Treatment of Nervous Affections by Bromocarpine”; and +it is stated that “the attacks are diminished in number to the extent +of 80 per cent.,” and that a “complete disappearance is extremely +common. Petit Mal (vertigo) is abolished, and there is a very marked +improvement in the mental state during the intervals.” It is further +stated that “The nervous system can be quieted by the methodical use of +Bromocarpine, continued for many months if necessary. This preparation, +of which Pilocarpine is one of the principal factors, determines +copious diuresis, free perspiration, and an abundant secretion of +saliva. In this form the intensive bromide treatment is well borne.” + +The bottle (price 6 francs) contained 16.7 fluid ounces. The liquid was +found to contain: + + Potassium bromide 8.9 per cent + Alkaloid 0.0035 „ + Sugar 54.0 „ + Glycerine 10.0 „ + +It was orange-flavoured, and contained a little alcohol, in all +probability added in the form of tincture of orange; a trace of some +other colouring matter was also present. + +The alkaloid agreed in some respects with pilocarpine, or the mixed +alkaloids of jaborandi; it did not give the characteristic colour-test +for pilocarpine, but this may have been due to some decomposition +during the treatment it had undergone, the separation of such a small +quantity of alkaloid from a large quantity of sugar and glycerine being +a rather troublesome operation. + +If the alkaloid is calculated as pilocarpine, the quantity is +equivalent to 0.0049 per cent. of pilocarpine hydrobromide. On a small +label on the bottle the liquid is stated to contain 10 per cent. of +potassium bromide and 0.005 per cent. of pilocarpine “hydrodom,” +presumably a mistake for “hydrobrom.” In a circular wrapped round the +bottle it is stated that each teaspoonful contains nearly 10 grains +of potassium bromide, and a two-hundredth of a grain of pilocarpine; +comparing this with the formula on the label it appears that a +teaspoonful is reckoned as nearly 100 grains, and the same proportion +is given for pilocarpine in the one case and pilocarpine hydrobromide +in the other. Actually, 1 fluid drachm of the liquid is 76.9 grains. + +Various other substances were tested for, but nothing was found besides +those mentioned above, and water. + + +A GERMAN NOSTRUM. + +According to Dr. Zernik, + + _Roller’s powder for epilepsy_ is supposed to be a remedy for + epilepsy, chorea, hysterical attacks, cramp of the stomach, and of + the chest, etc., and is sold by the Dresden “Diakonissenanstalt” for + M 3.40 the box. The package contains three 5-grams powders wrapped up + in sealed paper capsules. The powder is black, and has the odour of + a rancid animal oil. Analysis proved that it consisted of partially + carbonized animal substance, which yielded 20 per cent. of brown + substances soluble in ether. The preparation is said to be made by + burning magpies shot on twelve nights following Christmas. This + use of incompletely carbonized animal substance for epilepsy is an + ancient superstition. + + + + +CHAPTER XI. + +THE “TREMOL TREATMENT” FOR BAD LEGS. + + + Under the general name of the “Tremol Treatment,” medicines for the + cure of “bad legs” are supplied by the limited company trading as + “The National College of Health, Limited, Eye, Ear, Throat, and Skin + Institute, and Infirmary for Bad Legs” at an address in Manchester, + and an account is here given of the analysis of some of these. We + also give some account of the methods used to attract patients, and + if any further proof were needed of the necessity for further legal + control of medical companies, this alone should furnish everything + that could be required. The institution has been in existence for + several years, but has recently become very active, and claims to + have treated some thousands of cases. The methods used to attract + patients are open to serious criticism. It is stated that every + patient is under the direct supervision of a “fully qualified medical + man.” Several attempts have been made to find out the name and + qualifications of any such medical man, but without success, and + it is to be noted that he is called “fully qualified,” not “duly + registered,” and at any rate no duly registered practitioner is + known to have anything to do with the place. It would appear that + comparatively few of the patients receive any personal examination, + and that the great majority are never even seen by the “doctor” or by + any of the staff, and anything approaching diagnosis is made simply + from perusal of letters sent by patients. On turning up the _Truth_ + Cautionary List the following note is found: + + “National College of Health, Great Clowes Street, Higher Broughton, + Manchester.--Proprietors of a cure for bad legs called ‘Tremol.’ + The first price for a course of treatment is two guineas, which is + reduced to one guinea if the bait is not swallowed. Also endeavours + to obtain advertisements on the payment-by-results system, offering + 5s. for every patient caught through an advertisement.” + + We may add that if a patient once applies for information he may + expect to be dunned for months until he orders the remedies. This + is well shown in letters sent to a person who, after receiving the + budget of testimonials, had decided not to order the remedies. The + following are typical extracts of the letters he received. “I am + truly sorry and much disappointed that you have not yet participated + in the benefits of the Tremol treatment. I am personally anxious + that you should become a patient of mine, as I know positively that + you would derive the greatest of benefits.... Is it scepticism? Is + it doubt? Is it your financial position that stands in the way? + Tell me plainly your reason for not ordering the treatment and let + me help you as it is my earnest desire to do so. I am anxiously + awaiting your reply.” This letter of entreaty seems to have had no + result, and accordingly in a few weeks another was sent, saying: “I + am specially interested in your case and having brought it to the + notice of the Board of Directors I am instructed by them to make + the following concession to you.” The concession was that the full + two-guinea course of treatment would be sent for 31s. 6d. on the + condition that “when you are cured you will tell all your friends and + neighbours that it was the Tremol treatment that cured you and that + you do not divulge that the Board has made this concession.” One of + the letters contains the words, “I am personally anxious that you + should become a patient of mine,” and it might naturally be inferred + that the signature was that of the “fully qualified medical man,” + but we cannot trace the name in the _Medical Register_ as that of a + person residing in or near Manchester. A further letter, imploring + the recipient “as a friend” to continue the treatment, is printed in + Chapter XVII. + + Not long ago the periodical _John Bull_ sent to the institute a + special investigator, who came away perfectly satisfied “that the + Tremol treatment is an honest one and ably applied,” and that “it + distinctly merits the praise of _John Bull_.” The investigation + seems to have consisted in “roaming over the whole of the carefully + kept records of the thousands of cases treated” and apparently + accepting everything that was told--not a very scientific method + of investigating a treatment on which the health of thousands of + patients may depend. The investigator was told, among other things, + that the treatment is applied to five classes of diseases of the + leg--(1) ulcers of every description; (2) eczema and skin diseases; + (3) varicose veins; (4) tuberculous disease (diseased bone); and + (5) swollen and painful legs (phlebitis, etc.); and we are told + that “the treatment is able to cure all the diseases included in + the classes (1) and (2); but of the classes (3), (4), (5), those + only are selected which the medical history and circumstances of the + particular case convince the doctor are at least curable.” Speaking + of the remedies used, _John Bull_ says they are secret, but “the + composition was freely disclosed to us ... and the ingredients + are not of a harmful nature; indeed, some of the most valuable + and beneficial drugs known to the medical faculty are included in + them, but this particular combination has never before been used in + medicine, and some of them are quite new.” One would like to know + which of the ingredients revealed by analysis _John Bull_ considers + quite new; it cannot be the chloride of calcium or the chloride of + iron, or the infusion of rhubarb, or the prepared chalk, or the zinc + oxide, or the lead carbonate--perhaps it is the peppermint water. + As far as our analysis reveals, the combination is a heterogeneous + mixture of anything that might possibly be of use, regardless of + chemical combinations that may result, and we fail to detect any + trace of any new drug. We have only found the very commonest drugs + in ordinary use. There can be little doubt that in the interests + of the public health it is necessary that there should be a full + investigation of the National College of Health and Hospital for Bad + Legs. If there is a registered medical man connected with the place, + he is certainly acting in a way that makes him liable to be arraigned + before the General Medical Council; and, if there is no registered + practitioner, then the use of the term “fully qualified medical man” + is most misleading to the public. + +An attempt to purchase the remedies through one of the usual channels +for proprietary medicines only elicited an intimation that they +were not sold in that way, but were supplied in accordance with +particulars to be furnished of the case for which they were intended. +An application to “The National College of Health” brought a “Diagnosis +Form” to be filled up, with a letter stating that the fee for the +full course of Tremol treatment is £2 2s. A publication was also +sent, entitled _Good News about Bad Legs; or “Cures by the Cured,”_ +consisting of twelve pages of the size of an ordinary newspaper page, +containing portraits of patients and letters, etc., about cases, as +well as much printed matter about Tremol treatment and “Views of the +National College of Health, Limited.” Attached to the front page of +this was a conspicuous separate slip, worded thus: + + Important. The Board of Directors wish it to be distinctly understood + that every Patient who undergoes the Tremol Treatment is under the + direct supervision of a fully qualified Medical Man. + +A few extracts from this publication will serve to indicate the methods +of the National College of Health, Limited. The opening paragraphs have +a curiously familiar ring, and might be paraphrased from the pamphlets +of almost any quack-medicine maker; they are as follows: + + For centuries Bad Legs have ranked with Cancer and Consumption as one + of the diseases over which the power of man could not prevail. For + generations thousands of sufferers have lived lives of misery, become + thoroughly worn out, and have gone down to their graves before their + time through sheer exhaustion: all human skill being powerless to + save. Their resources exhausted, ignorant of any agent in Medicine or + Nature competent to cure, it came to pass that the Medical Faculty + were reduced to the expedient of ordering sufferers long periods of + rest in bed. This in itself was a confession of failure and of no + avail. + + It has been computed that Bad Legs have caused more misery and + suffering than all the wars ever undertaken by the world’s rulers. + And why? War is but an incident in a nation’s history, but the evil + of Bad Legs is ever present, ever constant, ever taking its toll of + suffering humanity. In the face of all this, Medical Science fell + back, helpless, baffled, and beaten. + + At last, after years of scientific research, after thousands + of painstaking experiments, the Tremol Method of Treatment was + discovered, and the cure of Bad Legs, once for all, established and + placed on a sure and scientific basis. + + What modern Astronomy is to the old discredited Astrology, what + Scientific Chemistry is to the Alchemy of olden times, even that and + more is Tremol System of Treatment to all other so called treatments + for Bad Legs. Other treatments are empirical, this Treatment is + scientific; other treatments end in failure, this System cures + to stay cured. Once again has Mother Nature yielded to patient + scientific investigation one of her greatest secrets, the secret of + how, by means of the Tremol System, to cure Bad Legs with certainty, + with rapidity, scientifically, and with no possibility of failure. + +Other extracts are: + + Universally accepted as the one and only cure for Bad Legs, the + Tremol System stands to-day before the world unchallenged and + unrivalled. Men of science accept it. Medical men recommend it. The + thinking public endorse it, and the thousands of happy men and women + cured by it hail it with a delight words fail to express.... + + As sure as day follows night, so certain is it that this new and + great discovery will cure every case of Bad Leg to which it is + applied. + + Remember, in all our cases, this System of Treatment has had to begin + where others have left off. Sufferers who apply to us for relief + and cure are only those whom doctors have finished with, or on whom + ointments have proved useless, lotions abortive, pills impotent, and + blood mixtures futile. + +These last two extracts scarcely seem to be in harmony with the +announcement which is made rather conspicuously: “Incurable cases not +accepted.” On the back page appears in large letters: + + There is no Guess-work. No Pain. No Experimenting. No Lying Up. No + Operation. No Relapse. NO FAILURE. No matter how Difficult the Case + may be. No matter what form it may have Assumed. No matter how many + Doctors, Specialists, or Hospitals may have failed to help you. The + Tremol Treatment, the New Therapeutic Discovery for Bad Legs, IS + CERTAIN TO CURE YOU, AND MAY SAVE YOUR LIFE. No claim or statement is + made that is not borne out by Facts and Living Witnesses. + +A document was sent with the medicines, marked “Legal Guarantee to +Cure.” It is worded as follows: + + We, the National College of Health, Limited, hereby Agree and + Undertake to refund on demand to you the whole of the money paid by + you to us for our Treatment, if we fail to cure you after we have + applied the Tremol Treatment for a reasonable length of time. This + Guarantee is subject to the Conditions set forth on the back hereof. + +Then follows a facsimile of the signature of the Governing Director; it +is not decipherable with certainty, but might be “E. F. Guest.” + +The conditions set forth--in quite small type--on the back are as +follows: + + The Tremol Treatment is only devised to cure bad legs--but if a case + is accepted by us for personal treatment, then unless otherwise + agreed at the time, this guarantee holds good. To ensure the + bona-fides of the patient it is necessary that within seven days of + starting the Treatment you give notice in writing to us that you + accept the offer contained in this guarantee, and in this respect + time shall be of the essence of the contract. This guarantee only + applies where the Treatment is personally applied by us. It will + be readily understood that we cannot guarantee cures when we have + no guarantee that our Treatment is properly applied. We must be + the judges of what is a reasonable time. We give no warranties. + Warranties may mean anything or nothing. We simply return the money + paid to us while we are personally treating you as aforesaid, and + this is the limit of our liability. Any dispute between you and us + as to any claim under or upon this agreement or as to any question + arising hereunder shall be determined by arbitration in accordance + with the Arbitration Act, 1889. + +Since this “Legal Guarantee to Cure” is sent with the medicines, the +person receiving it would naturally suppose that it would apply to +his case; and it is only on careful examination that it is discovered +that (1) it only applies to cases where the treatment is “personally +applied” by the company, and therefore not to a case where the medicine +is sent out; (2) even in “personally” treated cases, it does not +apply unless the patient gives notice in writing within seven days of +_beginning_ the treatment that he intends to insist on it; and (3) +since the company is the sole judge of what is a “reasonable time” +within which the cure is to be obtained they can insist on continuing +the treatment (as long as the patient will pay for it) in any case +in which a claim is made. Not even the most ignorant person could +regard such a “guarantee” as of the slightest value if he understood +the conditions. It would appear that it is not the “bona fides of the +_patient_” that needs to be ensured. + +The “Diagnosis Form” sent was as follows; the words in italics are the +particulars of an imaginary case that were supplied: + + 1. Date. + + 2. Christian name. + + 3. Surname. + + 4. Male or Female. _F._ + + 5. Married or Single. _Widow._ + + 6. Full Address. + + * 7. What is your age? 53. + + 8. What is your weight? _About 12 stone._ + + 9. What is your Occupation? _Housekeeper._ + + * 10. Is it your right leg, your left leg, or both your legs that are + affected? _Right._ + + 11. How long has your Leg troubled you? _About a year._ + + 12. Does your Leg pain you? _Yes._ + + 13. Does the pain of your Leg keep you awake at night, or in any + way interfere with your comfort. If so, fully explain in what way. + (Describe the pain.) _There is a constant acute pain from the open + wounds, and a great deal of itching as well; the irritation, in + addition to the pain, often causes sleeplessness._ + + * 14. Is the portion of your Leg affected Itchy or Scaly? _Very + itchy._ + + 15. Have you consulted any person? If so, who, how many, and what did + each tell you and what did they advise? _No._ + + 16. Have you attended any hospital? If so, state which. _No._ + + 17. Have you ever received an injury to your leg? _It was broken 20 + years ago._ + + 18. Is the pain worse when standing up or lying down? _Pain worse + when standing; itching worse when lying._ + + 19. How did you first hear of the Tremol Treatment? _Thro’ an + acquaintance in Yorkshire._ + + 20. Name the various remedies you have tried, and the methods you + have adopted to effect a cure and the effect each has had upon + your leg? _At first cold water bandaging; recently zinc ointment. + Practically no effect._ + + * 21. Are there any ulcers, wounds, or holes in your Right Leg, or is + it a red, itchy or scaly patch only? _Three open wounds and a big, + red itching patch._ + + * 22. Are there any ulcers, wounds, or holes in your left leg, or is + it a red itchy, or scaly patch only? _No._ + + #Don’t fail to reply to this.# + + * 23. If there are ulcers, wounds, or holes, state how many, and the + position and size of each, cut out on pieces of paper and send to + us the sizes of the wounds or ulcers on each leg (N.B.--Be careful + to distinguish the size of the wound or ulcer from the size of the + surrounding redness or inflammation.) _The three open wounds are + each about ³⁄₄ inch across; they are about 2¹⁄₂ inches apart in an + irregular triangle; they are in a red itching patch about 4 inches + across, on the outer side of the leg, about half-way down._ + + 24. Is there now, or has there ever been proud flesh in the wound? + _No._ + + * 25. Are your bowels habitually costive or free? _Free._ + + 26. Have you ever suffered from a white leg? _No._ + + 27. Did your Leg first begin to trouble you through a hurt, after + confinement, or how? _It came on gradually without apparent cause, at + first as a small itching red spot._ + + 28. Has your Doctor advised Rest? _Have not had a doctor._ + + 29. Have you rested, if so, has it done you any good? _Have rested a + good deal, but it doesn’t seem to make much difference._ + + 30. Have you spent much idle time trying to obtain a cure? _No._ + + 31. Has your leg ever been healed, if so, was it with Skin or with + Scab? _Not since the wounds became raw._ + + * 32. At what portion of the leg is the breaking out? _On the outer + side, about half-way down._ + + 33. Have you been growing worse lately? _Yes._ + + * 34. Is there much inflammation or fiery redness round the wound? + _Yes._ + + 35. Have you Varicose Veins? If so, state extent, of how long + standing, and what caused them. _No._ + + * 36. Please to give the names and addresses of any persons in your + district or elsewhere, whom you may know to be suffering from Bad + Leg. This information will be treated as strictly confidential and + exclusively private. + + Remarks.--Write on a separate piece of paper any facts relating to + your case or conditions that have not been indicated by the above + questions. Describe your case fully in your own words and all you + have suffered and gone through; in short, give us a general history + of your case. + +This was sent with two guineas to “The National College of Health, +Ltd.” The medicines sent in return consisted of a bottle of “Tremol +Blood Mixture,” a bottle of “Tremol Lotion,” a box of “Tremol +Ointment,” and a box of “Ointment No. 2,” with two bandages. Two +typed sheets of directions accompanied these, headed “Instructions +for applying No. 14 course of Tremol Treatment.” Each of the four +preparations is priced separately at 11s., by post 11s. 4d. + + +TREMOL BLOOD MIXTURE. + +The bottle contained 8 fl. oz. It bore a printed label, and there was +nothing on the label to suggest that it was in any way modified for the +particular case for which it was intended. The directions on the label +were the same as those given in the paragraph on the typed sheet, which +was as follows: + + HOW TO TAKE YOUR MEDICINE.--It is absolutely necessary for you to + take this Blood Mixture prescribed specially for your case, all the + time your leg is being dressed with the other preparations. To obtain + permanent results it is imperative to continue taking this medicine + for your blood, for some time after your leg is well. + + Directions.--Take one drachm (one small teaspoonful) morning and + evening after your meals, in a wineglassful of water sweetened to + taste with one or two lumps of sugar. We strongly advise you to use + a Medicine measure instead of an ordinary teaspoon, so that the dose + will accurately measure one drachm. + +Analysis showed the mixture to contain calcium chloride, ferric +chloride, small quantities of free hydrochloric acid and alcohol, +peppermint water, and a preparation of a vegetable drug; the latter had +a slight flavour of rhubarb, but showed no definite active principle +and no characters by which it could be positively identified. The +proportions of the definite ingredients were determined, and found to +be as given in the following formula. A mixture prepared according to +this formula agreed very well in regard to the vegetable drug, and +perfectly in other respects. + + Calcium chloride 224 grains + Solution of ferric chloride 300 minims + Dilute hydrochloric acid 200 „ + Concentrated infusion of rhubarb (¹⁄₇) 100 „ + Peppermint water 2 fl. oz. + Water to 8 „ + A deposit slowly falls, from which the clear liquid is decanted. + +Estimated cost of the ingredients, 1¹⁄₄d. + + +TREMOL LOTION. + +The bottle contained 8¹⁄₄ fl. oz.; it bore a printed label, and there +was nothing on the label to suggest that it was in any way modified for +the particular case for which it was intended. The directions on the +typed sheet were the same as those on the label, as follows: + + Dilute the Lotion with an equal quantity of water. Cut out a piece + of Lint slightly larger than your Ulcer, so that the Lint will cover + the surface of the Ulcer as completely as half-a-crown covers a + shilling. After a thorough cleansing (see directions for so doing) + well soak the Lint in the dilute Lotion for two or three minutes, and + then apply to the Ulcer. You are not to apply the Lint containing the + Lotion too wet, that is dripping, neither are you to squeeze it out + too dry, just thoroughly moistened and on the wet side. + +Analysis showed the liquid to consist of solution of chlorinated soda +containing 2.9 per cent. of available chlorine (which is slightly above +the minimum strength of the official solution) with the traces of +impurities usually found in it. + +Estimated cost of the liquid, 2d. + + +TREMOL OINTMENT. + +This was in a wooden box containing 14¹⁄₂ oz.; it bore a typewritten +label: “The Tremol Ointment. To be used as directed.” + +The directions on the typed sheet were as follows: + + HOW YOU ARE TO APPLY TREMOL OINTMENT. Cut out a piece of soft lint + slightly larger in circumference (about ¹⁄₄ in. larger all round) + than the Lint on which the Tremol Lotion is applied. Spread the + Ointment thickly on the plain surface, then place it on top of the + Lint on which No. 2 Ointment is spread, but over the Ulcer, and + therefore covering the Lint which is soaked in the Lotion. You will + therefore have over the Ulcer three layers of Lint. FIRST, two layers + of Lint containing Lotion. SECOND, the layer of Lint on which the + Ointment No. 2 is spread, and covering the red and inflamed part. + THIRD, the layer of Lint on which Tremol Ointment is spread and + covering the portion where the Ulcer is situated. Therefore over + the red inflamed part there is one layer only, that on which No. 2 + Ointment is spread, but over the Ulcer there are three. When you are + dressing your leg do not remove Ointment No. 2 that adheres to the + skin. Apply fresh dressing on the top of the adherent ointment. + +Analysis showed the ointment to contain: + + Prepared chalk 70.3 parts. + Soft paraffin 29.0 „ + Yellowish-brown colouring matter traces. + +The colouring matter appeared to be one of the coal-tar dyes, but was +not present in sufficient quantity for exact identification; the chalk +contained the small quantities of impurities usually occurring in it. +No other ingredient was found. + +Estimated cost of the ingredients, 2¹⁄₂d. + + +OINTMENT NO. 2. + +This was in a wooden box containing 10¹⁄₂ oz.; it bore a typewritten +label, “Ointment No. 2. To be used as directed.” The directions on the +typed sheet were as follows: + + HOW YOU ARE TO APPLY OINTMENT NO. 2.--Cut out a piece of Lint large + enough to cover the red and inflamed portion of your leg. On this + spread pretty thickly the special Ointment labelled No. 2, and apply + it; at the same time covering the Lint which is soaked in the Lotion. + +Analysis showed the ointment to contain zinc oxide, a lead compound +which appeared to be the carbonate, sodium benzoate, sodium acetate, +water, lard, and a pink colouring matter which was evidently a +coal-tar dye. No other substance was found. The quantities of the +different ingredients were determined, and the results agreed with the +following formula: + + Zinc oxide 19.8 parts. + Lead carbonate 3.5 „ + Sodium benzoate 0.3 „ + Sodium acetate 0.7 „ + Water 9.6 „ + Colouring matter traces. + Lard to 100 parts. + +Estimated cost of the ingredients, 7d. + + + + +CHAPTER XII. + +THE “CRIMSON CROSS REMEDIES.” + + + The series of preparations dealt with in this chapter afford a good + example of the way in which secret remedies, even when composed of + simple and harmless drugs, may be a source of serious danger through + the exaggerated claims made for them. The emphatic assurances of + curative power given in most cases may easily lead people, even + when not unusually credulous, to take the medicine in question and + trust to it for a cure, and therefore omit to obtain proper advice + until the disease from which they are suffering may have reached an + advanced stage. In the present case, however, the danger is not only + to the person employing the nostrums, but to others as well; for the + claims advanced are not merely that the articles offered will cure a + number of very serious diseases, but also that in small-pox, scarlet + fever, measles, etc., they _render the patient non-infectious_, + and anyone trusting to this preposterous assertion might therefore + easily become an active agent in spreading infectious disease. Heart + disease, cancer, typhoid, pneumonia, diphtheria, and consumption are + among the other trifles for which the “Crimson Cross Remedies” are + recommended. It is hardly necessary to add that ludicrous ignorance + is shown in the assertions made; the ointment, which is one of the + principal articles of the series, is stated to have been introduced + fifty years ago for diseased bones, joints, and abscesses, but “it + now includes ‘Infectious’ as well as most other diseases. There is + no foothold for microbes where the ointment is applied”--presumably + the feet of the microbes are not adapted to the greasy surface which + it presents. In typhoid, “if the head is not well soaked with the + ointment, an abscess is liable to form on the brain”! Analysis showed + the principal ingredient of this marvellous salve to be about 1 per + cent. of copper oleate, while the “special ointment” to be used + for cancers, chronic stiff joints, sprains, heart disease, etc., + contained between 4 and 5 per cent. of the same substance, with a + trace of acetic acid. It appears from the statements made that the + individual whose name is attached to these preparations has also been + in the habit of visiting patients in their own homes. + +An advertisement in the _Vaccination Inquirer_, headed “A simple +solution of the vaccination question,” states that: + + The Crimson Cross Remedies for fevers, measles, small-pox, influenza, + pneumonia, pleurisy, etc., render the patient non-infectious. + +The extracts which follow are from circulars sent out with the remedies. + + The first of the Crimson Cross Remedies used with unprecedented + success was our No. 1 Ointment. This was introduced fifty years ago + for Diseased Bones, Joints, and Abscesses. It cures without cutting, + scraping, bed, or splints. It has saved hundreds from being hopeless + cripples, and thousands of lives and limbs. + + As time went on this valuable remedy was found to be a POWERFUL + GERM KILLER, so that its usefulness as a household remedy has been + considerably extended, and it now includes “Infectious” as well as + most other diseases. There is no foothold for microbes where the + Ointment is applied. + + One of its best works is the + + CURE OF CONSUMPTION. + + This much dreaded “White Scourge” can be cured in its incipient or + first stage, and even when the mischief is deeper rooted it always + gives relief. + + It has been stated that Small-Pox is now extinct in England, but of + course may be imported at any time. However that may be, there need + be no fear of it if Crimson Cross Remedies are applied. + + The Remedies (No. 1 Ointment and Fever Powder) are equally + efficacious for Scarlet Fever, which is easily cured in from one to + three days, if applied as soon as the patient sickens. If peeling has + commenced before the Remedies are applied, it takes a fortnight to + complete the cure, but there is no fear of infection. + + Typhoid or Enteric Fever treated by the Crimson Cross Remedies in the + first stage is easily cured in a few days.... + + Internal Diseases of Women can be cured without Operation or + Examination by our SPECIAL TREATMENT. Full particulars on application. + +In a “Brief Treatise on Diagnosis and Treatment” directions are given +for the employment of these remedies in a variety of illnesses. The +chief feature is a liberal application of the ointment, accompanied by +internal administration of one or more of the other preparations. The +following quotations will serve as examples: + + COLDS. On the first appearance of a cold, rub the forehead, chest, + and back with Crimson Cross No. 1 Ointment contained in the Fever, + etc., packet; take the medicine made from the Powder according to + directions. + + FOR PNEUMONIA, CONGESTION, AND PLEURISY.--Poultice the chest, sides, + and back every two hours with hot linseed meal. Spread warm No. 1 + Ointment on the face of the poultice until the acute symptoms are + gone, then rub the chest, sides, and round the shoulders with the + Ointment once or twice a day until quite well. Take the medicine made + from the Fever Powder according to directions. + + TYPHOID OR ENTERIC FEVER.... Acute Bright’s disease of the kidneys + and inflammation of the lungs frequently accompany or follow typhoid; + for the former give CRIMSON CROSS KIDNEY CURE, and poultice the lower + part of the back with hot linseed meal and Ointment; for the latter + see directions given. If the head is not well soaked with Ointment, + an abscess is liable to form on the brain. THE FEVER MIXTURE and + KIDNEY CURE may both be taken alternately three times a day, if + necessary; let two hours elapse between each dose. + + DIPHTHERIA. Spread No. 1 Ointment on hot linseed poultices, apply one + every hour. As Diphtheria patients are liable to unexpected syncope, + it is advisable to have a doctor. + +From the following paragraph in one of the circulars, it would appear +that “Captain Feilden” does not confine his activities to the _selling_ +of these preparations: + + Please note--All communications should be addressed + + Crimson Cross Dispensary. + --------, --------. + + Stamped envelope enclosed for reply. + + Although we do not now treat cases personally at the Dispensary, we + continue to give advice “Free” by letter. Full particulars of the + case should be given, and, where possible, Captain Feilden will call + and see patients in their own homes. + +A list is given of ten preparations, varying in price from 7¹⁄₂d. +to 2s. 9d. The following were obtained for examination: Fever and +Influenza Powder, No. 1 Ointment, Special Ointment, and Kidney Cure. + +The first two of these were supplied together for 1s. 3d., post free. + + +CRIMSON CROSS FEVER AND INFLUENZA POWDER. + +This consisted of about 100 grains of a purplish-coloured powder, and +was contained in a “chip” ointment box. The directions on the label +were: + + Add to one pint of cold water, and take--Adults, one tablespoonful + three times a day. Children, one to two teaspoonfuls, according to + age. + +The powder contained 99.4 per cent. of ammonium chloride, and nothing +else was found except the colouring matter, which agreed with the +reactions given by tincture of cochineal. + +Estimated cost, about ¹⁄₈d. + + +CRIMSON CROSS NO. 1 OINTMENT (CAPTAIN FEILDEN’S). + +This was also in a “chip” box, and the quantity was about 2¹⁄₄ oz. + +Analysis showed it to contain: + + Copper oleate 1.1 per cent. + Anhydrous sodium sulphate 0.4 „ + Beeswax 6.5 „ + Resin (colophony) 29.6 „ + Linseed oil 62.4 „ + +The sodium sulphate may be due to the copper oleate having been made by +double decomposition of copper sulphate and soap, without washing away +the sodium sulphate formed, although the amount of the latter found is +more than the equivalent of the copper. + +Estimated cost of ingredients, ⁴⁄₅d. + + +CRIMSON CROSS SPECIAL OINTMENT. + +The price of a jar, containing about 3¹⁄₂ oz., was 2s. 9d. A special +circular is devoted to this preparation, and the statements made +include the following: + + This Ointment is prepared from a Special Formula for the Treatment of + unbroken substances such as Cancers, Tumours, Bunyons, or Enlarged + Toe Joints, Chronic Stiff Joints, Sprains, Heart Disease, etc. + + By the blessing of God it has been successful in the treatment of + many such cases, and it is hoped that many more may benefit.... + + An irritable rash may appear, and this is a good sign, though some + patients give up using the Ointment because of this irritation. This + should not be done--the irritation will die away, though the rash may + remain. To relieve the irritation discontinue the Special Ointment + for a day or two--bathe with warm water, and apply a little Olive + Oil.... + + CANCERS AND TUMOURS.--Steam the affected part once a day, gently rub + a little Special Ointment in, night and morning. Spread Ointment on + clean linen, and wear as a plaister during the night and day. If the + appetite is not good, take Crimson Cross Liver Mixture, and Crimson + Cross Kidney Cure occasionally, to keep the Kidneys in good order.... + + HEART DISEASE.--Rub the Ointment gently in across the stomach, round + the Heart and Shoulder Blades, night and morning. Great care should + be taken to keep the Stomach and Kidneys in good order, and to be + on the safe side in this matter, we advise all those suffering from + Heart troubles to occasionally take a bottle or two of Crimson Cross + Liver Mixture, alternately with Crimson Cross Kidney Cure. + +Analysis showed this to contain: + + Copper oleate 4.6 per cent. + Anhydrous sodium sulphate 1.3 „ + Acetic acid (glacial strength) 0.8 „ + Beeswax 3.5 „ + Resin (colophony) 46.8 „ + Oily base, chiefly or entirely linseed oil 43.0 „ + +Estimated cost of ingredients 1¹⁄₂d. + + +CRIMSON CROSS KIDNEY CURE. + +The price of a bottle, containing 6¹⁄₂ fluid ounces, was 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. + +It is stated on the package that: + + This Mixture contains powerful Medicinal Properties for the cure of + Kidney, Bladder, Gravel, and all Urinary Disorders, Dropsy, etc. + + Dose. Adults.--One tablespoonful every four hours. + + Children.--One teaspoonful to one dessertspoonful, according to age, + every four hours. + +It is thus described in an accompanying circular: + + This is a remedy really worthy of the name. It is natural in its + composition, it is natural in its action, it does not coerce nature + as in the case of poisonous drugs and drastic metallic medicines. It + assists and stimulates the recuperative energies of nature in the + system, thus enabling her to throw off the effects of this insidious + and alarming disease. Every reader of these lines who is troubled + with backache, nervousness, dimness of sight, lassitude, or any + symptoms of Kidney trouble, should immediately take this remedy, and + obtain that relief and cure which seems possible by no other known + means at the present time.... + + The Crimson Cross Kidney Cure may be confidently taken by young and + old alike, in full assurance that whatever the trouble, a course + of the Crimson Cross Kidney Cure will gently but surely remedy the + mischief, and coax the organs back to a natural and healthy action. + + NOTE:--Whilst taking the Crimson Cross Kidney Cure it will greatly + facilitate the cure if the lower part of the back and bowels are + gently rubbed with Crimson Cross No. 1 Ointment once a day. The + Ointment should be well rubbed in for about five minutes, then wipe + down with an old rough dry towel, to prevent the linen from getting + greasy. + +Analysis showed that this fluid contained glycerine about 5 per cent., +alcohol 4 per cent. by volume, methyl salicylate (oil of wintergreen) +about 0.05 per cent., and a small proportion of vegetable extractive +giving a slight colour to the liquid, but having no characteristic +taste or any property by which it could be identified; no alkaloid +or other active principle was present, and the ash (0.25 per cent.) +contained only the constituents usually found in any vegetable extract. + + + + +CHAPTER XIII. + +MEDICINES FOR AMENORRHŒA, ETC. + + + One of the largest classes of proprietary nostrums, and one in which + most of the evils connected with secret medicines may be seen at + their worst, is that consisting of so-called “female medicines.” + The reasons for the abundance of proprietary articles of this kind + are not far to seek. In the first place, the gross profit of the + trade is very large; as our analyses show, the prime cost of all + these medicines is very low, and the selling price of many of them + is very high. In the second place, the expenses are low; while + many other nostrums require large and expensive advertisements in + the newspapers, and on hoardings, etc., these are almost without + exception given small advertisements, often of only a few lines, + with perhaps some one word, such as “Ladies,” in large type to catch + the eye. A third attractive feature is that, as a rule, the business + is done directly with the consumer through the post, and there are, + therefore, no intermediate profits to be deducted; payment is made + in advance, and only the postage has to be reckoned off the full + retail price. Fourthly, purchasers are in the nature of the case + often persons more than usually susceptible to the plausible promises + of cure that are sent out; failure to effect what is promised, far + from causing the purchaser to stop wasting her money on the nostrum, + is turned to account by offering a “specially strong” variety at a + higher price, and behind this is usually a third, or “extra special” + at a still higher price, and sometimes even a fourth. Finally, in + a very large number of cases, the sale of a nostrum of this class + provides an opening for a steady business in other articles of a kind + usually bought more or less surreptitiously, and which bear a very + high rate of profit. + + So much for the gain to the vendor. The harm to the purchaser is + similarly of a manifold nature. Perhaps the least important is that + the price charged is in very many cases quite exorbitant, pills + or mixtures, etc., sold at from ten shillings to a guinea costing + only a few pence or less. Much more serious is the fact that the + purchaser is induced to take medicines of little value, if any, + for a functional derangement which it is always dangerous to treat + too lightly. It cannot be too widely known that cessation of the + normal period may be a sign of phthisis or other serious illness, + and good medical advice ought to be obtained. Further, a large + number of these nostrums are the subject of more or less thinly + veiled recommendations that they should be used for cutting short an + unwelcome pregnancy, and although some of them would be but little + likely to be efficacious for this purpose, some contain irritants + which are highly dangerous. When cessation of the menses is due to + pregnancy, there is no drug or medicine known which will re-establish + them and stop the pregnancy without putting the woman’s life in grave + danger. + + It would be tedious to give detailed extracts from the advertisements + of all the articles here described, as is done in other chapters. + A few of them are the products of old-established businesses, and + are sold through retailers like other proprietary medicines; these + are, as a rule, the ones for which the least extravagant claims are + made, and they appear almost respectable by comparison with some of + the others. In the majority of cases, however, a usual plan is to + advertise a “certain cure” at a low price, sometimes 1s. 1¹⁄₂d., or + to offer a “free sample” on application. When the low-priced article + or the free sample is sent for, the applicant is informed of a + “special” kind which is strongly recommended, and the price of which + is higher; and this, as already noted, usually leads on to another at + a still higher price. + + Since pills, such as many of these “remedies” consist of, can be + bought wholesale at very low rates, the capital outlay which is + necessary for engaging in this kind of business is extremely small. + An address is necessary to conduct operations from, but it does + not matter if it is that of a garret in a slum--practically none + of the purchasers will be any wiser. There is nothing whatever to + prevent any ignorant person possessed of a few pounds from buying + from a firm of pill-makers at a few pence per gross “female pills” + in bulk, or ready boxed, with coatings of three different colours + to represent “ordinary,” “strong,” and “extra strong,” putting + small advertisements in a few weekly or other newspapers, and after + laying out some small further sum on printed copies of fabricated + testimonials and circular letters, “signed” by Nurse So-and-So, at + once establishing a trade, the profits of which are many hundreds + per cent. There is good reason to believe that some of the articles + referred to below are the output of just such businesses. + + It will suffice to give a few extracts from some advertisements. + +Adeline Dumas’s pills are thus advertised: + + “To Married Ladies. + + Try the French Remedy. + + Not a Dangerous Drug, but a wonderful Secret Invention. + + Never Fails. Particulars Free to all Applicants. + + Address, + + M.D., ----, ----, London, N.E.” + +“M.D.” may, of course, stand for Madame Dumas, but it can hardly be +doubted that it is intended to suggest that the “secret invention” is +supplied by a Doctor of Medicine. + +In a circular referring to the pills and giving testimonials, etc., +they are described as follows: + + “Dumas’ Paris Pills. + + The Combination Remedy (Protected). + + WHAT IS MEANT BY A COMBINATION REMEDY? + + Dumas’s Combination Remedy, The Paris Pill (Pilule de Paris) is + in reality a carefully selected combination of the most powerful + drugs known to Medical and Botanical Sciences, whereby a maximum + certainty of producing the desired effect is absolutely assured, + the explanation of this remarkable result being as follows: If any + specific drug contained in the Paris Pill be not actively suitable + for a particular female organization, there are other active + ingredients present, which, from their varied and searching nature, + are in every way calculated to at once grapple with and overcome the + most obstinate case. In the face, therefore, of such a remedy as here + described, it can be well understood that there need be no fear of a + failure of effect. + + Dumas’s Paris Pills, secret, and powerful ingredients (protected + by Government stamp) act with instant certainty, in all cases of + Irregularities and Suppression of the Menses, incidental to females.” + +The clause “protected by Government stamp” is to be noted: the +Government stamp is merely a means of collecting the tax on proprietary +nostrums, and has not the slightest reference to the real value of +their contents. The reference to it here is obviously intended to +suggest some sort of official guarantee of value. + +“Nurse Powell’s Remedies” illustrate the ascending scale of charges. +They are thus advertised: + + FREE OFFER TO LADIES. + + Our recent offer of a Free Sample of Nurse Powell’s Popular Pellets + met with such striking success that we have decided to repeat the + offer. Ladies should write for free box, enclosing stamp for postage. + Delay is dangerous; write at once and obtain relief.--Nurse F. Powell + Remedy Co., ----, ----, London. + +An application for a free box as advertised brought a small box +containing three white-coated pills, together with a letter, from which +the following extracts are taken: + + Owing to their proved superiority they have now come to be looked + upon as THE LEADING WOMAN’S MEDICINE--a proof of which is that in + thousands of homes to-day a box is _always_ to be found, ready for + any emergency which may arise. They are composed of ingredients + which are PERFECTLY HARMLESS, and will not injure the most delicate + constitution, nor disturb one’s usual occupations, yet they FULLY + CARRY OUT ALL that is claimed for them. We shall be glad if you + will try this sample at once, and let us know the result. In many + cases this small quantity has brought about relief and health. We + would ask you NOT TO EXPECT TOO MUCH from it, however, but to obtain + more and take them regularly EACH DAY until you obtain a beneficial + result. They have cured thousands of suffering women who have been + on the verge of despair, and we are confident that if you will only + persevere with them, and give them a thorough trial, THEY WILL + RELIEVE YOU. + +The pills were stated to be 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. per box, and this amount +was sent with a request for a box. This brought a box containing +twenty-four white-coated pills, bearing on the label the words “Nurse +Powell’s Popular Pellets cure Anæmia, Debility, Constipation, Headache, +and all Female Ailments”; the words “Poplets, Registered,” were printed +across the label in red ink. A circular was enclosed on which it was +stated-- + + It should be particularly noted that the pellets are prepared + in Two Forms to meet the requirements of the case. The Ordinary + Pellets (Price 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. and 2s. 9d.) are prepared as a remedy for + Nervousness, Headache, Constipation, Anæmia, Debility, Sleeplessness, + Hysteria, Lack of Energy, Wind, Biliousness, Indigestion, Sick + Headache, and a general run-down state of the system, and Menstrual + Troubles of a slight nature. The Special Pellets (Price 4s. 6d. + per box) are expressly compounded for use in all Severe Menstrual + Troubles, and should be ordered for Suppression of the Menses, + Irregular and Painful Menstruation, Painful Urination, Change of + Life, Dragging or Bearing Down Pains, Leucorrhœa (whites), Excessive + Flow of the Menses, and all kindred ailments. + +A box of the “special pellets” was therefore obtained: these were +compressed tablets with a bright purple coating, and were labelled +“Nurse Powell’s Popular Pellets for all Female Ailments (Special),” and +also bore the words “Poplets, Registered,” in red ink across the label. + +Another circular was now enclosed, from which the following extracts +are taken: + + Special notice! + + There are many cases of female irregularities which require special + treatment, and which cannot be met by the remedies which cure more + ordinary ailments. This fact is well known to the Physician who has + made a special study of the female system, and has his own special + prescriptions which he applies to the various stages of the ailments + as occasion demands. + + Whilst it is quite true that Nurse Powell’s Popular Pellets cure + all but the more obstinate cases, we find it occasionally necessary + that a stronger treatment is required. For this purpose, we supply + two preparations prepared from the prescriptions of a celebrated + physician, and which he relied upon to cure where every other means + had been unavailing. + + These remedies are prepared in the form of a pill and a mixture, + either of which will be found effective, but in order to obtain the + very best results, by far the best method is to take the pills and + mixture in alternate doses. + + These exceedingly valuable preparations we recommend with the utmost + confidence. They are prepared by fully qualified chemists from the + purest ingredients obtainable, and most beneficial results are + obtained after a few doses. + + The price of these remedies is necessarily higher than the ordinary + preparations, but compared with the results the cost is small. + + Prices + + Corrective Pills, 11s. per box; + Corrective Mixture, 13s. per bot.; + or the two preparations, 21s. + +Supplies of both these were obtained. + +In a little book sent with the earlier supply, entitled _Woman’s Home +Doctor_, appears the following: + + ADVICE TO SUFFERERS FREE. + + Many women are in doubt as to the nature of their ailment and the + best means to obtain a cure. To all such, we offer our EXPERIENCED + ADVICE FREE if full particulars are given to us in a letter. If Nurse + Powell’s Popular Pellets will be of no use in your particular case + you will be at once told so. Address all letters asking for advice to + the Manageress, and mark them “Private” in the top left-hand corner. + They will then receive immediate attention and will be treated in the + strictest confidence. + +In sending for each of these preparations nothing was said with regard +to the case for which they were supposed to be intended, but after a +short interval a typed letter was received, from which the following +extracts are taken: + + Dear Madam,--In reply to your communication of a few days ago, + we looked carefully into your case, and advised you to persevere + with our remedy. It seemed to us that your ailment was similar in + almost all respects to many other cases which we have had, and in + practically ALL OF THESE the treatment we advise has been taken with + ENTIRE SUCCESS, as the grateful letters we have received plainly + show.... With all good wishes, and again assuring you of our sympathy + and aid, we remain, dear Madam, yours faithfully, The Nurse Powell + Remedy Co. + +Another advertiser is very frank on the subject of quacks: + + “IRRISTUM” _never fails, that is the marvel of it_. On “Irristum” is + stamped the seal of unequivocal success. To it women may turn with + the _brightest confidence and hope_, assured of health and happiness, + instead of that wretched depression of animal spirits, and possibly + _life-long misery_, which accrue from a blind confidence in the + _nostrums of unscrupulous quacks_.... + + Nothing conceivable can be worse or more contemptible than for + confiding and suffering women to be the dupes of plausible and + unscrupulous adventurers. Not merely is it the pocket, but the + paramount question of life-long health which may be imperilled; + and here it is that the _never-failing efficacy, the privacy, + the simplicity, and the rapidity of action characteristic of the + “Irristum” medicine, come as a challenge to the world in this most + important branch of the healing art_.... + +It is modestly added that: + + We do not profess to work wonderful miracles; we only state, with + _absolute confidence_, that if _you_, who read this, feel the need + of such a preparation, you will never do better than send to us _at + once_. It would of course be untrue to say a second bottle is _never_ + required. It sometimes happens that a lady has to send for another + supply, but in 19 cases out of 20 the _whole_ of the second one is + not required.... + + “IRRISTUM” _is unquestionably one of the most priceless blessings of + the nineteenth century_.... + +In the case of a medicine which is advertised as “A Woman’s Cure for +Women’s Ills,” an account is given of the evolution of the remedy, in +the course of which it is stated that: + + It is seldom necessary for a woman, if she know where best she may + look for help from a sister woman, to consult medical men in these + troubles.... One woman, Mrs. Lydia E. Pinkham, was often called to + help her neighbours and friends who suffered from the diseases and + ailments of women.... + + So, after a time, she learned to select the most potent roots and + herbs, and to steep and compound from them a simple medicine, but one + which almost always relieved and cured even when physicians failed.... + +It is rather surprising therefore to read that + + in those rare cases involving some knotty point which she could not + answer as she wished, she consulted a good physician and kept notes + of what he said. + +Surely if this lady could relieve and cure when physicians failed, the +consultation should have been the other way round! + +Sometimes a French or American origin is claimed, with a suggestion +that the preparation is therefore better, as in the following: + + “To Ladies. + + Do you want a guaranteed remedy for all irregularities? + + Do you want something far superior to steel and pennyroyal, bitter + apple and all English preparations? + + If you do, send for Nurse Grey’s Renowned American Compound Tablets. + A truly wonderful discovery, affording surprising results even in the + most obstinate cases. + + Prices 1s. 3d. and 2s. 9d. (treble quantity) in plain wrapper.” + +It is thus clearly conveyed that the marvellous superiority to all +English preparations is in the tablets; but in reality they are made +to open the way for a more expensive preparation not mentioned in the +advertisement. The tablets were sent with a circular letter, from which +the following are extracts: + + The tablets are certain to do good, and they frequently afford + complete relief, though this supply may be insufficient to test their + real worth.... + + Mixtures are MUCH more effective than pills, because they commence + to act upon the system IMMEDIATELY, whereas pills have to dissolve + before any benefit can be obtained. The Tablets, therefore, cannot + ALWAYS be supposed to accomplish what a 4s. 9d. bottle of medicine + will, and who would regret so small an outlay, which may be the means + of saving pounds.... You are anxious for a certain cure, and this is + JUST the medicine you require. It has cured thousands and will cure + you. There are only the two prices, namely, 4s. 9d., and Special + Compound 10s., post free, securely packed from observation. + +The way in which “guarantees” are given and then ignored is shown by +“Nurse Mann’s Remedy,” advertised thus: + + Free to Ladies. + + A Sample of the Most Reliable Remedy ever discovered for + irregularities and suppressions can be had, post free. Thousands + of letters of thanks testifying to their speedy efficacy after all + other things have been tried in vain. Each purchaser sends back + testimonials, as they afford relief in every instance. Or write for + our Extra Special Treatment at 4s. 6d., which we guarantee to cure + every case from any cause whatever (genuine). Guaranteed effective in + a few hours. Impossible to fail. Delay is dangerous. Send at once. + +Apparently this emphatic “guarantee” was intended to be forgotten as +soon as a first transaction had occurred, since, on sending for a 4s. +6d. box of “Extra Special,” a box of pills was sent accompanied by a +hectographed letter as follows: + + Dear Madam, + + If the pills should not prove strong enough to correct the + irregularity I should strongly advise you to send at once for my + special No. 3 treatment at 21s., which takes effect in a few hours + and saves all further worry and expense. + + It is perfectly harmless. + + Yours faithfully, + NURSE MANN. + +With regard to the analyses which follow, it is to be noted that many +of these preparations are pills, which always contain some excipient, +or binding material, and this is often of the nature of a vegetable +extract or a mixture of sugar, gum, etc., such as cannot be resolved +exactly into its constituents when dealing with only small quantities. +Others, again, are mixtures containing decoction of aloes with other +vegetable drugs; many also contain quite small quantities of volatile +oils, usually oil of pennyroyal, but sometimes with other oils also +present. In all such cases it is only possible to give an approximate +formula; in many cases some other constituent besides those named +may be present in small quantity, but if this is so, in any case +it is practically certain that such unnamed constituents are of an +ill-defined and usually inert character, since definite _active_ +substances can almost always be detected. + + +DUMAS’S PARIS PILLS. + +These are sold at 4s. 6d. per box. + +The box contained forty-six pills; these were coated with French +chalk, and after removal of the coating had an average weight of 2.9 +grains. Examination showed the presence of sulphate of iron, aloes, +canella, liquorice, jalap, ginger, wheat-flour, and a trace of oil of +pennyroyal. Estimation of the amounts of these ingredients indicated +the following formula: + + Dried sulphate of iron 38 grains + Powdered canella 22 „ + Powdered liquorice 22 „ + Powdered jalap 12 „ + Powdered ginger 6 „ + Barbadoes aloes 46 „ + Flour 12 „ + Oil of pennyroyal 2 minims + Excipient + In 100 pills. + +Estimated cost of ingredients for forty-six pills, ¹⁄₅d. + + +NURSE POWELL’S POPULAR PELLETS (SPECIAL). + +These are sold at 4s. 6d. per box, containing forty-five tablets. The +tablets were coated with sugar, dyed externally to a bright purple; +the average weight after removing the coating was 2.8 grains. Analysis +showed the presence of sulphate of iron, aloes, canella, ginger, oil +of pennyroyal, with starch and kaolin. Estimation of the various +ingredients indicated the following formula: + + Dried sulphate of iron 40 grains + Socotrine aloes 67 „ + Powdered canella 56 „ + Powdered ginger 8 „ + Oil of pennyroyal 12 minims + Maize starch 16 grains + Kaolin 50 „ + Excipient + In 100 tablets. + +Estimated cost of ingredients for forty-five tablets, ¹⁄₂d. + + +NURSE POWELL’S CORRECTIVE PILLS. + +These are sold at 11s. per box, containing forty-two pills. + +The pills were greyish-black, and proved to be coated with French chalk +and graphite; after removal of the coating the average weight was 4.6 +grains. Analysis showed the presence of sulphate of iron, aloes, oil of +pennyroyal, jalap, starch, and powdered liquorice; another vegetable +substance was present, which agreed in its histological characters with +powdered olive stones, a material largely employed in adulterating +the cheaper grades of powdered liquorice. Estimation of the various +ingredients indicated the following formula: + + Dried sulphate of iron 100 grains + Socotrine aloes 140 „ + Powdered jalap 14 „ + Powdered liquorice (adulterated) 80 „ + Oil of pennyroyal 10 minims + Starch 10 grains + Excipient + In 100 pills. + +Estimated cost of ingredients for forty-two pills, ¹⁄₃d. + + +NURSE POWELL’S CORRECTIVE MIXTURE. + +The price of this is 13s. per bottle, containing eight fluid ounces. + +Examination of the liquid showed it to be of the nature of compound +decoction of aloes, without saffron, with a trace of chloroform; it +was, however, much darker than the official decoction of corresponding +strength; no additional drug, however, could be detected, and by adding +burnt sugar to the decoction made without saffron a very similar liquid +was obtained. Only 4.7 per cent. (by volume) of alcohol was present, +instead of the 18 per cent. of the official decoction. + +Estimated cost of ingredients of eight fluid ounces, 3d. + + +IRRISTUM. + +The “extra strong” preparation was obtained for analysis. The 10s. +bottle of medicine contained six and three-quarters ounces. + +Analysis showed it to be an acid syrup of phosphate of iron with +quinine; it also contained 5 per cent. by volume of alcohol, which may +have been added in the form of a colouring tincture; the colouring +matter appeared to be cudbear. Determination of the quantities of the +various ingredients gave the following formula: + + Quinine sulphate 9 grains + Ferrous phosphate 10 „ + Dilute phosphoric acid 6 fl. drachms + Sugar 3 oz. + Rectified spirit 220 minims. + Cudbear + Water to 6.75 fl. oz. + +Estimated cost of ingredients, 2d. + + +MRS. LYDIA E. PINKHAM’S VEGETABLE COMPOUND. + +The price of this is 2s. 9d. and 4s. 6d. per bottle; the package is +marked, “Made in U.S.A.” A bottle was found to contain nearly seven +fluid ounces. + +Analysis showed it to contain 19.3 per cent. by volume of alcohol, and +only 0.6 per cent of solid substances; the ash was 0.06 per cent., +and consisted of the constituents usual in vegetable preparations; +traces of tannin and ammonia were present, and a small quantity of a +reducing sugar; no alkaloid was present, and no evidence was obtained +of any active principle except a trace of a bitter substance soluble in +ether; the remainder (0.3 or 0.4 per cent.) was vegetable extractive, +possessing no distinctive characters. + + +NURSE GREY’S AMERICAN COMPOUND TABLETS. + +These “tablets,” or more properly ovoid pills, are supplied at 1s. 3d. +and 2s. 9d. per box. A 1s. 3d. box contained twenty-six ovoid pills. + +The pills were thinly coated with gelatine coloured black, and had an +average weight of 2.5 grains. Analysis showed the principal constituent +to be ferrous carbonate, of which they contained 20 per cent. (like +the official form of Blaud pill); talc was present to the extent of 19 +per cent., with glucose and starch; all the constituents besides the +carbonate of iron appeared to be of the nature of excipient, and no +other medicinal substance could be detected. + +The wholesale price of 5-grain Blaud pills coated is about 3d. per +gross. + + +NURSE MANN’S REMEDY. + +The price of this is 4s. 6d. per box for the “Extra Special”; this +contained 48 pills. + +The pills were coated with talc; after removal of the coating they +had an average weight of 3.2 grains. Analysis showed them to contain +sulphate of iron, Barbadoes aloes, soap, powdered ginger, cardamom, +and cinnamon. The amount of iron in this case corresponded to 88 per +cent. of the official aloes and iron pill; there was some ground +for suspecting traces of oil of rue and apiol, but without positive +evidence of either. + + +TOWLE’S PENNYROYAL AND STEEL PILLS. + +The price of these is 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. per box, and upwards; a 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. box +was found to contain 26 pills. + +The pills were coated with French chalk and sugar; after removal of +the coating the average weight was slightly over 2 grains. Enough +oil of pennyroyal was present to give a not very marked odour of the +drug, and estimation of the quantity showed about 0.02 grain in each +pill; iron sulphate was present, in amount corresponding to 6.7 per +cent. of the official exsiccated salt. About 43 per cent. of the pill +consisted of powdered capsicum, and no other active ingredient was +found, the remainder being excipient and moisture. The formula is thus, +approximately: + + Dried sulphate of iron 14 grains + Powdered capsicum 86 „ + Oil of pennyroyal 3 minims + Excipient + In 100 pills. + +Estimated cost of the drugs, for twenty-six pills, ¹⁄₈d. + + +DR. JOHN HOOPER’S FEMALE PILLS. + +These pills are stated to be prepared under letters patent granted to +Dr. John Hooper in 1743. + +Examination of the letters patent granted in 1743 showed that a patent +for pills was taken out in that year by a Dr. John Hooper; in those +days, however, so-called “specifications” appear to have been accepted +which specified practically nothing, and no hint is given as to the +composition of the pills, except that they are composed of “the best +purging stomatick and antihysterical ingredients.” The results of +examination of the pills showed them to have an average weight of 1.2 +grains, and to contain sulphate of iron (equivalent to 8.4 per cent. +of the exsiccated salt), aloes, powdered senna, jalap, and canella +bark, with a trace of oil of pennyroyal. A similar pill is given by the +following formula: + + Dried sulphate of iron 10 grains + Powdered senna 48 „ + Powdered canella 27 „ + Powdered jalap 17 „ + Aloes 13 „ + Oil of pennyroyal 2 drops + Excipient + In 100 pills. + +Estimated cost of the drugs, for forty-one pills, ¹⁄₅d. + + +KEARSLEY’S ORIGINAL WIDOW WELCH’S FEMALE PILLS. + +The price of these is 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. per box containing twenty pills. + +The pills had an average weight of 3.8 grains, and were found to +contain sulphate of iron (equal to 29 per cent. of the exsiccated +salt), sulphur (2.7 per cent.), with powdered liquorice, powdered +turmeric, maize starch, and excipient. The vegetable powders were +estimated to be present in the amounts given in the following formula: + + Dried sulphate of iron 120 grains + Precipitated sulphur 12 „ + Powdered liquorice 65 „ + Powdered turmeric 34 „ + Excipient + In 100 pills. + +Estimated cost of drugs, for twenty pills, ¹⁄₂₀d. + + +DR. DAVIS’S FAMOUS FEMALE PILLS. + +The price of these pills is 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. per box, containing twenty-three. + +The pills were found to be coated with French chalk; after removal +of the coating the average weight was 2.7 grains. Examination showed +the presence of sulphate of iron (equal to 16 per cent. of exsiccated +salt), powdered savin (about 57 per cent.), and a bitter substance; it +was not possible to determine whether a bitter extract, such as extract +of gentian, had been used as excipient, or whether a small quantity +of extract of colocynth was contained in the pill. If the latter, the +formula is approximately + + Dried sulphate of iron 46 grains + Powdered savin 154 „ + Extract of colocynth 3 „ + Excipient + In 100 pills. + +Estimated cost of drugs, in twenty-three pills, ¹⁄₆d. + + +DR. DAVIS’S FAMOUS FEMALE MIXTURE. + +The price of this is 2s. 9d. per bottle, containing two fluid ounces. + +The principal ingredient found was oil of pennyroyal, of which about +0.8 per cent. was present, with 9 per cent. of alcohol (by volume), +and about 4 per cent. of glycerine. The mixture also contained 0.8 per +cent. of undissolved substance; this contained a trace of magnesia +(no doubt employed in mixing in the oil of pennyroyal); the insoluble +and dissolved substances gave evidence of the presence of extract of +gossypium, but as this contains no definite active principle, and +there is no standard method for preparing it, the quantity could not +be determined. The whole of the drug extractive present did not appear +to be derived from gossypium, but the other ingredient could not be +identified with any ordinary drug, after comparison with a considerable +number. A trace of some alkaloidal substance (under 0.01 per cent.) was +also present. + + +JEFFERSON DODD’S CORRECTIVE. + +This mixture is sold at 2s. 9d. per bottle, containing 4 fluid ounces. + +Analysis showed the presence of the constituents of decoction of +aloes, except saffron, together with a small quantity of chloroform; +the alcohol, however, only amounted to 5.3 per cent. (by volume). A +“concentrated decoction of aloes, without saffron,” is largely sold as +a cheaper substitute for the official preparation; the latter, however, +whether with or without the saffron, cannot properly be prepared of the +concentration commonly employed (1 = 4) on account of the amount of +tincture of cardamoms, and the alcohol is therefore diminished in the +concentrated preparation, and may consequently vary in the preparations +of different makers. The following formula: + + Concentrated decoction of aloes without saffron (1 to 3), 1 part + Chloroform water, 2 parts + Water to 8 parts (all by measure), + +gave a mixture agreeing in all respects, except the amount of alcohol +present, with the one under examination. + +Estimated cost of ingredients of 4 ounces, ⁹⁄₁₀d. + + +JEFFERSON DODD’S FEMALE PILLS. + +The price of these pills is 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. per box, containing thirty-six. + +The pills were found to be coated with French chalk, and after removal +of the coating had an average weight of 3.4 grains. Analysis showed +sulphate of iron to be present (equal to 8.9 per cent. of exsiccated +salt), with aloes and powdered liquorice, the remainder being excipient +and moisture. The following formula gave a similar pill:-- + + Dried sulphate of iron 34 grains + Powdered liquorice 72 „ + Barbadoes aloes 142 „ + Excipient + In 100 pills. + +Estimated cost of drugs for thirty-six pills, ¹⁄₆d. + + +MARTIN’S APIOL AND STEEL PILLS. + +These are sold at 4s. 6d. per bottle, containing forty-nine pills. + +The pills were coated with French chalk, coloured pink with eosin; +after removal of the coating the average weight was 3.8 grains. Iron +was found to be present in the metallic state to the extent of 2 per +cent.; powdered cinnamon, powdered cardamom, and aloes were also found, +and about 3 per cent. of apiol; estimation of the amounts of the drugs +and comparison with pill-masses prepared for the purpose indicated the +following formula: + + Reduced iron 10 grains + Barbadoes aloes 150 „ + Apiol 12 „ + Powdered cinnamon 75 „ + Powdered cardamom 55 „ + Excipient + In 100 pills. + +Estimated cost of ingredients, for forty-nine pills, ³⁄₄d. + + +FOURNIER’S HYGENIQUE MIXTURE FOR FEMALES (EXTRA STRONG). + +The price of this is 11s. 0d. per bottle holding twenty fluid ounces. + +Examination showed the mixture to consist of compound decoction of +aloes, with the addition of a very small quantity of iron; the amount +of the latter corresponded to 0.45 per cent. of the crystalline +ferrous sulphate, or two grains in a dose. A further difference +between this mixture and the official decoction of aloes was that this +only contained 3.9 per cent. of alcohol, against 18 per cent. in the +preparation of the _British Pharmacopœia_. + +Estimated cost of ingredients for twenty fluid ounces, 1s. 1d. + + +MONAID TABLETS. + +The price of these is 2s. 9d. per box containing fifty-nine tablets. + +The tablets are described as “chocolate coated”; in reality they were +coated with sugar coloured to a chocolate-brown with iron oxide. After +removal of the coating, the average weight of one was 2.2 grains. They +contained neither iron, aloes, pennyroyal, or any powdered vegetable +drug, and no alkaloid. Oleo-resin of capsicum was present to a rather +considerable extent, and almost the whole of the remaining material +of the tablets consisted of a substance agreeing in all respects +with caulophyllin; the two were compared by various tests, but as +there are no definite reactions for caulophyllin, and it possesses +no characteristic smell, taste, etc., it cannot be quite positively +asserted that this was the substance present. Enough oil of caraway +was present to give a slight odour, and small quantities of flour and +kaolin; there was some indication of another substance, but nothing +further could be identified. + + +SANOL CONES. + +Two varieties of these were examined, viz.: + +SANOL CONES (ORDINARY). Price 4s. 6d. per box, containing sixteen +cones. These “cones” were small suppositories rounded at one end and +tapering towards the other; they were of an average weight of 13.2 +grains. They contained sulphate of iron corresponding to 1.5 per cent. +of the exsiccated salt, quinine corresponding to 6.6 per cent. of +the ordinary sulphate, and about 2 per cent. of a vegetable powder, +which proved to be gentian root; the remainder consisted of oil of +theobroma. The formula is thus:-- + + Dried sulphate of iron 22 grains + Sulphate of quinine 87 „ + Powdered gentian 26 „ + Oil of theobroma 1,200 „ + In 100 cones. + +Estimated cost of ingredients of sixteen cones, under 1¹⁄₂d. + +SANOL CONES (SPECIAL). Price 11s. per box, containing thirty-six cones. +These were similar in size and shape to the preceding, but differed +in being of a green colour. Analysis showed the presence of quinine +sulphate, 5.5 per cent., and powdered gentian about 4 per cent.; the +base was oil of theobroma. No other medicament could be detected; the +green colouring matter was small in quantity and dissolved in fat, +a similar product being obtained by colouring oil of theobroma with +commercial chlorophyll. The formula is thus: + + Sulphate of quinine 72 grains + Powdered gentian 52 „ + Oil of theobroma (tinted green) 1,200 „ + In 100 cones. + +Estimated cost of ingredients in thirty-six cones, 3d. + + +I.R.S. COMPOUND GOLDEN TABLETS. + +The price of these is 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. per box, containing twenty-four. + +The “tablets” were ovoid pills coated with French chalk, “gilded” on +the surface; the “gilding” showed the composition of so-called gold +paint, containing copper but no gold. After removal of the coating +the average weight of the pills was 2 grains; analysis showed them to +contain sulphate of iron equivalent to 48 per cent. of the exsiccated +salt, and sodium carbonate, producing ferrous carbonate on addition +of water; the other ingredients were starch, gum, and moisture. The +amounts of ferrous sulphate and sodium carbonate were not properly +adjusted for converting the whole of the former to ferrous carbonate, +but the composition was variable. One specimen showed 48 per cent. of +dried ferrous sulphate, one-fourth of which was converted to ferrous +carbonate on treatment with water; another gave only 37 per cent. of +dried ferrous sulphate, two fifths of which formed ferrous carbonate. +The formula is thus approximately: + + Dried sulphate of iron 86 grains + Dried sodium carbonate 25 grains + Excipient + In 100 pills. + +Estimated cost of ingredients of twenty-four pills, ¹⁄₁₅d. + + +MRS. SHAFFER-BENNYON’S REMEDY. + +This is supplied at 4s. 8d. per box, containing fourteen suppositories +for rectal use. + +On the wrapper of the box it was stated that: + + These cones are composed of Theobroma, Cerum, Fer Lac. Sol. Quinæ, + Sulph, Ol, Rutae, Crab, Etc. + + (the stops being as here given). + +The fourteen suppositories had an average weight of 14.2 grains each. +Analysis showed them to contain + + Quinine sulphate 5.1 per cent. + Boric acid 4.9 „ + Oil of theobroma 2.75 fl. oz. + +They had a slight green tint, and a faint odour which may have +been due to a trace of oil of rue. No iron was present (Fer Lac. +being presumably some form of iron), and no “crab” was found. Each +suppository thus contains quinine sulphate 0.73 grain, boric acid 0.70 +grain. The estimated cost of the materials for fourteen suppositories +is 1d. + + +MRS. STAFFORD-BROOKES’ PELLOIDS. + +These are supplied at 4s. 6d. per box, containing sixteen pessaries. + +The resemblances between this preparation and the former one are far +too numerous to be accidental. The name of the proprietor, the nature +of the claims made, the wording of the advertisements, the general +appearance of the package supplied, and the style and wording of all +the circulars, are very similar in the two cases. The chief difference +is that the cones are placed in the rectum in the one case and in the +vagina in the other, but it can make no practical difference where the +ones about to be described are placed. + +On the package appears the statement: + + These Pelloids are Guaranteed Harmless, and contain Sulph. Quinae., + Ol. Theobroma, Rad. Anchusae, Myrrh, A. Bor, etc., etc. + +The “Pelloids” consisted of suppositories, or pessaries, of an average +weight of 14.2 grains, coloured pink with a preparation of alkanet +(Rad. Anchusae); analysis showed them to contain 2.3 per cent. of +boric acid, with oil of theobroma, and a minute trace of quinine, not +sufficient to give the slightest perceptible bitter taste; no myrrh or +any other ingredient could be detected. + +Each “Pelloid” thus contains: Boric acid, 0.37 grain. + +The estimated cost of the materials for the sixteen pessaries is 1d. + + +NURSE HAMMOND’S IMPROVED REMEDIES. + +These are supplied in three forms, known as “Treatment No. 1,” price +5s. 6d.; “Treatment No. 2,” price 10s. 6d.; and “Treatment No. 3,” +price 21s. + +“Treatment No. 2” was selected; this consisted of an 8-oz. bottle of +liquid, 16 tablets, and 16 pills. + +_The Mixture._--The bottle contained 8 fluid ozs. Analysis showed the +liquid to contain 2.8 per cent. by volume of alcohol, between 2 and +3 per cent. of glycerine, and a very little extractive; the latter +possessed no characters by which it could be identified, but its vinous +smell and taste, slight acidity, and alkaline ash, and the presence +of a reducing sugar in moderate amount, all suggested the presence +of a small quantity of wine. No active principle of any sort could +be detected beyond a minute trace of an alkaloid, and there was no +evidence of any other medicinal substance. + +_The Pills._--Sixteen pills were sent. They were coated with talc, +and after removal of the coating had an average weight of 2.9 grains. +Analysis showed the principal ingredient to be ferrous carbonate, +which formed 17 per cent. of the pill; other ingredients were soap (1 +per cent.), powdered liquorice root, wheat starch, sodium sulphate +(formed in the production of the ferrous carbonate), and excipients. +No alkaloid or other active principle was found. The pills were thus a +form of Blaud’s pill, somewhat weaker than the official iron pill. + +_The Tablets._--Sixteen tablets were sent. They were coated with a +mixture of talc, carbonate of magnesia, sugar and starch, and coloured +pink externally. After removal of the coating they had an average +weight of 4.1 grains. Analysis showed the presence of aloin, powdered +tansy herb, powdered liquorice in considerable quantity, and talc. No +alkaloid was present, and no other constituent was detected. + + +GAUTIEUR’S FEMALE PILLS. + +The price of these is 7¹⁄₂d. and 2s. 3d. per box; a 7¹⁄₂d. box +contained twelve pills. + +The pills were ovoid in shape, coated with talc coloured pink; after +removal of the coating they had an average weight of 3.8 grains. +Analysis showed the presence of a very small quantity of an aromatic +essential oil, which appeared to consist of oils of pennyroyal and rue, +and possibly tansy; the quantity was far too small for its components +to be separated and identified positively. A small quantity of apiol +appeared to be present, but this substance possesses no characters by +which it can be positively identified in such a mixture; the principal +constituents were exsiccated sulphate of iron--forming 10 per cent. of +the pill--and soap--present to the extent of 11 per cent., and probably +added to assist in incorporating the apiol and essential oils; powdered +liquorice was present to the extent of about 30 per cent., and a little +powdered ginger; traces of other vegetable tissue were to be seen, but +in such small quantity that it was probably only accidental; a bitter +substance was present in small quantity, which was apparently (but not +quite certainly) Socotrine aloes. + + +DR. PATTERSON’S FEMALE PILLS. + +These are supplied in boxes at 2s. 9d.; “special extra strong,” 4s. 6d. +A 2s. 9d. box contained twenty-seven pills. + +The pills were coated with talc, and coloured pink. After removal of +the coating, they had an average weight of 3.2 grains. Analysis showed +them to contain sulphate of iron, Barbadoes aloes, soap, powdered +ginger, cardamom, and cinnamon. All these ingredients except the +soap occur in the official aloes and iron pill; the amount of iron +found corresponded to about 70 per cent. of the latter mass in the +pills under examination. A slight aroma other than that from the +constituents named may have been due to a trace of oil of rue, and a +small quantity of apiol may have been present, but no positive evidence +of its presence was obtained. + + +HORTON’S BENEDICT PILLS. + +The price of these is 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. and 2s. 9d. per box. A 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. box +contained forty-nine pills. + +The pills had an average weight of 4 grains; analysis showed them +to contain sulphate of iron, Socotrine aloes, powdered ginger in +considerable quantity, and a small amount of another vegetable powder +which appeared to be gentian. The amount of iron corresponded to 10 per +cent. of the exsiccated sulphate. + + +BLANCHARD’S APIOL AND STEEL PILLS. + +Blanchard’s Pills are supplied at 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. per box, containing +twenty-four. + +The pills were coated with talc, and after removal of the coating +had an average weight of 1.9 grains. Analysis showed the presence of +sulphate of iron, soap, Barbadoes aloes, powdered ginger, cardamom, and +cinnamon; evidence was also obtained of the presence of a little apiol, +but the characters of this substance are not sufficiently well defined +for the amount to be determined quantitatively. The soap was 3 per +cent. of the pill, and was no doubt added to assist in incorporating +the apiol; the other ingredients represent the official aloes and iron +pill, present to the extent of about 80 per cent. + + +NURSE LILLY’S FEMALE PILLS. + +These pills are supplied at 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. and 2s. 9d. per box; a 1s. +1¹⁄₂d. box contained thirty-three pills. + +The pills were coated with talc, and after removal of the coating +had an average weight of 1.9 grains. Analysis showed the presence of +sulphate of iron (12 per cent. of the exsiccated salt), Socotrine +aloes, cinchonine sulphate (3.3 per cent.), powdered capsicum (about 30 +per cent.), and a little powdered ginger and oil of pennyroyal; a small +quantity of a powdered beetle was also present, probably due to the +capsicum having been beetle-infested (so-called “worm-eaten”). + + +BLAK THYROL FEMALE PILLS. + +These pills are supplied at the following prices: No. 2, 2s. 6d.; No. +3x (strong), 3s. 6d.; No. 4 (extra), 5s.; No. 5x (special), 7s. 6d. per +box. The variety analysed was No. 3x, a 3s. 6d. box of which contained +48 pills. + +The pills are advertised in the following terms: + + Blak Thyrol is a moon plant originally discovered in South Virginia, + and its compound was found to have the most specific control over + all the Blood Vessels of the body. By building up the system to + its utmost capacity, it cannot fail to remove all obstructions and + irregularities, which chiefly lie between the Fallopian Tubes, Broad + Ligaments, and the Overies (_sic_)--these organs always needing + assistance and are entirely under the influence of the moon. Blak + Thyrol being a moon plant, is in complete sympathy with all the + affected organs, and puts them in an excellent condition to do their + work, provided they are taken exactly as directed. Send for a box at + once; time is precious. + +The pills were coated with talc, coloured black. After removal of +the coating they had an average weight of 5.1 grains. They contained +sufficient oil of pennyroyal to give them a fairly strong odour of the +drug. Analysis showed them to contain reduced iron, arsenic in small +quantity, a trace of alkaloid, powdered ginger, a little powdered +liquorice, and another vegetable powder. The reduced iron amounted to +14 per cent. of the pill, or 0.7 grain in each; the arsenic, calculated +as arsenious acid, was 0.06 per cent., or about ¹⁄₃₀₀ grain in each; +this proportion of arsenic might be present as an impurity in a bad +sample of reduced iron. The trace of alkaloid which was present was +neither strychnine nor a solanaceous alkaloid, showing the absence of +extracts of nux vomica, belladonna, and henbane, and it was probably +derived from the unnamed vegetable powder. The microscopical characters +of the latter did not agree with those of any drug usually employed +as an emmenagogue or a purgative, and after careful comparisons it +could not be identified; presumably it is the “moon plant originally +discovered in South Virginia.” No aloes, soap, or powdered colocynth +was present. The extractive and resinous matter present possessed no +distinctive characters, and probably represented only the constituents +of the powdered drugs dissolved by the solvents employed in the +analysis, together with the excipient used for making up the pill. + + +A MEDICINE FOR ENSURING EASY CONFINEMENTS. + +The remaining nostrum here described is for a different purpose from +the preceding, as the extracts from advertisements given below show. + + +MATROZONE. + +This is a preparation supplied by a firm in a northern seaport at 5s. +6d. per package containing two bottles marked A and B, each holding one +fluid ounce. + +The purpose for which it is intended is indicated by the statement on +the first page of the booklet which is sent with it:-- + + Matrozone Promotes Natural, Rapid, and Easy Confinement. Ensures + Healthy, Beautiful, and Bright Children + +The booklet proceeds to give an account of the origin of the medicine. +In a copy of the pamphlet sent out in 1908 it is stated that:-- + + This treatment is the result of the patient investigation of a + Minister of Religion.... When a young man pursuing his studies with + a view to qualifying for the Medical Profession he was profoundly + impressed by the death of a young wife, closely associated with his + family, in her first confinement. + + Realising vividly both the pain and peril involved in child-bearing + he turned to see if any possible help could be given to the mother by + appropriate drugs--if her system could be gently and scientifically + prepared for the great strain to be brought upon it. While turning + from the medical profession to enter the Christian Ministry, he did + not for a moment relinquish his scientific and medical studies, or + abandon his quest. + + Through one pastorate extending over thirty-three years, he kept his + purpose in view. + +But in a copy of the booklet sent out in 1911 the statement appears +thus-- + + Matrozone (pronounced “Maytrozone”) is the result of the prolonged + and patient investigation of a Scientist. When a young man, pursuing + his studies with a view to qualifying for the Medical Profession, + he was profoundly impressed by the death of a young wife, closely + associated with his family, in her first confinement, etc. + +And the references to his “turning from the medical profession,” and +to the pastorate of thirty-three years are omitted. In the following +extracts there is no difference of importance between the two +pamphlets:-- + + Drug after drug was examined, studied, and carefully experimented + with, until several gave proof, when accurately and proportionately + combined, of their power to render incalculable help in every case + experimented upon. + + His first impulse was to make widely public the result of his + observations and experiments, but riper consideration showed him that + this was quite impracticable. Such a publicity could not possibly be + obtained. The great majority of the people would certainly never hear + of it. + + Then the preparations were most delicate. They had to be made not + only with skill, but with extreme conscientiousness, and they had + to be administered in a carefully ascertained order. Only trained + pharmacists could prepare them, and without oversight or check, they + might be prepared carelessly, and so rendered abortive.... + + The first great function of “Matrozone” in its two forms is to + facilitate parturition; or, in other words, to ensure natural, + speedy, and easy childbirth.... In all the cases in which it has + already been tried, and of which notes have been carefully kept, it + has proved itself of inestimable service. In many cases the child + has been healthily born Before the Doctor Has Arrived, the mother + has made a quick and spontaneous recovery, and the babe has proved + sound, bright, and thriving.... It powerfully but naturally regulates + the health of the mother during the later months of gestation. It + corrects the tendency to hysteria, and to hysteric headaches. It has + a specific and remarkable power to obviate false presentations.... A + second great function of “Matrozone” is to induce vigour, buoyancy, + physical beauty, and intellectual brightness in the child. This is + one of its most remarkable and beneficent achievements.... + + Length of Treatment. + + To obtain its best effects in the hour of labour it should be used + daily for at least a month before the accouchement is expected. + It would be much safer, however, to commence its use six weeks + before, especially where difficulties are anticipated, and in first + confinements. + + Dose. + + “Matrozone” may be better described as an elegant and scientific + treatment than as a single preparation. Its ingredients are so + subtle, and have such a distinct and delicate action, that it is + prepared in two forms--A and B. Ten drops of the preparation A should + be taken in a little tepid water every morning, half an hour before + breakfast, and ten drops of the preparation B should be taken in a + little tepid water every evening half-an-hour before food. + +Analysis of the liquid in the bottle marked A showed it to contain 68.9 +per cent. (by volume) of alcohol, and water. The total solid matter +was too small in amount to be weighed (unless by working on a large +amount of the liquid), and might easily be accounted for by tap water +having been used to dilute the alcohol. No trace of alkaloid was shown +by the most delicate test. The residue showed a minute trace of organic +matter, but it was, of course, impossible to say whether this was due +to an infinitesimal quantity of some plant extract, etc., or to dust +and other chance contamination of the liquid. + +The liquid in the bottle marked B contained only 60.3 per cent. by +volume of alcohol, but in other respects resembled that in the other +bottle. + +The cost of the alcohol in the two bottles together would be about +3¹⁄₂d. + + +A GERMAN NOSTRUM. + +Dr Zernik states that:-- + + _Dr. med. R. Kleinertz’s Quidestin_ is advertised in a most catchy + manner. The advertisement includes the following passages: “What is + it? It is a comfort to those about to become mothers.” The directions + for use are as follows: A tablespoonful of the extract is to be + placed in a thick walled small cup or other similar vessel, and this + is placed in a pail. The fluid is then lighted, and the patient is + to allow the fumes to play around her abdomen and legs, until they + are thoroughly warmed. This is to be repeated twice a day for the + last six weeks of pregnancy. The composition is given as blackthorn, + camomile, eucalyptus, hoarhound, shepherd’s pouch, and cheese rennet + extracted in alcohol. The analysis showed that quidestin is a weak + extract of various indifferent vegetables, including eucalyptus and + camomile in 90 per cent. spirit. Apart from the impossibility of the + fumes being of therapeutic value, Zernik points out the highness of + the price, 5s. per litre bottle, sufficient for three weeks. + + + + +CHAPTER XIV. + +WALLACE’S SPECIFIC REMEDIES--“AN ABSOLUTE SYSTEM OF MEDICINE.” + + + A study of the advertising matter, pamphlets, “treatises,” etc., + published by the makers of proprietary medicines, even if not + supplemented by analytical investigation of the medicines themselves, + might well induce the belief that human gullibility is unlimited. So + many of such publications reveal at once to an intelligent reader + the ignorance, and often also the knavishness, of the persons making + the statements contained in them that it seems almost incredible + that moderately educated people can be duped by them; but it seems + quite clear that they are so duped. Probably most people, by a few + judicious inquiries among their friends, will come across cases of + individuals of fair education and acumen in other matters accepting + unquestioningly quite absurd statements widely advertised about + some nostrum, or the diseases which it is asserted to cure. The + particulars given in this chapter of a set of so-called “specifics + for the eradication of all organic and functional diseases incidental + to the present generation during infant and adult life” well + illustrate the power of nonsense to get itself believed and accepted. + These medicines appear to be put forward by two persons of the + name of Wallace, one of whom professes to be their “discoverer,” + and the discoverer of the “Origin and Unity of Disease in Man and + Animals.” Such statements as that the white corpuscles of the + blood are yeast cells, and that phlegm consists simply of masses + of them, or that acetic acid is an absolute poison, surely cannot + impress many readers with respect for the knowledge of the author; + while the grouping together as diseases for which one and the + same preparation--an aconite tincture containing no alkaloid--is + an “absolute specific,” of dropsy, insanity, consumption, mumps, + vermin under the skin, pleurisy, and many others, shows a degree of + ignorance that a cheap-jack pill-vendor in a country market-place + might hesitate to display. The results of analysis complete the + exposure of the worthlessness of the statements made; thus, it is + professed that all alkaloidal substances are absent from all the + preparations, but three out of the six tested were found to contain + one or more of the alkaloids caffeine, hydrastine, and berberine, + while one of those not examined is stated by the “discoverer” + himself to be tincture of hydrastis, which, of course, contains the + two alkaloids last named. Another of the preparations, which is a + tincture of the same drug, is put forward as an “absolute specific” + for cancer of all kinds, for syphilis, and all venereal diseases, and + a host of other disorders. Two others were found to be tinctures of + coffee, one was a tincture of nutmegs, and another showed no active + constituent of any character by which it could be recognized as a + medicinal substance. Possibly if these facts come to the knowledge of + some of the adherents of this “absolute system of medicine” they may + be more inclined to give it the slightly altered name of “an absolute + system of quackery.” + +The modest claim advanced for “Wallace’s Twelve Specific Remedies,” +which form the subject of the present chapter, is that: + + These Specifics are for the Eradication of all Organic and Functional + Diseases incidental to the present generation during infant and adult + life, + +and the prescribing of the “specifics” is regarded as a complete system +of medicine. These preparations are supplied from the offices of _The +Herald of Health_, London; their authors appear to be Mr. Joseph +Wallace and Mrs. C. Leigh Hunt Wallace. The medicines are supplied +at the uniform price of 2s. 9d. per bottle, containing one fluid +ounce, but it appears that the proprietors do not confine themselves +to merely selling these preparations. In a list of “Terms for Medical +and Hygienic Consultation with Mrs. C. Leigh Hunt Wallace (The Wallace +Specifics only prescribed)” fees are named ranging from half a guinea +as “reduced terms for domestic, railway, and other servants,” to two +guineas for ordinary “consultation by appointment”; and from the same +list it appears that Mr. Wallace’s terms are three guineas for a +consultation and five guineas for “visits to patients’ own residences, +within three miles of Russell Square.” It is not necessary to express +any opinion as to whether the “system” is one of deliberate and +conscious fraud and imposture, or whether the persons concerned are +protected by the completeness of their ignorance from full realisation +of the true nature of their practices. The extracts given below from +their publications are sufficient evidence of that ignorance. + +The principal account of the “system” is given in a book of about 170 +pages, entitled “_Physianthropy, or, The Home Cure and Eradication of +Disease_. By Joseph Wallace (Lex et Lux) and C. Leigh Hunt Wallace,” +which is sold at 6d. and 1s. The date of the eighth edition of this, +now being sold, appears to be 1901 or 1902; this is supplemented by a +pamphlet dealing only with the specifics, dated 1906, and described as + + SECOND EDITION. By which “Physianthropy” may be corrected and revised + up-to-date. + +The book is divided into several parts, all characterised by a display +of great ignorance and great assurance; the part with which we are now +concerned is entitled, + + AN ABSOLUTE SCIENCE OF MEDICINE, IN OPPOSITION TO STATE-PROTECTED + EXPERIMENTAL QUACKERY, + +its claim to being “absolute” apparently depending on its being +unrelated to facts, at least in any such way as the sort of science +which is stigmatised as “experimental.” In the introduction to this +part an account is given of how Mrs. Wallace first became acquainted +with these remedies from their “discoverer,” Mr. Wallace; but it is not +stated whether he discovered them in a dream, or in some other manner +equally free from the charge of being experimental. But we are told that + + This invaluable system he has only divulged to clergymen and doctors, + who each gladly paid him a hundred guineas, and bound themselves, + legally, not to reveal the names or the method of preparation of his + medicines, till after he had published his complete medical work, + which would give to the world the free and full benefits of his + discoveries. + +Certain possible criticism is thus dealt with in advance:-- + + It is evident that those who say this book is written for the + purpose of advertising the sale of _quack_ medicines utter a false + and slanderous assertion upon one whose desires and works are ever + devoted to the best interests of humanity. + +The “Specifics” are thus referred to collectively: + + The Medicines, here introduced to the public for home use and private + purchase for the first time, consist of + + Twelve Absolute Specifics. + + _They are scientifically curative of the various diseases and + conditions of the body, which are here carefully enumerated, as + indicating their requirement._ + + _At present these Medicines are merely distinguished by numbers, as + “No. I.,” “No. II.,” “No. III.,” etc._ + + _It must be explained that they are prepared in an alcohol denuded + of fusel oil, and are treble the concentration of those of a + similar kind prepared by the usual homœopathic or allopathic mode, + but, as explained elsewhere, the whole of what may be called the + accumulative, alkaloidal, or poisonous principles of the plants have + been removed, and thus their curative powers, when combined with a + truly curative regimen, are enhanced in a marvellous degree._ + + _Although it may be considered almost hopeless to expect any of these + Specifics to be improved upon, or superseded, yet should others be + subsequently discovered which are more prompt in palliative action + under any conditions, non-cumulative in the human system, and + permanently curative, they will be described in a future edition of + this work._ + +A footnote states that this was written in 1883; since only twelve +specifics are still described, it appears that the faint hope suggested +of anything else being discovered worthy to rank with them has not been +fulfilled in the twenty-nine years that have since elapsed, in spite +of the many advances and new discoveries in that time in mere ordinary +“experimental” medicine; but progress is, of course, incompatible with +“an absolute system” of anything. + +No. I.--This is stated to be made from _Aconitum napellus_, but to be +non-poisonous. It is stated in the preface that: + + This was the subject, in 1891, of a prosecution, as Mr. Wallace + desired to send it out without the label “POISON” being put upon the + bottle containing it. But it is, _technically_, a poison, because + it is prepared from the poisonous plant _Aconitum napellus_. Mr. + Wallace has taken a patent out for his method of producing from + it a non-poisonous tincture.... When the law was made that all + preparations of that plant were to be labelled “Poison,” it was not + contemplated that a non-poisonous preparation could be made. The law + is behind the times, and needs repealing. + +In regard to its mode of action, we are informed that: + + The chief action of “No. I.” is over the whole circulatory and + nervous systems, controlling them when diseased, in a most marvellous + manner, without causing any unnatural suppression of the vitality. It + has a wonderful power of paralysing the white, or yeast corpuscles + in the blood, and thus staying their power of reproduction, or + growth, and multiplication; reducing the fermentative abnormal heat + of the blood in a corresponding degree, thus relieving congested + and inflammatory states, and so causing the skin pores to become + more elastic, open, and free, as the capillaries get rid of their + congestive blockings. The mucous membranes are also enabled to allow + free exit to the phlegm, or yeasty excretions from the blood, which + the microscope reveals to be one mass of white corpuscles. It is by + virtue of this wonderful power of clearing out this effete matter + that the normal circulation becomes rapidly established, and the + yeasty impurities of the blood, or death force, which was locked up + in the brain, or upper parts of the body, has to descend _outwards_, + and _downwards_ (according to Nature’s law of cure), thus cooling the + head, and, by balancing the circulation, warming the feet at the same + time. “No. I.” also possesses the curative property of encouraging + and assisting Nature in her expulsion of iron and other mineral + drugs, hence its wonderful control over neuralgia and lung bleedings, + which are drug (_iron_) created diseases, or conditions. Thus it + is that all abnormal hæmorrhages, and discharges are specially + benefited by it, diseased matter rapidly expelled, and healthy + fluids conserved, while the healthy normal action of the organism is + restored in the least possible time. + +A pretty specimen of “absolute” nonsense! + +The names of diseases for which this “non-poisonous tincture” of +aconite is to be taken, and the list of their symptoms, occupy several +pages. A few specimens will show the catholic nature of this “specific”: + + Dropsy. Insanity. Tubercular diseases. Consumption. Bronchitis. + Asthma. Heart, stomach, and liver diseases. Inflammatory and + painful diseases of the spleen, pancreas, womb, kidneys, bladder, + and bowels. Mumps. Abscesses. Scrofula.... Hydrocephalus.... + Measles.... Small-pox. Fevers of all kinds.... Organic debility. + Angina pectoris.... Diphtheria.... Whooping cough.... Bleeding of the + nose, eyes, or ears.... Polypus of the nose, etc.... Vermin under + the skin.... Poisoning by bad or putrid fish.... Erysipelas.... + Boils.... Piles. Hysteria. Tooth, jaw, and face-ache. Sciatica. + Neuralgia. Lumbago.... Pleurisy.... Epilepsy.... Painful, prolonged, + and difficult parturition.... Difficult, deficient, painful, or + suppressed menstruation.... Leucorrhoea.... Squinting. Sunstroke.... + Sore throat. Cold in the head.... Bright’s disease. Diabetes.... + Cataract. Amaurosis. Short-sightedness. + +Can anything be left for the other eleven specifics to do? + +With regard to the non-poisonous nature of this tincture, it is +explained that: + + The plant from which “No. I.” is made is a poisonous one; but this + tincture is not prepared from, and does not contain, that portion + of the plant known to be poisonous and consequently cumulative in + the human organism. The alkaloid of the plant has to be almost, + if not wholly, eliminated by the peculiar mode of preparation and + preservation in a non-poisonous alcohol, which has been previously + deprived of its fusel oil and other poisonous properties. So much + so is this the case, that this preparation of “No. I.” has been + taken by mistake by several patients with delicate organisms, and + by people who mistook it for brandy, _in quantities_ equal to _two + large wineglassfuls or more at one time_, without the least permanent + injurious after-effects, beyond being very much frightened by the + peculiar electrical effects produced on the nervous system. + +“Two large wineglassfuls” would be from 4 oz. to 10 oz. or more, +according to the meaning of “large.” The draught would therefore +cost from 11s. to 27s. or so, enough to make the patients “very much +frightened.” + +The dose for adults is stated to be “20 drops to 40 drops, according to +temperament.” + +It is somewhat surprising, in view of its non-poisonous nature, to read +that the antidote to overdoses of “No. I.” for adults is “No. III.” +in 30-drop doses. It is added that “the poisonous aconite sold at the +chemist’s needs port wine as an antidote.” + +It did not appear to be worth while to analyse every one of the twelve +“specifics,” and “No. I.” was not examined. + +No. II.--The action of this is described as follows: + + The great power of “No. II.” consists in antidoting, or neutralizing, + the virulence of the corrosive action of the matter of bad, + offensive, painful, burning or eating ulcers, whereby all pain + is allayed and completely averted, when it can be applied as + directed. Coming directly in contact with the excreted and excreting + yeast corpuscles, it at once so neutralizes their ammoniacal and + putrefactive surroundings, however degraded their source, that nature + can immediately set up, and keep healthy, granulations of the part, + until all offending matter which nature has to expel by that outlet, + has oozed out, or been discharged, and thus if “No. II.” is taken + at the beginning, it is able to avert skin scars where they would + unavoidably be produced without it. Hence it is specially curative + for all broken, open, raw, or ulcerated surfaces, either internally + or externally. + + It has another wonderful power, as an extension of the above, in + rooting out hereditary and acquired diseases from inoculation, and + subsequent allopathic or other unscientific treatment. It will + root out these old diseases, and mineral drugs, even when lodged + in the bones, throwing to the surface the rotten bone with other + offending matter; thus enabling nature to recuperate, and restore + the lost parts. With seemingly latent, or internal abnormal growths, + or growing ulcers, such as cancer and ovarian dropsy, when taken + internally, “No. II.” not only stops their slow growth, but, by + neutralizing the virulence of the corrosive or putrefactive ichor + excreted from the degraded yeast or other germs in the affected + parts, enables nature to disperse gradually and surely, as a foreign + but inoffensive substance, the effete matter without injury to the + vitality, and with but comparatively little general disturbance. + + In burns, scalds, and corrosions from cauteries, and corrosive + minerals, and mineral acids, externally applied, it is all powerful + in allaying the pain, preventing suppuration, and healing the part. + +The list of diseases “_for which it is the absolute specific for all or +some of their phases_” includes such trifles as: + + Syphilis, and every form of venereal disease. Cancer in every form, + whether situated in the stomach, womb, bowels, kidneys, liver, + lungs, breast, brain, throat, tongue, mouth, nose, or any other part + of the body. Ovarian dropsy. Whitlow. Fistula.... Diphtheria.... + Itching, soreness, or eruption of the reproductive organs, from + whatever cause in male or female.... Deafness, with suppuration of + the ears.... Necrosis, or rotting of bones. Hernia.... Varicose + veins. Aneurisms.... Confluent small-pox. Itch. Psoriasis. Eczema.... + Tendency to miscarriage.... Diabetes.... Cystitis and Bright’s + diseases in syphilitized persons. Effects of poisoning by corrosive + minerals and mineral acids. + +Under “administration” it is stated that: + + This specific can be taken in almost any quantity, without organic + or functional disturbance being created, but when large doses are + persisted in for a considerable length of time, its power and + purpose, as already described, become _too_ evident, by the general + disturbance created in the digestive organs, owing to the _extra_ + wave of pent-up latent matter being poured into the stomach, through + the uprooting power of the medicine, creating for the time acidity, + heartburn, and other fermentations in the stomach and bowels, but + which symptoms cease if the medicine is discontinued or lessened in + quantity for a few days. + +The adult dose is given as “from _seven_ to _ten_ drops three times +daily”; it is also to be used externally as a lotion--“_twenty +drops_ to one half-pint of water (preferably hot),” and a medicated +oil--“_twenty_ to _fifty_ drops of the tincture to each fluid ounce of +pure Lucca oil.” + +The statement already quoted, that “the whole of what may be called +the accumulative, alkaloidal, or poisonous principles of the plants +have been removed,” applies to this as to the others. Nevertheless, +analysis of “No. II.” showed the presence of the alkaloids berberine +and hydrastine, the proportions being + + Berberine 0.05 per cent. + Hydrastine 0.11 „ + Alcohol 32.3 per cent. by volume + Extractive 2.7 „ + Ash 0.3 „ + +The ash showed the usual composition of the ash of vegetable extracts. +The extractive agreed in its properties with the extractive of tincture +of hydrastis (which also contains hydrastine and berberine); this, +however, is usually made of about twice or four times (_U.S.P._) the +strength of “No. II” in regard to hydrastine. Careful search gave no +indication of any other ingredient. + +Tincture of hydrastis, _B.P._, is not standardised, but an average +sample with an equal quantity of water would contain about the +same proportions of hydrastine and alcohol as the liquid under +consideration. This gives about 2¹⁄₂d. as the cost of the contents of a +2s. 9d. bottle. + +No. III.--It would scarcely be of interest to quote what is said about +each of the “specifics” as freely as in the preceding cases, and a +few extracts will serve. No. III is introduced with much verbosity, +in which “the yeast animalculae, or white corpuscles,” again figure; +alcohol is referred to as “this singular product ... (which no chemist +that we are aware of has been able to _absolutely_ analyse)”; a +“Wallace improved distilling apparatus” is referred to, which separates +alcohol and oenanthic ether from + + their poisonous associates, acetic acid and fusel oil, which from + their being absolutely poisonous, less volatile, and therefore + cumulative, as this apparatus demonstrates, they form the chief + factor in producing those evils commonly attributed to alcohol alone. + +The diseases for which No. III is to be taken include + + Seasickness, biliousness, and bilious vomiting, morning vomiting of + drunkards, morning sickness during pregnancy, asthmatic breathing + from alcoholic indulgence.... Fatty degeneration of the heart. Acne. + Diabetes. Diarrhoea.... Megrim. Short-sightedness.... Dipsomania.... + Delirium tremens.... Poisoning by deleterious chemical products and + herbs. + +Among the symptoms “_which indicate the requirement of_ No. III.” are: + + Excessive selfishness.... Kleptomania. Excessive meanness.... Intense + pain, as if a nail were driven into the brain.... Parched tongue.... + Weak action of heart.... Rumbling in stomach and bowels, with + sickening pain.... + +The dose for adults is stated to be _ten_ drops three times daily +in chronic cases, and in acute cases every five or ten minutes till +all painful or acute symptoms are dispelled; but in the more recent +pamphlet the dose is stated to be twenty drops in both kinds of cases. + +Analysis showed it to contain + + Caffeine 0.25 per cent. + Cane sugar 1.7 „ + Glucose or invert sugar 0.6 „ + Ash 0.52 „ + Alcohol 47.25 per cent. by volume + Extractive 3.12 „ + +The ash had the composition common to the ash of plant extracts; the +extractive showed the peculiar character of the extractive of coffee. +Unroasted coffee contains cane sugar, which is mostly changed to invert +sugar and caramel in roasted coffee; both contain caffeine. Tinctures +of raw and roasted coffee were prepared, and it was found that a +mixture of the two agreed almost perfectly with “No. III.” in its +characters and behaviour to tests; a tincture of a pale-roasted coffee +would have the same composition as the mixture of tinctures of raw and +roasted, and it is probable that that is what was actually employed. +The proportion of caffeine indicates about 1 part of coffee to produce +5 parts of the tincture. The cost of the contents of a 2s. 9d. bottle +would be about 1¹⁄₂d. + +No. IV is stated to be a specific for warts, to be applied by touching +the parts affected several times daily. Very little is said about it, +and it was not analysed. + +No. V and No. VI are stated to be worm specifics, No. V being for +small threadworms and long round worms, and No. VI for tapeworms. No. +V alone was examined. The dose is stated to be seven to ten drops in a +wineglass of water three times daily. Analysis showed it to contain: + + Alcohol 30.5 per cent. by volume + Ash 0.2 „ + Reducing sugars 2.9 „ + Extractive 1.7 „ + +The tincture was slightly acid. No active principle of any sort +could be detected, and the extractive and ash showed no distinctive +characters by which the plant from which they are derived could be +identified. The liquid was compared with tinctures of drugs that are or +have been used for worms, but with only negative results. + +No. VII.--It is stated in the book that: + + “No. VII.” is the Specific for gout (_and is a tincture of Nux + Moschata [Nutmegs], prepared according to a special formula and from + specially selected fruits_). + +In the more recent pamphlet no information is given as to what it is +prepared from. The dose is given as twenty to thirty drops in water, +three times daily. + +Analysis showed it to contain: + + Alcohol 51.05 per cent. by volume + Ash 0.22 „ + Reducing sugar 1.0 „ + Fat and extractive 2.1 „ + +A tincture of nutmeg was prepared (not, however, “according to a +special formula”) and compared with it, and the two were found to agree +in all respects. No indication was obtained of any other ingredient; +the proportion of nutmegs appeared to be about 1 part to make 5 parts +of the tincture. + +The cost of the contents of a 2s. 9d. bottle would be about 2d. + +No. VIII is for whooping-cough; but little is said about it in the +book, and it was not examined. + +No. IX is described as: + + The specific for mechanical hæmorrhages (_and is aloes, prepared + according to a special formula_). + +It was not analysed. + +No. X is described as the specific for bruises, to which is added in +the book (“_and is ‘Wallace’s Formula’ of Arnica Montana_”), but in the +later pamphlet nothing is said about the drug from which it is made. It +is stated that + + it does not produce the slightest erysipelatous swelling or other + irritation of the skin, which is so frequently experienced with + the ordinary homœopathic mother tincture of _arnica_. For this + reason the curative action or healing power can be pushed to such a + demonstration as to surpass ordinary credibility. + +The “diseases, symptoms, conditions, and mechanical injuries for which +‘No. X.’ is the specific remedy” include + + bruises, strains, sprains, shocks (electric or otherwise).... Effects + of tight-lacing.... Corns resulting from mechanical pressure. Painful + effects of straining with constipated movements of the bowels.... + Effects of violent fits; of miscarriages, + +etc. + +The dose for adults in chronic cases is _seven_ to _ten_ drops three +times daily in a wineglass of water, and in acute cases the same every +three hours. It is also to be applied externally. + +Analysis showed it to contain: + + Alcohol 26.6 per cent. by volume + Ash 0.38 „ + Reducing sugars 0.55 „ + Extractive 1.27 „ + +It did not possess the characteristic odour of arnica, but had a vinous +odour resembling that of sherry; in other respects it agreed with a +weak tincture of arnica in characters and behaviour to tests. The +official tincture of arnica contains nearly three times as much alcohol +as this; the cost of a weak tincture, which would be scarcely affected +by adding enough sherry to give the vinous odour, would be about 1¹⁄₂d. +for the quantity in a 2s. 9d. bottle. + +No. XI. is described as the specific for cholera, and a long extract +is given in the book from “a Pamphlet, entitled ‘Cholera, its Cause +and Cure,’ by Joseph Wallace.” In this it is stated that the specific +remedy is “_Coffœa Cruda_, or Tincture of Raw Mocha Coffee,” the adult +dose being _three_ to _ten_ drops in a teaspoonful to a tablespoonful +of water every five minutes, prolonging the intervals gradually as +amelioration sets in. + +It is stated that: + + In the early stages of Cholera, when purging, or purging and vomiting + has commenced for a short time, three or four doses at five-minute + intervals I have always found sufficient to restore the bowels and + stomach to as perfectly natural a state as if there had not been the + slightest derangement. Such cases with me have never exceeded twenty + minutes.... + + If the patient has been allowed to pass into the state of collapse, + and when every energy of the body and mind has been prostrated, the + same course of treatment will produce a like result, but I would + advise the dose of _ten_ drops to be repeated every five minutes till + amelioration takes place, _three_ to _five_ drops after. I would add + hot applications to extremities and sides, hand-rubbing as before, + and in addition, where practicable, _prolonged breathing through a + handkerchief over the region of the heart_; this last will restore + the vital spark when apparently fled. + +The formula is given as follows: + + Steep one pound weight (avoirdupois) of well-dried and pulverised + raw MOCHA coffee in three and one-third pints (imperial measure) of + strong alcohol for two weeks. Shake it well occasionally: filter + through blotting paper, and it is ready for use. + +Analysis of “No. XI.” showed it to contain: + + Caffeine 0.1 per cent. + Sugars (chiefly cane sugar) 0.7 „ + Ash 0.26 „ + Alcohol 51.05 per cent. by volume + Extractive 2.1 „ + +The tincture was darker in colour than a tincture of raw coffee, and +appeared rather to be made like “No. III.,” from pale roasted coffee, +the proportion of the latter in this case being only about one part +for twelve parts of tincture. No indication was obtained of any other +ingredient. The cost would be about 1¹⁄₂d. for the quantity in a 2s. +9d. bottle. + +No. XII. is described as the specific for ringworm, for which it is +to be taken internally, in the dose (for adults) of twenty drops in a +little water every eight hours, and also applied externally, though +nothing is said about external application in the book, where the dose +is said to be one to three minims in a little water every three to +eight hours. This “specific” is stated in the book to be a tincture of +Hydrastis Canadensis; it was not analysed. + + + + +CHAPTER XV. + +PREPARATIONS FOR THE HAIR. + + + The number of proprietary preparations for the hair which are + advertised widely is very considerable. They include preparations + for increasing the growth of the hair or curing baldness, and + preparations for altering the colouring of the hair. The line of + division, however, is not a sharp one; of the articles sold for + altering the colour of the hair some are plainly called dyes, but + others are stated to restore the colour of hair that is turning grey + without dyeing it, and for some of these it is also claimed that they + increase the growth of the hair. It is, therefore, more convenient to + arrange hair preparations in three groups--namely, hair growers, hair + “restorers,” and hair dyes. In this chapter the results obtained by + analysing a small number of preparations selected from each of these + groups are given, together with some extracts from the statements + made in regard to them by the proprietors, either on the labels or in + circulars, letters, or newspaper advertisements. + + +A.--HAIR GROWERS. + + +TATCHO. + +(THE “GEORGE R. SIMS” HAIR RESTORER.) + +It appears from the label that there are three varieties of this +much-advertised preparation, known as “Tatcho” oily, “Tatcho” non-oily, +and “Tatcho” (concentrated). The non-oily, described as “A brilliant +spirituous tonic, free from all grease,” was taken for analysis. A +bottle of this, containing 5¹⁄₄ fluid ounces, was priced 2s. 9d. It is +thus described: + + The certain, trusty, genuine, right, honest Hair-Grower. There is no + other. + + Without “Tatcho” loss of hair is inevitable, but Mr. Geo. R. Sims has + altered all that. + + If your hair has become scanty or grey, get “Tatcho” to-day. It will + bring back the hair of your youth, make a new being of you, and give + you a new grip upon life. + +The label and wrapper bear the following: + + Certificate. + + I guarantee that this Preparation is made according to the Formulæ + recommended by me. + + Geo. R. Sims. + +The directions are: + + Sprinkle a few drops on the head each morning, and brush the hair + thoroughly after application. + +Analysis showed the composition to be: + + Borax 2.7 parts + Glycerine 2.5 „ + Quinine 0.006 part + Formaldehyde solution (40 per cent.) 0.38 part + Colouring matter (brownish-yellow), and perfume traces + Alcohol 2.4 parts by measure + Water, sufficient to produce 100 parts by measure. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for 5¹⁄₄ fluid ounces is ¹⁄₂d. + + +EDWARDS’ HARLENE. + +Some of the most conspicuous and recent advertisements of this have +been largely devoted to a method of treating the hair called “Harlene +Hair-drill.” The preparation is supplied by a firm in London. + +The package contained a booklet on “Harlene Hair Drill,” from which the +following extracts are taken: + + Among all the scores of preparations for the Hair which are offered + to the public (and it may be taken for granted that the proprietors + of “Harlene” have analysed them all very carefully) many prove to + be so wide of the mark as to be actually injurious in a very high + degree, while a few may do no particular harm, but certainly no + good; for, as we have said, Nature’s requirements must be met in the + precise measure--neither in a greater nor a less.... + + “Harlene” alone answers all requirements; it has the property of + penetrating direct to the roots of the hair, stimulating them to + renewed vigour, cleansing the cells which line the way; and, above + all, it conveys to the hair-bulbs the peculiar food which they + require--the only food Nature has ordained can act as nourishment + for them, the food they otherwise obtain from the blood. No other + preparation contains this ingredient, and therefore no other + preparation can be successful.... + + The proprietors of “Harlene” recognising that users of their specific + have an undoubted right to look to them for the best information + obtainable on this subject have, over a considerable period, + conducted experiments to test thoroughly every method of “drill” not + requiring the use of instruments. + +Elaborate details follow of the method of carrying out the “drill,” of +which a sample may suffice: + + The manner in which a cat moves among shrubbery is a good + illustration as to the way the fingers should be moved through the + hair; the manner in which a cat kneads its bed before laying on + it, placing its paws on the material on which it will sleep, and + pressing it down in a kneading manner until suitable, the paws never + being lifted and brought down, but only relaxed before the pressure + is applied, is exactly how this movement in the “drill” should be + carried out. + +Analysis showed the liquid to contain: + + Borax 0.5 part + Additional alkali, equivalent to anhydrous sodium carbonate 0.04 „ + Solution of ammonia (10 per cent.) 0.12 „ + Glycerine 0.4 „ + Brown colouring matter and perfume traces + Alcohol 5.7 parts by measure + Water, sufficient to produce 100 parts by measure. + + The small quantity of alkali, in excess of what was present as borax, + may have been in combination with the colouring matter. + +The estimated cost of ingredients for 6 fluid ounces is 1d. + + +KOKO. + +This preparation is sold by a limited company in London. A 4s. 6d. +bottle contained 12¹⁄₄ fluid ounces. + +The following extracts are from a circular accompanying the bottle: + + Eradicates Scurf. Promotes Growth. Prevents Hair Falling. Contains + No Dye. Will positively Stop Hair from Falling Out, and prevent it + turning Prematurely Grey. Will certainly Increase the Growth of + the Hair, and if consistently used will make it Bright, Soft, and + Wavy.... The strong assertions of interested sellers of preparations + cannot be relied on, and testimonials, as a rule, cannot be safely + taken as genuine unless the position of the writer places him or + her above suspicion. We often think that the public must be sick of + seeing the eternal “This is the best” attached to every conceivable + article which is offered for sale; and for this reason we usually + refrain from saying much about Koko, leaving it to our illustrious + patrons to speak of its good qualities. + +The directions for use are: + + The best plan is to apply Koko freely, and brush the scalp until a + warm glow is produced. This treatment should be practised once or + twice a day, or at intervals of a few days, according to the state of + the scalp. + +Analysis showed it to contain: + + Borax 1.4 parts. + Glycerine 1.7 „ + Formaldehyde solution (40 per cent.) 0.1 part. + Perfume a trace. + Alcohol 3 parts by measure. + Water, sufficient to produce 100 parts by measure. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for 12¹⁄₄ fluid ounces is 1d. + + +B.--HAIR RESTORERS. + + +LOCKYER’S SULPHUR HAIR RESTORER. + +This article is supplied by a limited company in London, who also sell +other proprietary articles. The price of a bottle containing 12 fluid +ounces is 1s. 6d. It is described as: + + The Best. The Safest. The Cheapest. + + Restores the colour to Grey Hair. Instantly stops the Hair from + fading. Occasionally used, Greyness is impossible. If the Hair is + actually Grey the Sulphur Restorer in six or seven days effects a + great alteration. By a gradual action, scarcely perceptible even to + watchful observers, several darker shades will be attained. In a + period of three weeks a complete change occurs, and a colour exactly + resembling that lost will became manifest. + + Where the Sulphur Restorer is applied scurf cannot exist, and a sense + of cleanliness, coolness, etc., prevails. + +Directions: + + Well shake the bottle, and immediately apply the Restorer to the + roots of the hair. A very small sponge is convenient for this + purpose. At first it should be used daily, but when the required + shade is obtained, two or three times a week will suffice. + +Analysis showed it to contain: + + Precipitated sulphur 1.3 parts + Lead acetate 1.6 „ + Lead sulphate 0.4 „ + Glycerine 9.6 „ + Rose water sufficient to produce 100 parts by measure. + + The lead sulphate was probably due to some reaction having occurred + between the lead acetate and sulphur, with oxidation; assuming this + to be so, the amount of lead acetate originally present would be 2.1 + parts. + +The estimated cost of ingredients for 12 fluid ounces is 2d. + + +MEXICAN HAIR RENEWER. + +A bottle of this preparation, which is sold by another limited company, +contained 7³⁄₄ fluid ounces; the price was 3s. 6d. + +It is described as: + + For restoring grey hair to its original colour without dyeing it. + + For renewing or causing hair to grow on bald spots. + + For preventing dandriff and the hair from falling out. + + For making the hair soft, glossy, pliant, and luxuriant. + + Daily application of this preparation for a week or two will + surely restore Faded, Grey, or White Hair to its natural colour + and richness. If properly applied, it never fails; but it should + be well shaken before using. It is not a dye, nor does it contain + any colouring matter or offensive substance whatever. Hence it does + not soil the hands, the scalp, or even white linen, but produces + the colour within the substance of the hair. In many cases it has + been successful in causing new hair to grow on bald spots, and it + can be confidently recommended in all cases, unless the hair-glands + are decayed; for if the glands are decayed and gone, no stimulant + can restore them; but if, as is often the case, the glands are only + torpid, “The Mexican Hair Renewer” will renew their vitality, and a + new growth of hair will follow. + +Directions for use: + + First.--Turn the bottle cork downwards and shake it thoroughly. + Turn a little into a saucer, apply it briskly to the bald spots, + and thoroughly wet all the grey hair every morning for a few weeks, + and, unless the hair glands are decayed, new hair will grow, and the + grey hair turn to its original colour, then an occasional use is + sufficient. + +Analysis showed it to contain: + + Precipitated sulphur 1.4 parts + Lead acetate 0.13 „ + Glycerine 19.0 „ + Rose water sufficient to produce 100 parts by measure. + + A second bottle, however, contained 0.97 part of lead acetate in 100 + parts by measure, or about eight times as much as the first bottle. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for 7³⁄₄ fluid ounces is 2d. + + +VILIXIR. + +A preparation called “Vilixir” is sold by a limited company whose +address is given as a “Hydro” in Kent. A 12s. 6d. bottle contained 5¹⁄₂ +fluid ounces. This preparation has been largely advertised of late, the +advertisement in some cases taking the form of a half-page display in a +newspaper so worded as to convey the impression that it was published +as news. The following extracts are from such an advertisement: + + Great interest has been aroused by the recent announcement in this + paper of a unique and useful discovery made at the ... Hydro, near + London, of a method of actually restoring the natural colour to + faded, grey, or white hair. + + So much curiosity has been aroused, indeed, that the authorities + have been compelled to publish in pamphlet form the full particulars + of this discovery (a copy of this interesting publication may be + obtained on application to the person and address given later in this + second review of the discovery and its possibilities of usefulness to + the Public).... + + No actual colouring agent is employed in the new dye-less and + stainless method. Instead, the hair’s sleeping pigmentary process is + reawakened.... + + The new way of making people’s hair show true colours is, happily, an + inexpensive one. + +The following extracts are from letters received from the Vilixir +Company, after application for the pamphlet mentioned above: + + The “Vilixir” Treatment differs from all other ways and means of + colouring the hair. It does not put on an artificial colour--it will + bring out the natural colour of your hair.... + + At this Hydro we have assistants who have become expert in the + obtaining of the best possible results from the Treatment, and if you + would like to have us do all that is necessary for you, I shall be + happy to quote you terms to include a short stay at this Hydro.... + It is not necessary to the success of the Treatment, however, that + you carry it out at this address. I can send the “Vilixir” and full + directions to enable you to restore the natural colour of your hair + in the privacy of your own home. + + ... the “Vilixir” Treatment is absolutely non-injurious either to the + skin or to the hair; its action is wholly beneficial in every way. It + promotes growth on the bald patches (unless the roots are absolutely + perished); it thickens and lengthens the growth over the whole of the + head; it stops falling out, and, most important of all, its effects + are comparatively permanent. + +The directions on the label are: + + Shake the bottle and apply the liquid night and morning to the scalp + with a small brush, rubbing in for two or three minutes, and finally + brush the hair for a few seconds with the brush moistened with + “Vilixir.” + +The bottle of liquid that was sent in return for 12s. 6d. was +accompanied by about ¹⁄₄ ounce of shampoo powder, for shampooing the +head before the first use of “Vilixir.” This powder was found to +consist of + + Borax 4.6 per cent. + Powdered soap 24.4 „ + Partly exsiccated sodium carbonate 71.0 „ + +Analysis showed the liquid to contain: + + Precipitated Sulphur 3.2 parts. + Lead acetate 1.8 „ + Glycerine 5.7 „ + Rose water, sufficient to produce 100 parts by measure. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for 5¹⁄₂ fluid ounces of the +liquid and ¹⁄₄ ounce of the powder is 1d. + + +C.--HAIR DYES. + + +W. SEEGER’S HAIR DYE. + +This preparation bears a copy of signature “W. Seeger,” and the words +“made in Germany” on the package, but no address. + +A bottle, price 2s., contained 1¹⁄₃ fluid ounces. + +Directions for use: + + Before applying Seeger’s, wash the hair in lukewarm water in which + you have melted a piece of ordinary household soda of the size of + a walnut to each quart of water you use. Then, when the hair is + perfectly dry, pour a little of the dye into a clean saucer, dip + the teeth of a perfectly clean fine tooth comb into the dye in the + saucer, and pass the comb several times through the hair where it is + required to be dyed. Now allow the dye to dry on the hair. While the + hair is drying, comb it now and then, so that the dye, which does not + become visible for some hours, may come in contact with the air and + an equal shade be obtained. The day following, the dye which has not + dried in can be washed out with clean water without soda. + +The dye is prepared in three shades, for blonde, brown, and black; the +“brown” was taken for examination. + +Analysis showed it to contain, in 100 parts by measure: + + Pyrogallic acid 3.8 parts. + Cupric chloride (anhydrous) 1.8 „ + Hydrochloric acid (_B.P._ strength) 0.75 part + Sulphuric acid 0.07 „ + +The liquid was much darker than a solution freshly prepared according +to this formula; but the dyeing effect of the two was practically +identical, and the difference in appearance appeared to be due to +decomposition of a part of the pyrogallic acid having taken place in +the original. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for 1¹⁄₃ fluid ounces is ¹⁄₂d. + + +SHADEINE. + +This preparation, sold from an address in London, was in a bottle which +contained 3¹⁄₂ fluid ounces, and was priced 3s. 6d. + +It is thus described: + + Shadeine is a new and important chemical discovery which regenerates + and develops the original colour of grey and faded hair, at the same + time tinting it a perfectly natural colour.... It contains neither + lead, silver, mercury, sulphur, nor any objectionable stain. + +Directions for use: + + Wash the hair, if in the least greasy, with soda and warm water. When + dry, pour a little Shadeine into a saucer, and with a small brush + apply evenly over the parts to be coloured, then allow it to dry. A + small quantity only should be used at a time, and the colour allowed + to develop during the day. As soon as the shade is satisfactory, wash + or brush off superfluous stain. + +This preparation is made in seven colours. The one that was taken for +examination was labelled “Brown.” + +Analysis showed it to contain in 100 parts by measure: + + Pyrogallic acid 2.1 parts. + Cupric chloride (anhydrous) 1.3 „ + Hydrochloric acid (_B.P._ strength) 0.3 part. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for 3¹⁄₂ fluid ounces is ³⁄₄d. + + +JUVENIA. + +The hair dye called “Juvenia” is made in Paris, and supplied by a +firm having addresses in London and Birmingham. A package, price 4s., +contained two bottles, Nos. 1 and 2, each containing about 2¹⁄₃ fluid +ounces; the liquids to be mixed at the time of using. + +It is thus described: + + This marvellous dye is guaranteed not to contain mercurial salts, it + is altogether of a vegetable nature and harmless. + + “Juvenia” instantly restores white hair and grey beard to their + original colour, from auburn to the most jet black tints. + + We specially recommend persons who wish to dye their hair or beard to + follow our advice word for word. + + It is well known that subjects suffering from arthritis, herpes, or + eczema ought to abstain from eating sea-fish, shell-fish, sorrel, + strawberries, etc., under penalty of provoking eruptions or eczema + spots. Accordingly, generally speaking, such persons ought to + entirely give up the use of all instantaneous dye, and make use of + nothing else than our progressive regenerators alone, the use of + which we advise for them, in preference to any other. + + If, in spite of our advice, those persons subject to the + above-mentioned affections persist in dyeing their hair, they ought + at any rate to consult their doctor. + + It is necessary, in fact, to have oneself thoroughly examined as far + as the scalp is concerned before the application of a dye, and this + recommendation may especially be given to ladies. At times they may + prick themselves with their combs, their hat or hair-pins, the result + being small sores which ought not to be irritated or skinned. The + scalp ought to be absolutely intact, and if need be, one must wait + till all flaying is well healed. + +Analysis showed the “liquid No. 1” to be a solution of hydrogen +peroxide containing 2 per cent. of real peroxide, or two-thirds the +strength of the ordinary “10 volume” solution. Liquid No. 2, or +“Juvenia” itself, was found to contain: + + Paraphenylene-diamine 0.9 per cent. + Solution of ammonia 0.6 „ + with a trace of fixed alkali, probably dissolved out of the glass of + the bottle. + +A solution prepared in accordance with this formula gave an exactly +similar result in dyeing hair. The estimated cost of the ingredients +for the contents of the two bottles is 1¹⁄₂d. + +The danger of using paraphenylene-diamine as a hair-dye has often been +pointed out, and is well known. When used in this way symptoms of +poisoning are sometimes quickly produced, but in other cases they do +not occur until after it has been used for weeks or even months. In +addition to urticaria and eczema produced locally, general symptoms of +poisoning may result, and in some cases deaths have occurred from this +cause. + + + + +CHAPTER XVI. + +SOME MISCELLANEOUS MEDICINES. + + +TWO PREPARATIONS FOR SEA-SICKNESS. + + Many proprietary and other medicines for sea-sickness have been put + forward from time to time, both as preventives and cures, but usually + without attaining to any very wide adoption. The first of the two + preparations here described has been very widely advertised in the + last few years; the second one, which is shown by analysis to be very + similar in composition, appears to be of Canadian origin. + + +ZOTOS. + +This is supplied by Zotos, Limited, London; the price is 2s. 9d. per +box containing twelve capsules. + +It is described on the outside of the package as “the infallible remedy +against sea sickness”; on the inner package it is stated that + + Zotos is an infallible remedy against sea sickness, train sickness, + etc. + + Zotos not only prevents sickness but stimulates the appetite. + + Zotos contains no injurious drug and produces no bad after-effects. + +A circular contained in the package gives a so-called “analytical +report” on the preparation, in which it is stated that the capsules are +“free from any noxious ingredient,” and that the contents “consist of +compounds of high therapeutic activity.” + +Somewhat lengthy directions are given, the principal part being as +follows: + + The capsules to be swallowed whole and to be taken before, not after, + a meal. + + Take a capsule half an hour before the steamer sails, another just + as the steamer leaves, and a third (though this is rarely required) + half an hour later. Afterwards, if any uneasiness be caused by the + movement of the vessel, capsules may be taken from time to time up to + 6 per day. If travelling by night, take a capsule on going to bed and + another half an hour before getting up. + +The capsules were found to contain a pink powder, the average weight +of the contents of one being 6.3 grains. Analysis showed the powder +to consist of a mixture of sugar of milk and chlorbutol, with traces +of colouring and flavouring matters. Chlorbutol, or trichlor-tertiary +butyl alcohol, is better known under the trade name, Chloretone. It is +described in the _British Pharmaceutical Codex_ as “a local anæsthetic, +analgesic, and antiseptic.” “Its anæsthetic properties are specially +exerted upon the stomach, small repeated doses being used to allay +post-operative vomiting and sea sickness.” + +The proportions of the ingredients were found to be: + + Chlorbutol 76.9 per cent. + Lactose 23.0 „ + +No other substance was found, except the traces of colouring and +flavouring matters already mentioned. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for twelve capsules is 5d. + + +MOTHERSILL’S SEASICK REMEDY. + +This preparation is supplied by a limited company giving addresses in +London and Montreal. The package bears the words “Made in Canada.” + +It is stated on the label that it-- + + Stops and Prevents any case of Seasickness, Trainsickness, and all + nausea caused by motion, climbing, etc. Guaranteed not to contain + cocaine, opium, morphine, or chloral. It does not affect the heart or + liver, or cause unpleasant symptoms. + +A 2s. 3d. package contained six capsules, three containing pink powder +and three brown. The dose is given as one of each kind, taken together, +so that the package contained three doses. + +The average weight of the contents of the three capsules was 11¹⁄₄ +grains. Analysis showed the powders to have the following composition: + +_Pink Powder._ + + Sugar of milk 33.3 per cent. + Caffeine 8.2 „ + Stearic acid 18.0 „ + Chlorbutol 40.1 „ + Colouring matter a trace. + +_Brown Powder._ + + Powdered cinnamon 29.4 per cent. + Caffeine 8.4 „ + Stearic acid 17.4 „ + Chlorbutol 44.5 „ + +The stearic acid is probably added as a lubricant, to facilitate the +filling of the powder into the capsules, although the amount is large +for the purpose. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for the six capsules is 2¹⁄₂d. + + +A CURE-ALL.--KORPUSDOON. + +In addition to the many proprietary medicines which are widely +and generally advertised, a very large number are advertised only +or principally in some particular locality, and such preparations +sometimes attain a very considerable local sale. The claims made for +these medicines do not show any more modest pretensions than those more +widely advertised, while the ignorance of the makers is sometimes even +more evident. + +A medicine of this class, made in a Lancashire town, is called +“Korpusdoon.” It is stated on the label to be “Prepared only by Mrs. +Ann Briggs, Health Specialist (for the Korpusdoon Medicine and Health +Food Co.).” The price is 2s. 3d. per bottle, and the bottle bought for +examination contained 25¹⁄₂ fl. oz. The dose is given as, for an adult +one teacupful every other morning; for children, half dose every other +morning. + +The nature of the claims made for it is shown by the following +extracts, the first of which is from a newspaper advertisement, and the +second from the label on the bottle: + + Why suffer from Influenza when Korpusdoon puts a check on all + poisonous acid from which all diseases originate, and cleanses from + the system all bad germs. + + The Virtues of this Famous Medicine “Korpusdoon.” + + It kills and clears away from the Stomach and Nasal Passages all + the accumulation of poisonous acids--which, after 20 years of + keen and careful observation, I find to be the cause of all the + ailments the body is liable to, such as Catarrh of the Stomach, + Nasal Catarrh, Fermentation of the Stomach, Influenza, Hay Fever, + Eczema, Gall Stones, Gout, Goitre, Rheumatism, Lumbago, Neuralgia, + Appendicitis, Consumption, Irregularities of the Heart, Loss of + Memory and Nerve trouble, Paralysis, Bright’s Disease, Whooping + Cough, Measles, Scarlet Fever, Typhoid, Diphtheria, and Small-pox. A + sure preventative of Tumour and Cancer. + + It is a great beautifier of the Skin and Hair. + +In the newspaper advertisement the maker’s name and address are +followed by the words “At Home Mondays and Saturdays,” which is +presumably an intimation that she can be consulted professionally at +those times. + +Analysis showed the mixture to contain magnesium sulphate and an +extract of liquorice, flavoured with aniseed and sassafras, and further +sweetened with a little chloroform. Careful search did not afford any +indication of any other constituent. The colour was much darker than +the colour which results if the ordinary liquid extract of liquorice is +employed, and the latter contains alcohol, which was absent from the +mixture; but it was found that by taking ordinary “stick liquorice,” +and boiling it with the Epsom salts, a dark liquor was obtained +agreeing closely with the original. Possibly the flavour of aniseed +and sassafras is got by boiling these drugs with the Epsom salts and +liquorice, but a mixture in which they were added respectively as the +water and the essential oil was practically indistinguishable from +“Korpusdoon.” The quantities of the different ingredients found were as +follows: + + Magnesium sulphate 624 grains. + Extract of liquorice (from “stick liquorice”) 550 „ + Chloroform (= chloroform water 4 fl. oz.) 5 minims. + Oil of sassafras 3 „ + Aniseed water 5 fl. oz. + Water to 25 „ + +Estimated cost of ingredients, 2¹⁄₄d. + + +A RADIUM SALVE. + +Long advertisements have appeared recently in the daily papers of a +radium salve stated to have been discovered by Dr. S. Saubermann, +who gives an address in Berlin. The salve is sold in this country by +a company which describes itself as “manufacturing chemists to the +medical profession.” We are told in a pamphlet issued by this company +that Dr. Saubermann’s formula has been embodied and improved upon in +the radium salve they sell. It is stated further that the salve is +impregnated with the “radium salt in the proportion of 1 in 500,000,” +a quantity which “must not be exceeded, as otherwise the absorption by +the skin and the well-known action of the strong and penetrating rays +will do more harm than good.” It is described as a remedy for lupus, +cancer, and all diseases of the skin, with a bountiful “etc.” + +The company also sells various other preparations: A medical soap, a +blood purifier, and an elixir of life. A certificate purporting to +have been given by Dr. Saubermann in December, 1907, states that the +ore which the company has acquired was “uranium refuse concentrated +from the mines at Joachimsthal.” In the advertisement a list is given +of “leading scientists on radium,” but the advertisers do not go so +far as to say that any of them have anything to do with the radium +salve. There is also a quotation from _The British Medical Journal_, +which we need hardly say had no reference whatever to the salve or its +manufacturers. + +The salve is “sold at 2s. 9d., 5s., 10s., 20s., and 30s., according +to radioactivity.” Mr. Frederick Soddy, M.A., Lecturer on Physical +Chemistry and Radioactivity in the University of Glasgow, has been good +enough to examine the salve for us, and the following is his report:-- + +“I received the two pots of radium salve you sent me, and have +examined the radioactivity of the stronger preparation--namely, that +marked ‘Strong, 5s.’ The alpha radioactivity of the preparation is +just detectable, and is about one-hundredth part of that of uranium. +The beta radiation is too feeble to be detected by a sensitive +electroscope. For comparison I might mention that the residues from the +uranium ore of Joachimsthal, which forms the initial raw material from +which radium is extracted, have an alpha radioactivity about four times +that of uranium.” + + +A RINGWORM CURE.--“DETHBLO.” + +“Dethblo,” or Wilson’s Patent Ringworm Cure, is supplied by an +individual in a small town in the home counties, a 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. package +contained a bottle holding rather less than 2 fluid drachms of the +preparation, and a brush for applying it. + +It is advertised in the following terms:-- + + THIS PREPARATION has been used by the Proprietor for many years in + the treatment of Hundreds of Cases, and has never once failed to + Cure.... + + An improvement is visible after one application. Two or three + dressings in any but exceptionally severe cases are sufficient to + effect a Cure. + + No necessity for Cutting the Hair or Shaving the Head. + + It Cures when all other remedies have been tried and failed. + Obstinate cases, after eighteen months of other treatment, have + yielded to a few applications of “Dethblo.” + + It is Harmless to Hair or Scalp of even the youngest children; + infants in arms have been successfully treated on many occasions. + +The directions on the label are:-- + + Apply with brush enclosed, well penetrating the infected parts with + “DETHBLO.” Treatment should be given every other day, for a few + days, and the infected part should not be washed until satisfactory + improvement is noticed. + +Analysis showed the liquid to contain ferrous sulphate and acetic acid; +a trace of coloured organic matter was also present, such as would be +due to a small portion of the acetic acid having been added in the +form of vinegar, and the odour of the liquid resembled that of vinegar +rather than that of acetic acid only. The quantities found were, in 100 +parts by measure:-- + + Ferrous sulphate 33.7 parts + Acetic acid (calculated as glacial) 11.9 „ by measure + +Careful search did not reveal the presence of any other ingredient. + +Estimated cost of ingredients of 2 fluid drachms, ¹⁄₅₀d. + + +MISCELLANEOUS GERMAN NOSTRUMS. + +Reports published by Dr. F. Zernik on various proprietary medicines +sold in Germany include the following:-- + + _Sprengel’s herbal juice_, is a preparation which Bernhard Sprengel + of Hanover claims to be harmless, and as it consists of blood + purifying herbs and roots, and not a secret remedy, he recommends it + for all sorts of diseases, especially for diphtheria, trichinosis, + whooping-cough, etc. The bottle (which costs M.1.25, about 1s. 3d.) + contains about 30 c.cm. of a turbid brown fluid of acid reaction. + It contains powdered jalap bulbs, suspended in a watery extract of + frangula (or some similar drug), to which alcohol and liquorice + have been added. Its jalap content renders the free sale of this + preparation unlawful in Germany. + + _Dealin Powder_, a Berlin preparation, is described as an antiseptic + medicament for wounds containing “a highly active oxygen combined + with a dry fatty substance.” On examination no dry fatty substance + was found, and the “highly active oxygen” was represented by sodium + perborate. The chief constituents of this preparation were: 20 parts + of sodium perborate, 10 parts of boric acid, 10 parts of zinc oxide, + and 60 parts of a mixture of talc with traces of starch and magnesium + carbonate. + + _Hochfelder Pitch Plaster_ is advertised by the manufacturers as a + porous plaster prepared with gum elastic, and as the best external + medicament for the treatment of painful affections which follow + cold, blows, over-exertion or other disturbances of the nervous or + muscular activity. The examination showed that the preparation did + not contain any pitch at all, and that its composition was similar to + that of “_Collemplastrum capsicum_,” a plaster, which according to + an Imperial Order dated November 22nd, 1901, must not be offered for + sale in drug shops. As pitch plaster is not included in this Order, + the manufacturers considered that they would be safe in applying this + description to the plaster. + + _Franz Lammersdorf’s universal chilblain cream_, a Hanover + preparation, to be applied thinly on the chilblain and covered with + wool and a bandage, and renewed every twenty-four hours, was found to + consist of about 25 grams of extract of malt. Dr. Zernik points out + that this is a curiously original medicament for chilblains. + + _Jehnol_ is advertised as differing from all other preparations in + its power of allaying all forms of toothache, including the most + severe. It is a fluid, and three or four drops are to be applied on + a piece of cotton-wool to the cavity of the tooth. A small bottle + containing about 3 c.cm. of an alcoholic solution of oil of cloves + and other ethereal oils, and possibly also cajeput and camphor, and + coloured green with chlorophyll, costs 30 pfennigs, that is, about + 3³⁄₄d. + + _Epocol_ is advertised by a Vienna firm, as a “new, absolutely + non-poisonous cresote preparation, possessing extraordinary + disinfecting properties.” The dose mentioned is from 1 to 10 grams a + day, according to the age of the patient. No details are given with + regard to the composition of the preparation, and Zernik concludes + from the results of his analysis that this “new” preparation is + a mixture of 45 per cent. sodium benzoate, 30 per cent. ammonium + sulpho-guaiacolate, and 25 per cent. potassium sulpho-guaiacolate. + The ammonium salt of sulpho-guaiacolic acid is not used in medicine, + the potassium salt is used under the name of _thiocol_, while the + calcium salt and the sodium salt are also used. The action of the + sulpho-guaiacolates is sufficiently well known, and the claim of + novelty cannot, therefore, be sustained. Zernik does not consider the + preparation worth further criticism. + + _Bauch’s Busennährcreme_ (bosom nutrient cream) is sold at 4s. 6d. + for two boxes, which are said to be necessary for the production of + full breasts. The actual value of the boxes and their contents is + between 4d. and 5d., the cream consisting of mineral fat perfumed + with oil of rose. The Karlsruhe authority has issued a warning on the + ground that the substance cannot possibly produce the effect claimed + in view of its composition. + + _Ninetta_ is a similar preparation. It is described as an Oriental + strengthening and nutrient powder. It consists of a powdered + leguminous flour with sugar and lecithin. + + _Büsteria_ (made by D. F. Steiner, of Berlin) is another “Oriental + strength-giving powder,” which is sold at an absurdly high price. The + Berlin police have issued a public warning against it. It consists of + bean and pea flour. + + _Oxygar_ is supposed to be a vegetable preparation saturated with + hydrogen peroxide. The vegetable substance is agar-agar. It is + supposed to contain about 10 per cent. H₂O₂, but the manufacturers + call attention to the fact that the preparation loses in strength + after a time. Frerichs found that fresh oxygar contained hydrogen + peroxide varying in amount from 0.6 to 14.4 per cent., that the + amount decreased within a short time, and after a few weeks even + sank to _nil_. In cold water all the hydrogen peroxide was liberated + within a few minutes. It thus appears very doubtful whether the + peroxide would not be liberated in the stomach, in spite of the fact + that the manufacturers claim as an advantage of the preparation that + the H₂O₂ is not liberated until the intestine is reached, and then + only slowly. + + _Spiritol_ is supposed to be an ideal substitute for spirit and to + have nearly all the physical qualities of spirit, to be free from + acid and alkali, to be miscible in all proportions with water or + spirit, and to volatilize without residue. It is introduced for the + preparation of cosmetic and pharmaceutic preparations, etc. The + analysis revealed that it consisted chiefly of methyl alcohol, which + was not even pure. + + _Verophen mouth water_ is advertised as a protective against all + infectious diseases. It consists of a 0.2 per cent. solution of + chinosol in water. A bottle containing 100 c.cm. of the fluid costs + 1s. 6d. “Verophen” for mouth washes is also sold at 1s. 6d., while + Verophen for the telephone costs 3s. + + According to the law in Germany, chemical combinations of antipyrin + may be sold to the public, but simple mixtures of antipyrin and other + known substances may not be sold, save on a medical practitioner’s + prescription. _Sulfopyrin_ is one of these mixtures which was offered + for sale as a sulphanilate of antipyrin. Another is _Meligrin_, + which is described as a condensation of dimethyloxychinicin and + methylacetamide. These terms are technical but rarely used names for + antipyrin and exalgin. The analysis revealed that the preparation + was a mixture of 86 parts of the former and 14 parts of the latter. + Exalgin has been practically withdrawn from the market in favour of + the more active and better acetanilide. + + A chemist named Taubert produces a “pleasant tasting headache + powder (ammon. spiric. puriss.),” which is supposed to act rapidly + in migraine, influenza, neuralgia, rheumatism, colds, etc. It + appears that ammonium salicylate has an obscure synonym, “ammonium + spiricum.” Since the ammonium salt is scarcely ever used in medicine, + the law does not mention it as well as the sodium salt among those + medicaments which may not be sold without medical prescription. The + chemist therefore sells it without fear. The weight of the single + powders varied between 0.39 and 0.6 gram. + + In dealing with false description, Zernik mentions _Mergandol_, + which is recommended by its producers as an antisyphilitic remedy + for intramuscular injection and for external application. It is + described as a solution of sodium mercury glycerate in glycerine; + 1 c.cm. of the solution is said to contain 0.0035 gram of mercury. + Sodium glycerate is recognised as an unstable compound, but neither + a mercury glycerate nor a sodium mercury glycerate is known. The + analysis showed that mergandol is a mixture of perchloride of mercury + and sodium chloride (0.5 of the former and 0.1 of the latter) + dissolved in 100 parts of diluted glycerine. Each cubic centimetre + would therefore contain 0.0044 gram of Hg. The bottle, containing + 50 c.cm., costs 2s. 2¹⁄₂d., which is at least twice as much as any + chemist is allowed to charge for making up a similar prescription. + + _Eulatin_ is a white, almost odourless, mildly acid-tasting + powder. It is supposed to be an amido-bromine-benzoate of + dimethyl-phenyl-pyrazolon. Dr. Friedmann has described this + preparation as a useful remedy for whooping-cough when given + in doses of 0.1 to 0.5 gram every three or four hours. + Dimethyl-phenyl-pyrazolon or antipyrin was found to be present, but + the analysis failed to reveal a trace of amido-bromine benzoic acid, + a compound which has definite chemical characteristics. The rest of + the substance was found to consist of parabromine benzoic acid and + orthoamido-benzoic acid; two parts of the former with antipyrin in + molecular proportions were present to each one part of the latter, + also with antipyrin in molecular proportions. The mixture thus + differs very materially from the supposititious chemical compound + described by the manufacturers. Dr. Zernik considers that Dr. + Friedmann should have been more careful in expressing himself with + regard to the composition. The value of antipyrin in pertussis is + well recognised. + + Barkowski’s _Irrigal_ tablets are advertised as containing all the + active components of wood vinegar in dry form, delicately perfumed + and being easily soluble in water. One or two tablets are supposed + to be dissolved in a glass or cup of hot water, and added to warm + water in an irrigator. A glass containing 40 1-gram tablets costs 3s. + The solid form of wood vinegar possesses an alkaline reaction! On + analysis it was found to consist mainly of dehydrated sodium acetate + with traces of tar and creosote. This is very different from wood + vinegar, which contains tarry substances, free acetic acid, and some + empyreumatic substances. + + _Vilja cream_ is now described correctly. Its constituents are + diluted aqueous extracts of indifferent vegetable substances, wool + fat, ceresin, and vaselin, and some ethereal oils, which smell like + the oil of rosemary. + + _Automors_ is a widely advertised disinfectant, prepared by Heyl + Brothers and Co., Charlottenburg. The advertisements claim that it + is a new, strong, and harmless disinfectant, acting five times as + strongly as carbolic acid. The analysis showed it to consist of about + 3 per cent. phenols and carbohydrates, about 16 per cent. phenol + sulphate, with 15 per cent. of free sulphuric acid. It would appear + that this is an old preparation under a new name; formerly it was + known as sanatol. The free sulphuric acid content renders it not + harmless but actually highly poisonous. Its disinfecting power is + far weaker than that of carbolic acid, save in a very exceptional + circumstance, while its claims to act against flies are also false. + + +JOHN P. HAIG’S “CURE” FOR GOITRE. + + Some information with regard to Haig’s goître cure is given in a + paper by J. Kochs in the _Apotheker-Zeitung_, abstracted in the + _Pharmaceutical Journal_ for April 14th, 1906, p. 447. According to + this the “cure” comprises: Powders, consisting of sodium bicarbonate, + coloured pale red; ointment, consisting of a sodium soap with yellow + soft paraffin; pastilles, consisting of sodium bicarbonate, aloes, + and a little oil of caraway; pastilles, consisting of extract of + hydrastis. + + + + +CHAPTER XVII. + +UNQUALIFIED PRACTICE THROUGH THE POST. + + + It will have been observed that the various articles described in + the preceding chapters and in the earlier volume show considerable + variations in regard to the procedure by which they are placed in the + hands of the public. They may be roughly divided into three classes; + the first, and probably largest class, consists of those which are + supplied to the public through the ordinary retail channels, such as + chemists, stores, etc. The second class consists of similar articles, + also sold under the proprietary medicine stamp, but supplied only, or + chiefly, direct from the maker or proprietor to the consumer through + the post, and not through retailers; in this case the proprietor + reaps the full retail price, and having the names and addresses of + consumers, is able to plant advertising matter or letters where they + are most likely to take effect, and to apply later for “unsolicited” + testimonials. In the third class also the medicine is supplied + direct to the consumer, but before it is sent, a list of questions, + or “symptom form,” is submitted for answers to the questions to be + filled in by the patient, on the pretext that the medicines will + be “modified” or “selected,” according to the nature of the case; + here, again, the full retail price goes to the proprietor, and with + the particulars supplied by the patient, future letters--urging + continuance of the “treatment,” or the taking of some stronger or + additional article--can be made more effective; no doubt, also, such + particulars are of use in working up an account of the case which + shall be of the nature of a testimonial, when the purchaser has been + persuaded that he is cured, or has really been cured by or in spite + of the medicine. + + In some advertisements the departure from the mere recommendation of + a particular nostrum goes further, and the advertiser claims to be a + “specialist” in some particular kind of disease, and to treat each + case individually, according to the particulars furnished by post, or + sometimes to treat any and every disease on the information supplied + in the same way. The border line between these and the preceding + class is very indistinct. In this chapter some further particulars + are given of advertisers of these two classes. + + The nostrums already reported on have included one or more in which a + “symptom form” has figured in each of the following groups: “female + medicines,” medicines for obesity, sexual weakness, skin affections, + “bad legs,” alcoholism, rheumatism, and deafness. In most cases + the first supply of medicine was followed up by letters insisting + on the great importance of taking it uninterruptedly, or asking + for particulars of the results attained. In the case of medicines + for amenorrhœa, in every instance the article first supplied was + accompanied or followed by recommendations of a stronger one, said + to be certain to succeed if the first failed, and, of course, sold + at a higher price. In many cases where the original communication + was not an order for medicine but merely an inquiry, the letter + sent in reply was followed at intervals by a number of others, + emphasising in a sensational manner the terrible seriousness of delay + in obtaining the “cure,” and frequently offering the latter at a + gradually diminishing price, as at a cheap-jack’s “Dutch auction.” + This offer of reduced price is sometimes made conditionally on the + purchaser supplying six names of other persons known by him to be + suffering from the complaint in question; so that if the terms were + accepted the vendor would be kept supplied with a list of names and + addresses, ever increasing on the “snowball” principle, of persons + likely to be susceptible to his letters. The letters sent usually + appear on casual inspection to be type-written communications written + to the individual, who is frequently addressed by name as “Dear Mr. + (or Mrs.) ----,” or as “Dear Friend”; but closer examination has + almost always shown that they are really circulars produced by one + of the multiple copy processes with a typewriter, the individual’s + name being inserted afterwards. These circulars usually contain + expressions of strong or special interest in “your case,” even when + no case has been mentioned and the “symptom form” has not been filled + up. In fact, there is every reason to suppose, in regard to most + nostrums sold in this way, that the composition of the medicine sent + is in no way modified in consequence of the details supplied. + + Extracts from one or two typical letters may be given as examples. + + +THE NATIONAL COLLEGE OF HEALTH, LTD. + +In Chapter XI. we gave some account of certain medicines supplied by +the “National College of Health, Ltd.” After an interval the person who +had ordered the medicines analysed received the following:-- + + Dear Mrs ----, + + We are extremely sorry that you have not allowed us to see your case + through to a successful termination. We are taking a special interest + in your case, and as you have gone to some expense, and as we want + to be of real help to you, it is a pity for you to throw away this + opportunity of being permanently cured. + + Let us implore you as a friend not to neglect the advice we gave you + in our last letter, for if you do we fear you will not get well, + or if so will not remain permanently cured. If you neglect the + simple precaution of purifying your blood and keeping it pure for a + reasonable period, it will be your own fault if you do not get well + and remain so, which is what we earnestly desire. + + To effect a permanent and lasting cure, it is absolutely necessary + that you should take the Blood mixture for a reasonable period. + Neglecting this is not fair either to yourself or to the Tremol + Treatment, which has done so much good for those who carry it out + conscientiously. + +The date, name and address, and the words “Dear Mrs. ----” are seen on +careful examination to have been added with a typewriter to a circular +letter. From this it would appear that the number of those who purchase +the “Tremol Treatment” but do not feel sufficiently encouraged by the +results to “carry it out conscientiously” is large enough to make it +worth while to have a circular ready to send to them; also that it is +a routine matter to assure them that “we are taking a special interest +in your case.” It appears impossible to doubt that large numbers of +people are lured by such assurances into sending their money for such +“treatment.” But there are two considerations affecting this kind of +practice which are so obvious that it might have been supposed that +they would occur to anyone. The first is that the absentee prescriber +is an anonymous and unknown person--for example, the letter quoted +above is signed (with a stamp) “J. S. Chatterton, Doctor’s Secretary”; +the “doctor” does not appear. In other cases it is “our consulting +physician,” our “specialist,” or “our medical staff,” etc., never +anyone whose qualifications and experience can be ascertained. In +the second place, it can hardly be supposed that writing down a few +answers to questions can supply a prescriber with an adequate knowledge +of a given case such as can be obtained by personal consultation and +examination. The meagreness of the information which will satisfy these +anonymous prescribers is remarkable. + + +THE SUTTON MEDICAL COMPANY. + +Another circular in imitation of typewriting which is before us, headed +“The Sutton Medical Co.,” looks like an attempt to imitate the Kidd +Company’s methods, though on a more restricted scale. It is dated from +Clerkenwell, London, and commences: + + Dear Friend, + + Do you or any of your friends stand in need of medical treatment? We + make a speciality of kidney and bladder trouble and rheumatism, in + fact all complaints arising from uric acid poisoning.... + + To introduce these remedies we are going to give away 10,000 Proof + Sample Treatments. They will be sent post-paid and absolutely free. + You are one of the ten thousand selected to receive a Proof Sample + Treatment, because we believe that if they cure you your influence + in your neighbourhood will secure other patients.... We will also + send you entirely free a copy of “Sutton’s Talk on the Kidneys.” ... + Answer the questions on the printed form and post it to-day. + +The printed form was filled up with the details of an imaginary case; +but whether, in the interval that had elapsed between receiving the +circular and sending for the medicine, the Sutton Medical Company had +concluded that they were mistaken in the belief that “your influence in +your neighbourhood will secure other patients,” or whether the giving +away “10,000 treatments” had caused them to collapse, or from some +other reason, no medicine or answer of any sort was received. + + +THE J. W. KIDD COMPANY. + +One of the most extensive businesses of the kind we are considering +is that run by the J. W. Kidd Company, of Fort Wayne, U.S.A., some +particulars of which have previously been given (_Secret Remedies_, +Vol. I., p. 177). Although the letters are ostensibly signed “Dr. +James W. Kidd,” the remarks made above as to the real anonymity of the +prescriber apply no less, as the business is run by a company and, on +the evidence submitted, is far too large for any one individual to +attend to the cases. The letters contain the usual sort of references, +such as “With my staff of skilled specialists, I have successfully +treated more serious chronic cases than any other doctor.” This +company, although established in America, sedulously cultivates +business in this country. Besides newspaper advertising, it appears +to obtain the names and addresses of persons to whom it seems worth +while to write. It has been asserted, and so far as we know without +any contradiction, that in America, at least, there is a regular trade +in old letters, orders, etc., from purchasers of nostrums, and that +a firm desiring to push a preparation for any particular disease can +purchase from a broker thousands of letters from people who have bought +some other preparation for that ailment, in order to bombard them +with letters recommending the new nostrum. Perhaps that is how the +Kidd Company gets names and addresses; one of the letters sent by the +company states that “I have decided to favour you because I am informed +that you need expert medical attention, and because I believe you will +tell your friends about my successful treatment after I have cured +you.” Of course, modesty in advancing the company’s claims would be +absurd, as diffidence in disparaging legitimate practitioners would be +out of place. A single extract may serve as a specimen: + + My Treatment: Do not waste your time and money on worthless patent + medicines, on incompetent doctors, or on One remedy--no one remedy + can possibly cure all cases or all diseases. The free treatment I + will send you will consist of as many kinds of medicine as I have + found advisable in cases like yours--remedies pure, effective, and + successful--the kind I have used in curing thousands of others. + The fact that my patients receive treatments especially prepared + to suit their individual cases is also largely responsible for my + great success. Simply mail me the enclosed Symptom Blank soon, and + with your free remedies I will send you one of my Books--not an + advertising pamphlet, but a valuable medical book entitled “The Ills + of Humanity.” + +The “symptom blank” contains only a few questions, including, “If other +doctors have tried to cure you, what did they call your disease or +diseases?” and a general invitation to “write me freely, in your own +words, about your diseases, symptoms, or pains”; and the following aid +to diagnosis is added: + + I am specially successful with the following diseases--simply make a + mark (X) side of any one of them you have:-- + + Rheumatism + Constipation + Diarrhœa + Indigestion + Nervousness + Torpid Liver + Impure Blood + Piles + Dropsy + Pimples + Malaria + Eczema + Asthma + Catarrh + Lumbago + Neuralgia + Headache + Dizziness + Epilepsy + Scrofula + Prostatitis + Lung Trouble + Chronic Cough + Heart Disease + Female Trouble + Kidney Trouble + Bladder Trouble + Partial Paralysis + +The “diagnosis” and medicine sent in a given case are described in Vol. +I of _Secret Remedies_. In _Truth Cautionary List_, under “Kidd, ‘Dr.’ +James William,” appears the following: + + Advertises profusely all over the world, offering to cure all + diseases, and to send a sample of his treatment “free.” The remedies + appear to be absolute humbug, and are supplied in quantities at + extravagant prices, as much as £4 having been obtained from victims + in some cases. + +These exposures, however, have not yet sufficed to drive the company +out of the field, as shown by the recent receipt of its circulars. + + +AN “EYE AND EAR SPECIALIST.” + +An advertisement which is to be found in very many newspapers is that +of “Mr. Thomas Ison, oculist and aurist, Ison’s Eye and Ear Dispensary, +Limited,” inviting consultations by post for all diseases of eye and +ear, which are stated to be cured without operation. From one of the +circulars sent it appears that the advertiser also attends at certain +times at given hotels in many of the northern towns, twenty of which +are named, to be consulted. An application for advice in a case of +failing sight brought a printed circular enclosing + + Printed form of questions to be answered appertaining to your case, + which please fill up and return to me by early post, together with + cheque or postal order for my fee, when suitable remedies will be at + once forwarded to you with full directions for their use. + +A written postscript stated: + + The charge is 10s. 6d. for special remedies and advice. My treatment + is very successful and there is no pain and no inconvenience + attending the use of the remedies. + +The promise of no pain and no inconvenience, before any information has +been sent as to the nature of the trouble, seems to imply an intention +not to undertake any very serious treatment, whatever the case might +prove to be. The printed form was as follows, the answers that were +given being here printed in italics:-- + + Established 1871. + Ison’s + Eye and Ear Dispensary, Limited, + ----, + Mr. Thomas Ison, + Oculist and Aurist. + A new method of treatment for the + Rapid Cure of Diseases of the Eye and Ear + without Operation. + Attendance at Leeds every + Tuesday and alternate Saturdays. + Hours: 10 to 7 + Other days by appointment only. + + By this new system of treatment nine cases out of ten can be cured + without a personal interview or the patient leaving home or business, + thus saving time and expense. The postal arrangements are now such + that persons may be treated in the most distant parts without delay. + + The special remedies applicable to each case are forwarded in a + portable compass to any part of the world, with full directions. + + Each patient is requested to fill in, as correctly as possible, + answers to the following questions, and return the same by post:-- + + 1. State name, age, and full postal address.-- ---- ----, _34_, ---- + ----. + + 2. State profession, business, or occupation.--_Clerk._ + + 3. Is the constitution strong or weak?--_Strong._ + + 4. How is the general health? Are the functions of the body performed + regularly? If not, state particulars.--_Good. Yes._ + + 5. State whether the right or left eye, or both, are + affected.--_Right eye only._ + + 6. How long have the eyes or eye been affected?--_It has been + steadily coming on for about 3 months._ + + 7. Do you feel any pain? If so, where? At the back of the eyes, + across the forehead, in the temples, or over the eyebrows?--_Yes, at + the back of the eye._ + + 8. Do the pains occur in the daytime, or in the night?--_All the + time, but worse at night._ + + 9. Are the eyelids affected? If so, describe the symptoms.--_No._ + + 10. What part of the eye is affected? Is the white of the eye + bloodshot wholly or in part, greyish, or of any other unnatural + colour? Are there any spots on the eye, or discharge? If so, + state particulars.--_The white of the eye is greyish. No spots or + discharge._ + + 11. Is the iris (the coloured ring which surrounds the pupil of the + eye), light or dark, or has its natural colour otherwise changed? If + so, state particulars.--_Light naturally, unchanged._ + + 12. Has the pupil of either eye increased or diminished in size, + and has it changed from its natural round form? If so, state + particulars.--_No._ + + 13. Are you naturally near sighted or far sighted, or do you squint? + Do you use spectacles? If so, state whether with flat glasses, and of + what colour, and of what number, if you know.--_No._ + + 14. What treatment (if any) has been employed up to the present time, + and with what result? State, as near as possible, what has been done + or used. Send any prescription that may have been given or used; it + will be returned.--_None._ + + 15. Is your mother or father subject to any affection of the + eyes?--_No._ + + Any other observations which may suggest themselves, please write on + the other side. + + Note: It being our desire to bring each case to a successful issue + as early as possible, it is highly important that we should have the + co-operation of our patients in every particular, in order to assist + us to this end. + +This was sent with the 10s. 6d. required, and the package received in +return contained a 2-drachm bottle of “Drops” and a 1-ounce bottle of +“Lotion,” and a dropping-tube of the kind supplied wholesale at about +1s. 9d. per dozen, accompanied by a letter which stated:-- + + I send herewith remedies to be used according to the printed + instructions. Please persevere and you will do well. Write me a day + or two before the remedies are finished, and I hope to have a good + report. + +A printed sheet of instructions for use was sent, giving directions +for “The Drops,” “The Lotion,” “The Embrocation” (for forehead and +temples), and “The Ointment” (for edges of eyelids). The two latter +were crossed out; the others were:-- + + The Drops.--Two Drops to be dropped in the inner corner of the + affected eye (the eye to be well open) by the aid of the Drop Tube + two or three times a day. + + The Lotion.--Linen cloths wet with the Lotion to be applied to the + Eyelids for a few minutes night and morning. + + Note.--Add the contents of the bottle to a bottle containing a + half-pint of cold water before use. + +Analysis showed the drops to consist of:-- + + Boric acid 2¹⁄₂ grains + Glycerine 2 „ + Water, to 2 fluid drachms + +The lotion was found to consist of the Liquor Hamamelidis of the +_British Pharmacopœia_. In both cases careful search was made for +small quantities of other substances, but nothing else was found. The +cost of both together would be about one penny; the bottles, dropper, +and postage would amount to a few pence more. It is not necessary to +comment on the value of such “treatment”; it is sufficient to contrast +it with such statements from the circulars sent as:-- + + Many hopeless cases, given up by the medical profession as incurable, + have been brought under his special treatment, and, to the surprise + of their friends, they have recovered their sense of hearing or + seeing after having been deaf or blind for many years.... This is + not accomplished by means of painful operations, poisonous drugs, or + compounds, but by means of a special treatment he has introduced, + as the result of thirty years’ practice and the experience of his + fore-elders. + + +A “HERBAL SPECIALIST.” + +An advertisement which may be met with in many papers is that of a Mr. +J. George, medical herbalist, usually beginning with a reference to +“Lost strength restored,” offering a free book which should be read +by all men suffering from loss of nerve power, etc., and concluding: +“No Drugs or Minerals used. Nature’s Remedies only. 30 years’ success. +The Treatment that Cures.” Application to the address given brought a +circular resembling a typewritten letter with the name and date typed +in, a “consultation form,” and two pamphlets. These were both entitled +_The Treatment that Cures Lost Health and Strength_, one being marked +“18th edition” and the other “26th edition.” Both contain a number of +testimonials, and the one marked “18th edition” contains several dated +1911, including one of March 2nd, 1911. As the pamphlets were obtained +in April, 1911, the interval between the 18th and 26th editions would +appear to have been a short one, but it seems to have sufficed for a +marvellous extension of the powers of the Herbal Remedy. In the “18th +edition” the following appears: + + Special Notice. + + In asking you to read carefully the following testimonials (which are + taken from some hundreds that I have received during the last five + years) I am convinced that no greater proof can be produced of the + Wonder-working qualities of the Herbal Remedy in all cases of Lost + Manhood and Vitality, Nervous Debility, Spermatorrhœa, Premature + Decay, all disorders of the Nervous System, Urinary Organs, etc., + etc. It is an undeniable fact that the Herbal Remedy has given health + and strength to large numbers of men and women who have become old + and debilitated long before their time. If space would permit, I + could print such statements from men that have suffered (but whom I + have cured), that would convince the greatest doubter. Therefore, I + ask you to read these testimonials which are from living persons, + daily in communication with me, and think, if you are a sufferer from + any of the symptoms mentioned give the Herbal Remedy a trial, and + avail yourself of a Safe, Sure, and Speedy Cure. + +In the “26th edition” appears a similar paragraph, but the list of +disorders following the words “in all cases of” has been changed to + + Asthma, Bronchitis, or any Chest or Lung Disease, Indigestion, Loss + of Appetite, Liver Trouble, Kidney or Water Complaint, Backache, + Weakness, Lassitude, Piles, Costiveness, Impurities of the Blood, + Eruptions, Blotches or Itching of the Skin, Anæmia, Dyspepsia, Female + Irregularities, or any complaint incidental to the Human System. + +It then continues: “It is an undeniable,” etc., as above. + +In the “18th edition” it is stated that: + + In placing your case under the treatment of Mr. J. George, the Herbal + Expert, you are placing yourself into the care of a Practitioner that + has had upwards of 40 years’ experience in diseases of the urinary + and generative organs. + +In the 26th, however, we read that + + In placing your case under the treatment of Mr. J. George, the Herbal + Expert, you are placing yourself into the care of a Practitioner that + has had upwards of 40 years’ experience in all diseases and ailments + incidental to the human system. + +As the advertisement referred to above, which appeared this year, +speaks of “30 years’ success,” it would appear that the first ten out +of the forty years were given to failure. But a further inconsistency +is supplied by the letter, in which it is said that + + The Remedy is one that I have used with the greatest success during + the past 20 years, previous to which it was used by a near relative + (a well-known Herbalist in the South of England with over 50 years’ + extensive practice). + +The price of the Herbal Remedy is, one month’s treatment, 8s. 6d.; two +months’, 15s. 6d.; three months’, 21s. + +The “consultation form” was filled up with particulars of an imaginary +case, and sent with 8s. 6d. A box of 29 powders was received in return; +these had an average weight of 57 grains, but single powders varied +from 47 to 69 grains. The material had a bitter taste; it contained +about 25 per cent. of maize flour, and the remainder consisted of +vegetable tissue which appeared to be derived from a bark, but did +not agree in characters with any drug in ordinary use. It showed no +alkaloidal or other principles by which it could be identified, and no +other substance was found to be present. + + + + +CHAPTER XVIII. + +THE ADVERTISING OF PROPRIETARY MEDICINES. + + + The methods of advertising adopted by the proprietors of secret + medicines are many and various. Some employ big posters on hoardings, + others--an increasing number--have fringed the chief railway lines of + the country with great boards bearing the names of their nostrums; + almost all agree in making large use of newspapers, magazines, and + other periodicals, and of copious distribution, through various + agencies, of circulars and pamphlets. It is impossible to read any of + the popular newspapers or magazines without seeing that the extent + of such advertising is very great. As a particular example, there + lies before us a letter recently sent to retailers by the makers of + certain proprietary medicines, in which it is stated that + + We have already largely increased our advertising, and over 800 + newspapers and magazines, embracing the whole of Great Britain, are + regularly carrying very effective advts. + + Ten million leaflets have been ordered to be insetted in all the + principal periodicals and magazines during the next three months. + + Booklets will be distributed from house to house throughout the + Country during the whole summer. + + In the case of another nostrum, a single article, which was before + the courts a few years ago, it was proved in evidence that in five + years 83 million pamphlets had been issued, and that, in the words of + the judge, “they had flooded the English-speaking world with their + advertisements.” + + While the undifferentiated “man (and woman) in the street” represents + the millions of potential customers to whom the nostrum maker wishes + to appeal, both the number and nature of the advertisements of + proprietary medicines in any given periodical do not by any means + depend only on its circulation, and the operation of certain general + rules may easily be traced. There is an obvious relation between + the intelligence and education of the readers on the one hand, and + the extent to which they can be appealed to by such advertisements + as we are considering on the other, these varying in inverse ratio. + A striking illustration of this may be seen by comparing the + established reviews and the monthly magazines, or the _Times_ and + some of the halfpenny dailies. A reference to the current issues of + the _Fortnightly Review_, the _Quarterly Review_, and _Blackwood’s + Magazine_ shows one advertisement of a proprietary medicine in each + of the first two, and none in the last; while a single one of the + illustrated magazines--the _Strand Magazine_--provides twenty-six, + and a Christmas number of the same contained sixty-three. Similarly, + on an arbitrarily chosen day, the _Times_ contained one such + advertisement occupying one column, while the _Daily News_ contained + eight occupying four columns, the _Daily Mail_ four occupying three + columns, the _Daily Express_ eleven occupying three and a-quarter + columns, the _Evening News_ four occupying two-thirds of a column, + and the _Star_ five occupying two columns. A close connection may + easily be traced, also, between the number of advertisements of + patent medicines and the character of the other advertisements, the + fact that a large amount of credulity on the part of the readers + can be counted on being as evident from the one as the other. For + example, advertisements of clairvoyants, palmists, “astrologers” + who offer to foretell a person’s future from the date and hour of + his birth, preparations for removing superfluous hair, preventing + blushing, or developing the bust are frequent in those publications + most favoured by the proprietary medicine maker. + + Some of the Sunday papers which have very large circulations show a + very full share of advertisements of nostrums; an unselected copy + of one of these which is before us contains no less than forty-one + such advertisements, occupying nearly seven columns. Some of these + papers have gained a good deal of notoriety for the large amount of + space which they devote to reports of divorce suits and sensational + crimes, and it is not surprising therefore to find the majority + of proprietary nostrums advertised in them belonging to the most + undesirable classes. For example, out of the forty-one just referred + to, seventeen are of medicines for “female complaints,” five for + “lost manhood,” and two for diseases of the urinary organs. Such + advertisements are also abundant in the low-class “comics”; one of + these taken at hazard contained eleven of female remedies, along with + advertisements of “rubber preventives,” “chic female pictures,” and + the like. + + “Religious” papers appear to be a fairly good hunting-ground for the + advertisers of nostrums. In one of these--a weekly--we find eighteen + advertisements of such preparations, along with “galvanic rings for + rheumatism,” “1s. for £1,” “£2 weekly made by selling remnants,” + “blushing cured,” “superfluous hair removed,” etc.; and on another + page the announcement, “The prayers of the readers of this journal + are requested for the blessing of God upon those who conduct it, + and also upon the sermons and narratives which are printed in it.” + The smaller provincial papers are in a good deal of favour for + advertisements of secret medicines; as a rule a few local products of + this kind are advertised as well as those of wider sale. A feature + which is often to be noticed in such papers is that advertisements + are accepted which from their headings and general appearance look + like news paragraphs, and they are sometimes so worded that an + ordinary reader might never suspect their real significance, and no + warning “[Advt.]” or other indication appears at the end. + + The feelings of disgust and annoyance which are aroused when + advertisements of this kind are met with in such abundance in + newspapers are of very little importance in comparison with the far + greater evil of the power over the press which thus passes into + the hands of the owners of the various quack medicines. Certainly + one of the most effective ways of preventing people being imposed + on by such articles is to publish as widely as possible authentic + information as to their composition and real value; but in this task + little assistance is to be obtained from the lay press, on account + of the large pecuniary interest which such advertisements give it in + supporting the trade. The great concentration of the ownership of + newspapers, magazines, etc., in the hands of a comparatively small + number of companies, is not without influence in the matter; for a + newspaper which does not obtain enough advertisements of medical + nostrums to give it an interest in supporting them is effectually + prevented from printing anything adverse to their interests if it + is the property of a firm or company owning other papers which + do receive such advertisements largely. The importance of this + consideration can be at once seen in connexion with any proposals + for legislation; if there should appear any likelihood of an Act of + Parliament being passed which would interfere with the liberty to + fleece the public by means of secret remedies, the proprietors of + such things can practically order the greater part of the press of + the country to misrepresent what is proposed, and in every way to + stir up hostility to such a measure. This consideration should not + be lost sight of in judging of the proceedings or the findings of + the Parliamentary Committee of Inquiry into the subject of “patent” + medicines. + + + + +CHAPTER XIX. + +THE “EXPERT” BEHIND THE PROPRIETARY MEDICINE. + + + The reports which appear in the preceding pages and the first volume + of this book, contrasting the composition of various proprietary + medicines with the claims made for them, show that a favourite + feature in the advertising of many of those of most recent origin is + a pretence of personal attention to the details of each case by an + expert. It is sometimes professed that this attention is given by a + qualified medical practitioner, but whether alleged to be qualified + or not, the “expert” is usually said to have made a life-long study + of the particular complaint to be treated, and to know far more about + it than any doctor practising his profession in the ordinary way. We + have shown in many cases the hollowness of the pretence of personal + attention to individual cases, and some of the evidence given at a + recent inquest at the Hammersmith Coroner’s Court throws light on the + kind of “expert” knowledge placed at the disposal of those deluded + by such advertisements. The case was one in which the deceased had + been taking the “Nelson Lloyd Obesity Cure,” the results of the + analysis of which were published in _Secret Remedies_, Vol. I., p. + 100. As will be seen from the extracts from advertisements which are + there given, the appeal to sufferers from obesity is in the form of + a promise of personal treatment by “J. Nelson Lloyd,” who says, “I + am myself a member of a family many of whom died prematurely after + much mental and physical suffering, arising from corpulence”; and + “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.” The value of this + “guarantee,” and the real facts as to the proprietor’s knowledge of + the disease he guarantees to cure, are shown by his own evidence + at the inquest referred to. The following is from a report of the + proceedings in the _West London Observer_:--“Mr. Frank Derry, the + proprietor of Nelson Lloyd’s Obesity Cure, recalled by the coroner, + said his medical knowledge was confined to what he had learnt twenty + years ago as secretary to a medical man. He had not been in the + present business very long. The Coroner: Since the last hearing I + have had the advantage of reading your book. Did you write it? It + is signed ‘Nelson Lloyd.’--Witness: Of course, Nelson Lloyd is an + imaginary person. The book was written for me. In your book you say, + ‘While studying for my degree?’--That represents the man who wrote + the prescription. He assisted in the business. But you are said to + be Nelson Lloyd?--Yes, it is a joint effort. When was the book first + published?--In the spring of last year. In the book you say, ‘After + I had succeeded in curing myself I decided to take up the cure of + obesity instead of that of medical practitioner’?--That represents + the medical man who assisted me. Obesity, you say, should only be + treated by a specialist?--Yes. You also say that you have made a + life-study of it. Is that correct?--As for me, no, but as for the + medical man, yes. Do you undertake the diagnosis of a case?--With the + assistance of a medical man. John Holmes, of Herne Hill, said he was + a qualified medical man in America, but not in this country. As an + employee of Mr. Derry he went over the consultation forms and ordered + the treatment.” The statement of the proprietor, who is responsible + for the letters and pamphlets sent out concluding, “I am, yours + truly, J. Nelson Lloyd” (the signature being a facsimile of writing), + and for the personal form of the advertisements, that “_of course_, + Nelson Lloyd is an imaginary person,” appears to show a correct + appreciation of the degree of truthfulness usually pervading such a + business. + + In connection with the above and with another nostrum for obesity--A. + Gordon Wallace’s “Treatment”--dealt with in Chapter VII. of this + volume, the following extract from “‘Truth’ Cautionary List for 1912” + is of interest:-- + + “Wallace, A. Gordon.--A mythical ‘specialist’ in fat-producing + and fat-removing, originally the joint creation of a Mr. Alfred + John Warner and a Dr. J. H. Hart. Warner was a medical student + and chemist’s assistant, employed by Nelson Lloyd. Dr. Hart, who + was struck off the register in 1898, was in the same employment. + They produced Wallace as a fat-remover, and transferred him to the + Rational Remedies Co., Limited. The company went into liquidation, + and the ‘specialist’ passed into possession of the International + Remedies Co., Limited, which also went into liquidation. Warner + became bankrupt, and Gordon Wallace then became a fat-dispeller.” + + + + +CHAPTER XX. + +SOME ECHOES OF VOLUME I. + + + The first volume of this book, published in 1908, aroused a very + large amount of public interest. Its reception by those primarily + concerned was of varying character; two or three incidents in this + connection appear worth recording here. + + +SEIGEL’S SYRUP AND “SECRET REMEDIES.” + +We have received from a correspondent particulars of letters which have +passed between the proprietors of Seigel’s Syrup and himself. They +are characterised by a direct terseness on his side, and the opposite +qualities on the other, that make them somewhat entertaining reading. +The correspondence opens with a letter from the makers of this nostrum, +which is self-explanatory: + + Dear Sir, + + We received to-day by post a wrapper which had enclosed one of our + Mother Seigel pamphlets addressed to you, and on which the sender + had copied the stupid so-called analysis of our Syrup from the + publication of the British Medical Association. You also copy the + still more silly averment, “cost of 3 fluid ounces ¹⁄₃ of 1d.,” and + your own comment on the whole is, “Nice profit at 2/6! What humbug”!! + + As you seem to be inclined to believe whatever you read, we desire + to say: That the pretended analysis is positively absurd; That it + does not remotely resemble the actual formula of our medicine, + which really contains over a dozen vegetable or herbal extracts; + That it costs much more than ¹⁄₃ of 1d. for 3 fluid ounces; That it + is actually worth more than it sells for as an effective curative + remedy; That it is not a “humbug”; That humbugs do not last forty + years and still continue as business successes in all parts of the + world as our preparation does. + + From your penmanship we think it not unlikely that you are a medical + practitioner, in which event your animus becomes quite intelligible. + If you are a layman, please consider fairly our assurance that the + published analysis (?) is merely an effort of the “Doctors’ Trust,” + or “Medical Practitioners’ Trade Union,” to injure successful rivals. + Don’t let them humbug YOU! + +It is of course quite possible that the preparation in question “really +contains over a dozen vegetable or herbal extracts,” even though the +statement follows the phrase “as you seem to be inclined to believe +whatever you read.” There is nothing in the report of the analysis, +as set forth in _Secret Remedies_, to the contrary; but in that case +the dozen extracts must have been present in too small quantity to be +recognizable by chemical or physical tests, which reveal most active +drugs even in traces. In the introduction to that volume it is pointed +out that vegetable extracts which contain no active principle cannot +always be recognized by analysis, and a similar caution is repeated +several times; but to any one acquainted with the nature of drugs +it is obvious that such limitation of the powers of analysis is of +little moment, since active drugs can almost always be recognized with +certainty. + +The reply to the above letter was the remark that: + + The sole question is whether the public is more likely to be + humbugged by the British Medical Association, which is certainly a + responsible body of experts, or by the unknown vendors of a quack + medicine; + +And the writer adds: + + Most of these abominations hail from America. Did yours originate + there? + +The makers reply to this in a long letter containing various assertions +about their article in nine numbered paragraphs, although they commence +by saying: + + We have no desire to continue a correspondence which would probably + not be accepted in a fair and reasonable spirit on your side. + +And they omit to answer the one question that was asked as to the +country of origin of the syrup. In acknowledging this letter, the +recipient says: + + As regards your letter generally, if the British Medical Association + have issued false statements damaging to you and to your concoction, + your remedy is patent. + + If you, and all the other quack medicine dealers, specified in the + 184 pages of _Secret Remedies_, and in the pages of _Truth Cautionary + List_, choose to “take it lying down,” the fair presumption is that + the statements are true. + +The makers do not appear to have found a further reply, and so the +correspondence closes. + + +THE VARIABLE COMPOSITION OF SECRET REMEDIES. + +A correspondent of the _Pharmaceutical Journal_, in a letter in the +issue of January 8th, 1910, draws attention to the differences between +the formulae of certain proprietary medicines published in _Secret +Remedies_, Vol. I., as the results of analysis, and those printed on +the labels of the medicines when these are imported into France or +Italy. The first instance taken is “Dr. Williams’s Pink Pills”; the +formula for these given in _Secret Remedies_ is: + + Exsiccated sulphate of iron 0.75 grain + Potassium carbonate, anhydrous 0.66 „ + Magnesia 0.09 „ + Powdered liquorice 1.4 grains + Sugar 0.2 grain + + In one pill. + +while according to the writer of the letter it is given on the label as: + + Pot. carb. 0.07 + Ferri sulph. 0.80 + Mangan. oxid. puriss. 0.02 + Nuraemin 0.05 + Sacchar 0.03 + Ext. gentian 0.025 + Aloes 0.009 + + [The quantities apparently do not indicate grains, but the fractional + parts of the various ingredients in 1 part of the pill.] + +The _Pharmaceutical Journal’s_ correspondent proceeds to assume, +without further evidence, that the formula published in _Secret +Remedies_ is wrong. A little familiarity with the composition of +proprietary remedies and the ways of their makers would, however, have +taught him that a particular composition in one country or at one time +gives not the slightest guarantee of the same composition at another +time or in another country. When the two formulae above are compared, +it is at once clear that no competent analyst could have obtained from +pills having the composition of the second formula results pointing +to the first. To begin with, the potassium carbonate of the second is +only a fraction of what was found by our analyst, who converted it into +sulphate in the usual way, after removal of all other ingredients, and +weighed the pure potassium sulphate; there is no loophole for error +here. Again, powdered liquorice was found to constitute nearly half +the pill, but none is shown in the other formula; it can hardly have +been omitted as being unimportant excipient, since it is thought worth +while to mention sugar present in only one-thirtieth of the quantity; +the fibre of liquorice makes it one of the easiest drugs to recognise +with certainty, and none of the ingredients mentioned in the other +formula contains any fibre or vegetable tissue at all. These two +instances suffice to show that the formulae refer to pills having very +different composition, and the other differences are equally incapable +of explanation in any other way. The comparison serves to emphasise +the obvious fact that the only formula that is of value for showing +what is being sold under a given name in a particular country is that +obtained by expert examination of the article purchased there in the +ordinary way. The second instance which is referred to in the letter in +question is that of Laville’s Antigout Remedies. In _Secret Remedies_, +Vol. I., the results of qualitative analyses of these by Dr. Zernik +are quoted, and the composition thus given is now shown to differ from +what is printed on the label. The statement in _Secret Remedies_ is +given on the authority of Dr. Zernik, and we are, of course, unable +to answer for his methods of work; but it appears almost certain that +remarks similar to the above would apply here also. Thus, Zernik found +the pilules to contain guaiacum resin, whereas this is not one of the +admitted constituents; it is well known that guaiacum resin can be +identified with much greater certainty than most resins, and it is +extremely unlikely that any mistake was made about it by so experienced +an analyst as Dr. Zernik. The correspondent of the _Pharmaceutical +Journal_ adds that “the natural conclusion is a strong doubt as to the +accuracy of the other formulae given in the book. Its pages form very +interesting reading, but with errors such as these, which could easily +have been avoided, the book hardly reflects credit on its authors or +any pharmacist who uses it as a book of reference.” If pharmacists are +as little able to criticise the claims of the makers of proprietary +articles as the writer of this letter appears to be, it is perhaps not +surprising that they are often willing to play the part they do in +distributing them. Fortunately, evidence is not lacking that many of +them regard the quack medicine evil in a very different manner, and +welcome such exposures as we have given of many of these preparations. +The facts adduced in the letter show very plainly how desirable it is +that in this country, as in France and Italy, the law should require +the composition of such medicines to be stated on the label. The +public could then judge to some extent whether they were receiving +fair value for money, and the proprietors could be brought to book if +analysis proved that they had departed from the declared formula. + + +THE VARIABLE DOSAGE OF SECRET REMEDIES. + +Among the proprietary medicines the composition of which, as revealed +by analysis, has been published in the first volume are various +powders, cachets, pills, and tablets, and in these cases the individual +weights of different doses have usually been recorded; great variation +in the quantity to be taken in one dose has sometimes been shown. Thus +in the case of powders sold for the cure of drunkenness powders having +an average weight of 1¹⁄₂ grains varied individually from ¹⁄₃ grain to +3 grains, and in another inebriety “cure,” variations from 2.9 to 6 +grains were found among ten powders of average weight 4.2 grains. It +would appear from such cases that the quantity put into each was merely +“a little,” and could not have been either weighed or measured. One of +these powders contained acetanilide and bromide, and such variations +might be far from negligible in their consequences. In the case of +headache powders, most of which consisted chiefly of acetanilide, some +of the variations were very serious, the heaviest and lightest powders +in a packet of ten differing in one preparation by as much as 6 grains; +the average weight of these was 10¹⁄₂ grains, and acetanilide formed 50 +per cent. of the constituents. Some ingenuity is shown by one of the +makers of headache powders whose article was among those examined, in +an advertisement which has appeared rather prominently in some of the +pharmaceutical papers. In this advertisement attention is drawn to the +“fact” that our analyses showed smaller variations in the weights of +the powders in question than in any other; since, however, the lightest +and heaviest powders in a packet of ten of average weight 6 grains +differed by 0.7 grain (practically 12 per cent.) there seems to be no +very good grounds for this self-congratulation on accuracy. And the +“fact” itself belongs to the class described by Josh Billings as “facts +which are not so,” as in one of the powders analysed--the only other +one which consisted of acetanilide only--the extreme variation found +was only 0.2 grain; this appears to be referred to in the advertisement +as a variation of 2.0 grains. The advertisement states “it is not +possible in the ordinary course of dispensing business to weigh powders +more accurately than ‘Daisy’ powders are dispensed,” and, as to this, a +pharmaceutical correspondent remarks that the statement “is an insult +to the pharmacists to whom it is addressed. A dispenser who could not +weigh to within 0.7 grain would not remain long in any good pharmacy.” +It is not unimportant to recollect, moreover, that it was shown in +evidence at an inquest some years ago that extremely wide variations +existed in the weights of specimens taken from one and the same packet +of the very powders in question, and whatever greater accuracy may +exist in the weighing of these powders to-day would seem therefore only +to have been secured after attention had been drawn in this forcible +way to the dangerous manner in which variable quantities of acetanilide +were being distributed as doses. + + + + +INDEX + +TO FIRST AND SECOND SERIES. + + +The contents of both Volumes I. and II. are here indexed together. The +Roman numerals denote the volume, and the figures denote the page. + + PAGE + + Absolute System of Medicine, An, ii. 210 + + Absorbit Reducing Paste, i. 87 + + Absorptive Pile Treatment, Van Vleck’s, i. 154 + + Acetanilid (antifebrin), i. 2, 5, 6, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 58, 165; + ii. 263, 264 + + Acetic acid, i. 16, 78; ii. 7, 23, 182, 236 + + Acetic ether, i. 16; ii. 86 + + Acetosalic acid (_see_ Acetyl-salicylic acid). + + Acetyl-salicylic acid, i. 56, 59, 60, 64, 77, 81; ii. 4, 19 + + Aconite, Tincture of, ii. 214 + + _Aconitum napellus_, ii. 213 + + Act, Stamp, i. 182 + + Advertising of Proprietary Medicines, The, ii. 252 + + Aethylenimin, ii. 28 + + Agar-agar, ii. 238 + + Albumen, ii. 65, 127 + + Alcohol, i. 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; ii. 7, 10, 11, + 23, 33, 46, 47, 63, 76, 80, 110, 111, 141, 149, 150, 159, 162, 164, + 183, 194, 197, 198, 200, 203, 208, 217, 218, 220, 223, 224, 225 + + Alcoholism, Medicines for, i. 162; ii. 128 + Alcola, ii. 137 + Antidipso, i. 165 + Coza Powder, i. 162 + Dipsocure, i. 164 + Drug Cures, some other, i. 168 + Normyl Cure, ii. 140 + Teetolia Treatment, i. 166 + Temperancia Treatment, ii. 130 + Woods’ Treatment, ii. 133 + + Alcola, ii. 137 + + Allan’s Anti-fat, i. 92 + + Allspice, Oil of, ii. 10, 12 + + Almond, essential oil of, i. 35; ii. 151 + + Almond, extract of, ii. 28 + + Almond oil, i. 135, 138 + + Aloes, i. 48, 49, 55, 104, 175, 176, 177, 180; ii. 5, 23, 95, 96, 97, + 98, 99, 100, 101, 117, 192, 195, 196, 199, 204, 205, 240 + + Aloes and iron pill, ii. 195, 204, 205 + + Aloes, decoction of, ii. 193, 198, 199 + + Aloin, i. 69, 109, 110, 161; ii. 85, 96, 101, 144, 204 + + Alum, i. 51, 120 + + Aluminium oleate, i. 120 + + Aluminium sulphate, i. 145 + + Amber, oil of, ii. 6, 23 + + Amenorrhœa, Medicines for, ii. 184 + Blak Thyrol Female Pills, ii. 206 + Blanchard’s Apiol and Steel Pills, ii. 205 + Davis’s Female Mixture, ii. 197 + Davis’s Female Pills, ii. 197 + Dodd’s Corrective, ii. 198 + Dodd’s Female Pills, ii. 198 + Dumas’s Paris Pills, ii. 186, 192 + Fournier’s Hygenique Mixture, ii. 199 + Gautieur’s Female Pills, ii. 204 + Grey’s (Nurse) Tablets, ii. 190, 195 + Hammond’s (Nurse) Remedies, ii. 203 + Hooper’s Female Pills, ii. 196 + Horton’s Benedict Pills, ii. 205 + Irristum, ii. 189, 194 + I.R.S. Tablets, ii. 201 + Jefferson Dodd’s Corrective, ii. 198 + Jefferson Dodd’s Female Pills, ii. 198 + Kearsley’s Welch’s Female Pills, ii. 196 + Lilly’s (Nurse) Female Pills, ii. 206 + Mann’s (Nurse) Remedy, ii. 191, 195 + Martin’s Apiol and Steel Pills, ii. 199 + Monaid Tablets, ii. 200 + Patterson’s Female Pills, ii. 204 + Pinkham’s (Mrs.) Vegetable Compound, ii. 190, 194 + Powell’s (Nurse) Corrective Pills, ii. 193 + Powell’s (Nurse) Mixture, ii. 193 + Powell’s (Nurse) Popular Pellets, ii. 192 + Powell’s (Nurse) Remedies, ii. 187 + Sanol Cones, ii. 200 + Shaffer-Bennyon’s (Mrs.) Remedy, ii. 202 + Stafford-Brookes’ (Mrs.) Pelloids, ii. 202 + Towle’s Pennyroyal and Steel Pills, ii. 195 + Welch’s (Widow) Female Pills, ii. 196 + + American Soothing Syrup, Johnson’s, ii. 151 + + Ammonia, ii. 7, 8, 25, 35, 63, 194, 224 + + Ammoniacum, i. 18; ii. 106 + + Ammoniated mercury, i. 113, 143, 144 + + Ammonium bromide, i. 126, 128, 129; ii. 159, 162, 164 + + Ammonium carbonate, i. 125 + + Ammonium chloride, i. 19; ii. 181 + + Ammonium citrate, i. 87 + + Ammonium iodatum salicyl. solubl., ii. 28 + + Ammonium iodide, ii. 28 + + Ammonium salicylate, ii. 28, 238 + + Ammonium spiric. puriss, ii. 238 + + Ammonium sulpho-guaiacolate, ii. 237 + + Animal extract, ii. 63, 65 + + Aniseed, oil of, i. 12, 14; ii. 74, 105, 149, 150, 151, 162, 164 + + Aniseed, powdered, i. 18 + + Aniseed, Powell’s Balsam of, i. 14 + + Aniseed water, ii. 234 + + Annatto, ii. 25 + + Antexema, i. 105 + + Anthylla, i. 104 + + Anti-cataract Mixture, Pomies’, i. 146 + + Anti-catarrh, Birley’s, i. 7 + + Anticelta Tablets, i. 163 + + Anti-corpulent Preparation, Russell’s, i. 87 + + Antidipso, i. 165 + + Anti-epileptic Medicine, Taylor’s, i. 126 + + Anti-épileptique (Uten), i. 129 + + Anti-fat, Allan’s, i. 92 + + Antifebrin (_see_ Acetanilid) + + Antigout soap, i. 64 + + Antimony oxide, i. 132 + + Antineurasthin, ii. 68 + + Antipon, i. 86 + + Antipyrin, ii. 238, 239 + + Anti-rheumatic Pearls, Baring-Gould’s, i. 55 + + Anti-stout Pills, Vincent’s, ii. 116 + + Anturic Bath Salts, ii. 26 + + Apiol, ii. 195, 199, 204, 205 + + Apiol and Steel Pills, Blanchard’s, ii. 205 + + Apiol and Steel Pills, Martin’s, ii. 199 + + Appendix, i. 182 + + _Arnica montana_, ii. 219 + + Arnica, Tincture of, ii. 220 + + Asafœtida, ii. 52, 145 + + Aspirin (_see_ acetyl-salicylic acid). + + Assmann’s Whooping Cough Remedy, i. 19 + + Atkinson and Barker’s Infants’ Preservative, ii. 150 + + Atomising Fluid, Colman’s, ii. 84 + + Atropine, i. 168 + + Augenwol, i. 146 + + Automors, ii. 239 + + “Bacillentod” (Pohl’s Family Tea), i. 36 + + Baldness, Medicines for (internal), i. 114 + Capsulated Hæmoglobin Ovals, i. 115 + Capsuloids, i. 114 + Hæmoglobin Capsules, i. 116 + + Balm, Bowden’s Indian, ii. 23 + + Balsam, Bengué’s, ii. 19 + + Balsam of Peru, i. 27, 113, 115; ii. 25 + + Balsam of tolu, ii. 9 + + Balsamic Cough Mixture, Crosby’s, i. 15 + + Balsamic Elixir, Congreve’s, i. 26 + + Baring-Gould’s Anti-rheumatic Pearls, i. 55 + + Barium Sulphate, i. 122 + + Barkowski’s Irrigal Tablets, ii. 239 + + Barley, ii. 23 + + Bath Salts, ii. 25 + + Bauch’s Busennährcreme, ii. 237 + + Beans, Bile, i. 77; ii. 96 + + Bearberry, i. 104 + + Beecham’s Cough Pills, i. 18 + + Beecham’s Pills, i. 175 + + Beeswax, i. 58, 88, 120, 140, 143, 149, 151, 181; ii. 35, 181, 182 + + Bell’s Fairy Cure, i. 39 + + Benedict Pills, Horton’s, ii. 205 + + Bengué’s Balsam, ii. 19 + + Benzoate, Sodium, i. 180; ii. 177, 237 + + Benzoin, compound tincture of, i. 15, 27 + + Berberine, i. 80; ii. 217 + + Berendorf’s Powder for Epilepsy, i. 129 + + Betony, i. 63 + + Bile Beans, i. 77; ii. 96 + + Birch tar, oil of, ii. 43 + + Birley’s Anti-catarrh, i. 7 + + Bishop’s Gout Varalettes, i. 62 + + _Blackwood’s Magazine_, ii. 253 + + Bladderwrack, i. 83, 84, 89, 91, 92, 93, 94, 100, 102, 103, 104; + ii. 112, 116, 117, 119, 121, 122, 123, 125 + + Blair’s Gout and Rheumatic Pills, i. 50 + + Blak Thyrol Female Pills, ii. 206 + + Blanchard’s Apiol and Steel Pills, ii. 205 + + Blaud’s Pills, ii. 145, 195, 203 + + Blood Cure, Munyon’s, i. 44 + + Blood Mixture, Clarke’s, i. 42 + + Blood Pills, Harvey’s, i. 44 + + Blood Pills, Hughes’s, i. 48 + + Blood Purifiers, i. 42 + Clarke’s Blood Mixture, i. 42 + Harvey’s Pills, i. 44 + Hood’s Compound Extract of Sarsaparilla, i. 46 + Hughes’s Pills, i. 48 + Munyon’s Cure, i. 44 + Phelps Brown’s Purifie r, i. 46 + Stevens’s Consumption Cure, i. 31 + Townsend’s American Sarsaparilla, i. 43 + + Blue dye, i. 118, 119; ii. 145 + + Borax, i. 7, 129, 138; ii. 40, 85, 223, 224, 225 + + Boric acid, i. 106, 109, 113; ii. 39, 40, 42, 125, 136, 139, 202, + 203, 237, 249 + + Bostock’s Eye Ointment, i. 143 + + Bowden’s Indian Balm, ii. 23 + + Box’s Golden Fire, ii. 20 + + Box’s Pills, ii. 20 + + Brandy, ii. 28 + + Brixa Tablets, i. 163 + + Bromocarpine, ii. 164 + + Brompton Consumption and Cough Specific, i. 27 + + Brown’s Bronchial Troches, ii. 74 + + Brown-Séquard, ii. 62, 63, 66 + + Brown’s Vervain Restorative Assimilant, O. Phelps, i. 127 + + Brucine, ii. 145 + + Bryony, i. 63 + + Buckthorn, i. 104 + + Buer’s Mul’la, i. 149 + + Buer’s Piles Cure, i. 149 + + Burdock, i. 45 + + Burgess’s Lion Ointment, i. 180 + + Burgess’s Lion Pills, ii. 101 + + Busennährcreme, Bauch’s, ii. 237 + + Büsteria, ii. 238 + + Cade, oil of, ii. 42, 43 + + Cadum, ii. 41 + + Caffeine, i. 38, 39; ii. 4, 139, 218, 221, 233 + + Calcium carbonate, i. 6, 109; ii. 39, 145, 176 + + Calcium chloride, ii. 175 + + Calcium glycerophosphate, ii. 70 + + Calcium hypophosphite, ii. 55, 58, 61, 127 + + Calcium phosphate, i. 132 + + Calcium sulphate, i. 28, 109; ii. 39, 41, 139 + + Calomel, i. 113, 131, 132, 148, 151 + + Camomile, i. 63; ii. 100 + + Camphor, i. 2, 5, 65, 135, 173; ii. 11 + + Camphor, oil of, ii. 10, 23, 25, 82 + + Cancer Remedies, i. 117 + Cardigan Cancer Curers, i. 121 + Caustics and Cancer, i. 122 + Crimson Cross Special Ointment, ii. 181 + Wallace’s Specific No. II., ii. 215 + + Canella, ii. 192, 193, 196 + + Canexia preparations, i. 163 + + Capsicum, i. 14, 35, 69, 156, 160, 176, 177; ii. 11, 19, 23, 76, 94, + 98, 100, 101, 108, 196, 200, 205 + + Capsulated Hæmoglobin Ovals, i. 115 + + Capsuloids, i. 114 + + Caraway, oil of, ii. 149, 150, 151, 240 + + Carbolic acid (_see_ Phenol) + + Cardamom, ii. 96, 195, 198, 199, 204, 205 + + Cardigan Cancer Curers, i. 121 + + Carmine, i. 88 + + Carter’s Little Liver Pills, ii. 96 + + Carvone, ii. 147 + + Cascara sagrada, i. 2, 6, 55, 74, 104, 156, 161; ii. 28, 36, 94, 110, + 123, 149 + + Cascarilla, i. 70 + + Cassell’s Medicines, ii. 36 + + Cassell’s Dusting Powder, ii. 39 + + Cassell’s Blood Cleansing Tablets, ii. 39 + + Cassell’s Ointment, ii. 40 + + Cassia, oil of, i. 35; ii. 10, 76 + + Catarrh Balm, Van Vleck’s, i. 3 + + Catarrh Cures, i. 1; ii. 71 + Birley’s, i. 7 + Colman Method, ii. 83 + Hyomei, ii. 78 + Lane’s, i. 2 + Munyon’s, i. 6 + Rhycol Treatment, ii. 80 + Van Vleck’s, i. 3 + + Caulophyllin, i. 80; ii. 200 + + Caustics and cancer, i. 122 + + C.B.Q. Tablets, Post’s, i. 61 + + Celmo, ii. 17 + + Celmo No. 2, ii. 94 + + Century Thermal Bath Cabinet, i. 99 + + Chalk, i. 6, 109; ii. 39, 145, 176 + + Chameleon Oil, ii. 7 + + Charcoal, i. 172; ii. 19, 145 + + Chas. Forde’s Bile Beans, ii. 96 + + Chijitse, i. 22, 32 + + Children’s Cooling Powders, Fenning’s, i. 133 + + Chinosol, ii. 238 + + Chiretta, i. 168 + + Chlorbutol, ii. 232, 233 + + Chloretone, ii. 232 + + Chlorinated soda, ii. 175 + + Chlorine, ii. 175 + + Chloroform, i. 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 74, 125; ii. 13, 47, 164, 194, 198, + 234 + + Chloroform, Spirit of, i. 43; ii. 67 + + Chlorophyll, i. 111, 112 + + Cicfa, ii. 93 + + Cimicifuga, i. 57 + + Cinchona, i. 167; ii. 58, 61, 133 + + Cinchonidine sulphate, i. 5 + + Cinchonine sulphate, i. 2, 6; ii. 205 + + Cinnamon, i. 164; ii. 195, 199, 204, 205, 233 + + Cinnamon, decoction of, ii. 76 + + Cinnamon, oil of, ii. 76, 98 + + Citric acid, i. 64, 81, 84, 86, 87; ii. 28, 55 + + Clarke’s Blood Mixture, i. 42 + + Clifton’s Treatment for Deafness, i. 136 + + Cloves, ii. 117 + Cloves, decoction of, ii. 76 + Cloves, oil of, ii. 65, 76, 237 + + Cocaphos, ii. 49 + + Cochineal, i. 27, 35, 86, 120; ii. 47, 181 + + Cockle’s Pills, ii. 100 + + Cocoa, i. 41 + + Cocoa-butter (_see_ Theobroma, oil of) + + Cocoanut oil, ii. 25 + + Cod-liver Oil, Pastor Felke’s Honey, i. 36 + + Coffee, tincture of, ii. 218, 220, 221 + + _Coffœa cruda_, ii. 220 + + Colchicine, i. 61, 64 + + Colchicum, i. 51, 63; ii. 5 + + Cold Cures, i. 1 + Keene’s “One Night”, i. 5 + Mackenzie’s “One Day”, i. 4 + + Coleman’s Nervlettes, i. 175 + + Collemplastrum Capsicum, ii. 237 + + Collie’s Ointment, i. 57 + + Colman Method, ii. 83 + + Colocynth, ii. 95, 100, 101, 117 + + Colocynth, extract of, ii. 96, 197 + + Colophony, ii. 181, 182 + + Colza oil, i. 88, 135; ii. 25 + + Confinements, Medicine for securing easy, ii. 207 + + Congreve’s Balsamic Elixir, i. 26 + + Constipation (_see_ Indigestion, Constipation, etc., Medicines for). + + Consultation Blanks (_see_ Symptom Forms). + + Consultation Forms (_see_ Symptom Forms). + + Consumption Cures, i. 20; ii. 71 + Bacillentod, i. 36 + Brompton specific, i. 27 + Congreve’s Balsamic Elixir, i. 26 + Felke’s Honey Cod-liver Oil, i. 36 + Kefyr Ferment, i. 24 + Körber’s, i. 36 + Lieber’s Tea, i. 36 + Liqufruta Medica, ii. 77 + Pohl’s Family Tea, i. 36 + Star Tonic, i. 23 + Stevens’s (Sacco, Lungsava), i. 21, 28 + Tuberculozyne, i. 21, 32 + Weidhaas Hygienic Institute, i. 23 + + Cooling Powders for Infants, i. 130 + Fenning’s Children’s Powders, i. 133 + Pritchard’s Teething and Fever Powders, i. 132 + + Copaiba, ii. 107 + + Copper in Tuberculozyne, i. 35 + + Copper oleate, i. 120; ii. 181, 182 + + Corpulence (_see_ Obesity, Medicines for). + + Corpulin, i. 104 + + Corrective, Jefferson Dodd’s, ii. 198 + + Corrective Pills. Powell’s, ii. 193 + + Cottonseed oil, ii. 12 + + Cotton Wool, Völlner’s, ii. 28 + + Cough Cure, Kilmer’s Indian, i. 15 + + Cough Cure, Veno’s Lightning, i. 16 + + Cough Drops, Lauser’s, i. 19 + + Cough Drops, Reichel’s, i. 19 + + Cough Lozenges, Keating’s, i. 17 + + Cough, Medicines for, i. 9; ii. 71 + Assmann’s Whooping Cough Remedy, i. 19 + Beecham’s Cough Pills, i. 18 + Brown’s Bronchial Troches, ii. 74 + Crosby’s Balsamic Elixir, i. 15 + Fenning’s Lung Healers, ii. 72 + Glykaline, ii. 76 + Kay’s Linseed Compound, i. 12 + Keating’s Lozenges, i. 17 + Kilmer’s Indian Cure, i. 15 + Lauser’s Drops, i. 19 + Owbridge’s Lung Tonic, i. 13 + Peps, ii. 73 + Powell’s Balsam of Aniseed, i. 14 + Reichel’s Drops, i. 19 + Tussothym, i. 19 + Veno’s Lightning Cure, i. 16 + White’s Kompo, ii. 75 + + Cough Medicines, Morphine in, i. 9, 13, 15, 18, 28 + + Cough Medicines, Opium in, i. 10, 11, 28 + + Cough Pills, Beecham’s, i. 18 + + Cough Specific, Brompton, i. 27 + + Coza Powder, i. 162 + + Creosote, i. 113, 152; ii. 80 + + Crimson Cross Remedies, ii. 178 + + Crimson Cross Fever and Influenza Powder, ii. 181 + + Crimson Cross No. 1 Ointment, ii. 181 + + Crimson Cross Special Ointment, ii. 181 + + Crimson Cross Kidney Cure, ii. 182 + + Crompton’s Specific for Deafness, i. 135 + + Crosby’s Balsamic Cough Elixir, i. 15 + + Cubeb, ii. 75 + + Cummin, i. 164 + + Curative Syrup, Mother Seigel’s, i. 176 + + Cure-alls, i. 170; ii. 233 + Beecham’s Pills, i. 175 + Korpusdoon, ii. 233 + Martin’s Miracletts, i. 163 + Nervlettes, i. 175 + Seigel’s Syrup, i. 176 + Therapion, i. 172 + Williams’s Pink Pills, i. 170, 174 + + Curic Wafers, i. 38 + + Cuticura remedies, i. 110 + + Cystamin (_see_ Formamine). + + Cystogen (_see_ Formamine). + + _Daily Express, The_, ii. 253 + + _Daily Mail, The_, ii. 253 + + _Daily News, The_, ii. 253 + + Daisy Powders, i. 38; ii. 264 + + Dale’s Treatment for Epilepsy, ii. 153 + + Dalloff’s Tea, i. 104 + + Damaroids, ii. 50 + + Damiana, extract of, i. 173; ii. 50, 51, 61 + + Daturine, i. 168 + + Davis’s Female Mixture, ii. 197 + + Davis’s Female Pills, ii. 197 + + D.D.D., ii. 32 + + Deafness, Remedies for, i. 134 + Clifton’s Treatment, i. 136 + Crompton’s Specific, i. 135 + Dellar’s Essence, i. 135 + Nazaseptic, i. 139 + Ohraseptic, i. 139 + Ohrsorb Compound, i. 138 + + Dealin Powder, ii. 237 + + Dellar’s Essence for Deafness, i. 135 + + De Roos’ Compound Renal Pills, ii. 105 + + Dethblo, ii. 235 + + Diabetes, Medicines for, i. 76 + A Lancashire nostrum, i. 80 + Dill’s Mixture, i. 76, 77, 79 + Pesqui’s Uranium Wine, i. 76, 77 + + Diabetic Foods, i. 81 + + Diabetic Mixture, Dill’s, i. 76, 77, 79 + + Diaethylen-diamin, ii. 28 + + Diagnosis Forms (_see_ Symptom Forms) + + Diastase, ii. 94, 95 + + Dill, oil of, ii. 149, 150, 151 + + Dill’s Diabetic Mixture, i. 76, 77, 79 + + Dipsocure, i. 164 + + Doan’s Kidney Pills, i. 69 + + Doan’s Pile Ointment, i. 151 + + Dodd’s Corrective, ii. 198 + + Dodd’s Female Pills, ii. 198 + + Dodd’s Kidney Pills, i. 69 + + Drug Addictions, Normyl Cure for Alcohol and, ii. 140 + + Drug Cures for Inebriety, i. 168 + + Duboisine, i. 168 + + Dumas’s Paris Pills, ii. 186, 192 + + Duty on Secret Remedies, Stamp, i. 182 + + Dyes, Hair, ii. 222, 228 + + Dyxol, ii. 11 + + Eade’s Gout and Rheumatic Pills, ii. 4 + + Ear disease (_see_ Deafness, Remedies for). + + Eczema and other skin affections, Preparations for, i. 105; ii. 30 + Antexema, i. 105 + Cadum, ii. 41 + Cassell’s Medicines, ii. 36 + Cassell’s Dusting Powder, ii. 39 + Cassell’s Tablets, ii. 39 + Cassell’s Ointment, ii. 40 + Cuticura remedies, i. 110 + D.D.D, ii. 32 + Eczoline Treatment, ii. 35 + Ekzemin Cream, i. 113 + Homocea, ii. 34 + Juniper preparations, i. 113 + Paciderma preparations, i. 106 + Pheun Skin Paste, i. 113 + Poslam, ii. 42 + Rino Ointment, i. 113 + Sulpholine Lotion, ii. 40 + Zam-Buk, i. 110 + Zip Ointment, i. 112 + + Eczoline Treatment, ii. 35 + + Edwards’ Harlene, ii. 223 + + Egg-substance, ii. 7, 69 + + Ekzemin Cream, i. 113 + + Electricum, i. 64 + + Elixirs of Life (_see_ Nerve Tonics). + + Elm, slippery, ii. 39 + + Eosin, i. 91 + + Epilepsy, Medicines for, i. 124; ii. 152 + Antiépileptique (Uten), i. 129 + Berendorf’s Powder, i. 129 + Bromocarpine, ii. 164 + Dales’s Treatment, ii. 157 + Fitzkure, ii. 159 + Imperatine, ii. 153 + Lamma Powder, i. 129 + Niblett’s Vital Renewer, ii. 162 + Osborne’s Mixture, i. 126 + Ozerine, i. 125 + Phelps Brown’s Vervain Restorative Assimilant, i. 127 + Roller’s Powder, ii. 166 + Taylor’s Anti-epileptic Medicine, i. 126 + Trench’s Remedy, i. 127 + + Epocol, ii. 237 + + Essence for Deafness, Dellar’s, i. 135 + + Eucalyptus gum, ii. 76 + + Eucalyptus, oil of, i. 4, 112; ii. 23, 25, 35, 40, 80, 82 + + Eulatin, ii. 239 + + _Evening News, The_, ii. 253 + + Exalgin, ii. 238 + + “Expert” behind the Proprietary Medicine, The, ii. 256 + + “Eye and Ear Specialist,” An, ii. 246 + + Eye diseases, Medicines for, i. 142; ii. 246 + Augenwol, i. 146 + Bostock’s Ointment, i. 143 + Ison’s, ii. 246 + “New and Marvellous Remedy”, i. 144 + Okterin, i. 146 + Opthalmol, i. 146 + Pomies’ Anti-cataract Mixture, i. 146 + Singleton’s Ointment, i. 142 + Wisbech Remedy, i. 144 + + Eye Ointment, Bostock’s, i. 143 + + Eye Ointment, Singleton’s, i. 142 + + Fairy Cure, Bell’s, i. 39 + + Feilden, Captain, ii. 180 + + Felke’s Honey Cod Liver Oil, Pastor, i. 36 + + Fell Reducing Treatment, i. 97 + + Female Mixtures and Pills (_see_ Amenorrhœa, Medicines for). + + Fenning’s Children’s Cooling Powders, i. 133 + + Fenning’s Lung Healers, ii. 72 + + Fenugreek, i. 68 + + Ferric chloride, i. 121; ii. 175 + + Ferric oxide, i. 5, 40, 54, 172 + + Ferric oxysulphate, ii. 49 + + Ferrous carbonate, ii. 145, 195, 203 + + Ferrous phosphate, ii. 61, 67, 194 + + Ferrous sulphate, i. 174; ii. 36, 159, 162, 192, 193, 195, 196, 197, + 199, 200, 201, 202, 204, 205, 236 + + Fever Powders, Pritchard’s Teething and, i. 132 + + Figuroids, i. 94 + + Fitch’s Kidney and Liver Cooler, i. 71 + + Fits, Trench’s Remedy for Epilepsy and, i. 127 + + Fitzkure, ii. 159 + + Flesh producer, A, ii. 125 + + Flour, ii. 23, 121, 192, 251 + + Fluorescein, i. 70 + + Forde’s Bile Beans, ii. 96 + + Formaldehyde, i. 129; ii. 111, 223, 225 + + Formamine, i. 85, 96 + + _Fortnightly Review, The_, ii. 253 + + Fournier’s Hygenique Mixture, ii. 199 + + Frangula, ii. 28, 236 + + _Fucus vesiculosus_ (_see_ Bladder-wrack). + + Galeopsidis, i. 36 + + Gall stones, i. 79 + + Galls, powdered, i. 156 + + Gargle Tablets, Colman’s, ii. 84 + + Gaultheria, oil of, i. 73, 180; ii. 20, 33, 40, 82, 85, 110, 145, 183 + + Gautieur’s Female Pills, ii. 204 + + Gelsemium, i. 60 + + Genoform Tablets, i. 60 + + Gentian, i. 62, 63, 161, 173, 179; ii. 23, 58, 61, 95, 201, 205 + + Gentian, infusion of, ii. 47 + + George’s Herbal Remedy, ii. 251 + + Germicides, i. 31 + + Ginger, i. 49, 88, 89, 109, 110, 175, 180; ii. 95, 97, 98, 99, 192, + 193, 195, 204, 205, 206 + + Gloria Tonic, i. 53 + + Gloria Treatment for Rheumatism, i. 52 + + Gluten Flour, i. 81, 82 + + Glycerin, i. 17, 30, 32, 35, 73, 74, 78, 89, 90, 92, 93, 103, 113, + 120, 135, 138, 142, 143, 144, 146, 173; ii. 13, 33, 35, 41, 55, 65, + 67, 165, 183, 197, 203, 223, 224, 225, 226, 228, 249 + + Glykaline, ii. 76 + + Goitre, Haig’s Cure for, ii. 240 + + Golden Fire, Box’s, ii. 20 + + Gordon’s Vital Sexualine Restorative, ii. 54 + + Gordon Wallace, ii. 258 + + Gordon Wallace’s Treatment for Obesity, ii. 114 + + Gossypium, extract of, ii. 198 + + Gout, Rheumatism, and Neuralgia, Medicines for, i. 50; ii. 1 + Anturic Bath Salts, ii. 26 + Baring Gould’s Pearls, i. 55 + Bath Salts, ii. 25 + Bengué’s Balsam, ii. 19 + Bishop’s Varalettes, i. 62 + Blair’s Pills, i. 50 + Box’s Pills, ii. 20 + Box’s Golden Fire, ii. 20 + Bowden’s Indian Balm, ii. 23 + Celmo, ii. 17 + Chameleon Oil, ii. 7 + Collie’s Ointment, i. 57 + Dyxol, ii. 11 + Eade’s Pills, ii. 4 + Electricum, i. 64 + Genoform Tablets, i. 60 + Gloria Treatment, i. 52 + Gower’s Green Pills, i. 56 + Hamm’s Cure, i. 51 + Hoffmann’s Powders, ii. 3 + Laville’s Remedies, i. 64 + Lazarus Soap, i. 64 + Levasco, ii. 10 + Limosan, ii. 28 + Magic Foot Drafts, ii. 14 + Oquit, i. 59 + Orudon Essence, ii. 27 + Orudon Salt, ii. 28 + Ozonia, ii. 25 + Pistoia Powders, i. 62 + Pond’s Arthriticus, ii. 12 + Portland Powder, i. 62 + Post’s C.B.Q. Tablets, i. 61 + Rheumacid, i. 64 + Rheuma Tabakolin, i. 65 + Rheumsol Bath Salts, ii. 27 + Tissander’s Cure, ii. 29 + Uricedin, i. 64 + Uricura Drops, ii. 6 + Uricura Liniment, ii. 7 + Völlner’s Cotton Wool, ii. 28 + Weigand’s Spirit, i. 65 + Zox, i. 58 + + Gout and Rheumatic Pills, Blair’s, i. 50 + + Gout and Sciatica Cure, Hamm’s Rheumatic, i. 51 + + Gout Powders, Pistoia, i. 62 + + Gout Powders, Portland, i. 62 + + Gout Varalettes, Bishop’s, i. 62 + + Gower’s Green Pills, i. 56 + + Graziana Reducing Treatment, i. 103 + + Green Pills, Gower’s, i. 56 + + Grey’s (Nurse) American Compound Tablets, ii. 190, 195 + + _Grindelia robusta_, i. 17 + + Gripe Water, Woodward’s, ii. 149 + + Guaiacum, i. 44, 54, 62, 64 + + Guarantee Bonds, i. 30 + + Guarantee, i. 97, 99, 107, 155; ii. 172 + + Guy’s Tonic, ii. 46 + + Hæmoglobin, i. 114, 115, 116 + + Hæmoglobin Capsules, i. 116 + + Hæmoglobin Ovals, Capsulated, i. 115 + + Hæmorrhoids (_see_ Piles, Medicines for). + + Haig’s Cure for Goitre, ii. 240 + + Hair Dyes, ii. 222, 228 + + Hair, Preparations for the, ii. 222 + Edwards’ Harlene, ii. 223 + Juvenia, ii. 229 + Koko, ii. 224 + Lockyer’s Sulphur Hair Restorer, ii. 225 + Mexican Hair Renewer, ii. 226 + Seeger’s Hair Dye, ii. 228 + Shadeine, ii. 229 + Tatcho, ii. 222 + Vilixir, ii. 227 + + Hair Restorer, The Geo. R. Sims, ii. 222 + + Hair Restorer, Lockyer’s, ii. 225 + + Hair Renewer, Mexican, ii. 226 + + Hamamelidis, Liquor, i. 150; ii. 249 + + Hamamelin, i. 152 + + Hamamelis, i. 148, 149, 152 + + Hamm’s Rheumatic, Gout, and Sciatica Cure, i. 51 + + Hammond’s (Nurse) Remedies, ii. 203 + + Hammond’s Specifics, ii. 6, 7 + + Hargreave’s Reducing Wafers, i. 91 + + Harlene, Edwards’, ii. 223 + + Harmless Headache Powders, Hoffman’s, i. 41 + + Harvey’s Blood Pills, i. 44 + + Headache, i. 37 + + Headache Cure, Stearns’s, i. 39 + + Headache Powders, i. 37 + Bell’s Fairy Cure, i. 39 + Curic Wafers, i. 38 + Daisy, i. 38 + “Good as Gold”, i. 41 + Hoffman’s Harmless, i. 41 + Kaputine, i. 40 + Retailers Supplying, i. 41 + Stearns’s Cure, i. 39 + + Healine Treatment for Rupture, i. 160 + + Hellebore, white, ii. 17 + + Hemlock Pitch, i. 68 + + Hemotora, i. 153 + + Henbane, i. 69, 71 + + Herbal Remedy, George’s, ii. 251 + + Herbal Specialist, A, ii. 249 + + Hexamethylene-tetramine (_see_ Formamine). + + Hochfelder Pitch Plaster, ii. 237 + + Hoffman’s Harmless Headache Powders, i. 41 + + Hoffmann’s Rheumatic Powders, ii. 3 + + Holdroyd’s Gravel Pills, ii. 104 + + Holloway’s Pills, ii. 96 + + Homatropine, i. 168, 169 + + “Home Doctor” Backache and Kidney Pills, ii. 107 + + “Home Doctor” Remedies, ii. 103, 107 + + Homocea, ii. 34 + + Honey, ii. 151 + + Hood’s Compound Extract of Sarsaparilla, i. 46 + + Hood’s Vegetable Pills, ii. 101 + + Hooper’s Female Pills, ii. 196 + + Horton’s Benedict Pills, ii. 205 + + Hughes’s Blood Pills, i. 48 + + Hydrastine, i. 80; ii. 217 + + Hydrastis, i. 77, 80; ii. 85, 240 + + Hydrastis, tincture of, ii. 217, 221 + + Hydrochloric acid, i. 121, 169, 176, 177; ii. 47, 151, 175, 228, 229 + + Hydrogen peroxide, ii. 230, 238 + + Hygenique Mixture, Fournier’s, ii. 199 + + Hyomei, ii. 78 + + Hyoscine, i. 168, 169 + + Hyoscyamine, i. 168, 169 + + Ichthyol, i. 140, 115 + + Ills of Humanity, i. 177 + + Imperatine, Dale’s, ii. 153 + + Indian Balm, Bowden’s, ii. 23 + + Indigestion, Constipation, etc., Medicines for, ii. 87 + Burgess’s Lion Pills, ii. 101 + Carter’s Little Liver Pills, ii. 96 + Celmo No. 2, ii. 94 + Cicfa, ii. 93 + Cockle’s Pills, ii. 100 + Forde’s Bile Beans, ii. 96 + Holloway’s Pills, ii. 97 + Hood’s Vegetable Pills, ii. 101 + Ker-Nak, ii. 99 + Mer-Syren, ii. 89 + Scott’s Pills, ii. 98 + Whelpton’s Purifying Pills, ii. 95 + Woodcock’s Wind Pills, ii. 95 + + Inebriety (_see_ Alcoholism, Medicines for) + + Inebriety, Drug Cures for, i. 168 + + Infants, Powders for, i. 130 + + Infants’ Preservative, Atkinson and Barker’s, ii. 150 + + Infants, Soothing Syrups for, ii. 147 + + Information Forms (_see_ Symptom Forms) + + Inspirators, ii. 81 + + Invigoroids, ii. 51 + + Iodine, i. 84, 94, 102, 103, 126 + + Iodine, tincture of, i. 126 + + Ipecacuanha, i. 2, 11, 12, 13, 14, 18, 28; ii. 73, 101 + + Iridin, i. 157 + + Iron, i. 71, 87, 89, 121, 162 + + Iron carbonate, ii. 145, 203 + + Iron chloride, i. 121; ii. 175 + + Iron glycerophosphate, ii. 67 + + Iron hypophosphite, ii. 50, 51, 55 + + Iron oxide, ii. 200 + + Iron oxysulphate, ii. 49 + + Iron phosphate, i. 89; ii. 61, 67, 194 + + Iron, reduced, ii. 53, 145, 199, 206 + + Iron, saccharated carbonate, i. 40; ii. 52 + + Iron sulphate, i. 175; ii. 36, 159, 162, 192, 193, 195, 196, 197, 199, + 200, 201, 202, 204, 205, 236 + + Irrigal Tablets, Barkowski’s, ii. 239 + + Irristum, ii. 189, 194 + + I.R.S. Compound Golden Tablets, ii. 201 + + Ison’s Eye and Ear Dispensary, ii. 246 + + Ison’s Preparations for the Eyes, ii. 248 + + Jalap, i. 48, 49, 55, 57, 69, 70, 180; ii. 100, 101, 117, 192, 193, + 196, 236 + + Jalap resin, ii. 85 + + Jaundice, i. 72, 79 + + Jefferson Dodd’s Corrective, ii. 198 + + Jefferson Dodd’s Female Pills, ii. 198 + + Jehnol, ii. 237 + + _John Bull_ investigation, ii. 169 + + Johnson’s (Mrs.) American Soothing Syrup, ii. 151 + + Juniper, oil of, i. 68, 71; ii. 19, 108 + + Juniper preparations, i. 113 + + Juvenia Hair Dye, ii. 229 + + J.Z. Obesity Tablets, i. 87 + + Kaolin, i. 54, 109, 172 + + Kaputine, i. 40 + + Karox Compound, ii. 110 + + Kay’s Linseed Compound, i. 12 + + Kay’s Linum Catharticum Pills, i. 12 + + Kearsley’s Welch’s Female Pills, ii. 198 + + Keating’s Cough Lozenges, i. 17 + + Keene’s “One Night” Cold Cure, i. 5 + + Kefyr, i. 23 + + Kellogg’s Safe Fat Reducer, ii. 119 + + Ker-Nak, ii. 99 + + Kerosene, ii. 12 + + Kidd Co., The J. W., ii. 244 + + Kidd’s Treatment, James W., i. 178 + + Kidney medicines, i. 66; ii. 102 + De Roos’-Renal Pills, ii. 105 + Doan’s Pills, i. 67 + Dodd’s Pills, i. 69 + Fitch’s Kidney and Liver Cooler, i. 71 + Holdroyd’s Gravel Pills, ii. 104 + “Home Doctor” Pills, ii. 107 + Karox Compound, ii. 110 + Kilmer’s Swamp Root, ii. 108 + Munyon’s Cure, i. 75 + Red Cross Pills, ii. 106 + Var’s American Pills, i. 70 + Veno’s Seaweed Tonic, i. 74 + Warner’s Cure, i. 72 + + Kilmer’s Indian Cough Cure, i. 15 + + Kilmer’s Swamp Root, ii. 108 + + Kino, i. 32 + + Kleinertz’s Quidestin, ii. 209 + + Koko, ii. 224 + + Kompo, White’s, ii. 75 + + Körber’s Cure for Consumption, i. 36 + + Korpusdoon, ii. 233 + + Krameria, i. 32; ii. 40 + + Kupfinn, “Dr.”, i. 139 + + Lamma Powder, i. 129 + + Lammersdorf’s Chilblain Cream, ii. 237 + + Lancashire nostrum, A, i. 80 + + Lane’s Catarrh Cure, i. 2 + + Lanoline, i. 149, 154; ii. 20, 25, 40, 43 + + Lard, ii. 20, 25, 35, 177 + + Lauser’s Cough Drops, i. 19 + + Lavender, i. 104 + + Lavender, oil of, ii. 11 + + Laville’s Antigout remedies, i. 64 + + Laxatol (_see_ Phenolphthalein) + + Laxen (_see_ Phenolphthalein) + + Laxoin (_see_ Phenolphthalein) + + Lazarus Gout and Rheumatic Soap, i. 64 + + Lead, i. 122 + + Lead acetate, i. 113, 127, 148, 152; ii. 226, 228 + + Lead carbonate, ii. 177 + + Lead oleate, i. 113, 119, 181 + + Lead oxide, i. 143, 144 + + Lead plaster, i. 181 + + Lead sulphate, ii. 226 + + Lead subacetate, i. 127 + + Lecithin, ii. 69, 127, 238 + + Lemon, i. 84 + + Lemon grass, i. 113 + + Lemon, oil of, i. 65; ii. 25, 35 + + Leptandrin, i. 74 + + Levasco, ii. 10 + + Lieber’s Tea for Consumption, i. 36 + + Lilly’s (Nurse) Female Pills, ii. 206 + + Lime Juice, i. 77, 81 + + Limosan, ii. 28 + + Linseed Compound, Kay’s, i. 12 + + Linseed oil, ii. 181, 182 + + Lion Pills, Burgess’s, ii. 101 + + Lion Ointment, Burgess’s, i. 180 + + Liqufruta Medina, ii. 77 + + Liquor ammonii anisat., ii. 86 + + Liquorice, i. 11, 14, 18, 19, 45, 54, 55, 61, 69, 89, 91, 102, 103, + 133, 156, 173, 174, 175, 176; ii. 28, 97, 116, 119, 122, 192, 193, + 197, 199, 203, 204, 206 + + Liquorice, extract of, ii. 74, 234 + + Lithium carbonate, ii. 28 + + Lithium citrate, i. 62; ii. 13, 28 + + Liver Cooler, Fitch’s Kidney and, i. 71 + + Lloyd, J. Nelson, ii. 256, 257, 258 + + Lloyd Reducing Treatment, Nelson, i. 100 + + Lobelia, ii. 23 + + Lobelia, tincture of, ii. 86 + + Lockyer’s Sulphur Hair Restorer, ii. 225 + + London Medicine Co.’s Fitzkure, ii. 159 + + Lotion, X.L. Reducing Pills and, i. 89 + + Lungsava, i. 28 + + Lung Tonic, Owbridge’s, i. 13 + + Lycopodium, i. 71 + + Lymphol, Rice’s, i. 158 + + Mackenzie’s “One Day” Cold Cure, i. 4 + + Magic Foot Drafts, ii. 14 + + Magnesia, calcined, i. 150 + + Magnesia citrate, ii. 28 + + Magnesia glycerophosphate, ii. 67 + + Magnesia silicate, ii. 19 + + Magnesia sulphate, ii. 49, 111, 234 + + Magnesium carbonate, ii. 133, 150 + + Magpies, ii. 166 + + Malachite green, i. 111 + + Malt extract, ii. 19, 95, 121, 237 + + Mandelyl-tropeine (_see_ Homatropine). + + Mann’s (Nurse) Remedy, ii. 191, 195 + + Marigold, ii. 28 + + Marmola, i. 85, 93 + + Marshmallow, ii. 100 + + Marston Treatment, ii. 55 + + Martin’s Apiol and Steel Pills, ii. 199 + + Martin’s Miracletts, i. 171 + + Matrozone, ii. 207 + + Medicine Stamp Act, i. 182 + + Medi-cone Pile Treatment, Oxien, i. 151 + + Meligrin, ii. 238 + + Menthol, i. 156, 172; ii. 20 + + Mercuric oxide, i. 143 + + Mercury, ammoniated, i. 113, 143, 144 + + Mercury perchloride, ii. 239 + + Mergandol, ii. 239 + + Mer-Syren, ii. 89 + + Methyl alcohol, ii. 238 + + Methyl orange, i. 86 + + Methyl salicylate, i. 73, 180; ii. 20, 33, 40, 82, 85, 110, 145, 183 + + Methylene blue, ii. 145 + + Metramine (_see_ Formamine). + + Mexican Hair Renewer, i. 226 + + Milk, ii. 69 + + Miracletts, Martin’s, i. 171 + + Mixture for Epilepsy, Osborne’s, i. 126 + + Monaid Tablets, ii. 200 + + Morgan’s Radio Vimettes, ii. 52 + + Morphine, i. 13, 15, 18; ii. 148 + + Mother’s Advice, ii. 93 + + Mother Seigel’s Curative Syrup, i. 176 + + Mothersill’s Seasick Remedy, ii. 232 + + Muco-Food Cones, Van Vleck’s, i. 148, 155 + + Mul’la, Buer’s, i. 149 + + Munyon’s Catarrh Cure, i. 6 + + Munyon’s Catarrh Tablets, i. 6 + + Munyon’s Blood Cure, i. 44 + + Munyon’s Kidney Cure, i. 75 + + Munyon’s Pile Ointment, i. 150 + + Murray’s Combined Treatment, ii. 58 + + Mustard, essential oil of, ii. 10, 12 + + National College of Health, Limited, ii. 166, 243 + + Nazaseptic, i. 139 + + Nebular Tablets, Colman’s, ii. 84 + + Nelson Lloyd, J., ii. 256, 257, 258 + + Nelson Lloyd Reducing Treatment, i. 100 + + Nerve Stimulators, i. 31 + + Nerve Tonics and “Elixirs of Life”, ii. 44 + Antineurasthin, ii. 68 + Cocaphos, ii. 49 + Damaroids, ii. 50 + Gordon’s Vital Sexualine Restorative, ii. 54 + Guy’s Tonic, ii. 46 + Invigoroids, ii. 51 + Marston Treatment, ii. 55 + Morgan’s Radio-Vimettes, ii. 52 + Murray’s Combined Treatment, ii. 58 + Neurovril, ii. 63 + Osogen, ii. 66 + Phosferine, ii. 45 + Schäfert’s Nerve Salts, ii. 70 + Sequarine, ii. 62 + Vitæ Ore, ii. 48 + + Nervlettes, Coleman’s, i. 175 + + Nettle, i. 36 + + Neuralgia (_see_ Gout, Rheumatism, and Neuralgia, Medicines for) + + Neurovril, ii. 63 + + “New and Marvellous Remedy for the Eyes”, i. 144 + + Niblett’s Vital Renewer, ii. 162 + + Ninetta, ii. 238 + + Nitrous Ether, Spirit of, ii. 111 + + “No Cure No Pay”, i. 5, 29, 95 + + “Normal” Pills for Obesity, ii. 122 + + Normyl Treatment for Alcohol and Drug addictions, ii. 140 + + Nostrum, A Lancashire, i. 80 + + Nurse Grey’s American Compound Tablets, ii. 190, 195 + + Nurse Hammond’s Remedies, ii. 203 + + Nurse Lilly’s Female Pills, ii. 206 + + Nurse Mann’s Remedy, ii. 191, 195 + + Nurse Powell’s Corrective Pills, ii. 193 + + Nurse Powell’s Mixture, ii. 193 + + Nurse Powell’s Popular Pellets, ii. 192 + + Nurse Powell’s Remedies, ii. 187 + + Nutmeg, oil of, ii. 12 + + Nutmeg, tincture of, ii. 219 + + Nux Vomica, extract of, ii. 52, 145 + + Nux Vomica, tincture of, ii. 141 + + Obesity, Medicines for, i. 83; ii. 112 + Absorbit Paste, i. 87 + Allan’s Anti-Fat, i. 92 + Anticelta Tablets, i. 163 + Antipon, i. 86 + Corpulin, i. 104 + Dalloff’s Tea, i. 104 + Fell Treatment, i. 97 + Figuroids, i. 94 + Gordon Wallace’s Treatment, ii. 114 + Graziana Treatment, i. 103 + Hargreave’s Wafers, i. 91 + J. Z. Tablets, i. 87 + Kellogg’s Safe Fat Reducer, ii. 119 + Marmola, i. 85, 93 + Nelson Lloyd Treatment, i. 100 + “Normal” Pills, ii. 122 + Phatolene Tablets, ii. 117 + Russell’s Anti-Corpulent Preparation, i. 87 + Seymour’s (Mrs.) Treatment, ii. 123 + Trilene Tablets, i. 90 + Vincent’s Anti-Stout Pills, ii. 116 + X.L. Pills and Lotion, i. 89 + Zehrkur, i. 103 + Zobiede, i. 87 + + Ohraseptic, i. 139 + + Ohrsorb Compound, i. 138 + + Oil of allspice, ii. 10, 12 + + Oil of almond, i. 135, 138 + + Oil of almond, essential, i. 35; ii. 151 + + Oil of amber, ii. 6, 23 + + Oil of anise, i. 12, 14; ii. 74, 105, 149, 150, 151, 162, 164 + + Oil of birch tar, ii. 43 + + Oil of cade, ii. 42, 43 + + Oil of camphor, ii. 10, 23, 25, 82 + + Oil of caraway, ii. 149, 150, 151, 240 + + Oil of cassia, i. 35; ii. 10 + + Oil of cinnamon, ii. 76, 98 + + Oil of cloves, ii. 63, 76, 237 + + Oil of cocoanut, ii. 25 + + Oil of cottonseed, ii. 12 + + Oil of dill, ii. 149, 150, 151 + + Oil of eucalyptus, i. 4, 112; ii. 23, 25, 35, 40, 80, 82 + + Oil of juniper, i. 68, 71; ii. 19, 108 + + Oil of lavender, ii. 11 + + Oil of lemon, i. 65; ii. 25, 35 + + Oil of linseed, ii. 181, 182 + + Oil of mustard, essential, ii. 10, 12 + + Oil of nutmeg, ii. 12 + + Oil, olive, ii. 40 + + Oil of onion, ii. 78 + + Oil of origanum, i. 160 + + Oil of pennyroyal, ii. 192, 193, 196, 197, 204, 205, 206 + + Oil of peppermint, i. 14, 36, 69, 71, 81, 94, 160; ii. 63, 74, 78, 96, + 98, 101 + + Oil of pimento, ii. 10, 12 + + Oil of pine, i. 4 + + Oil, rape, i. 88, 135; ii. 25 + + Oil of rosemary, ii. 11, 23 + + Oil of rue, ii. 195, 204, 205 + + Oil of sassafras, i. 44; ii. 159, 234 + + Oil of spearmint, i. 160; ii. 10 + + Oil of theobroma, i. 148, 152, 154, 156; ii. 58, 61, 201, 202, 203 + + Oil of turpentine, i. 65, 113, 122, 136; ii. 7, 10 + + Oil of wintergreen, i. 73, 180; ii. 20, 33, 40, 82, 85, 110, 145, 183 + + Ointment, Cassell’s, ii. 40 + + Ointment, Collie’s, i. 57 + + Ointment, Crimson Cross, ii. 181 + + Ointment, Tremol, ii. 176 + + Okterin, i. 146 + + Oleic acid, i. 115, 161 + + Oleo-resin of Capsicum, ii. 11, 19 + + Opthalmol, i. 146 + + Oquit, i. 59 + + Opium, tincture of, ii. 6 + + Orchitic fluid, ii. 62, 67 + + Origanum, oil of, i. 160 + + Orudon Essence, ii. 27 + + Orudon Salt, ii. 28 + + Osborne’s Mixture for Epilepsy, i. 126 + + Osogen, ii. 66 + + Owbridge’s Lung Tonic, i. 13 + + Ox-bile, i. 88 + + Oxien Pile Treatment, i. 151 + + Ozerine, i. 125 + + Oxygar, ii. 238 + + Ozonia, ii. 25 + + Pale People, Dr. Williams’ Pink Pills for, i. 170, 174 + + Paraffin, i. 4, 70, 100, 106, 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, 120, 140, 143, + 144, 146, 151, 152, 156; ii. 12, 40, 42, 43, 80, 176, 240 + + Paraphenylene-diamine, ii. 230 + + Paris Pills, Dumas’s, ii. 186, 192 + + Patients’ names, obtaining, i. 25; ii. 245 + + Patterson’s Female Pills, ii. 204 + + Pellets, Powell’s Popular, ii. 192 + + Pelloids, Mrs. Stafford-Brookes’, ii. 202 + + Pennyroyal and Steel Pills, Towle’s, ii. 195 + + Pennyroyal oil of, ii. 192, 193, 196, 197, 204, 205, 206 + + Peppermint, ii. 28 + + Peppermint, oil of, i. 14, 36, 69, 71, 81, 94, 160; ii. 63, 74, 78, + 96, 98, 101 + + Peppermint water, i. 127; ii. 175 + + Peps, ii. 73 + + Pepsin, i. 76; ii. 94 + + Peru, balsam of, ii. 25 + + Pesqui’s Uranium Wine, i. 76, 77 + + Petroleum jelly, i. 58, 156 + + Phatolene Tablets, ii. 117 + + Phelps Brown’s Blood Purifier, i. 46 + + Phelps Brown’s Vervain Restorative Assimilant, i. 127 + + Phenacetin, i. 38, 39; ii. 4 + + Phenocoll, ii. 28 + + Phenol, i. 1, 3, 4, 7, 120, 151; ii. 33, 239 + + Phenol sulphate, i. 239 + + Phenolphthalein, i. 77, 81, 85, 94, 96, 97; ii. 39, 144 + + Pheun Skin Paste, i. 113 + + Phosferine, ii. 45 + + Phosphoric acid, i. 8; ii. 46, 47, 194 + + Phosphorus, i. 176; ii. 56 + + Phytolaccin, i. 54 + + Picrotoxin, ii. 141 + + Pile Ointment, Doan’s, i. 151 + + Pile Ointment, Munyon’s, i. 150 + + Piles, Medicines for, i. 147 + Buer’s Mul’la, i. 149 + Doan’s Ointment, i. 151 + Hemotora, i. 153 + Muco-food Cones, Van Vleck’s, i. 148 + Munyon’s Ointment, i. 150 + Oxien Medi-cone Treatment, i. 151 + Rollo’s Remedy, i. 153 + Van Vleck’s Absorptive Treatment, i. 154 + + Pilocarpine, ii. 165 + + Pimento, oil of, ii. 10, 12 + + Pine balsams, ii. 73 + + Pinkham’s (Mrs.) Vegetable Compound, ii. 190, 194 + + Pink Pills, Williams’, i. 170, 174 + + Piperazine, i. 62; ii. 28 + + Pistoia Gout Powders, i. 62 + + Pitch Plaster, Hochfelder, ii. 237 + + Plasma, Van Vleck’s, i. 155 + + Podophyllin, i. 69; ii. 85, 97, 144 + + Pohl’s Family Tea, i. 36 + + Pomies’ Anticataract Mixture, i. 146 + + Pond’s Arthriticus, ii. 12 + + Poplar tree leaf, ii. 28 + + Popular Pellets, Powell’s, ii. 192 + + Portland Gout Powder, i. 62 + + Poslam, ii. 42 + + Post’s C.B.Q. Tablets, i. 61 + + Potassium bicarbonate, ii. 13, 150 + + Potassium bitartrate, ii. 78 + + Potassium bromide, i. 89, 90, 125, 126, 127, 128, 129, 165, 166; ii, + 149, 164, 165 + + Potassium carbonate, i. 174, 175 + + Potassium chlorate, i. 133 + + Potassium chloride, i. 89, 90, 125 + + Potassium citrate, ii. 13, 111, 162 + + Potassium hypophosphite, ii. 55, 127 + + Potassium iodate, ii. 86 + + Potassium iodide, i. 43, 45, 47, 52, 54, 61, 89, 90, 92, 93, 111, 126, + 142, 146; ii. 39, 76, 159, 162, 164 + + Potassium nitrate, i. 66, 68, 70, 71, 72, 73; ii. 108 + + Potassium phosphate, ii. 63 + + Potassium sulphate, ii. 145 + + Potassium sulpho-guaiacolate, ii. 237 + + Potato Flour, ii. 92 + + Powders, Headache, i. 37 + Daisy, i. 38 + “Good as Gold”, i. 41 + Hoffmann’s Harmless, i. 41 + + Powders for Infants, Soothing, Teething, and Cooling, i. 130 + Fenning’s Children’s Cooling, i. 133 + Pritchard’s Teething and Fever, i. 132 + Stedman’s Teething, i. 130 + Steedman’s Soothing, i. 131 + + Powell’s Balsam of Aniseed, i. 14 + + Powell’s (Nurse) Corrective Pills, ii. 193 + + Powell’s (Nurse) Mixture, ii. 193 + + Powell’s (Nurse) Popular Pellets, ii. 192 + + Powell’s (Nurse) Remedies, ii. 187 + + Preservative, Atkinson and Barker’s Infants’, ii. 150 + + Pritchard’s Teething and Fever Powders, i. 132 + + Protein, ii. 69 + + Purgen (_see_ Phenolphthalein) + + Pyrogallic acid, ii. 228, 229 + + _Quarterly Review, The_, ii. 253 + + Quassia, extract of, ii. 144 + + Quidestin, Kleinertz, ii. 209 + + Quinine, i. 2, 45, 61, 64, 167; ii. 67, 203, 223 + + Quinine glycerophosphate, ii. 67 + + Quinine phosphate, ii. 61 + + Quinine sulphate, i. 176; ii. 46, 50, 51, 53, 55, 61, 194, 201, 202 + + Quinine valerianate, i. 172 + + Radio-vimettes, Morgan’s, ii. 52 + + Radium Salve, A, ii. 234 + + Rape oil, i. 88, 135; ii. 25 + + Red Cross Pills, ii. 106 + + Red Gum, ii. 76 + + Reducing Paste, Absorbit, i. 87 + + Reducing Pills and Lotion, X.L., i. 89 + + Reducing Treatment, Fell, i. 97 + + Reducing Treatment, Graziana, i. 103 + + Reducing Treatment, Nelson Lloyd, i. 100 + + Reducing Wafers, Hargreave’s, i. 91 + + Reichel’s Cough Drops, i. 19 + + Religious Papers, advertisements in, ii. 254 + + Report Forms (_see_ Symptom Forms) + + Resin (colophony), i. 58, 112; ii. 181, 182 + + Resin plaster, i. 119 + + Retailers, Headache powders supplied by, i. 41 + + _Rhamnus frangula_, ii. 28 + + _Rhamnus purshianus_, ii. 28 + + Rheuma Tabakolin, i. 65 + + Rheumacid, i. 64 + + Rheumatic, Gout, and Sciatica Cure, Hamm’s, i. 51 + + Rheumatic and Gout Spirit, Weigand’s, i. 65 + + Rheumatic Pills, Blair’s Gout and, i. 50 + + Rheumatism (_see_ Gout, Rheumatism, and Neuralgia, Medicines for) + + Rheumatism, Gloria Treatment for, i. 52 + + Rheumsol Bath Salts, ii. 27 + + Rhizoma root, ii. 29 + + Rhubarb, i. 45, 55, 74, 104, 111; ii. 99, 101, 105, 149 + + Rhubarb, infusion of, ii. 175 + + Rhycol, Antiseptic, ii. 82 + + Rhycol Lubricant, ii. 82 + + Rhycol Tampons, ii. 82 + + Rhycol Treatment, ii. 80 + + Rice’s Lymphol, i. 158 + + Rice’s Treatment for Rupture, i. 158 + + Ringworm Cure, Wilson’s, ii. 235 + + Rino Ointment, i. 113 + + Rock Rose, i. 46 + + Roller’s Powder for epilepsy, ii. 166 + + Rollo’s Remedy for Piles, i. 153 + + Rosemary, oil of, ii. 11, 23 + + Rose water, ii. 41, 226, 228 + + Rue, oil of, ii. 195, 204, 205 + + Rupture, Preparations for, i. 158 + Healine Treatment, i. 160 + Rice’s Treatment, i. 158 + + Russell’s Anti-Corpulent Preparation, i. 87 + + Saccharin, i. 11, 172 + + Sacco, i. 28 + + Saffron, ii. 151 + + Salicylic acid, i. 92, 93, 113; ii. 33, 42, 43, 76 + + Salicylic methylene-glycol ester, i. 61 + + Salocoll, ii. 28 + + Sal volatile, i. 43 + + Sanol Cones, ii. 200 + + Sargol, ii. 125 + + Sarsaparilla, compound solution of, i. 44 + + Sarsaparilla, Hood’s Extract of, i. 46 + + Sarsaparilla, Townsend’s American, i. 43 + + Sassafras, oil of, i. 44; ii. 159, 234 + + Savin, ii. 197 + + Scammony, i. 80, 180 + + Schäfert’s Nerve Salts, ii. 70 + + Sciatica Cure, Hamm’s Rheumatic, Gout, and, i. 51 + + Scopolamine, i. 168 + + Scott’s Pills, ii. 98 + + Seasickness, Preparations for, ii. 231 + Mothersill’s Remedy, ii. 232 + Zotos, ii. 231 + + Seaweed Tonic, Veno’s, i. 74 + + Seeger’s Hair-Dye, ii. 228 + + Seigel’s Curative Syrup, Mother, i. 176 + + Seigel’s Syrup and _Secret Remedies_, ii. 259 + + Self-examination Form (_see_ Symptom Form) + + Senna, i. 19, 74, 104; ii. 28, 149, 196 + + Senna, syrup of, ii. 149 + + Sequarine, ii. 62 + + Seymour’s (Mrs.) Treatment for Obesity, ii. 123 + + Shadeine, ii. 229 + + Shaffer-Bennyon’s (Mrs.) Remedy, ii. 203 + + Singleton’s Eye Ointment, i. 142 + + Skin Diseases (_see_ Eczema and other skin affections, Preparations + for) + + Skin Paste, Pheun, i. 113 + + Slippery elm bark, ii. 39 + + Soap, i. 57, 64, 65, 70, 113, 119, 135, 140, 175; ii. 11, 23, 97, 98, + 99, 100, 101, 105, 108, 195, 204, 205, 228, 240 + + Soap, Antigout, i. 64 + + Soap, Lazarus Gout and Rheumatic, i. 64 + + Soda alum, i. 142, 145 + + Soda, chlorinated, ii. 175 + + Sodium acetate, ii. 177, 239 + + Sodium benzoate, i. 180; ii. 177, 237 + + Sodium bicarbonate, i. 7, 41, 62, 70, 80, 96, 97, 107, 164, 179; ii. + 85, 150, 240 + + Sodium bromide, i. 129 + + Sodium carbonate, ii. 26, 27, 105, 202, 228 + + Sodium chloride, i. 1, 3, 7, 94, 96, 97, 146; ii. 23, 70, 85, 151, 239 + + Sodium citrate, ii. 13, 28 + + Sodium glycerophosphate, ii. 67, 70 + + Sodium hypophosphite, ii. 55, 127 + + Sodium perborate, ii. 237 + + Sodium phosphate, i. 74; ii. 63 + + Sodium salicylate, i. 52; ii. 13 + + Sodium sulphate, i. 77, 81, 120, 145; ii. 28, 181, 182, 203 + + Soothing, teething, and cooling powders for infants, i. 130 + Fenning’s Children’s Powders, i. 133 + Pritchard’s Powders, i. 132 + Stedman’s Powders, i. 130 + Steedman’s Powders, i. 131 + + Soothing Syrups, ii. 147 + Atkinson and Barker’s Preservative, ii. 150 + Johnson’s (Mrs.) American, ii. 151 + Winslow’s, ii. 148 + Woodward’s Gripe Water, ii. 149 + + Spearmint, oil of, i. 160; ii. 10 + + Specific for Deafness, Crompton’s, i. 135 + + Spiritol, ii. 238 + + Sprengel’s herbal spice, ii. 236 + + Stafford-Brookes’ (Mrs.) Pelloids, ii. 202 + + Stamp Act, i. 182 + + Stamp on secret remedies, i. 182 + + _Star, The_, ii. 253 + + Starch, ii. 36, 39, 43, 69, 92, 193 + + Star Tonic, i. 23 + + Stearns’s Headache Cure, i. 39 + + Stedman’s Teething Powders, i. 130 + + Steedman’s Soothing Powders, i. 131 + + Stevens’s Consumption Cure, i. 21, 28 + + Stillingia, i. 46 + + Stockholm Tar, ii. 17 + + Storax, i. 27, 115; ii. 9 + + “Stramonine”, i. 168 + + _Strand Magazine, The_, ii. 253 + + Strychnine, ii. 61, 67, 139, 141, 144, 145 + + Sulfopyrin, ii. 238 + + Sulpholine Lotion, ii. 40 + + Sulphur, i. 88, 109, 113, 140, 150; ii. 29, 35, 36, 41, 42, 43, 197, + 226, 228 + + Sulphur Hair Restorer, Lockyer’s, ii. 225 + + Sulphuric acid, i. 16; ii. 46, 238, 239 + + Sutton Medical Co., ii. 244 + + Symptom Forms, i. 101, 107, 138, 139, 167, 178; ii. 37, 57, 60, 84, + 124, 132, 135, 138, 157, 158, 173, 242, 247, 251 + + Syrup, Seigel’s, i. 176 + + Syrup, Simple, ii. 65 + + Tabakolin, Rheuma, i. 65 + + Tablenes, ii. 93 + + Talc, i. 109; ii. 39 + + Tallow, ii. 25 + + Tannin, i. 27, 32, 73, 152, 153, 161; ii. 78, 194 + + Tansy, ii. 204 + + Tar, i. 119; ii. 17 + + Taraxacum, i. 45, 66, 71, 73 + + Tartar emetic, ii. 136, 139 + + Tartaric acid, i. 8, 62, 78, 96, 97; ii. 13 + + Tatcho, ii. 222 + + Taylor’s Anti-Epileptic Medicine, i. 126 + + Tea, Dalloff’s, i. 104 + + Tea, Lieber’s, i. 36 + + Tea, Pohl’s, i. 36 + + Teething and Fever Powders, Pritchard’s, i. 132 + + Teething Powders, Stedman’s, i. 130 + + Teetolia Treatment, i. 166 + + Temperancia Treatment, ii. 130 + + Terebene, i. 118, 119; ii. 6, 25, 82 + + Testimonials, ii. 15, 16, 159, 160 + + Theobroma, oil of, i. 148, 152, 154, 156; ii. 58, 61, 201, 202, 203 + + Theobromine sodio-salicylate, ii. 28 + + Therapion, i. 172 + + Thermal Bath Cabinet, “Century”, i. 99 + + Thiocol, ii. 237 + + Thyme, i. 19 + + Thyroid, i. 84, 94, 102, 103; ii. 113, 121, 125 + + _Times, The_, ii. 253 + + Tissander’s Cure, ii. 29 + + Tobacco Habit, Medicines for, ii. 128, 141 + + Tolu, i. 13, 16, 18, 27; ii. 9 + + Tonic, Gloria, i. 52 + + Tonic, Owbridge’s Lung, i. 13 + + Tonic, Star, i. 23 + + Tonic, Veno’s Seaweed, i. 74 + + Towle’s Pennyroyal and Steel Pills, ii. 195 + + Townsend’s American Sarsaparilla, i. 43 + + Tragacanth, i. 106 + + Treatment Forms (_see_ Symptom Forms) + + Tremol Blood Mixture, ii. 174 + + Tremol Lotion, ii. 175 + + Tremol Ointment, ii. 176 + + Tremol Treatment, ii. 167 + + Trench’s Remedy for Epilepsy and Fits, i. 127 + + Trilene Tablets, i. 90 + + _Truth_ Cautionary List, i. 28; ii. 86, 167, 246, 258, 260 + + Tuberculozyne, i. 21, 32 + + Tumenol, i. 140 + + Turmeric, i. 70; ii. 197 + + Turpentine, oil of, i. 65, 113, 122, 136; ii. 6, 7 + + Turpentine, Venice, ii. 17 + + Tussothym, i. 19 + + “Umckaloabo”, i. 22, 32 + + Unqualified practice through the post, ii. 241 + + Uranium nitrate, i. 76, 78, 79 + + Uranium wine, Pesqui’s, i. 76, 77 + + Urea, ii. 28 + + Uricedin, i. 64 + + Uricura Drops, ii. 6 + + Uricura Liniment, ii. 7 + + Urisol (_see_ Formamine). + + Urotropine (_see_ Formamine). + + Valerianates, i. 172 + + Van Vleck’s Absorptive Pile Treatment, i. 154 + + Van Vleck’s Catarrh Balm, i. 3 + + Van Vleck’s Muco-food Cones, i. 148 + + Van Vleck’s Pile Pills, i. 155 + + Van Vleck’s Plasma, i. 155 + + Var’s American Kidney Pills, i. 70 + + Varalettes, Bishop’s, i. 62 + + Variable composition of secret remedies, ii. 261 + + Variable dosage of secret remedies, ii. 263 + + Vegetable Compound, Mrs. Pinkham’s, ii. 190, 194 + + Venice turpentine, ii. 17 + + Veno’s Lightning Cough Cure, i. 16 + + Veno’s Seaweed Tonic, i. 74 + + _Veratrum album_, ii. 17 + + _Verbena officinalis_, i. 124, 125, 127 + + Verophen Mouth Water, ii. 238 + + Vervain, i. 124, 125, 127 + + Vervain Restorative Assimilant, O. Phelps Brown’s, i. 127 + + Victoria Asthma Drops, ii. 86 + + Vilixir, ii. 227 + + Vilja Cream, ii. 239 + + Vincent’s Anti-Stout Pills, ii. 116 + + Vin Urané Pesqui, i. 76, 77 + + Vitæ Ore, ii. 48 + + Vital Renewer, Niblett’s, ii. 153 + + Völlner’s Cotton Wool, ii. 28 + + Wafers, Curic, i. 38 + + Wafers, Hargreave’s Reducing, i. 91 + + Wafers, Paciderma Blood, i. 109 + + Wallace, A. Gordon, ii. 258 + + Wallace’s Specifics, ii. 210 + + Wallace’s Treatment for Obesity, ii. 114 + + Warner’s Safe Cure, i. 72 + + Weidhaas Hygienic Institute, i. 23 + + Weigand’s Rheumatic and Gout Spirit, i. 65 + + Welch’s (Widow) Female Pills, ii. 196 + + Whelpton’s Purifying Pills, ii. 95 + + White hellebore, ii. 17 + + White precipitate, i. 113, 143, 144 + + White’s Kompo, ii. 75 + + Whooping Cough Remedy, Assmann’s, i. 19 + + Williams’ Pink Pills for Pale People, i. 170, 174 + + Wind Pills, Woodcock’s, ii. 98 + + Wine, Pesqui’s Uranium, i. 77 + + Winslow’s (Mrs.) Soothing Syrup, ii. 148 + + Wintergreen, oil of, i. 73, 180; ii. 20, 33, 40, 82, 85, 110, 145, 183 + + Wisbech Remedy for the Eyes i. 144 + + Witch hazel (_see_ Hamamelis). + + Woodcock’s Wind Pills, ii. 98 + + Wood tar, ii. 80 + + Woods’ Treatment for Alcoholism, ii. 133 + + Woods’ Treatment for Tobacco Habit, ii. 141 + + Woodward’s Gripe Water, ii. 149 + + Xaxa (_see_ Acetyl-salicylic acid) + + X.L. Reducing Pills and Lotion, i. 89 + + Yolk of egg, ii. 69 + + Yonkerman’s Tuberculozyne, i. 32 + + Zam-buk, i. 111 + + Zehrkur, i. 103 + + Zinc, i. 156 + + Zinc chloride, i. 122 + + Zinc oxide, i. 109, 129, 148, 151; ii. 35, 41, 42, 43, 177, 237 + + Zinc phosphide, ii. 52, 127 + + Zinc sulphate, i. 120 + + Zinc valerianate, i. 172 + + Zip Ointment, i. 112 + + Zobeide, i. 87 + + Zotos, ii. 231 + + Zox, i. 58 + + + _Volume I. or Volume II. of “Secret Remedies” can be obtained from + The British Medical Association, 429, Strand, London, W.C., or from + bookstalls and booksellers._ + + + + + Transcriber’s Notes + + + Inconsistencies and errors (in spelling, capitalisation, hyphenation, + formulae, lay-out, etc.), including those in proper and product + names, have been retained, unless listed under Changes below. + + The first volume, which is regularly referred to in this volume and + has its own index, is available as Project Gutenberg e-book 75168. + + Page 237, ...absolutely non-poisonous cresote preparation...: + possibly intended to read ...absolutely non-poisonous creosote + preparation.... + + Index: the (spelling) differences between the main text and the index + have not been corrected, except as mentioned under Changes below. + Several items listed in the Index are not present in the text of + Volume ii (and several items described in volume ii are not listed in + the Index). + + + Changes: + + Minor typographical and punctuation errors (except when deliberately + included in direct quotes) have been corrected silently. + + Raised decimal points · have been changed to low decimal points . + except in those tables where all decimal points are printed raised. + In some tables and in the index, ditto marks have been replace with + the dittoed text, and minor alignment irregularities have been + standardised. + + Page 8: ...a rational person be believed,... changed to ...a rational + person he believed,.... + + Page 12: ...all kinns of Pains... changed to ...all kinds of Pains.... + + Page 15: closing quote mark inserted after ...supple in my joints as + a young man. + + Page 20: opening quote marks inserted before Quint-essence of Life!” + + Page 39: ...a faint anise-like odours;... changed to ...a faint + anise-like odour;.... + + Page 54: ...Nervous Exhaustion, Spermatorrhoea, Varicocele,... + changed to ...Nervous Exhaustion, Spermatorrhœa, Varicocele,.... + + Page 58, table: Powdered genetian changed to Powdered gentian. + + Page 67: Fe₃(PO₄)₂8H₂O changed to Fe₃(PO₄)₂,8H₂O (comma as elsewhere). + + Page 122: (Fucus vesiculosos), such as are contained... changed to + (Fucus vesiculosus), such as are contained.... + + Page 173, item 23: closing bracket inserted after ...the size of the + surrounding redness or inflammation. + + Page 187: Closing quote mark inserted after ...Suppression of the + Menses, incidental to females. + + Page 202: These cones are composed of Theobrama,... changed to These + cones are composed of Theobroma,.... + + Page 213: No. 1.--This is stated... changed to No. I.--This is + stated.... + + Page 216: Hermia.... Varicose veins.... changed to Hernia... Varicose + veins.... + + Page 217: closing quote mark inserted after ...indicate the + requirement of No. III. + + Page 248, item 11: closing bracket inserted after ...which surrounds + the pupil of the eye. + + Index: Methylene blue moved to appropriate place (p. 275), Rhytol + changed to Rhycol (p. 279). + +*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 78809 *** diff --git a/78809-h/78809-h.htm b/78809-h/78809-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..67c4c57 --- /dev/null +++ b/78809-h/78809-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,21587 @@ +<!DOCTYPE html> +<html lang="en"> +<head> + <meta charset="UTF-8"> + <meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1"> + <meta name="format-detection" content="telephone=no,date=no,address=no,email=no,url=no"> + <title> + More Secret Remedies. | Project Gutenberg + </title> + <link rel="icon" href="images/cover.jpg" type="image/x-cover"> + <style> + + a + {text-decoration: none;} + a:hover + {text-decoration: underline;} + .allclear + {clear: both;} + .allsmcap + {text-transform: lowercase; font-variant: small-caps;} + .bb + {border-bottom: solid thin;} + body + {margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .br + {border-right: solid thin;} + .bt + {border-top: solid thin;} + .center + {text-align: center; text-indent: 0;} + .centerblock + {text-align: center; margin: 0 auto;} + .centerblock p + {display: inline-block; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0;} + .chapter + {page-break-before: always;} + .container + {margin: 1.25em auto; padding: 0; text-align: center; max-width: 100%; page-break-inside: avoid;} + .container.left + {margin: 0 .75em 0 0; float: left;} + .x-ebookmaker .container.left {float: left;} + .container.right + {margin: 0 0 .75em 0; float: right;} + .x-ebookmaker .container.right {float: right;} + div.largersize + {font-size: 1.1em; line-height: 1.1em;} + div.largersize .pagenum + {font-size: .65em;} + div.smallersize + {font-size: .85em;} + div.smallersize .pagenum + {font-size: .88em;} + .x-eboookmaker .ebookdrop + {display: none;} + .fnanchor + {vertical-align: top; font-size: .7em; text-decoration: none; white-space: nowrap;} + .footnote + {clear: left; margin: .75em 1.25em .75em 2.5em;} + .x-ebookmaker .footnote {margin-left: 1em;} + .footnote .label + {float: left; font-size: .75em; vertical-align: top; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-indent: -3.5em;} + .x-ebookmaker .footnote .label {float: none; margin-left: 1em; text-indent: 0;} + .footnote p + {margin: .1em 0 0 0; text-indent: 1em; font-size: .9em;} + .fsize125 + {font-size: 1.25em;} + .fsize150 + {font-size: 1.5em;} + .fsize175 + {font-size: 1.75em;} + .fsize200 + {font-size: 2em;} + .gesp2 + {letter-spacing: .2em; margin-right: -.2em;} + h1, + h2, + h3, + h4 + {text-align: center; font-size: 1em; font-weight: normal;} + h1 + {line-height: 2em; margin-top: 2em; margin-bottom: 2em; font-size: 2em; letter-spacing: .1em;} + h2, + h3, + h4 + {margin-top: 2em; margin-bottom: .75em; font-size: 1.25em; word-spacing: .25em; page-break-after: avoid;} + h2 .chapno + {line-height: 2.5em; word-spacing: normal;} + h2.nobreak, + h3.nobreak + {page-break-before: avoid;} + h3.highline + {line-height: 1.5em;} + h4.murrays, + h4.sequarine + {font-size: 1em;} + hr + {width: 34%; margin: 2em 33%; color: black; clear: none;} + hr.chap + {width: 26%; margin: 3em 37%;} + .x-ebookmaker hr.chap {display: none;} + hr.footnote + {width: 10%; margin: .5em 90% .5em 0;} + hr.full + {width: 100%; margin: 2em 0; clear: both;} + hr.short + {width: 10%; margin: 1.5em 45%;} + img + {max-width: 100%; height: auto;} + .left + {text-align: left;} + .nursemann + {margin-bottom: .75em; text-align: center;} + p + {margin-top: .25em; text-align: justify; margin-bottom: 0; text-indent: 1em;} + p.blankafter75 + {margin-bottom: .75em;} + p.blankbefore75 + {margin-top: .75em;} + p.blankbefore4 + {margin-top: 4em;} + p.center + {text-align: center; text-indent: 0;} + p.highline15 + {line-height: 1.5em;} + p.highline2 + {line-height: 2em;} + p.highline4 + {line-height: 4em;} + p.noindent + {text-indent: 0;} + .padl2 + {padding-left: 1em;} + .padl4 + {padding-left: 2em;} + .padl6 + {padding-left: 3em;} + .padl10 + {padding-left: 5em;} + .padr1 + {padding-right: .5em;} + .padr2 + {padding-right: 1em;} + .padr4 + {padding-right: 2em;} + .padr6 + {padding-right: 3em;} + .padr8 + {padding-right: 4em;} + .padr10 + {padding-right: 5em;} + .padr20 + {padding-right: 10em;} + .pagenum + {position: absolute; right: 2%; font-size: .7em; text-align: right; color: gray; text-decoration: none; + font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-indent: 0;} + .powellprice + {line-height: 1.5em; margin-right: 50%; text-align: right; padding-right: 10em;} + .right + {text-align: right;} + .righttext + {float: right; text-align: right; padding-left: 1em; display: inline-block;} + .x-ebookmaker .righttext {float: right; display: block; white-space: nowrap;} + .sidenote + {padding: .25em .75em .25em 0; margin: 0 1.25em 0 0; float: left; clear: left; font-size: .9em; text-indent: 0;} + .x-ebookmaker .sidenote {float: left;} + .smcap + {font-variant: small-caps;} + sub + {font-size: .7em; vertical-align: -20%;} + sup + {font-size: .7em; vertical-align: 25%;} + .tabhead + {text-align: center; text-indent: 0; margin-top: .75em; margin-bottom: .75em;} + table + {border-collapse: collapse; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;} + table.analysis + {margin-top: .75em; margin-bottom: .75em; font-size: .9em;} + table.analysis td + {padding-left: .1em; padding-right: .1em; white-space: nowrap;} + table.analysis td.bottomline, + table.analysis td.topline + {line-height: 1.5em; text-align: center;} + table.analysis td.ditto + {text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; padding-right: .2em;} + table.analysis td.ditto.spaced1 + {text-align: left; padding-left: .5em;} + table.analysis td.ditto.spaced2 + {text-align: left; padding-left: 1em;} + table.analysis td.ditto.spaced3 + {text-align: left; padding-left: 1.5em;} + table.analysis td.fracpart + {text-align: left; padding-left: 0; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;} + table.analysis td.intpart + {text-align: right; padding-right: 0; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;} + table.analysis td.number + {text-align: right; padding-right: .2em; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;} + table.analysis td.text + {text-align: left; vertical-align: top; padding-left: 1.25em; text-indent: -1em; padding-right: 4em; white-space: normal;} + table.analysis td.text.nopad + {padding-right: .25em; white-space: nowrap;} + table.analysis td.unit + {text-align: left; padding-left: .2em; padding-right: 0; vertical-align: bottom;} + table.analysis td.mid + {vertical-align: middle;} + table.splittext + {margin: .75em auto;} + table.splittext td.txt + {padding: .1em .25em .1em 1.25em; text-indent: -1em; text-align: left; padding-right: 4em; vertical-align: middle;} + table.temperancia + {margin: .75em 0 .75em 4em; text-align: left;} + table.temperancia td + {padding: .1em;} + table.toc + {margin-top: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 1.5em; max-width: 40em; white-space: nowrap;} + table.toc td + {padding: .25em 0;} + table.toc td.chapname + {vertical-align: top; text-align: justify; padding-left: 1.5em; padding-right: 2em; text-indent: -1.5em; white-space: normal;} + table.toc td.chapno + {vertical-align: top; text-align: right;} + table.toc td.dash + {vertical-align: top; text-align: center;} + table.toc td.ditto + {text-align: center; vertical-align: top;} + table.toc td.pageno + {text-align: right; vertical-align: bottom;} + td.bot + {vertical-align: bottom;} + td.brace + {width: .001em; padding: 0;} + td.top + {vertical-align: top;} + td.mid, + th.mid + {vertical-align: middle;} + th + {font-weight: normal; white-space: nowrap; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; padding-left: .1em; + padding-right: .1em;} + .titlepage + {margin: 2em auto; padding: 2em; text-align: center; border: solid medium; max-width: 35em;} + .titlepage hr.short + {margin: .5em 26%; width: 48%;} + .tnbot + {border: dashed thin; margin: 1em 10%; padding: .5em;} + .tnbot h2 + {font-size: 1em;} + .tnbot p + {text-indent: -1em; margin-left: 1em;} + .tnbox + {border: dashed thin; margin: 1em 20%; padding: 1em;} + ul.index + {list-style: none; margin: 2em 0; max-width: 30em;} + ul.index li + {text-align: left; margin: 0 0 0 1em; text-indent: -1em; clear: both;} + ul.index li.level1 + {margin-left: 2em;} + ul.index li.newletter + {margin-top: .75em;} + ul.index .righttext + {clear: both; float: right; text-align: right; margin-left: 0; display: inline-block; max-width: 75%;} + .x-ebookmaker ul.index .righttext {float: right; display: block; white-space: nowrap;} + ul.nostyle + {list-style: none; margin: .75em 0;} + ul.nostyle li + {text-align: justify; margin: 0 0 0 1em; text-indent: -1em;} + ul.nostyle li.paddedtop + {margin-top: .75em;} + ul.nostyle .nobot + {margin-bottom: 0;} + ul.vitae_ore + {list-style: none; margin: 0; text-align: center;} + ul.vitae_ore li + {text-align: justify; margin: 0;} + ul.vitae_ore li.indented + {margin-left: 4em;} + .w01em + {width: 1em;} + .w30emmax + {max-width: 30em;} + .w25pc + {width: 25%;} + .wauto + {width: auto;} + .ws1 + {word-spacing: .3em;} + + </style> +</head> + +<body> +<div style='text-align:center'>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 78809 ***</div> + + +<div class="tnbox"> +<p class="noindent">Please see the <a href="#TN">Transcriber’s Notes</a> at the end of this text.</p> +<p class="noindent blankbefore75">The first volume, Secret Remedies, What They Cost and What They Contain (1909), +is available at <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/75168">Project Gutenberg</a>.</p> +</div> + +<hr class="chap"> + +<div class="ebookdrop"> +<div class="container w30emmax"> +<img src="images/cover.jpg" alt="Cover image"> +</div> +</div> + +<hr class="chap"> + +<div class="chapter"> + +<div class="titlepage"> + +<h1>MORE<br> +<span class="fsize150">SECRET REMEDIES.</span></h1> + +<p class="center highline4"><span class="fsize150">WHAT THEY COST & WHAT THEY CONTAIN.</span><br> +<span class="fsize125">BASED ON ANALYSES MADE FOR THE</span><br> +<span class="fsize200">BRITISH MEDICAL ASSOCIATION.</span></p> + +<hr class="short"> + +<p class="center fsize125 highline2">SECRET REMEDIES—SECOND SERIES.</p> + +<hr class="short"> + +<p class="center highline2 blankbefore4"><span class="smcap">London</span>:<br> +<span class="fsize125">BRITISH MEDICAL ASSOCIATION,</span><br> +<span class="smcap">429, Strand, W.C.</span><br> +1912.<br> +<span class="allsmcap">COPYRIGHT.</span></p> + +</div><!--titlepage--> + +</div><!--chapter--> + +<hr class="chap"> + +<div class="chapter"> +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Pageii"><a id="Pageiii"></a>[ii-<br>iii]</span></p> +<h2 class="nobreak fsize125">TABLE OF CONTENTS.</h2> +</div> + +<table class="toc" role="navigation"> + +<tr> +<td colspan="5" class="right"><span class="smcap">Page</span></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="left top"><span class="smcap">Chapter</span></td> +<td class="chapno">I.</td> +<td class="dash">—</td> +<td class="chapname">Remedies for Rheumatism, Gout and Neuralgia</td> +<td class="pageno"><a href="#Page1">1</a></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="chapno">II.</td> +<td class="dash">—</td> +<td class="chapname">Preparations for Eczema and other Skin Affections</td> +<td class="pageno"><a href="#Page30">30</a></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="chapno">III.</td> +<td class="dash">—</td> +<td class="chapname">Nerve Tonics and “Elixirs of Life”</td> +<td class="pageno"><a href="#Page44">44</a></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="chapno">IV.</td> +<td class="dash">—</td> +<td class="chapname">Medicines for Coughs, Consumption, Catarrh etc.</td> +<td class="pageno"><a href="#Page71">71</a></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="chapno">V.</td> +<td class="dash">—</td> +<td class="chapname">Medicines for Indigestion, Constipation, etc.</td> +<td class="pageno"><a href="#Page87">87</a></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="chapno">VI.</td> +<td class="dash">—</td> +<td class="chapname">Kidney Medicines</td> +<td class="pageno"><a href="#Page102">102</a></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="chapno">VII.</td> +<td class="dash">—</td> +<td class="chapname">Obesity Cures, and a “Flesh Producer”</td> +<td class="pageno"><a href="#Page112">112</a></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="chapno">VIII.</td> +<td class="dash">—</td> +<td class="chapname">Medicines for Alcoholism and for the Tobacco Habit</td> +<td class="pageno"><a href="#Page128">128</a></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="chapno">IX.</td> +<td class="dash">—</td> +<td class="chapname">Soothing Syrups for Infants</td> +<td class="pageno"><a href="#Page147">147</a></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="chapno">X.</td> +<td class="dash">—</td> +<td class="chapname">Medicines for Epilepsy</td> +<td class="pageno"><a href="#Page152">152</a></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="chapno">XI.</td> +<td class="dash">—</td> +<td class="chapname">The “Tremol Treatment” for Bad Legs</td> +<td class="pageno"><a href="#Page167">167</a></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="chapno">XII.</td> +<td class="dash">—</td> +<td class="chapname">The “Crimson Cross Remedies”</td> +<td class="pageno"><a href="#Page178">178</a></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="chapno">XIII.</td> +<td class="dash">—</td> +<td class="chapname">Medicines for Amenorrhœa, etc.</td> +<td class="pageno"><a href="#Page184">184</a></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="chapno">XIV.</td> +<td class="dash">—</td> +<td class="chapname">Wallace’s Specific Remedies—“An Absolute System of Medicine”</td> +<td class="pageno"><a href="#Page210">210</a></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="chapno">XV.</td> +<td class="dash">—</td> +<td class="chapname">Preparations for the Hair</td> +<td class="pageno"><a href="#Page222">222</a></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="chapno">XVI.</td> +<td class="dash">—</td> +<td class="chapname">Some Miscellaneous Medicines</td> +<td class="pageno"><a href="#Page231">231</a></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="chapno">XVII.</td> +<td class="dash">—</td> +<td class="chapname">Unqualified Practice through the Post</td> +<td class="pageno"><a href="#Page241">241</a></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="chapno">XVIII.</td> +<td class="dash">—</td> +<td class="chapname">The Advertising of Proprietary Medicines</td> +<td class="pageno"><a href="#Page252">252</a></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="chapno">XIX.</td> +<td class="dash">—</td> +<td class="chapname">The “Expert” behind the Proprietary Medicine</td> +<td class="pageno"><a href="#Page256">256</a></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="chapno">XX.</td> +<td class="dash">—</td> +<td class="chapname">Some Echoes of Volume I.</td> +<td class="pageno"><a href="#Page259">259</a></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="4" class="left top"><span class="smcap">Index</span></td> +<td class="pageno"><a href="#Page265">265</a></td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<hr class="chap"> +<div class="chapter"> +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Pageiv"><a id="Page_v"></a>[iv-<br>v]</span></p> +<h2 class="nobreak">PREFACE.</h2> +</div> + +<div class="largersize"> + +<p>The publication by the British Medical Association—under +the title “Secret Remedies: What they Cost and +What they Contain”—of the results of a series of analyses +of some of the most advertised of the many proprietary +medicines put forward for the cure of disease, has perhaps +done more than anything else to open the eyes of the public, +the authorities, and the Legislature to the true facts in regard +to the nature of such articles and of the enormous traffic +that goes on in them. At the time of the publication of +this second volume, a public inquiry into the matter by a +Parliamentary Committee has just been opened, with a view +to deciding on what alterations of the law are necessary or +desirable. The present state of the law in regard to the +matter, and of its administration, undoubtedly leave room +for much amendment. But the surest enemy of quackery +in this department is increased publicity in regard to the +facts, and the recognition by the public of the great disparity +that exists in many cases between the actual composition +of many nostrums on the one hand, and the extravagant +claims that are made for their curative powers on the other. +As a further contribution to a general enlightenment on the +subject, the British Medical Association publishes in the +present volume the results of a further series of analyses of +proprietary medicines which have been carried out for the +purpose, together with extracts from the statements of the +proprietors of the medicines. The number of those at +present existing is so vast that it is only possible to deal with +comparatively a few, and these have been selected, as a rule, +as being some of the most widely advertised or the most +largely sold.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Pagevi">[vi]</span></p> + +<p>It will be recognised at once that there is a very wide +variation in the degree of exaggeration in the claims put +forward. In a few cases—a small minority—the advertisements +appear to consist of very little but an indication of the +disorders for which the medicine is recommended. At the +other end of the scale there are nostrums put forward with +the greatest assurance for even the most serious disorders, +including consumption, smallpox, cancer, etc., etc., and in +many cases one and the same article is asserted to be a cure +for almost every disease to which the human body is liable. +As a rule, the more extravagant the claims made, the more +surely does the composition of the article, as revealed by +analysis, show it to be of little or no value, if not even harmful, +for the diseases named. Between these extremes, of +the modest proprietary medicine—more or less of the nature +of a harmless domestic medicine—on the one hand, and the +most fraudulent quackery on the other, are to be found all +gradations. The medicines described in this book have not +been chosen as inclining more in one direction than the +other, but include the various grades. From the facts +stated the reader will be able to draw his own conclusions; +it has not been necessary, as a rule, to express opinions on +the articles described, a juxtaposition of the claims made and +the facts shown by analysis being sufficient.</p> + +<p>The analyses here published have been made with +the greatest care during the last few years. Since it +is open to the maker of a proprietary medicine to +alter its composition at any time without warning +(and very great alterations have been proved in some +cases), it is, of course, possible that some of those +described may have been altered since the analyses +were made, though there is no reason to suppose that such +has been the case. It is desirable to repeat here the caution +that was expressed in the first volume: most of the active +substances employed in medicine can be detected with +<span class="pagenum" id="Pagevii">[vii]</span>certainty, even in complex mixtures, by sufficiently painstaking +work on the part of the analyst; but this is not the +case with preparations of some organic drugs, usually of +vegetable origin, that have never been fully investigated, +and especially with mixtures of the extracts of several +vegetable drugs; in such cases analysis can only give +approximate results, and constituents having no well-defined +characters may escape detection. Since the maker +of a secret medicine is in no wise limited to the Pharmacopœia +or to drugs in ordinary use, but may employ, for +example, a mixture of extracts of a dozen plants, none of +which possesses any medicinal virtue or is recognised as a +drug, it is no matter for surprise if all the constituents of a +nostrum cannot be named as the result of analysis. But +if it is remembered that the <i>active</i> ingredients of most substances +having medicinal properties possess well-defined +characters by means of which they can be identified, it will +be seen that the limitations of the powers of analysis here +referred to are of comparatively little importance in regard +to exposing the <i>essential</i> nature of a given medicine, or +substance put forward as such.</p> + +<p>The figures given in this book as the “estimated cost of +ingredients” of the various articles refer only to the +ingredients, the cost prices being taken from a wholesale +druggist’s list; nothing is allowed for the cost of making +up the ingredients into the form in which they are sold, or +for bottles, boxes, packages, etc. Where the results of +analysis are not sufficiently definite for the cost of +ingredients to be estimated with reasonable fairness, the +figure is omitted.</p> + +<p>Dr. F. Zernik, of Berlin, has continued the publication +in the <i>Deutsche Medicinische Wochenschrift</i> of the +results of his analyses of various nostrums sold in +Germany, and some of his results are here included.</p> + +</div><!--largersize--> + +<hr class="chap"> +<div class="chapter"> +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Pageviii"><a id="Page1"></a>[viii-<br>1]</span></p> +<p class="center highline2"><span class="fsize150">MORE</span><br> +<span class="fsize175">SECRET REMEDIES.</span><br> +<span class="fsize125">WHAT THEY COST AND WHAT THEY CONTAIN.</span></p> +<hr class="short"> +<h2 class="nobreak"><span class="chapno">CHAPTER I.</span><br> +REMEDIES FOR GOUT, RHEUMATISM, AND +NEURALGIA.</h2> +</div><!--chapter--> + +<div class="largersize"> + +<p>The medicines described in this chapter include some of +those most widely advertised for the treatment of these +complaints. They show a great variety in the methods of +treating them, including as they do powders, pills, tablets, +drops, and mixtures to be taken; liniments to be applied +externally (one of these being also taken internally), paint, +ointment, and plasters to be stuck on to the soles of the +feet. The medicaments employed also vary much, but for +the most part consist of articles in common use. The advertisements +are in several respects instructive; for example, +there is undoubtedly a prejudice among the more ignorant +section of the public in favour of drugs coming from other +and less civilised countries where they have been discovered +by “natives,” or introduced in some other way than through +careful experimenting, and some of the statements made +are clearly intended to turn such prejudices to account. Thus +in one case it is stated that the discoverer “went back to +the heart of Nature in an endeavour to wrest from it the +secret of an ideal liniment. In the course of his searches +he was favourably impressed with the healing properties of +many herbs used by native tribes,” etc.; in another, “this +wonderful preparation is the discovery of a Hindu doctor +in the Himalayan Mountains.” In their varied forms of +appeals to “Nature” some of the advertisers do not hesitate +to ascribe high intelligence to the medicines or to parts +of the body other than the brain. Thus one states that +<span class="pagenum" id="Page2">[2]</span>“No one can reasonably deny an instinctive knowledge and +a physical power exerted in the stomach by a conscious +principle which selects and rejects, and which in its natural +purity may be ranked as a nerve of sense”; another that +“Immediately the liniment has been applied it sets out upon +its message of discovery and healing, travelling with lightning +rapidity to the seat of the trouble”; yet another calls +his preparation “A subtle extract from the vegetable kingdom, +the hidden fire or life of plants and flowers, the ‘Quintessence +of Life.’”</p> + +<p>Among these articles, as in most other groups of nostrums, +the claims made by rival proprietors are mutually exclusive; +those dealt with in this chapter include the following: +“Greatest and latest discovery in medicine ... +there is nothing known in medicine which will compare +with it”; “the only efficient remedy ever discovered for +these disorders”; “the finest cure for these complaints,” +curing “when all other remedies fail”; “we guarantee +magic foot drafts to cure any case of rheumatism”; “it is +the one remedy that achieves a complete and permanent +cure”; “the most effective scientific remedy.” Obviously, +such claims cannot all be true.</p> + +<p>Most advertisers of proprietary medicines seem unable to +resist dragging in references to the medical profession into +their advertisements. There are two principal ways in +which this is done: the one is to claim to be receiving the +support and recommendations of medical men, and the other +is to vilify and slander them as rogues and fools, or both. +These two methods are both illustrated here; the former +includes “highly endorsed by the leading medical profession” +and “physicians are already using them in their +regular practice, and recommending them”; the latter is +exemplified by “certain medical men have done their best +by tongue and pen to persuade the public that Box’s Golden +Fire is poisonous.... Those who raise the cry of +<span class="pagenum" id="Page3">[3]</span>‘poison’ are wholesale traffickers in the same—it is their +stock-in-trade; poisons bring grist to their mills, while the +poor victims who swallow them perish by thousands.” It +is hardly necessary to remark that statements of the former +kind are as a rule just as baseless as those of the latter.</p> + +<p>One preparation described below—Bengué’s Balsam—cannot +be properly described as a “secret remedy,” since +the principal constituents are mentioned on the label; +seeing, however, that it is advertised in somewhat the same +way as others, it is useful to include it here.</p> + +</div><!--largersize--> + +<h3>DR. HOFFMAN’S RHEUMATIC POWDERS.</h3> + +<p>These powders are supplied by “The International Chemical +Co.,” from an address in London. They are advertised in the +following terms:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="center">Greatest and latest discovery in medicine.<br> +Dr. Hoffman’s Celebrated Rheumatic Powders.<br> +Great German Rheumatic Cure.</p> + +<p class="noindent">Will cure permanently all forms of Rheumatism, Gout, Neuralgia, Sciatica, +Excess of Uric Acid, etc.</p> + +<p>Highly endorsed by the leading Medical Profession, Analytical and Consulting +Chemists, and general public in all parts of the world. Contain +absolutely no injurious drugs, poison, or any kind of Narcotic. Its +manufacture is based on scientific principles.</p> + +<p>Relief is felt after the First Dose.</p> + +<p>There is nothing known in medicine which will compare with it.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>A circular enclosed in the package contained statements similar +to the above, accompanied by a so-called “analysis” in the +following terms:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>I hereby certify that “Dr. Hoffman’s Rheumatic Powders” have been +tested in these laboratories, the data obtained being of a most satisfactory +character, and indicating them to be judicious and skilful preparations +that are well suited for the purposes for which they are designed. They +are valuable powders for rheumatism, gout, and kindred complaints. These +powders are free from narcotics, poisons, or undesirable constituents, but +are powerful uric acid solvents. I consider them to be perfectly safe, +reliable, and effective medicines.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>This recommendation, or testimonial, bears the name of an +individual who has made himself conspicuous by giving such +puffs under the guise of analyses; his name is followed by a long +paragraph setting forth his title to speak with authority, commencing +with “Ph.D.,” and concluding with “Ph.D., etc.,” +<span class="pagenum" id="Page4">[4]</span>but with no mention of the university which conferred this duplicate +degree. Such distinctions as “author of ... ‘The +Physiology of the Invertebrate,’ ‘Respiratory Proteids,’ etc.... +Analytical Chemist, Assayer and Chemical Engineer, +Consulting Chemist, and Expert Adviser to Foreign Governments, +Corporations, Collieries, Companies, Pharmaceutical +and Chemical Manufacturers; ... Bacteriological +and Agricultural Expert,” are no doubt intended to display his +ability to pronounce with authority on the merits of powders for +rheumatism or on any other subject whatever.</p> + +<p>The powders are supplied in boxes at 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. and 2s. 9d. A +1s. 1¹⁄₂d. box was found to contain 12 powders. The directions +are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Take one powder every three or four hours; place on the tongue, and +wash it down with a draught of water.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>It would appear that the amount taken at one time is not +regarded as of great importance, as the powders in one box varied +in weight from 11.3 to 20.8 grains, the average of the 12 being +15.8 grains. Analysis showed the powder to have the following +composition:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Acetyl-salicylic acid</td> +<td class="intpart">66</td> +<td class="fracpart">.4</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Phenacetin</td> +<td class="intpart">11</td> +<td class="fracpart">.4</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Caffeine</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.3</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sugar</td> +<td class="intpart">20</td> +<td class="fracpart">.1</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Moisture</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.8</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p class="noindent">Acetyl-salicylic acid is also known by the shortened name of the +B.P. Codex, acetosalic acid, and by the trade names Aspirin, +Xaxa, etc. The estimated cost of the materials for 12 powders +is 1d.</p> + +<h3>EADE’S GOUT AND RHEUMATIC PILLS.</h3> + +<p>These pills are supplied by a firm in London. In an advertisement +it is stated that they</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p class="noindent">instantly relieve and rapidly cure the worst form of gout, rheumatism, +rheumatic gout, pains in the head, face, and limbs.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The extracts which follow are from a circular enclosed in the +package with the pills:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>They are specially recommended to the afflicted, with confidence arising +from experience, as one of the valuable results of the improved state of +<span class="pagenum" id="Page5">[5]</span>medical science, and the only efficient remedy ever discovered for these +disorders.</p> + +<p>The never-failing effects of Eade’s Gout and Rheumatic Pills in curing +these distressingly painful diseases have secured to them a celebrity unequalled +by any medicine of past or present times. They not only give +relief in a few hours where the patient has been driven to madness by +the horrible, excruciating tortures of this disease, but restore to perfect +health in an inconceivably short space of time—in most cases giving relief +from the intolerable pain in one or two hours; one bottle will frequently +carry off the attack in two or three days, even when the patient has kept +his bed for as many weeks, and sometimes months.</p> + +<p>These Pills have repeatedly succeeded after all the usual internal and +external remedies have failed; and it is their peculiar property that +the first dose completely arrests the frequent tendency of those diseases +to attack some vital part while, if attacked, the symptoms are immediately +and effectually removed.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The pills are supplied in bottles at 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. and 2s. 9d.; a +1s. 1¹⁄₂d. bottle was found to contain 18 pills, and a 2s. 9d. +bottle 60 pills. The directions are: “Take one pill three times +a day, and two at bedtime; for delicate females and weak +persons, one pill night and morning.”</p> + +<p>The pills were not coated, as ordinarily understood, but had +a thin irregular layer of adherent powder, which proved to be +carbonate of magnesia; the average weight of one pill was +5.4 grains. Analysis showed the presence of aloes, powdered +colchicum corm, and extractive, with cane sugar, glucose, gum +and dextrin, various characters indicating that the sugars were +added in the form of treacle; the amount of colchicine was +determined (and the alkaloid identified) and was found to be +considerably more than would be proper to the amount of corm +present, and this fact and the presence of an extract pointed +to extract of colchicum being present as well as the corm. The +amounts of the different constituents were determined as accurately +as possible; the amount of aloes, not being determinable +with any exactness, was arrived at by comparing the pills by +various tests with a mass of known composition. The formula +was found to be approximately as follows:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Barbadoes aloes</td> +<td class="number">10</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Extract of colchicum</td> +<td class="number">18</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered colchicum corm</td> +<td class="number">35</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Treacle</td> +<td class="number">27</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Gum and dextrin</td> +<td class="number">10</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Estimated cost of materials for 18 pills, ³⁄₄d.; for 60 pills, 2¹⁄₂d.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page6">[6]</span></p> + +<h3>URICURA DROPS AND LINIMENT.</h3> + +<p>These preparations, also known as Hammond’s Specifics, are +made by a firm in Glamorganshire. An advertisement inquires:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Have you tried to eliminate the cause of Rheumatism, Gout, Lumbago, +and Sciatica? Uricura Drops will do this for you, being the finest cure +for these complaints.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The price of each is 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. A bottle of the drops contained +half a fluid ounce, and of the liniment 4 fluid ounces. On the +package of the former appears:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>N.B.—In conjunction with the drops it is strongly recommended to use +Uricura Liniment.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="noindent">And on the package of the liniment:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p><i>N.B.</i>—It is strongly recommended that for Rheumatism, Lumbago, and +Sciatica, Uricura Drops be taken in conjunction with the Liniment.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>In a circular enclosed in each package it is stated that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>“Uricura” Liniment and Drops (Hammond’s Specifics) Cure Rheumatism, +Gout, Sciatica, Lumbago and Neuralgia When All other Remedies +fail.</p> + +<p>These invaluable preparations have permanently cured many bad cases +of from One to Twenty Years’ standing. They give immediate relief, +and effect a Cure quickly if Regularly and Persistently used as +directed....</p> + +<p>For Colds in the Chest, Sore Throat, and Swollen Glands, nothing +better than the Liniment can be used.</p> + +<p>Athletes and others will find the Liniment a most efficacious remedy for +Sprains, Bruises, Stiffness and Cramp. It has been used with remarkable +results by leading Football Players.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><i>Uricura Drops.</i>—The directions are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Dose.—Four Drops on sugar, night and morning. Increase two drops +each day up to 10, and then reduce two drops each day.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Analysis showed the liquid to contain oil of turpentine, +terebene, and oil of amber; no other ingredient could be +detected. The proportions of the constituents were ascertained +as nearly as possible by analytical methods and checked by +comparison with made-up mixtures. The approximate formula +arrived at was:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of amber</td> +<td class="intpart">5</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Terebene</td> +<td class="intpart">47</td> +<td class="fracpart">.5</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of turpentine</td> +<td class="intpart">47</td> +<td class="fracpart">.5</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Estimated cost of ingredients of half a fluid ounce, ¹⁄₃d.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page7">[7]</span></p> + +<p><i>Uricura Liniment.</i>—The directions are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>To be gently rubbed in for 10 to 15 minutes, night and morning.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The liniment consisted of a partly separated emulsion, which +was found to contain oil of turpentine, acetic acid, ammonia, +alcohol, egg-substance (as emulsifying agent), and water; a +trace (under 0.01 per cent.) of alkaloid was found, but this did +not possess any properties by which it could be identified, and +may have consisted of bases derived from the egg. The acetic +acid and ammonia of course combine, but the former was in +excess and the liniment moderately acid, about one-fourth of the +acetic acid being in the free state. The quantities of the +different ingredients were determined (the egg-substance only +approximately) and the formula arrived at was as follows:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of turpentine</td> +<td class="intpart">42</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="unit">parts</td> +<td class="unit">(by measure)</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Acetic acid (<i>B.P.</i>)</td> +<td class="intpart">10</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Strong solution of ammonia</td> +<td class="intpart">2</td> +<td class="fracpart">.3</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Alcohol</td> +<td class="intpart">9</td> +<td class="fracpart">.0</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Egg-substance</td> +<td class="intpart">2</td> +<td class="fracpart">.0</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Alkaloid (?)</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.01</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Water, to</td> +<td class="intpart">100</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>In estimating the cost of ingredients, the alkaloid is +neglected; if the alcohol present were added in the form of +rectified spirit, the cost of the ingredients for 4 fluid ounces +would be about 1¹⁄₂d.; but if, as is more likely, “non-mineralised +methylated spirit” were used, the different odour and other +characters would be covered by the other ingredients, and the +cost would be about ³⁄₄d.</p> + +<h3>CHAMELEON OIL.</h3> + +<p>This is made by a limited company giving an address in +London. It is advertised as “The Only Perfect Liniment,” +but the directions show that it is intended to be taken internally +as well as applied externally. Besides being recommended for +human patients, it is described as “The Best Veterinary +Medicine Known.”</p> + +<p>It is stated on the package that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Chamelion Oil Relieves and cures Rheumatism, Sciatica, Lumbago, +Neuritis, Neuralgia, Toothache, Headache, Earache, Backache, Colds, +Sore Throats, Sprains and Strains, Stiff and Swollen Joints, Chilblains, +Chapped Hands, Insect Bites, etc., etc.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page8">[8]</span></p> + +<p>A pamphlet enclosed in the package gives further particulars; +paragraphs headed “The Story of its Birth” and “Discovery +of an Ideal Liniment” do not actually give much information, +but the references to the heart of Nature and herbs used by +native tribes seem to indicate a method of discovery common +to a very large number of nostrums. The following are extracts +from these paragraphs:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>When a Roman Scholar coined the word “Liniment” which, literally +translated, means “to anoint” he had in mind the germ idea of what +a perfect liniment should be. In his day the physician anointed his +patient with a healing balm which had the magical effect of curing muscular +trouble without the aid of that tiresome modern invention—massage. +Such a thing was totally unnecessary with Romans, who possessed a +supreme knowledge of the curative action of simple herbs upon the +human frame.... But the priceless secret of that painless balm was lost, +and so it happens, at the present day, when an embrocation or a liniment +is mentioned one instantly conceives of some crude preparation which +must be rubbed into the skin violently.</p> + +<p>... It was left to Dr. Chas. F. Roberts to bring the word back to its +original meaning, as being an ointment whose sole method of action would +consist of simply anointing the affected part, and thus painlessly effecting +the cure. The task he had set himself was to produce an external application +which, to the two other virtues of being “soothing and pain-killing,” +should add a third, and the most important of all, “a healing +power.” As an advanced medical man he realised that the ideal of the +healing art should be to relieve human pain by natural means. And so +like the ancient physician, he went back to the heart of Nature in an +endeavour to wrest from it the secret of an ideal liniment. In the +course of his searches he was favourably impressed with the healing +properties of many herbs used by native tribes, because being a rational +person he believed, like the late Rev. Charles Spurgeon, that there was +a deal to be gained from the use of “Sanctified commonsense,” which, +after all, is the sum of a man’s own tried and trusted experience. Armed +with this knowledge, which he further tested by very careful laboratory +research, his industry was at length rewarded in finding a perfect liniment +with the treble merit of being “healing, soothing, and pain-killing,” the +result of which is embodied in Chameleon Oil Liniment.</p> + +<p>The action of Chameleon Oil is simplicity itself. Immediately the +Liniment has been applied it sets out upon its message of discovery and +healing, travelling with lightning rapidity to the seat of the trouble. +This found, it restores to the affected part all that pristine freshness which +pain and suffering has caused it to lose, quickens the action of the blood, +and renews the patient’s vitality.... The principle of Chameleon Oil +Liniment may be summed up in a few words—it releases those healing +powers which nature itself has set in the human body in order to overcome +the constant wastage and ravages of disease.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The general directions are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Shake the bottle thoroughly until the contents become cream coloured. +<span class="pagenum" id="Page9">[9]</span>Rub the Oil gently into the affected part (use plenty of the Oil) until +the pores of the skin refuse to take any more and sweating begins; then +cover with a layer of wool, flannel, or other porous material, and fix with +a bandage. <span class="smcap">For Stronger Effect</span>, wash affected part with hot water and +apply Oil as above after drying. <span class="smcap">For Very Powerful Effect</span>, wash first +with very hot water, apply Oil as above after drying, and bandage with +flannel or absorbent cotton wool soaked in the Oil or solution of it. Keep +on bandage as long as possible; note that if kept on too long it will raise +a blister.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Special directions are given for its use in various complaints. +The following will serve as a sample:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p><span class="smcap">For Coughs and Colds.</span> <span class="smcap">For Cold on the Chest.</span>—Rub the throat, +chest, and the back between the shoulder blades thoroughly with the Oil, +and while the skin is still moist apply a fold of warm flannel; take 15 to +20 drops of the Oil in a little sweetened water, or gruel, at bedtime. <span class="smcap">For +Catarrh or Cold in the Head.</span>—Mix one part of the Oil with eight parts +of warm water, gargle the throat, inhale the fumes up the nostrils, and a +few applications will cure. <span class="smcap">For continued colds.</span>—Rub the chest +thoroughly every night with the Oil, and cover with a piece of flannel. +Take 15 drops of the Oil in a wineglassful of water three times a day +between meals.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>A 1s. 1d. bottle which was examined contained 3 fluid ounces, +and a 2s. 9d. bottle 9¹⁄₄ fluid ounces. The liquid in the two +bottles differed in composition; it consisted of an oily and an +aqueous layer, these being in the ratio of 1 to 1.66 in the one +case and 1 to 2 in the other. The figures given on the next page +refer to the mean composition of the two.</p> + +<p>The oily layer consisted of a mixture of essential oils; this was +submitted to fractional distillation, and the following were +recognised: Oils of turpentine, camphor, mustard, spearmint, +pimento, and cassia (or cinnamon). The aqueous layer contained +some alcohol, free ammonia in considerable quantity, +and a resin in combination with ammonia as a soluble resinate; +some of the resin was extracted and examined, but its characters +did not agree with those of any single resin in ordinary use; +various mixtures were made and compared with it, but complete +agreement in all characters was not arrived at, and it is not +possible to speak positively as to the nature of the resins present. +By making a mixture of balsam of tolu (4 parts) and storax +(1 part), boiling with ammonia, and filtering from the undissolved +portion, a solution of ammonium resinates was obtained +which agreed fairly well with that present in the Chameleon oil.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page10">[10]</span></p> + +<p>The amounts of all the other constituents were determined +with as much exactness as is possible with such a mixture, and +the following formula was arrived at:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Essential oil of mustard</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.75</td> +<td colspan="2" class="unit">part by measure</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Essential oil of spearmint</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.45</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Essential oil of pimento</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.5</td> +<td class="unit">parts</td> +<td class="unit">by measure</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Essential oil of cassia</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.5</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Essential oil of camphor</td> +<td class="intpart">15</td> +<td class="fracpart">.0</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of turpentine</td> +<td class="intpart">15</td> +<td class="fracpart">.0</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Alcohol (90 per cent.)</td> +<td class="intpart">7</td> +<td class="fracpart">.3</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Strong solution of ammonia</td> +<td class="intpart">8</td> +<td class="fracpart">.0</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Resins (as above)</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.6</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Water, to</td> +<td class="intpart">100</td> +<td class="fracpart">.0</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>A mixture prepared by this formula agreed in physical and +chemical properties with the original, except in regard to some +minor characters of the resins.</p> + +<p>Assuming the resins to be of the nature indicated, the estimated +cost of the ingredients for 3 fluid ounces is 3¹⁄₁₀ pence +if rectified spirit were used, and about 2¹⁄₂d. if non-mineralised +methylated spirit were used.</p> + +<h3>LEVASCO.</h3> + +<p>The address given on the package of this article is merely +“Levasco Depôt, Dover”; it is described as “The Great Indian +Gout and Rheumatic Cure.”</p> + +<p>The following extracts are from a pamphlet contained in the +package:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Levasco.—This wonderful preparation is the discovery of a Hindu +Doctor in the Himalayan Mountains, and if you but give it a trial you +will find yourself Quickly freed from pain and anguish.</p> + +<p>Levasco is for outward application only, is not an oil, and requires +no rubbing, it can be conveniently used at any time. Two or three +applications daily Cures the most Chronic cases....</p> + +<p>Levasco is not being advertised altogether as a business venture, but +partly from extreme gratitude of one who for many years was a great +sufferer.</p> + +<p>Levasco has an exhilarating effect on every nerve and muscle similar +to a soothing electric current, which diffuses a gentle warmth, goes direct +to the pain centres, and gives immediate relief.</p> + +<p>Levasco penetrates the skin, breaks up the Uric Acid, causing the blood +to flow freely, the pain then ceases.</p> + +<p>Levasco will effect a permanent Cure after years of suffering if the directions +are followed and persevered with....</p> + +<p>Levasco has a pleasant and invigorating odour, the relief is marvellous. +Sufferers will sometimes resort to ordinary remedies, and the continual +pouring of drugs into an already weakened system will snap the vitality, +and cause their lives to become a misery, which brings habitual users to +an early grave.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page11">[11]</span></p> + +<p>Gout cured in a few hours—Apply Levasco upon the affected parts.... +The first application will give immediate relief. After a few hours’ +treatment—during which time Levasco should be applied as often as +possible—your Gout will have entirely disappeared.</p> + +<p>Levasco applied freely will cure Lumbago or Sciatica in one night.</p> + +<p><i>Neuritis.</i>—Levasco rubbed upon the affected part gives immediate +relief, and after three or four applications the pain will be gone, but +do not cease using to effect the cure. You must continue to use for a +week or two—two or three times daily, or when the pain is felt. This is +a most difficult complaint to cure, and some great authorities say it is +incurable, but we have evidence where perseverance and regular use of +Levasco has effected the cure.</p> + +<p>No athlete should be without a bottle of Levasco. A little rubbed on +the limbs previous to and after any extra exertion ensures your fitness +for the next event.</p> + +<p>Headache Cured in a few minutes.</p> + +<p>Earache Cured in 2 minutes.</p> + +<p>Toothache Cured in 2 minutes.</p> + +<p>Great care should be taken that Levasco is not applied to wounds, cuts, +or embrasures (<i>sic</i>).</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>A 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. bottle was found to hold rather less than 1 fluid +ounce. Analysis showed the presence of oleo-resin of capsicum, +oils of rosemary and lavender, camphor, alcohol, and what +appeared to be a trace of soap. The quantities of the different +ingredients were determined as exactly as possible, and the +results indicated the following formula, and a mixture prepared +in accordance with it was practically indistinguishable from +the original:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oleo-resin of capsicum</td> +<td class="number">3</td> +<td class="unit">grains</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Camphor</td> +<td class="number">6</td> +<td class="ditto spaced3">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of lavender</td> +<td class="number">3</td> +<td class="unit">minims</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of rosemary</td> +<td class="number">4</td> +<td class="ditto spaced3">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Soap</td> +<td class="number">¹⁄₈</td> +<td class="unit">grain</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Alcohol (90 per cent.) to</td> +<td class="number">1</td> +<td class="unit">fluid ounce</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Estimated cost of ingredients, ¹⁄₂d. if methylated spirit were +used; about 2¹⁄₂d. if made with rectified spirit.</p> + +<h3>DYXOL.</h3> + +<p>This preparation is supplied by a firm in a small town near +London. It is stated on the package that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Dyxol cures Neuralgia, Toothache, Cold in the Head, Headache, +Stiff-neck, Lumbago, Rheumatism, etc., etc.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Further particulars are given in a circular enclosed with the +bottle, from which the following extracts are taken:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>This is a simple Preparation of great value for the removal of all kinds +<span class="pagenum" id="Page12">[12]</span>of Pains. Most of these are caused by Congestion of the Blood in certain +parts of the body. Relieve this Congestion and you drive away the +Pain.</p> + +<p>Dyxol has the power, above all other known preparations, of almost +instantly dispersing congested blood. Its efficacy in this direction can +be easily demonstrated. Rub one drop of Dyxol on the face, when, in +less than one minute, the spot will temporarily redden through the flow +of blood to the surface.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>In another advertisement the following statements occur:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Simply rub on or inhale Dyxol according to directions, and neuralgia +vanishes like magic. Muscular Rheumatism is speedily relieved by +rubbing in a little Dyxol. Dyxol quickly removes the most obstinate +cold in the head and on the chest, and it is an excellent remedy for +Headache, Toothache, and Earache. Dyxol inhaled prevents influenza.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>A 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. bottle contained 2 fluid drachms. The general +directions are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>No rubbing is necessary. Apply one or two drops to the part affected. +When using, fan away the vapour which arises. This will prevent discomfort +to the eyes. To produce a milder action add a small quantity +of Dyxol to an equal quantity of pure Olive Oil.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Analysis showed the principal constituent to be volatile oil of +mustard, others being oils of pimento and nutmeg, liquid +paraffin (heavy and light), and a fixed oil; the latter appeared +to be cottonseed oil, but the quantity was too small for positive +identification. The results of quantitative analysis indicated +the following formula, and a mixture prepared in accordance +with it was practically indistinguishable from the original:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Essential oil of mustard</td> +<td class="number">20</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +<td class="unit">by volume.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Essential oil of nutmeg</td> +<td class="number">20</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Essential oil of pimento</td> +<td class="number">4</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Cottonseed oil</td> +<td class="number">6</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Liquid paraffin, yellow</td> +<td class="number">17</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Kerosene</td> +<td class="number">33</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Estimated cost of ingredients for ¹⁄₄ oz., 2d.</p> + +<h3>POND’S ARTHRITICUS.</h3> + +<p>This preparation is supplied by a firm in London. It is stated +on the label that it</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p class="noindent">cures Gout, Rheumatism, Rheumatic Gout, Lumbago, Sciatica, and all +Rheumatic Affections.... It contains no drugs, no colchicum. +Arthriticus neutralises all Gouty and Rheumatic Acidity in the Stomach, +Liver and Bowels; removes the offending matter from the System, the +Blood is purified, the Liver and Kidneys are relieved, the Joints become +supple, and there is a general freedom from pain. The Skin, participating +in the improvement, loses any Gouty Eczema which may exist, and +assumes a healthy appearance.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page13">[13]</span></p> + +<p>A pamphlet enclosed in the package bears the title:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Gout and Goutiness. Their cause, treatment, cure, and prevention. +By Geo. P. Pond, M.P.S., Surgeon-Chiropodist. In practice since +1857.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The degree of enlightenment to be obtained from this treatise +may be judged from the following extracts:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>No food or drink is gouty; yet, no alcoholic drink can be said to be +good for gout; that is, anti-gout; it is the quantity and quality which +are so....</p> + +<p>No one can reasonably deny an instinctive knowledge and a physical +power exerted in the stomach by a conscious principle which selects and +rejects, and which in its natural purity may be ranked as a nerve of +sense....</p> + +<p>Air, again, is as necessary with every mouthful in the process of +digestion as the gastric juice itself; it mixes with the saliva which pours +out of four different glands of different kinds and forms a powerful solvent +for the food....</p> + +<p>Water, like air, is nourishing....</p> + +<p>Cold is death, warmth is life. Cold is, perhaps, the greatest cause of +disease.... Of all supposed remedies to strengthen the body, cold baths +in cold weather are the most dangerous.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Several other preparations from the same maker are recommended +in the pamphlet.</p> + +<p>The price of “Arthriticus” is 2s. 6d. per package; this was +found to contain a bottle holding nearly 13 fluid ounces of +liquid and 16 powders. The directions are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>One of the Powders to be taken with every dose, mixed thus: In a +tumbler pour a wineglassful of water, mix with it a sixteenth part of the +Arthriticus, then add one of the Powders and drink immediately, while +effervescing.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="noindent">It is ordered to be taken night and morning for gravel and +affections of the kidneys and bladder, and all abnormal conditions +of the urine; twice or thrice daily for rheumatism, +sciatica, lumbago, etc.; and similarly in other cases.</p> + +<p>The powders varied in weight from 10.9 grains to 17.4 grains, +the average being 14.2 grains; they consisted of tartaric acid. +Analysis showed the mixture to have the following composition:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<th colspan="4"> </th> +<th colspan="2">In one dose,<br>approximately.</th> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Lithium citrate</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.4</td> +<td class="unit"><span class="padr4">parts</span></td> +<td class="number">5.0</td> +<td class="unit">grains</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Potassium citrate</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.9</td> +<td class="unit">part</td> +<td class="number">3.0</td> +<td class="ditto spaced2">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sodium citrate</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.2</td> +<td class="ditto spaced1">„</td> +<td class="number">0.7</td> +<td class="unit">grain</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sodium salicylate</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.5</td> +<td class="unit">parts</td> +<td class="number">5.3</td> +<td class="unit">grains</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Potassium bromide</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.6</td> +<td class="ditto spaced2">„</td> +<td class="number">5.6</td> +<td class="ditto spaced2">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Potassium bicarbonate</td> +<td class="intpart">8</td> +<td class="fracpart">.0</td> +<td class="ditto spaced2">„</td> +<td class="number">28.0</td> +<td class="ditto spaced2">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Glycerine</td> +<td class="intpart">5</td> +<td class="fracpart">.1</td> +<td class="ditto spaced2">„</td> +<td class="number">18.0</td> +<td class="ditto spaced2">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Chloroform water, about</td> +<td class="intpart">10</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto spaced2">„</td> +<td colspan="2" class="unit">by measure</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Water, to</td> +<td class="intpart">100</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto spaced2">„</td> +<td colspan="2" class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page14">[14]</span></p> + +<p>On mixing a dose of the liquid with one powder, the resulting +draught would be alkaline even with the heaviest powder; the +alkalinity would of course be greater when the lighter powders +were used.</p> + +<p>Estimated cost of ingredients for mixture and powders, 2¹⁄₂d.</p> + +<h3>MAGIC FOOT DRAFTS.</h3> + +<p>This is the name by which plasters, to be applied to the soles +of the feet for the cure of rheumatism, are supplied by the +Magic Foot Draft Company, London, the price being 4s. 6d. +per pair. In addition to the numerous advertisements of the +article by name, others have appeared recently, offering in the +name of R. A. Oliver to send “my Celebrated External +Treatment [for Rheumatism] ... to try free” to anyone +sending his name and address. On sending a name and address +a pair of the “Foot Drafts” was received (differing from those +sold in the ordinary way by bearing no revenue stamp), together +with a long letter and a printed sheet of testimonials. The letter +states:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="noindent">the Drafts cannot be purchased for less than 4s. 6d. per pair anywhere, +and you can see that we could not afford to send them on approval if +they did not really cure.</p> + +<p>To introduce our great discovery most favourably to you, and through +you to your friends, we are going to make this extraordinary inducement: +Give this pair of Drafts a careful trial; if the results give you faith in +our wonderful absorption method, as they must, we shall be pleased to +send you three more pairs of our Foot Drafts on receipt of 11s., and as +we make no charge for the first pair to all those who accept this offer, this +will make four pairs (18s. worth) of Magic Foot Drafts for only 11s.... +We have found by careful study of this disease, based on years +of experience, that this number of Drafts will effect a cure in nine out of +ten patients, because it nearly always takes all the power of the first two +pairs to open up the clogged pores and start the removal of all poisonous +acid urates. It is the third and fourth pair that invariably bring that +sense of relief and freedom from pain that every poor sufferer is looking +for.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>This was followed at short intervals by other letters pressing +for money to be sent. In the second it is stated:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>We take a sincere interest in your case [no case had been even mentioned +in sending for the “cure”], and we are going to cure you. Now that the +cure has been started, every day’s delay makes it more difficult for the +Drafts to do their work, and we trust that we shall hear from you by +return post.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page15">[15]</span></p> + +<p>From the third letter:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>We prefer to think that the promise you made us two weeks ago has +escaped your memory.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>[Of course no sort of promise had been made.]</p> + +<p>From the fourth:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>We think that we are justified in asking to hear from you, for we have +spent some considerable time and money in your case; frankly, because +we were interested in it.... According to our terms, which you +accepted when writing for the first pair of Drafts, we must have by return +either 4s. 6d. (for which another pair of drafts will be sent) or your statement +on honour that you received no benefit.... We guarantee to +cure you.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The letters quoted freely from alleged testimonials, and +further printed sheets of these were also sent. On one of these +is printed in large capitals: “We guarantee Magic Foot Drafts +to cure any case of rheumatism!”</p> + +<p>Curious discrepancies are shown by some of the testimonials. +Thus in the advertisement, referred to above, in which the +name “Foot Drafts” is carefully avoided, we read:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>A marvellous cure has been effected in the case of Mr. James Bodman, +8, The Mount, Frome. Mr. Bodman writes: “I have suffered from +Rheumatism for the past seven years, and was almost a hopeless wreck. I +tried all sorts of remedies and doctors, but to no avail, and was sinking +fast when I tried your treatment. I am glad to say that it has cured all +my sufferings, and I have had no aches or pains since. I may add that I +am 72 years old, and feel as supple in my joints as a young man.”</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The following is printed on one of the sheets mentioned +above:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="right padr4">8, The Mount, Frome,</p> + +<p class="noindent">The Magic Foot Draft Co., +<span class="righttext padr2">1st Feb., /09.</span></p> + +<p class="allclear padl4">Shoe Lane, E.C.</p> + +<p>Dear Sir,—I received your letter of recent date, and am pleased to give +you the following account of my case of Rheumatism. I have suffered +from this complaint for the past seven years, and was almost a hopeless +wreck. I could neither dress nor undress without help. I could get no +rest in bed or up, and my life was a perfect misery. I tried all sorts of +remedies, too numerous to mention, which did not give me the least +comfort. I also saw a doctor, who stated that he could not cure me. He, +however, gave me something to relieve the pain for a couple of nights, but +then I became even worse than before. At last I gave up all hopes of ever +getting better; in fact, I felt I was fast sinking, until a kind friend called +to inquire after me. She said it grieved her to see me walk about such +a pitiful sight, and asked if I would try Magic Foot Drafts, as she had +received such good results from them. I consented, and she wrote to you +for me. I only used three pairs, which cured me of all my sufferings, and +I have had no aches or pains or any other complaint since. I may add +that I am in my 72nd year, and feel as lissom in all my joints as a +<span class="pagenum" id="Page16">[16]</span>young man. I cannot estimate the value of your Magic Foot Drafts to +sufferers from Rheumatism. I have highly recommended them to several +sufferers since my cure. I scarcely ever go out without someone asking +me how I got so well. It makes me feel almost like an agent of the Magic +Foot Draft Co. Please send me another of your books, so that I may +bring your treatment more directly before my friends and acquaintances. +Again thanking you,</p> + +<p class="right"><span class="padr8">I remain, yours faithfully,</span><br> +<span class="smcap padr2">James Bodman.</span></p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Yet again, in one of the letters from the Magic Foot Draft +Co., already quoted from, dated “June 2nd/10,” it is stated +that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Mr. James Bodman, of 8, The Mount, Frome, Somerset, has just written +us regarding the result of three pairs of Drafts. “I have suffered from +Rheumatism for the past seven years, and was almost a hopeless wreck, +as I could not rest in bed nor when I was up, so that my life was a perfect +misery. I tried various remedies, and also saw a doctor, who, while he +could not cure me, gave me something to relieve the pain for a couple of +nights, but I became worse after this. I had given up all hope when a +friend who called to see me stated that she had received wonderful results +from Magic Foot Drafts, and asked for permission to send for a pair for +me. I am now delighted to tell you that after wearing three pairs of +Drafts, I have not an ache or pain, and I am completely cured of all my +sufferings. I am in my 72nd year, and I feel as supple now in all my joints +as a young man. I cannot estimate the value of your Magic Foot Drafts, +and I can never thank you enough for the benefit they have given me.”</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>This had been “just received” on June 2nd, 1910. The +phraseology has not changed much in the interval of sixteen +months; but as the gentleman is still in his 72nd year, evidently +time stands still with him; curiously, though, in the +letter first quoted, which appeared in a newspaper advertisement +on May 18th, 1910, he is already 72 years old.</p> + +<p>One wonders how Mr. Bodman was induced to send three +variants of his letter, one of them obligingly omitting any +reference to Foot Drafts by name and substituting “your treatment.”</p> + +<p>The same differences are shown in other letters; in one place +is a letter over the name of J. W. Ludell, ascribing two cures to +Magic Foot Drafts, while in the advertisement in which the +latter name is not used he is represented as saying that one +cure was due to “your Antiseptic Plasters” and the other to +“your treatment”; two variants are given in different places +of a letter from Mr. J. Bull, in one of which he says: “I am +thankful to think I tried the Foot Drafts, for they are worth +double what you charge for them,” and in the other: “I am +thankful that I tried your Foot Drafts, for they are worth a +good many times the money that I paid.” All this appears to +<span class="pagenum" id="Page17">[17]</span>suggest either that the writers of the testimonials are very +obliging in supplying varying readings of them, or else that +the advertiser alters them according to his fancy; unless +indeed, they are entirely manufactured.</p> + +<p>A booklet which is also sent, entitled “Rheumatism, Its +Cause and Cure,” contains various plain and coloured pictures +professing to represent nerves, arteries, etc., of the leg and +foot, and gives an account of how the “Drafts” are supposed +to act; the following extract will suffice:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>The rheumatic sufferer faces this situation:—His or her system has +become more or less clogged with rheumatic poisons—lithic acid, uric acid, +lactic acid, or any other toxin, as the case may be. This poison may +be either driven out or drawn out. Certain agents—salicylic acid, for +example—will sometimes accomplish the former result; but the system +will then contain a poison worse than the rheumatism. In fact, remedies +which are strong enough to be effective against rheumatism almost invariably +ruin the digestive organs. Magic Foot Drafts, as the name +implies, draws the poisons out through the pores of the tender skin on the +bottom of the feet. The Drafts absorb this poison. A pair should be +worn only six days, as they become filled with the waste matter from +the body and need renewing in that length of time, if the case is a bad +one.... Physicians are already using them in their regular practice, +and recommending them.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The “drafts” consisted of plasters spread on a sort of +jaconet backing, of oblong shape and measuring about 5 in. by +3¹⁄₂ in.; the darker central portion measured about 3³⁄₄ in. by +2¹⁄₂ in. The margin was coated with about 10 grains of sticky +material, which had the physical and chemical characters of +“Venice turpentine”; the darker portion, or the plaster itself, +weighed about 80 grains and was found to be a mixture of +Stockholm tar and the powdered rhizome of white hellebore +(<i>Veratrum album</i>); determination of their proportions showed +the formula to be, approximately:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered white hellebore</td> +<td class="number">40</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Stockholm tar</td> +<td class="number">60</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>No other ingredients could be detected.</p> + +<p>Estimated cost of ingredients for one pair ¹⁄₆d.</p> + +<h3 id="Ref02">CELMO.</h3> + +<p>This preparation is supplied by the Celmo Company, London. +It is in the form of tablets, of which a 2s. 9d. bottle contained +<span class="pagenum" id="Page18">[18]</span>thirty-six. In a booklet contained in the package the tablets +are described as:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Specific for all uric acid ailments, viz.: Gout, Rheumatism, Rheumatic +Gout, Lumbago, Gouty Dyspepsia, Sciatica, Eczema, Neuritis, Gouty +Eczema, Suppressed Gout, etc.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="noindent">Other extracts are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>In order to effect a cure the first requisite is to remove the cause. This +can only be accomplished by administering a remedy which has the power +of dissolving uric acid, and which will also restore the normal alkalinity +of the blood so as to prevent fresh depositions. This remedy we present +in “Celmo” Tablets. It is the One remedy that achieves a complete and +permanent cure, and is the only medicine in the world that has a direct +and combined action on the Kidneys, Liver, Stomach, Bladder, Bowels, +and Digestive Organs....</p> + +<p>We find, in the large majority of cases, from five to eight bottles, +4s. 6d. size, sufficient. The tablets must be taken with absolute regularity, +and there should be no interval whatever between the bottles. It is +always advisable to state your ailment and order of us direct. We then +can change the dose as and when required to expedite a cure.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>A so-called “analysis” is published, which is as follows:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>I have made a careful Chemical examination of the above-described +sample of Compressed Tablets known as “Celmo,” and from my results +I am able to certify that they are absolutely free from Arsenic, Mercury, +Opium, Digitalis, and Colchicum.</p> + +<p>I find that these tablets have been prepared from pure drugs of the best +possible quality, and contain nothing of an injurious nature whatsoever. +The formula from which they are made has been submitted to me, and +I am of opinion that it is an excellent one in every way, and one which +is not capable of improvement.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>After reading in the booklet quoted from that Celmo is “the +One remedy,” and “the only medicine in the world that,” +etc., it is somewhat surprising to read, in another circular also +enclosed in the package, that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Every intelligent person is aware it is impossible to prepare any one +medicine for Rheumatism, Gout, etc., to suit every system. We overcome +this difficulty by supplying “Celmo” Tablets in two forms, both +for Uric Acid ailments.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>It further appears that there is also a “Celmo No. 2” for +indigestion, etc. (<a href="#Ref03">described</a> in Chapter V.), “Celmo Laxative,” +“Celmo Ointment,” and “Celmo Liniment.”</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page19">[19]</span></p> + +<p>The directions are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>In commencing treatment, take two tablets with half an ordinary glass +of water just before or after each of the three meals, making six tablets +per day. In very severe cases three tablets can be taken at a dose +until pain is relieved, then two as above. A child’s dose, one-half to +one tablet at times stated.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The tablets had an average weight of 5¹⁄₂ grains. They had +a slight smell of oil of juniper, but the amount present was +far too small to be determined, and can only be described as a +trace. Analysis showed the presence of acetyl-salicylic acid +(commonly known as aspirin), powdered charcoal, maltose, +glucose, and dextrin (these three being evidently present as +malt extract, used for binding the powders together), magnesium +silicate, alkaloid, extractive, and the mineral constituents +commonly found in vegetable extracts; a slight trace of a pungent +substance resembling capsicum oleo-resin was also present. +Ordinary talc is magnesium silicate, but the mineral of that +composition here present did not have the physical properties +of ordinary talc; it is, of course, quite inert, talc being commonly +added to tablets as a lubricant to facilitate their production +by a machine. The alkaloid and extractive did not show +any characters by which they could be certainly identified; the +alkaloid did not agree, in its behaviour to various tests, with +any of the alkaloids in ordinary medicinal use.</p> + +<p>The proportions of the various constituents were determined +as accurately as practicable, and indicated the following formula:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Acetyl-salicylic acid</td> +<td class="intpart">35</td> +<td class="fracpart">.5</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered charcoal, about</td> +<td class="intpart">8</td> +<td class="fracpart">.0</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Malt extract, dry</td> +<td class="intpart">18</td> +<td class="fracpart">.0</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Magnesium silicate</td> +<td class="intpart">14</td> +<td class="fracpart">.5</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Other mineral constituents</td> +<td class="intpart">2</td> +<td class="fracpart">.8</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Water</td> +<td class="intpart">12</td> +<td class="fracpart">.3</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Alkaloid</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.5</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Extractive, about</td> +<td class="intpart">8</td> +<td class="fracpart">.0</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oleo-resin of capsicum</td> +<td colspan="2" class="unit">trace.</td> +<td rowspan="2"> </td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of juniper</td> +<td colspan="2" class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<h3>DR. BENGUÉ’S BALSAM.</h3> + +<p>This preparation, made by a firm giving addresses in Paris +and London, differs from most of those dealt with here in the +important respect that the principal constituents are stated on +<span class="pagenum" id="Page20">[20]</span>the label, and it is, therefore, not altogether a “secret remedy.” +It is included in this series, since it is advertised to the public as</p> + +<p class="center">“A wonderful Remedy for Rheumatism, Gout, Neuralgia.”</p> + +<p>In a circular enclosed in the package it is stated that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>The following is an enumeration of the different diseases in which Dr. +Bengué’s Balsam has proved to be the most effective scientific remedy.</p> + +<table class="splittext"> + +<tr> +<td class="txt">Acute or Chronic Rheumatism;</td> +<td rowspan="10" class="brace bt br bb"> </td> +<td rowspan="10" class="brace">-</td> +<td rowspan="10" class="txt">Spread the Balsam on the affected part and cover up carefully with cotton wool. After two or three applications the parts affected +should be cleansed with warm water so as to facilitate the absorption of the Balsam when the next dressing of the Balsam is applied.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="txt">Gout;</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="txt">Various forms of Neuralgia, Facial, Intercostal, Lumbar, Ovarian, Sciatical;</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="txt">Locomotor Ataxy;</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="txt">Various forms of Hyperæsthesia;</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="txt">Saturnine Colics;</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="txt">Nephritic Colics;</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="txt">Peritonitis;</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="txt">Gastralgia;</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="txt">Torticollis; Zona.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The “Balsam” is supplied in collapsible tubes; a 2s. +package contained 1¹⁄₅ oz. On the label, following the +name, are the words “Menthol, Methyl-Salicylate, Lanolin,” +and these three substances were found to be present. Analysis +showed the composition to be:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Menthol</td> +<td class="number">18</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Methyl salicylate</td> +<td class="number">20</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Lanoline, anhydrous</td> +<td class="number">54</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">A fat, apparently lard</td> +<td class="number">8</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Estimated cost of ingredients, 1¹⁄₄d.</p> + +<h3>BOX’S PILLS AND GOLDEN FIRE.</h3> + +<p>These preparations are supplied from an address in a south-coast +town. The “Golden Fire” is more especially recommended +for rheumatism, but it is stated that “in severe cases +of Rheumatism, etc., Box’s Pills should be taken in conjunction +with the ‘Golden Fire,’” and the two are associated in +many of the statements made. The following specimen extracts +are from circulars enclosed in the packages, and other +advertisements:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Box’s Golden Fire is a New Discovery for the removal of diseases, +being an Electric Fluid of Intense Power in rapidly attenuating, dissolving, +and removing obstructions in any part of the system.</p> + +<p>Box’s Golden Fire, which is used internally and externally, is a subtle +extract from the vegetable kingdom, the hidden fire or life of plants +and flowers, the “Quint-essence of Life!” Call it, if you please, “Bottled +Fire!” “Bottled Health!” “Bottled Life!”</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page21">[21]</span></p> + +<p>This Great Remedy and its accompaniment are sure cures for rheumatism, +diphtheria, etc.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>In some advertisements the medicines are described as “The +Giant Remedy,” and it is explained that</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>The Giants have declared war against unbelief, and are determined to +push the battle to the gate. The Giants ask for no quarter nor will they +show any, therefore one of the contending parties must be wiped out. The +Giants in fight are a noble race and are of ancient origin. Their fathers +lived in Eden, and their seed rising upon the wings of the wind, ultimately +spread over the whole earth.</p> + +<p>They have lived since the days of creation in the fields, without a +covering, sipping the dew and drinking in the sunshine and the rain. +When in their prime they were translated to —— —— —— +where they sleep. And when the proprietor of the Giant Remedy calls +them they awake, and, springing upon the foe, they quickly overwhelm +and annihilate him, and joyfully hand back the captive to his friends in +perfect health. Their origin is Divine. As you now see them so they +came from the hands of their Creator, filled with the nectar of health and +life from root to leaf.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>In a circular dealing more especially with the pills directions +are given for their use for costiveness, bad taste in the mouth, +heart disease, corpulency, sick headache, wind and swelling +after meals, toothache, influenza, inflammation of brain, +stomach, bowels, lungs, kidneys, etc., fevers, sore throats, +diphtheria, and tumours. One of the “testimonials” is +headed, in large letters, “Cancer Cured.” The full directions +in the case of influenza will serve as a sample:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Take as directed on the label. Also make a strong tea of Elder Blossom +and Peppermint Herb, and drink a pint at bedtime. Repeat the tea at +bedtime for two or three nights, if necessary. It seldom requires repeating. +This will save when on the brink of death.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The thrilling nature of some of the testimonials may be +judged by an extract:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>My brother-in-law had his leg jammed in South Africa between rocks, +just above the ankle. He came home, and feared he would be a cripple +for life. I advised him to get your Pills and “Golden Fire,” which he +did, and after 6 days a spot came out under the heel as Black As Your +Hat. He has since left for America Quite Cured.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Another circular states:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>As certain medical men have done their best by tongue and pen to +persuade the public that Box’s Golden Fire is poisonous, the said Golden +Fire in consequence has been submitted to a rigid Chemical Analysis. The +following Report from the Eminent Analyst will effectually sew up the +lying lips.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page22">[22]</span></p> + +<p>Then follows the report, which is in the usual style of such +“analyses,” and states that the “Golden Fire” was found to +consist of “certain carefully selected and powerful, but perfectly +innocent, ingredients, which combined (as in the mixture) +may be taken internally or applied externally without fear +or hesitation.”</p> + +<p>The circular continues:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Those who raise the cry of “Poison” are wholesale traffickers in the +same—it is their stock-in-trade: Poisons bring grist to their mills, while +the poor victims who swallow them perish by thousands.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The directions for use are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>For Rheumatism, Lumbago, Gout, Neuralgia, Sprains, Chest Affections, +Asthma, Bronchitis, Swellings, Tumours, Enlarged Joints, etc., the +Golden Fire should be rubbed in briskly three or four times a day; and +in extreme cases a piece of flannel should be saturated with the Golden +Fire and applied after each application.</p> + +<p>For Sore Throat, Quinsy, and Diphtheria, rub in several times a day; +and to one tablespoonful of Golden Fire add one tablespoonful of water +and gargle every two hours.</p> + +<p>For the above, Golden Fire should be taken internally three times a day, +in a little water, beginning with six drops and increasing a few drops +each dose until a teaspoonful is reached, and continue until well.</p> + +<p>For toothache, apply Golden Fire to the Tooth and rub it well into +the gums. For Neuralgia, Bruises, Sprains, etc., rub it briskly over the +seat of pain. For Polypus, apply with a camel-hair brush, and rub in on +the outside twice a day.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>A 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. bottle of the “Golden Fire” contained nearly +2¹⁄₂ fluid ounces of liquid. Analysis showed this to contain +acetic acid, sodium chloride, volatile oils, a little alcohol, +starch, dextrin, extractive, and the pungent principle of capsicum. +The mixture of essential oils appeared to consist of +oils of camphor, eucalyptus, rosemary, and amber. After +determining the quantities of the other ingredients, the amount +left to be described as starch, dextrin, and extractive was about +7 per cent. of the liquid; this part possessed no characters by +which its source could be determined, but the liquid contained +solid particles which appeared to be due to defective straining, +and microscopical examination of these showed them unmistakably +to consist of barley, lobelia, and capsicum, and the liquid +appears, therefore, to be a decoction of these, with the addition +of the other ingredients named. The pungency was just +similar to that of an aqueous decoction of capsicum; the proportions +of barley and lobelia could not be determined; the +<span class="pagenum" id="Page23">[23]</span>amounts of the other substances found are given in the following +formula:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of amber</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.16</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of rosemary</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.16</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of eucalyptus</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.32</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of camphor (essential)</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.3</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sodium chloride</td> +<td class="intpart">6</td> +<td class="fracpart">.4</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Glacial acetic acid</td> +<td class="intpart">6</td> +<td class="fracpart">.4</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Alcohol</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.0</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Decoction of capsicum.</td> +<td rowspan="3" colspan="3"> </td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Decoction of barley.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Decoction of lobelia.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>It is hardly necessary to point out that lobelia is a dangerous +drug to be administered and taken by ignorant people.</p> + +<p>A 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. box of the pills contained fifty-three of various +sizes and shapes, roughly coated with talc, and having an average +weight of 2¹⁄₂ grains each. The directions on the label are, +“Dose—Two pills morning and evening, after meals.” Analysis +showed the presence of powdered capsicum in considerable quantity, +this drug forming, in fact, so large a proportion of the +pill, that the recognition of other ingredients was a difficult +matter; microscopic examination showed also powdered gentian, +and a flour which did not agree perfectly in character with any +ordinary flour, though having a considerable resemblance to +barley flour; small quantities of soap and aloes appeared to +be present, and a trace of an essential oil or other aromatic +substance which was not identified. The following formula +gave a pill substantially agreeing in characters with the pill +under examination:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered capsicum</td> +<td class="number">35</td> +<td class="unit">parts.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered gentian</td> +<td class="number">15</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Flour</td> +<td class="number">15</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Aloes</td> +<td class="number">20</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Soap</td> +<td class="number">5</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Water</td> +<td class="number">to 100</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<h3>BOWDEN’S INDIAN BALM.</h3> + +<p>This article is supplied by a firm in the West of England at +prices from 7¹⁄₂d. to 10s. A tin priced 2s. 9d. was found to +contain about 4 oz.</p> + +<p>It is described on the package as</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>For all Inflammations, Muscular Complaints, Skin Diseases, etc., as +Inflamed Eyes, Neuralgia, Face-ache, Bronchitis, Rheumatism, Eczema, +Ringworm, Cuts, Stings, Wounds, Scalds, Burns, Strains, Piles, Chilblains, +Chaps, etc.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page24">[24]</span></p> + +<p>Circulars enclosed in the package also contained recommendations +of the use of the Balm for colds, congested nostrils, +catarrh, whooping-cough and croup, lumbago, stiff-neck, erysipelas, +bedsores, irritation after fever or vaccination, eruptions, +abscesses, boils, ulcers, itching at the anus, sores, sprains, +bruises, mumps, abrasions, stings of mosquitos and other insects, +sunburn, sore and tender feet, inflammation of the bowels, +cancerous sores, asthma, coughs and chest complaints, sore +throats, whitlow, corns and warts.</p> + +<p>It is further stated that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>This Preparation contains no less than seventeen ingredients, including +Valuable Balsams, Extracts, Essences, Indian Oils, etc., and so is a +veritable little Medicine Chest in itself. Few other remedies will be +required where it is kept at hand and used habitually.</p> + +<p>The most delicate Lady or Child, as well as the strongest Athlete, +will find the Indian Balm to be a treasure. It can be used with perfect +safety upon an open wound, be placed upon the Eyeball for Inflammation, +or be used internally for Complaints of Throat and Chest. It will draw +out every particle of injurious matter before healing any Ulcer or Sore, +thus preventing a return of the trouble. Prompt application to Wound, +Scald, or Burn is the best preventive of Blood Poisoning.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Lengthy directions are given for its use in a variety of cases; +the following will suffice as examples:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Ophthalmia and Inflammation of the Eye.—Rub the Indian Balm round +the Eyes two or three times a day. In acute cases apply inside the +lids.</p> + +<p>Inflammation of the Gums, Toothache, and Faceache.—Well rub the +Balm on the Gums and Face. When the Tooth is hollow the Balm can +be inserted on cotton wadding.</p> + +<p>Inflammation of the Bowels and Pain in the Small of the Back.—Foment +the parts with hot water, and briskly rub with Balm (10 to 15 +minutes at a time) till relieved.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>It would appear to be equally efficacious when administered +internally, for we read:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Sufferers from Asthma, Croup, Bronchitis, and all Throat or Chest +Complaints find the soothing and healing effects of Indian Balm, when +taken internally on lump sugar, to be immediate and remarkable. It also +enables patients to get rid of injurious phlegm. Public Speakers and +Singers should use it. The Balm is pleasant to use and effectual in +operation.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The “Balm” consisted of a brownish-yellow ointment. +Analysis showed the presence of about 7 per cent. of volatile +oil, in which oil of eucalyptus predominated, and a fatty basis. +The oil did not contain as much cineol as an ordinary good +specimen of eucalyptus oil, and some evidence was obtained of +<span class="pagenum" id="Page25">[25]</span>the presence of essential oil of camphor, terebene, and oil of +lemon. The solid basis contained, besides fatty constituents, +a very small amount of ammonia, and a little of a resinous +substance; the latter was not ordinary resin, but showed no +distinctive characters sufficing for its identification. It may +have been derived from balsam of Peru, or some similar ingredient, +but comparison of its properties pointed to the probability +of a mixture of balsamic substances. The statement that +seventeen ingredients are present may be true, for the essential +ingredients are a fatty basis, a mixture of volatile oils, and +resinous material, and each one of these can easily be made of +an almost unlimited number of ingredients mixed together; no +other active substance was found. An ointment prepared from +the following formula, which is based on the analytical results +obtained with the “balm,” strongly resembled the latter, and +only differed from it in minor points:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Lard</td> +<td class="intpart">35</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Cocoanut oil</td> +<td class="intpart">35</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Tallow</td> +<td class="intpart">10</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Rape oil</td> +<td class="intpart">5</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Lanoline, anhydrous</td> +<td class="intpart">4</td> +<td class="fracpart">.5</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Balsam of Peru</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of eucalyptus</td> +<td class="intpart">5</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Terebene</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.5</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Essential oil of camphor</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.5</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Essential oil of lemon</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.5</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Solution of ammonia</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Annatto colouring</td> +<td colspan="3" class="text nopad">a sufficiency.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<h3>BATH SALTS FOR RHEUMATISM.</h3> + +<p>Recently certain “bath salts” have been largely advertised +for the treatment of complaints of this kind by means of baths. +We give here the results of analysis of some of the principal +articles of this kind.</p> + +<h4>OZONIA.</h4> + +<p>This is supplied by a firm in Dublin, in a packet, price 1s., +containing about 3 oz. The package contained a descriptive +leaflet, from which the following extracts are taken:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>The introduction of Ozonia marks a new era in the treatment of Rheumatism, +Gout, and allied complaints. This remarkable preparation is used +in the bathing water, where it reaches the source of the trouble through +<span class="pagenum" id="Page26">[26]</span>the pores of the skin. The whole body is treated at once, and not the least +trouble is entailed to the sufferer. The system is thoroughly cleansed—the +poisonous uric acid is neutralised, and the patient is reinvigorated. The +method is new, but it has hundreds of wonderful cures to its credit already—so +try one packet, and judge by results....</p> + +<p class="center">The Bath Cure. Bathe in it—that’s all.</p> + +<p>There are many complaints which are acknowledged to have one root +cause. The cause of Rheumatism, Sciatica, Lumbago, and Gout is the +presence of too much uric acid in the blood. The problem of how to remove +this poison has hitherto proved unsolvable, but now Ozonia has been proved +to be the proper means. The worst cases of uric acid troubles yield to the +soothing medicated waters of Ozonia....</p> + +<p>“Ozone,” the health-giving principle of Fresh Sea Breezes, is liberated +in the “Ozonia” bath, and has a marvellous exhilarating effect on the +patient; this, combined with the stimulating effect of the other constituents +of the bath, induces a feeling of bodily well-being which is most gratifying.</p> + +<p class="center">How to use “Ozonia.”</p> + +<p>Dissolve one packet in an ordinary bath of hot water, and immerse the +body in it, keeping the face and back of the neck sponged.</p> + +<p>Remain in the bath at least 15 or 20 minutes, even longer if desired.</p> + +<p>The best time for taking the Bath is before going to bed, but this is +not imperative.</p> + +<p>Number of Baths to be taken. In severe cases a bath every second night +is advised, but when the acute symptoms have disappeared, a bath once +or twice a week is sufficient; in most cases, a series of 12 baths will be +found to effect a perfect cure.</p> + +<p>If total immersion is not feasible, stuping with a hot solution (a tablespoonful +of “Ozonia” to a gallon of water) is very beneficial, but complete +immersion gives best results.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Analysis showed the composition of the salt to be:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sodium carbonate, reckoned as anhydrous</td> +<td class="number">77.00</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Water</td> +<td class="number">22.30</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Chloride, reckoned as sodium chloride</td> +<td class="number">0.46</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Potassium salt</td> +<td colspan="2" class="text">a trace.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>In view of the statement, quoted above, that ozone is liberated +in the bath, special search was made for any ingredient, +such as percarbonate, perborate, or peroxide, which could yield +oxygen, but no trace was found of any such substance. Commercial +sodium carbonate commonly contains a little chloride, +such as the quantity found.</p> + +<h4>ANTURIC BATH SALTS.</h4> + +<p>This preparation is supplied by a limited company in London. +A tin, price 1s. 6d., contained about 4¹⁄₂ oz. It is described +on the package as:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>For Gout, Rheumatism, Sciatica.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page27">[27]</span></p> + +<p>Directions. Dissolve the contents of one tin in a bath full of hot water. +Take two baths weekly for six weeks. The water should be as hot as can +be comfortably borne. In severe cases the contents of two tins may be +used for one bath.</p> + +<p>If it is inconvenient to use a full bath, or for local affections fomentations +may be used; for this purpose dissolve a tablespoonful of the Anturic +Salts in a gallon of hot water, and bathe the part affected.</p> + +<p>After the cure an occasional bath is desirable.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Analysis showed the salt to consist of:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sodium carbonate, reckoned as anhydrous</td> +<td class="number">96.86</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Water</td> +<td class="number">2.70</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Chloride</td> +<td colspan="2" class="text">trace</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Potassium salt</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td rowspan="2"> </td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text nopad">Perfume</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<h4>RHEUMSOL BATH SALTS.</h4> + +<p>This is supplied from an address near London. A tin, price 1s., +contained about 5 oz. It is described on the tin as:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Uric Acid Solvent. For Rheumatism, Gout, etc.</p> + +<p>Directions for use. Add the contents of this tin to a full-sized bath of +hot water. For a smaller bath less in proportion. A bath should be +taken every third night for a month.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Analysis showed the salt to consist of:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sodium carbonate, reckoned as anhydrous</td> +<td class="number">87.96</td> +<td class="unit"><span class="padr2">per cent.</span></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Water</td> +<td class="number">11.18</td> +<td class="ditto"><span class="padr2">„</span></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Chloride</td> +<td colspan="2" class="text nopad">considerable trace</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Potassium salt</td> +<td colspan="2" class="text nopad">trace</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Exsiccated sodium carbonate (<i>B.P.</i>) is practically anhydrous, +and is priced in a wholesale druggist’s list at 7d. per lb. One +pound of anhydrous sodium carbonate of commercial quality +represents about 2³⁄₄ lb. of common washing soda crystals.</p> + +<h3>SOME GERMAN NOSTRUMS.</h3> + +<p>Dr. F. Zernik, of Berlin, has continued the publication in +the <i>Deutsche Medicinische Wochenschrift</i> of the results of his +examination of various German nostrums. The following notes +refer to preparations advertised for rheumatism.</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p><i>Dr. Richter’s Orudon Essence</i> preparation has been introduced at the +“Hof-Apotheke” (a pharmacy holding the right of using the affix +“Court”) in Elbing as a remedy for rheumatic and analogous affections. +<span class="pagenum" id="Page28">[28]</span>The directions for use are that the essence should be taken in doses of +from 4 to 6 teaspoonfuls according to the severity of the case, diluted in +a tumblerful of sugar water. It is claimed that it contains a new +chemical substance—namely, <i>ammonium iodatum salicyl. solubl.</i>—as well +as other ingredients which the medical profession has found to be most +useful during the past decades. Among these is mentioned “<i>diaethyl-diamin</i>,” +aromatic extract and brandy (cognac). It is sold in bottles, containing +135 c.cm., at 6s. the bottle. The fluid, which is dark brown and +bitter, was found to contain ammonium salicylate and iodide, but not a +trace of the “new” chemical substance, which Zernik points out has long +been recognised in chemistry, piperazin, which is diaethylen-diamin and +not diaethyl-diamin, as well as alcohol and some extractives and perfumes, +the nature of which could not be identified. <i>Orudon Salt</i> is supposed +to act well in the same conditions as the essence. A bottle of this +powder costs 5s. 6d., and is stated by the manufacturers to contain basic +citrate of urea (an imaginary chemical substance!), magnesium, sodium, +lithium carbonate, citric acid, sodium sulphate, and extract of almonds. +The analysis proved it to be a mixture of about 10 per cent. theobromine-sodio-salicylate, +10 per cent. sodium sulphate, 4 per cent. urea, 16 per cent. +magnesium citrate, 4 per cent. sodium citrate, 2 per cent. lithium citrate, +and fully 40 per cent. citric acid, together with a bitter extract. No trace +of a substance which could correspond to the alleged basic citrate of urea +was found.</p> + +<p><i>J. Völlner’s World-renowned Rheumatism Cotton-wool</i> is, it is stated, +manufactured by W. Völlner, Hamburg, London, and New York. It +is claimed by the manufacturers that it produces five times as much +warmth as ordinary cotton-wool, being impregnated with the finest kinds +of resins. The packet costs 1s. and contains 86 grams of a cotton-wool +sheet, measuring 1 cm. in thickness, 36 cm. in width, and 80 cm. in length. +On analysis Zernik found that the cotton-wool was ordinary raw cotton-wool, +which had been superficially singed on one side and which was not +even fat-freed. There was nothing else in the wonderful rheumatic wool.</p> + +<p><i>Limosan</i> is vaunted as a certain cure for rheumatism, gout, and +“stone.” In one of the booklets accompanying the preparation testimonials +galore were reproduced. It consists of white limosan tablets +and greyish-green laxative tablets; 30 of the former tablets contained +in a tube cost 6s., while 15 of the latter cost 6d. Several tubes are required +for a course, since the patient is told to take 10 of the white and +4 or 5 of the laxative tablets daily. The composition is given as follows: +Aethylenimin, 1 gram; glycocol-para-phenyledin (basic), 4.5 grams; +lithium carbonate, 0.1 gram; salicylic salt, 1 gram; and acetic salt, 0.4 +gram. The first-named ingredient is merely a synonym for piperazin, the +second name on the list is used instead of phenocoll, while the salicylic +salt has the same form as the substance usually known as salocoll. The +laxative tablets are stated to contain Tinavelly senna, rhamnus +purshianus, and frangula, of each 20 parts; liquorice root, rhizoma root, +of each 10 parts; peppermint, marigold, and poplar tree leaf, of each +5 parts. The action, therefore, would depend on the senna, cascara +sagrada, and frangula. The manufacturers have, it is stated, repeatedly +been punished in courts of law for the puffing nature of the advertisements +of these limosan preparations.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page29">[29]</span></p> + +<p><i>Professor Tissander’s cure for rheumatism, gout, and sciatica</i> is stated +by Zernik to be sent for 4s. 6d. by “The Sabalek Syndicate,” of London. +Quoting from a letter received from this firm, the “cure” is said to be +composed of a number of reagents which act against uric acid. These +reagents, together with a kidney stimulant and a blood purifier, are combined +by “Professor” Tissander in a very concentrated form. It is +pleasant to take, and does not produce any deleterious effects of any +kind. The examination revealed that the tablets contained sulphur, salts +(chiefly alkali phosphates), and an emodin-containing vegetable powder +(rhubarb, senna). Zernik concludes by saying: “This composition indicates +sufficiently in how far the preparation can possess the action +ascribed to it.”</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<hr class="chap"> + +<div class="chapter"> +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page30">[30]</span></p> +<h2 class="nobreak"><span class="chapno">CHAPTER II.</span><br> +PREPARATIONS FOR ECZEMA AND OTHER SKIN +AFFECTIONS.</h2> +</div> + +<div class="largersize"> + +<p>A selection from the numerous proprietary articles advertised +for the cure of skin diseases, including ointments, +lotions, dusting powders, and medicines to be taken internally, +is described in this chapter. It will be seen from +the extracts from advertisements which are given that the +claims made for the respective preparations are to a large +extent contradictory and mutually destructive, as, for example, +“sulpholine lotion is the only external skin remedy,” +“eczema and all skin ailments are completely cured by sulpholine +lotion,” and, on the other hand, “the potent ingredients +of a remedy, which are necessary to the successful +cure of eczema, cannot be contained in the form of a liquid. +Lotions, besides containing mercury, must necessarily contain +some alcohol or water, which are irritants and should be +rigidly avoided.” (The apparent implication that all lotions +contain mercury is novel and surprising.) It is not always +even necessary to take statements from rival makers in +order to find contradictions; statements made by one firm +in different parts of their advertisements are sometimes quite +inconsistent, as in the case described below where on one +page it is stated that “there is not one among the many +healing extracts used which is not highly lauded by skin +specialists the world over,” and on the next page of the same +pamphlet “several of the medicaments used in the ointments +and blood tablets are very rare and not in use in Great +Britain, and do not form any part of the British doctor’s +<span class="pagenum" id="Page31">[31]</span>medical outfit.” One of the commonest inconsistencies, of +course, is that between the extravagant prospects of speedy +cure held out to attract in the first place, and the far more +guarded statements made when the patient has paid for the +article and is beginning to find out for himself what its +curative powers amount to. The first preparation mentioned +below furnishes an example of this; in a Press advertisement +readers are assured that “just a drop or two of +D.D.D., the Guaranteed cure for Eczema and all Skin +Diseases, applied to the burning skin, and that torturing, +endless, nerve-racking itching is at an end”; “not only does +D.D.D. stop all irritation and pain immediately—we +guarantee it—but the cures that invariably follow are permanent,” +while in a pamphlet supplied with this very article +it is stated that “the person fortunate enough to become +familiar with D.D.D. Prescription in the early stages of +his disease may commit the error of being impatient of cure.... +The eruption may have appeared only on a few +spots of his body, but this is evidence that the disease germ +is lodged in his skin. The germs will grow and multiply +and spread; ... it may take some time to dislodge the +germs from his skin.... Is it not worth careful study, +a few months’ patience, to be rid of that horrible malady?”</p> + +<p>A limited company, which uses the name of “Dr. Cassell,” +sends a list of questions to be answered and endeavours +to persuade sufferers that it deals with them just as a qualified +practitioner would do: “When you consult a doctor, +he first inquires into the causes leading up to your trouble, +then carefully examines all the symptoms and indications. +Upon the results he forms his diagnosis, which in turn +suggests the treatment. We do exactly the same when you +return the examination form filled up.” The trifling omissions +of the years of study, training, and experience requisite +for a medical qualification, and of personal examination of +the patient, are treated as of no consequence; naturally, +some illuminating diagnoses may be looked for under such +<span class="pagenum" id="Page32">[32]</span>circumstances, as in the case described, where having received +the answer “Eczema” to the question “What are +you suffering from?” and after “carefully studying” the +answers to this and other questions, the company gravely +informs the patient “You are suffering from a severe and +disagreeable form of eczema.”</p> + +</div><!--largersize--> + +<h3>D.D.D.</h3> + +<p>The preparation sold under this name is supplied by a firm +in London at 2s. 3d. and 4s. 6d. per bottle; a 2s. 3d. bottle +was found to contain 2.1 fluid ounces.</p> + +<p>A Press advertisement is headed:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Psoriasis, Dry and Wet ECZEMA, and all skin diseases cured by +D.D.D., the new liquid remedy, which gives instant relief, and a positive +cure when everything else has failed.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="noindent">and the following claims are made:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Just a drop or two of D.D.D., the Guaranteed Cure for Eczema and all +Skin Diseases, applied to the burning skin, and that torturing, endless, +nerve-racking itching is at an end.... Not only does D.D.D. stop +all irritation and pain immediately—we guarantee it—but the cures that +invariably follow are permanent—the disease never returns.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The following are extracts from a pamphlet enclosed in the +package, entitled “Cause and Cure of Skin Diseases”:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>D.D.D. is no ordinary patent medicine, but the prescription of the skin +specialist, Dr. D. D. Dennis, who used the compound now known as +D.D.D. successfully for years on all patients suffering with skin diseases. +On urgent advice of his patients, Dr. Dennis was prevailed upon to have +the compound put up as a proprietary article for sale through drug stores....</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>In spite of the “guarantee” quoted above that D.D.D. +stops all irritation and pain immediately, a caution is given +against discouragement:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Occasionally in bringing the disease to the surface, D.D.D. will spread +the eruption temporarily over a much larger area. <span class="smcap">This is not a sign +that the malady is growing more serious, but on the contrary it +shows that the disease is being uprooted.</span></p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>It appears that more patience may be required, even when +the sufferer is only “in the early stages,” than the advertisement +quoted might have led him to suppose:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>The person fortunate enough to become familiar with D.D.D. Prescription +in the early stages of his disease may commit the error of being +<span class="pagenum" id="Page33">[33]</span>impatient of cure.... The eruption may have appeared only on a +few spots of his body, but this is evidence that the disease germ is lodged +in his skin. The germs will grow and multiply and spread; ... it +may take some time to dislodge the germs from his skin.... Is it +not worth careful study, a few months’ patience, to be rid of that horrible +malady?</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>“The germs” are, of course, freely utilized to give an air +of scientific knowledge:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>The reader familiar with the deeper questions of medical science knows +that there is still some dispute among the best authorities on the germ +theories, but it is pretty well understood now, largely as a result of Dr. +Dennis’s discoveries, that eczema is purely and simply a germ disease +caused by germs that lodge in the skin. According to the germ theory, +there must be several species of eczema germs, causing the several diseases +known as eczema, psoriasis, ringworm, dandruff, etc. The germs are all +of the same type, and produce ailments with varying symptoms, all +eczematous. The germs live only in the skin, feeding on the oily +ingredients of the epidermis.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>It might be interesting to know where “Dr. Dennis’ discoveries” +were published.</p> + +<p>D.D.D. is put up in two forms, called “D.D.D. Ordinary” +and “D.D.D. Strong”; the “Ordinary” was taken for +analysis. The directions for this are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>The remedy may be applied in various ways; it is best, however, to +rub the skin as little as possible while making the application; hence we +recommend it to be applied by saturating a piece of absorbent cotton with +D.D.D. and dabbing this gently on the parts affected, or applying it with +a small camel hair brush, so that the pores will absorb the remedy.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Analysis showed the liquid to be composed as follows:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Salicylic acid</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.75</td> +<td class="unit">part</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Phenol</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.18</td> +<td class="unit">parts</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Methyl salicylate (oil of wintergreen)</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.00</td> +<td class="unit">part</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Glycerin</td> +<td class="intpart">9</td> +<td class="fracpart">.28</td> +<td class="unit">parts</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Alcohol</td> +<td class="intpart">65</td> +<td class="fracpart">.10</td> +<td class="unit">parts by measure</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Water, to</td> +<td class="intpart">100</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="unit">parts by measure</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>It had a slight yellow colour, which may have been due to a +trace of colouring matter, or may have been developed from the +oil of wintergreen.</p> + +<p>The alcohol is by far the most costly ingredient, and the estimated +cost of ingredients for 2.1 fluid ounces is 3³⁄₄d.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page34">[34]</span></p> + +<h3>HOMOCEA.</h3> + +<p>This preparation is made by a limited company in London. +A 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. tin contained about ³⁄₄ ounce, and a 2s. 9d. tin about +2¹⁄₂ ounces. It is recommended for a very large number of +disorders, as is shown by the following extracts from a circular +enclosed in the package:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Homocea ... Ointment ... is far and away the best remedy +known for Open Wounds, Sores, Cuts, Ulcers, Bad Legs, Burns, Scalds, +Chaps, Wasp, Bee, and Insect Stings, Earache, Inflamed Spots, Skin or +Flesh Troubles of all sorts, Broken Chilblains, etc. In treating any of the +above lay Homocea lightly with the finger, or spread some on clean rags +or lint and apply to the parts affected. For Bruises, Blotches, Chaps, +Chilblains (unbroken), Eruptions, Swellings, Mumps, Croup, Sore Eyes, +Rashes, Ringworm, Jelly Fish Stings, Sunburns, etc., etc., smear or gently +rub in Homocea where required.</p> + +<p>For Piles (bleeding or blind) Homocea stands alone amongst remedies. +It affords immediate relief at all times, and in many cases absolutely +cures.</p> + +<p>For Internal Piles the insertion of Homocea Suppositories is recommended.</p> + +<p>Cold in the Head is cured by putting Homocea up the nostrils and +rubbing the bridge of the nose well with the Ointment at night.</p> + +<p>Soft Corns and Bunions are cured by applying Homocea as a pad, to +be kept on day and night.</p> + +<p>Eczema (in many forms), Hay Fever, Prickly Heat Jigger, and Veldt +Sores, Warts, etc., cured by Homocea.</p> + +<p>Homocea will cure the Bites and Stings of Mosquito, Gnats, Sand Flies, +and, better still, will prevent these pests from attacking you, if the face, +neck, hands, and other exposed parts of the body are smeared with the +Ointment.</p> + +<p>It is impossible to bring within the compass of a short circular all that +Homocea in its various forms will do, but we claim, without fear of +contradiction, that there are few of the ordinary everyday ailments incidental +to the human frame that Homocea, if promptly and properly +applied, will not immediately alleviate and cure.</p> + +<p>The efficacy of Homocea is easily and unanswerably explained. It kills +inflammation immediately it comes in contact with it, and you can readily +understand why pain vanishes and wounds heal so quickly.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Analysis showed the presence of eucalyptus oil in considerable +proportion, with beeswax, a soft fat, and a very small +quantity of ammonia; evidence was also obtained of a small +proportion of another essential oil, apparently oil of lemon, +though, as essential oils are complex in composition, it is not +possible to speak positively on this point. Other medicinal +ingredients were found to be absent. The quantities of the +<span class="pagenum" id="Page35">[35]</span>ingredients found were determined as accurately as possible, +and the results gave the following formula:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of eucalyptus</td> +<td class="intpart">25</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of lemon</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.2</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Beeswax</td> +<td class="intpart">25</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Fat</td> +<td class="intpart">49</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Solution of ammonia</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.8</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>The characters of the fat agreed with those of a mixture +of lard and cocoanut oil in about equal parts. An ointment +prepared according to this formula was practically indistinguishable +from the original.</p> + +<p>Estimated cost of ingredients for 2¹⁄₂ ounces (2s. 9d. tin), 2¹⁄₂d.</p> + +<h3>ECZOLINE TREATMENT.</h3> + +<p>This “treatment” is supplied by a firm at Swindon, and +consists of ointment, tablets, and soap; the two former were +taken for examination.</p> + +<p>An advertisement contains the following somewhat disconnected +expressions:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>A wonderful Remedy. Eczema, Rashes, Pimples, Spots, Sores, Ringworm, +Chaps, Chilblains, Rough Skin, Bad Legs. Stops all irritation at +once. Cured by the Eczoline Treatment. Worth its weight in gold.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><i>Eczoline Ointment.</i>—A 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. box contained about 1 ounce. +On the box it is described as</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>A positive cure for Eczema, and good for all skin diseases.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Analysis showed the presence of zinc oxide, sulphur (flowers), +glycerin, a little water, and a fat which agreed well in its characters +with lard, with a trace of oil of lemon; no other constituents +were found. The quantities of the respective ingredients +were determined, and the results gave the following formula:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Flowers of sulphur</td> +<td class="intpart">39</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Zinc oxide</td> +<td class="intpart">3</td> +<td class="fracpart">.7</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Glycerin</td> +<td class="intpart">13</td> +<td class="fracpart">.5</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Lard</td> +<td class="intpart">39</td> +<td class="fracpart">.8</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Water</td> +<td class="intpart">4</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of lemon</td> +<td colspan="3" class="text nopad">a trace</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Estimated cost of ingredients for 1 ounce, ¹⁄₂d.</p> + +<p><i>Eczoline Tablets.</i>—A 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. box contained 43 sugar-coated +tablets, having an average weight, without the coating, of 5.2 +grains each. These are described on the label as</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>For Cooling, Purifying, and Strengthening the Blood. Dose—One or +two Tablets three times a day after meals.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page36">[36]</span></p> + +<p>Analysis showed the tablets, from which the coating had been +removed to consist of</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Ferrous sulphate</td> +<td class="intpart">16</td> +<td class="fracpart">.5</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sulphur (precipitated)</td> +<td class="intpart">56</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Talc</td> +<td class="intpart">3</td> +<td class="fracpart">.4</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Starch</td> +<td class="intpart">7</td> +<td class="fracpart">.3</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Extractive</td> +<td class="intpart">16</td> +<td class="fracpart">.8</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>The extractive was bitter, and showed the reactions of extract +of cascara sagrada, but it was not bitter enough or dark +enough to consist only of this extract, and appeared to be a +mixture of cascara sagrada, and an inert extract, the former +constituting about 5 per cent. of the substance of the tablets.</p> + +<p>Taking the whole of the extract as being of the same price +as extract of cascara sagrada, the estimated cost of the ingredients +for 43 tablets is ¹⁄₂d.</p> + +<h3>DR. CASSELL’S MEDICINES.</h3> + +<p>These are supplied by a limited company in a town in Lancashire. +This firm is described on its notepaper as “Sole +Agents for Great Britain, India, Africa, Australia, and all +European Countries for Dr. Cassell’s Specialities,” and the +“Specialities” appear to be really of American origin. The +form of advertisement which appears to be most in favour is a +small announcement of</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p class="noindent">An indispensable illustrated book written by an expert, dealing in a clear, +common-sense way with a safe and speedy home cure of Skin Diseases of +all kinds, with special chapters on Diseased Blood, Ulcers, Bad Legs, and +“The Woman Beautiful,”</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="noindent">to be sent free on application. A request for a copy of this +brought a pamphlet of 31 pages, together with a “self-examination +form,” and a letter urging that the form should be +filled up and returned. In a further circular the following +statement is made with regard to the mode of procedure:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>When you consult a doctor he first inquires into the causes leading up +to your trouble, then carefully examines all the symptoms and indications. +Upon the results he forms his diagnosis, which in turn suggests the treatment.</p> + +<p>We do exactly the same when you return the examination form filled +up; we carefully examine it, and from the answers you give to the questions +we are able at once to select for you, from the numerous Ointments, +Powders, Mixtures, and Medicated Tablets manufactured for this Company +from the formulas of that world-famed specialist, Dr. Cassell, a treatment +perfect in every detail with the requirements of your case.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page37">[37]</span></p> + +<p>It is further stated that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>There is not one among the many healing extracts used which is not +highly lauded by skin specialists the world over.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="noindent">Which seems rather inconsistent with the statement on the next +page that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Several of the medicaments used in the Ointments and Blood Tablets +are very rare and not in use in Great Britain, and do not form any part +of the British doctors’ medical outfit, yet are of such incalculable value +as to constitute the basic strength and great healing virtue of the treatment.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The “self-examination form” was as follows; the words in +italics are the answers which were filled in:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="center highline2"><span class="smcap">Questions.</span></p> + +<p class="right highline2 padr6"><span class="padr10">Date</span> +<span class="padr6">19</span></p> + +<p>Name in full ........................</p> + +<p>Address in full ....................</p> + +<p>Age. <i>37.</i> <span class="padl10">Sex. <i>Male.</i></span></p> + +<p>Occupation. <i>Groom-Gardener.</i> Stout or thin? <i>Medium.</i></p> + +<p>Married or single? <i>Single.</i> How long suffered? <i>About two years.</i></p> + +<p>Are you able to work? <i>Yes.</i> If not, how long have you been disabled.</p> + +<p>What are you suffering from? <i>Eczema.</i></p> + +<p>What was your previous health? <i>Good.</i></p> + +<p>Where are you affected? <i>Arms worst; also neck and shoulders.</i></p> + +<p>What do doctors call your trouble? <i>I don’t know.</i></p> + +<p>Have you been treated for it? <i>Not by doctors.</i> If so, how? <i>I have +used some lotions.</i></p> + +<p>Have you attended any hospital? <i>No.</i></p> + +<p>Is your general health good? <i>Yes.</i></p> + +<p>Are you constipated? <i>No.</i></p> + +<p>Have you indigestion? <i>No.</i></p> + +<p>Do you stand much? <i>Yes.</i></p> + +<p>Are you in contact with much heat? <i>No.</i></p> + +<p>Do you perspire freely? <i>Yes.</i></p> + +<p>Are your hands much in soap and water? <i>No.</i></p> + +<p>Do you use much soda? <i>No.</i></p> + +<p>Does your employment entail contact with gritty or irritating material, +and if so, what? <i>No.</i></p> + +<p>Have you much itching? <i>Yes.</i></p> + +<p>Have you a scaly eruption? <i>No.</i></p> + +<p>Is the part red or inflamed? <i>Yes.</i></p> + +<p>Is there any discharge? <i>Sometimes.</i> If so, what colour is it, and does +it smell? <i>Like water.</i></p> + +<p>Have you any bleeding from the part? <i>No.</i></p> + +<p>Have you any pain? <i>Yes.</i></p> + +<p>Is your trouble inclined to spread? <i>Yes.</i></p> + +<p>Do you suffer from varicose veins? <i>No.</i></p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page38">[38]</span></p> + +<p>Do little blisters form? <i>No.</i></p> + +<p>Did the trouble start with a pimple? <i>No.</i></p> + +<p>Have you any rash? No. If so, where? <i>No.</i></p> + +<p>Have you a sore throat? <i>No.</i></p> + +<p>Have you recently had measles or any fever? <i>No.</i></p> + +<p>Have you ever suffered from any specific blood disease? <i>No.</i> If so, +what?</p> + +<p>What is your usual diet? <i>Porridge, bread and butter, coffee, meat and +potatoes, beer, cheese.</i></p> + +<p>Do you eat much oatmeal, shellfish, or tinned food? <i>A good deal of +oatmeal porridge.</i></p> + +<p>Are you a teetotaler? <i>No, but very moderate.</i></p> + +<p>Are you worse more at one season than another? <i>No.</i></p> + +<p>What is your own opinion as to the cause? <i>I don’t know.</i></p> + +<p>Here fill in any other details you may think of use.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>As the question, “What are you suffering from?” was answered +by the word “eczema,” it was not altogether surprising +to be told in the letter which was received in reply:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Your Examination Form has been duly received and carefully studied. +You are suffering from a severe and disagreeable form of eczema.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The letter proceeds with a warning that it is</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p class="noindent">inadvisable to use ordinary salves, lotions, etc., indiscriminately, as +you will readily realise that what will suit one person will not necessarily +suit another, and many doctors don’t appear to reconise [<i>sic</i>] the fact +that the complaint should be treated both locally and constitutionally, +therefore their treatment often proves ineffective. We make a special +point of treating every case entirely upon its merits, and yours is one +in which Dr. Cassell’s combined treatment will produce speediest and +most brilliant results.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>It appears, however, that even these “speediest and most +brilliant results” are not very speedy, as a further paragraph +states:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Although it may take a few months to effect a permanent cure, we are +quite confident, if you make up your mind to have yourself properly +treated now, it will save much suffering and expense in the future.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The letter further intimated that the treatment would consist +of a dusting powder, tablets to be taken internally, and an +ointment, and that the charge would be 12s. 6d.</p> + +<p>As no reply was sent at once, this was followed about a week +later with another letter, offering to send the medicines for +9s. 6d., and containing the statement:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>We are quite safe in guaranteeing a cure in your case provided you make +up your mind to persevere for a reasonable length of time.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page39">[39]</span></p> + +<p>The sum required was then sent, and the articles named +were received. The powder, in a pill-box, weighed a little +less than 1 ounce; the bottle of tablets contained 90, of average +weight 6 grains; and the pot of ointment contained just over +1 ounce. They were accompanied by an intimation that a +further supply would cost 9s. 6d., and the following directions:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Ointment. Wash the hands thoroughly clean in hot water and apply a +little of the Ointment to the affected parts every night on retiring. It is +not necessary to use a great quantity, the chief thing being to have it +evenly distributed on the parts requiring treatment.</p> + +<p>Powder. A small portion should be dusted on with a piece of clean lint +every morning on arising.</p> + +<p>Tablets. One to be swallowed whole in water three times daily, between +meals.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><i>Cassell’s Dusting Powder.</i>—This was labelled “Antiseptic +Dusting Powder No. 2.” Analysis showed it to contain boric +acid, talc, maize starch, and powdered slippery elm bark. The +proportions of the first two ingredients were determined and +the other two estimated as accurately as possible, and the formula +given below was obtained. A powder prepared in accordance +with this formula agreed in all respects with the original, +except that the latter had a faint perfume and a creamy tint; +the traces of colouring matter and perfume were far too minute +to be identified.</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered talc</td> +<td class="number">60</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered boric acid</td> +<td class="number">20</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered maize starch</td> +<td class="number">17</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered slippery elm bark</td> +<td class="number">3</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Estimated cost of ingredients for 1 ounce, ¹⁄₃d.</p> + +<p><i>Cassell’s Blood Cleansing Tablets.</i>—The label was marked +“Price 4s. 6d. a bottle,” and, as stated above, the bottle contained +90 tablets of about 6 grains each.</p> + +<p>Analysis showed the tablets to contain:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Phenolphthalein</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.75</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Potassium iodide</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.25</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sugar</td> +<td class="intpart">81</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Talc, approximately</td> +<td class="intpart">11</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Calcium carbonate and sulphate, approximately</td> +<td class="intpart">2</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Water</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Extractive</td> +<td class="intpart">3</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>The extractive showed no distinctive characters by which it +could be identified; the tablets had a faint anise-like odour; +<span class="pagenum" id="Page40">[40]</span>no alkaloid or other active principle was found. The dose of +phenolphthalein in one tablet is 0.045 grain, the usual dose +being 1 to 8 grains; the dose of potassium iodide in one tablet +is 0.075 grain, the official dose being 5 to 20 grains.</p> + +<p>If the extract present is taken as being of the same price +as extract of taraxacum, the estimated cost of the ingredients +for 90 tablets is ¹⁄₂d.</p> + +<p><i>Cassell’s Ointment.</i>—This was labelled “Ointment No. 2,” +and the pot contained just over 1 ounce. Analysis showed it +to contain oils of wintergreen and eucalyptus, lanoline, a fat +or oil, soft paraffin, boric acid, a small quantity of alkali, and +a powdered vegetable tissue. The latter appeared to consist +chiefly of a bark; it was carefully compared with a number of +powdered drugs, but was not found to agree with any drug in +ordinary use; it showed a good deal of resemblance to powdered +krameria root, and agreed exactly with it in the colour changes +caused by various reagents, and while not identical with either +of the species of krameria compared with it, the resemblance +suggested that it might be from a nearly related plant. The +proportions of the different constituents were determined as +closely as possible, and the following formula was arrived at:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Boric acid</td> +<td class="number">8</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Borax</td> +<td class="number">2</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of eucalyptus</td> +<td class="number">2</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of wintergreen</td> +<td class="number">3</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Anhydrous lanoline</td> +<td class="number">4</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil (? olive)</td> +<td class="number">8</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Soft paraffin</td> +<td class="number">63</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered drug</td> +<td class="number">7</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Water</td> +<td class="number">3</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>An ointment prepared in accordance with this formula, with +krameria root as the drug, closely resembled the original.</p> + +<h3>SULPHOLINE LOTION.</h3> + +<p>This lotion is prepared by a limited company in London. A +1s. bottle contained 2 fluid ounces. This preparation is advertised +in the following terms:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Eczema and all skin ailments are completely cured by Sulpholine Lotion, +which directly attacks all forms of Eczema, Eruptions, Pimples, Acne, +Spots, Blackheads, or Disfiguring Rashes, leaving the skin in the soft, clear, +supple, attractive condition designed by Nature.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page41">[41]</span></p> + +<p>And in a pamphlet enclosed in the package it is further +stated that</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Sulpholine Lotion is the only external skin remedy.</p> + +<p>There is no phase of Eczema, chronic or acute, red, dry, scaly, or pustular +(moist), psoriasis, pityriasis, impetigo, prickly heat, tetter, salt-rheum, +or even superficial scorbutic ulcerations, but Sulpholine will grapple with, +and in most cases completely eradicate, leaving the skin its natural, clear, +smooth, pliable surface.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The directions on the label are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>To be damped on with a handkerchief or piece of cotton wool, and +allowed to dry. One application of the Lotion should be at bedtime.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Analysis showed it to contain:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td colspan="2" class="text">Sulphur, precipitated</td> +<td class="intpart">3</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="unit">parts.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="2" class="text">Zinc oxide</td> +<td class="intpart">2</td> +<td class="fracpart">.1</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="2" class="text">Calcium sulphate</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.6</td> +<td class="unit">part.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="2" class="text">Glycerin</td> +<td class="intpart">9</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="unit">parts.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Strong rose water, to</td> +<td class="right">100 parts</td> +<td colspan="3" class="unit">by measure.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>The rose water is by far the most expensive ingredient, and +the estimated cost of ingredients for 2 fluid ounces is 1¹⁄₄d.</p> + +<h3>CADUM.</h3> + +<p>Supplied by Omega, Limited. A 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. tin contained just +over 1 oz.</p> + +<p>This is described in a circular enclosed in the package as:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>The New Medical Discovery for the Treatment of Eczema, Psoriasis, +Ringworm, Acne, Pimples, Blackheads, Itch, Facial Eruptions, Salt Rheum, +Shingles, Herpes, Hives, Prickly Heat, Boils, Rash, Itching Piles, Cuts, +Sores, Burns, Chafing, Sunburn, Scabies and other Skin Troubles.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Its origin is thus described:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>The discovery of Cadum, the wonderful new skin remedy, was not the +result of mere chance or accident, but of patient, painstaking investigations, +extending over a long period, by an eminent chemist who became possessed +of the conviction that the old method of taking internal remedies +to cure external diseases was erroneous. After a careful study of all the +best-known products, it was discovered that an extract from a particular +part of a well-known tree possessed superior antiseptic and curative properties, +and exerted a powerful, beneficial effect on the skin tissues. It +was, however, found that this valuable vegetable extract possessing such +desirable qualities was difficult to compound with other ingredients necessary +to present it in a form convenient to use. After further investigations +and experiments, a method of special treatment was devised by which +<span class="pagenum" id="Page42">[42]</span>this seemingly insurmountable difficulty was overcome, resulting in a +unique combination of ingredients, possessing to a marked degree valuable +therapeutic properties, the like of which has never before been produced.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Directions are given for the use of this preparation in some +thirty affections of the skin.</p> + +<p>Analysis showed the presence of zinc oxide, sulphur, boric +and salicylic acids, oil of cade, and a paraffin basis. The proportions +of the several ingredients were determined as accurately +as possible; since oil of cade is variable in composition, +and there is no direct means of determining its quantity in such +a mixture, this was estimated from a number of comparisons +with known mixtures, and the figure given is certainly not far +from exact. The formula arrived at is:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Zinc oxide</td> +<td class="intpart">11</td> +<td class="fracpart">.3</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Flowers of sulphur</td> +<td class="intpart">8</td> +<td class="fracpart">.0</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Boric Acid</td> +<td class="intpart">3</td> +<td class="fracpart">.1</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Salicylic acid</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.8</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of cade</td> +<td class="intpart">7</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Hard paraffin</td> +<td class="intpart">10</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Soft paraffin</td> +<td class="intpart">60</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Estimated cost of ingredients for 1 ounce, ¹⁄₃d.</p> + +<h3>POSLAM.</h3> + +<p>This is supplied by the Emergency Laboratories, New York. +A 2s. 3d. tin contained ²⁄₃ ounce.</p> + +<p>It is described in a circular enclosed in the package as</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>The Newest Medical Discovery for the treatment of Eczema and all +other skin affections.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Some further extracts from this circular are as follows:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>It is a singular fact that, notwithstanding the great strides that have +been made in medicine for the past decade or two, skin diseases, and +particularly eczema—the worst of them—are about as little understood +by the medical profession to-day as they were a generation back.</p> + +<p>Eczema is one of the most prevalent diseases, and statistics shows that +at least <i>50 per cent. of humanity have it in some form or other</i>. It may +be that physicians have failed to give this trouble the proper amount of +study because, not being a fatal disease, they have considered it unimportant +enough to wilfully neglect its thorough diagnosis.</p> + +<p>Another reason may be that the <i>advertised preparations for eczema +have been so exploited as to convey wrong impressions about the disease</i>, +ascribing it to causes most ridiculous, and harping on the erroneous idea +<span class="pagenum" id="Page43">[43]</span>that it is a blood trouble, only curable by internal remedies. Doctors, in +the absence of any recognised specific for the disease, have given either +internal remedies or ordered the use of special soaps, both of which +courses show that the average medical man is helpless to combat the +growing trouble of skin diseases....</p> + +<p>LOTIONS AND INEFFECTUAL “REMEDIES.”—<i>The potent ingredients +of a remedy, which are necessary to the successful cure of +eczema, cannot be contained in the form of a liquid. Lotions, besides containing +mercury, must necessarily contain some alcohol or water, which are +irritants and should be rigidly avoided.</i>....</p> + +<p><i>There is no need of an extended course of treatment in the cure of +eczema. If the remedy is the right one, its effects will be apparent immediately, +and the progress of its work may be noted daily.</i>....</p> + +<p>POSLAM, THE CURE.—<i>The success of Poslam in the cure of eczema +and all kindred skin diseases, has been absolute since its first introduction +to the public and the medical profession. It is entirely different from +anything yet used, and as a remedial agent in skin diseases, may be said +to be positively infallible in its action.</i> Hitherto there has been a common +base to all ointments and salves that were supposed to be “remedies” for +eczema. <i>Poslam has a base of its own, and contains no grease, poisons, +mercury, or any other harmful constituent.</i></p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The general directions are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Apply Poslam twice daily, night and morning, directly to the parts +affected.</p> + +<p>Do not rub or irritate, but apply gently.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Analysis showed the presence of zinc oxide, sulphur, starch, +salicylic acid, oil of birch tar, oil of cade, lanoline, and soft +paraffin. Since oil of birch tar and oil of cade are both very +complex bodies of variable composition, it is not possible to +determine exactly the quantities present in such a mixture; +it is even possible that some samples of oil of birch tar might +possess the properties observed, without the presence of oil of +cade, and the latter is given in the formula with this reservation. +The various ingredients were determined or estimated +as exactly as possible, and the following formula was arrived at:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Zinc oxide</td> +<td class="intpart">12</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Flowers of sulphur</td> +<td class="intpart">8</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Maize starch</td> +<td class="intpart">18</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Salicylic acid</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.5</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of cade</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.5</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of birch tar</td> +<td class="intpart">8</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Anhydrous lanoline</td> +<td class="intpart">25</td> +<td class="fracpart">.5</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Soft paraffin</td> +<td class="intpart">25</td> +<td class="fracpart">.5</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Estimated cost of ingredients of ²⁄₃ ounce, ¹⁄₂d.</p> + +<hr class="chap"> + +<div class="chapter"> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page44">[44]</span></p> + +<h2 class="nobreak"><span class="chapno">CHAPTER III.</span><br> +NERVE TONICS AND “ELIXIRS OF LIFE.”</h2> + +</div><!--chapter--> + +<div class="largersize"> + +<p>A very large class of proprietary medicines consists of +those advertised as nerve tonics and restoratives of lost +vitality, and a number of these are described in the present +chapter. Some of them are conspicuously advertised in the +newspapers, and are sold through retailers in the ordinary +way; while in other cases the interest of those likely to +become purchasers is usually aroused by a small advertisement +with a bold headline to catch the eye—such as “Lost +Manhood Restored”—in which a free book is offered, to be +sent by post on application. The applicant is not only urged +by the contents of the book which is sent to place himself at +once under the advertiser’s treatment, but this advice is +further pressed on him by letters at intervals. Medicines +of this kind are not usually sold through retailers, but only +direct from the advertiser to the consumer. The latter is +often supplied with a list of questions to be answered, and—to +judge from the examples described—when he has +answered them, and paid the one or two guineas demanded, +he is likely to be told that his is a complicated case requiring +additional treatment, for which, of course, further payment +is to be made. In some cases references occur to “our consulting +physician,” or “our specialist,” etc. In regard to +specialists of this anonymous kind, some facts elicited at a +coroner’s inquest, mentioned in <a href="#Page256">chapter XIX.</a>, throw some +light on the probable value of such references. Obviously, +no real expert would consent to work under such conditions +as those indicated; but even if that difficulty could be got +<span class="pagenum" id="Page45">[45]</span>over, no satisfactory diagnosis could be made in the manner +pretended, and the paying of a fee for advice in such circumstances +is a very different thing from paying for the attention +and skill of an expert who really investigates his cases.</p> + +<p>In regard to the nerve tonics supplied through retailers, +it will be seen that some of these consist of a few simple and +commonplace drugs, the cost of which is almost negligible +compared to the price charged. Others, which have only +recently appeared on the market, appear to be based—at +least in regard to the wording of the advertisements—on the +orchitic fluid suggested by the late Dr. Brown-Séquard, and +a good deal of play is made with a few terms having a +scientific appearance, but serving—as, for example, “the +red corpuscles or phagocytes,” and “a vital extract +(C<sub>2</sub>H<sub>5</sub>N<sub>1</sub>)”—only to display to anyone understanding them +the ignorance of the advertiser. The last of the articles +dealt with has been very extensively advertised as a “brain +and nerve food”; our advertisement shows that the daily +dose of this preparation, costing ninepence, represents about +a teaspoonful of beaten-up egg and a wineglassful of skim +milk.</p> + +</div><!--largersize--> + +<h3>PHOSFERINE.</h3> + +<p>This widely-advertised preparation is supplied at 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. and +2s. 9d. by a limited company in London. A 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. bottle +was found to contain 2 fluid drachms, and a 2s. 9d. bottle just +over 1 fluid ounce.</p> + +<p>Phosferine is described in an advertisement as</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="center highline15">The Greatest of all Tonics.</p> + +<p class="center highline15">A Proven Remedy for</p> + +<p class="noindent">Nervous Debility, Influenza, Indigestion, Sleeplessness, Exhaustion, +Neuralgia, Maternity Weakness, Premature Decay, Mental Exhaustion, +Loss of Appetite, Lassitude, Neuritis, Faintness, Brain Fag, Anæmia, +Backache, Rheumatism, Headache, Hysteria, Sciatica, and disorders consequent +upon a reduced state of the nervous system.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page46">[46]</span></p> + +<p>In a circular enclosed in the package it is stated that</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Phosferine is a potent strengthening medicine, withal gentle in its action +and perfectly harmless; being akin to gastric juice, it rests and restores +the digestive organs and regulates the bowels to normal action.</p> + +<p>The public cannot be too strongly warned against the many purging +medicines advertised for indigestion, etc., which are not only a fruitful +source of piles, but injure the coating of the stomach and sap the very +gastric juice Nature is straining herself to supply.</p> + +<p>Unlike other tonic medicines, Phosferine does not injure the teeth or +upset the stomach and cause constipation; on the contrary, it will be +found beneficial in these conditions.</p> + +<p>Phosferine may be taken at all times with benefit; there is no possible +objection to its continued use either as an appetiser or a general strengthening +and nerve remedy.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Somewhat varying directions are given as to the quantity +to be taken for different ailments, the dose being stated as from +five to ten drops, to be taken from twice to four times a day.</p> + +<p>Analysis showed the presence of alcohol, quinine, phosphoric +acid, and a little sulphuric acid; a trace of sodium salt was +found, but this was probably an accidental impurity in the +phosphoric acid; no other ingredient could be detected. Expressing +the acids as the dilute acids of the <i>British Pharmacopœia</i>, +and the quinine as the ordinary official sulphate, the +formula arrived at is</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Quinine sulphate</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.67</td> +<td colspan="2" class="unit">part</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Diluted sulphuric acid</td> +<td class="intpart">2</td> +<td class="fracpart">.5</td> +<td class="unit">parts</td> +<td class="unit">by measure</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Diluted phosphoric acid</td> +<td class="intpart">54</td> +<td class="fracpart">.6</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Alcohol</td> +<td class="intpart">8</td> +<td class="fracpart">.1</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Water, to</td> +<td class="intpart">100</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>The estimated cost of the ingredients for 1 fluid ounce (2s. 9d. +bottle) is ¹⁄₂d.</p> + +<h3>GUY’S TONIC.</h3> + +<p>This is a liquid prepared by a London firm; a bottle priced +1s. 1¹⁄₂d. contained 6 fluid ounces. In a circular enclosed in the +package it is stated that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Guy’s Tonic is a rich Cordial prepared from Vegetable Tinctures and +other curative agents found in the British Pharmacopœia.... Guy’s +Tonic is not put forward as a Remedy for “all the ills to which flesh is +heir,” for no such thing as a “Cure-all” exists. It is, however, confidently +recommended for the specific Ailments enumerated.... The +use of Guy’s Tonic will be attended with the happiest results in:—</p> + +<p>1. Disorders of the Digestive System: Dyspepsia, Heartburn, Loss of +Appetite, Pain after Food, Flatulence or Wind, a sensation of Nausea +<span class="pagenum" id="Page47">[47]</span>(Sickness), Furred or white-coated Tongue, unpleasant Breath, disagreeable +Taste in the Mouth, Drowsiness after Eating, a feeling of weight or +discomfort in the Chest, palpitation of the Heart, shortness of Breath +and Acidity of the Stomach.</p> + +<p>2. Functional Derangements of the Liver: Sluggishness, Congestion, +Constipation, Biliousness, Despondency, Dizziness, Sallowness of the Complexion, +Blotches on the Skin, dull pains between the Shoulders, variable +Appetite, Headache, disturbed Sleep, Lassitude, and Irritability.</p> + +<p>3. Disorders of the Blood: Anæmia, Emaciation, Paleness, Weariness, +and Disorders dependent upon a Vitiated or Impoverished condition of the +Vital Fluid.</p> + +<p>4. Nervous Maladies: Neuralgia, Nervousness, Hysteria, Giddiness, +Alcoholism, disturbed Sleep, unpleasant Dreams, confused Thoughts, lack +of Confidence, Loss of Memory, Depression, Melancholy, Exhaustion, +Languor, and affections due to Malnutrition of the Brain and Spinal Cord.</p> + +<p>5. General Diseases: Gout, Rheumatism, Rheumatic Gout, Lumbago, +and Disorders characterised by Perverted Nutrition and Lack of Vital +Force.</p> + +<p>6. Convalescence from Acute Diseases: also in cases of recovery from +Influenza, Fevers, Bronchitis, and other exhausting Diseases, and in +General Debility and Prostration from whatever cause arising.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The dose is stated on the label to be:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>For adults, one tablespoonful. Under 9 years, one dessertspoonful. +Under 2 years, one teaspoonful.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Analysis showed it to contain small quantities of hydrochloric +and phosphoric acids, alcohol, bitter and aromatic substances +and colouring matter, and a trace of chloroform. No +alkaloid was present; the bitter and aromatic substances present +in very small amount agreed well with those of the official +compound infusion of gentian; the behaviour of the colouring +matter indicated that it was cochineal. The quantities of the +two acids and the alcohol were determined, and the amounts of +the other ingredients estimated by methods of comparison. The +following formula gives an exactly similar mixture:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Diluted hydrochloric acid</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.59</td> +<td class="unit">parts</td> +<td class="unit">by measure</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Diluted phosphoric acid</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.52</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Alcohol</td> +<td class="intpart">2</td> +<td class="fracpart">.27</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Compound infusion of gentian</td> +<td class="intpart">40</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Chloroform water</td> +<td class="intpart">50</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Cochineal colouring</td> +<td colspan="4" class="unit"> a sufficiency</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Water, to</td> +<td class="intpart">100</td> +<td> </td> +<td colspan="2" class="unit">parts by measure</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>The estimated cost of the ingredients of 6 fluid ounces is ¹⁄₂d.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page48">[48]</span></p> + +<h3>VITAE ORE.</h3> + +<p>The article sold under this name is supplied by a limited +company in London, price 4s. 6d. per package.</p> + +<p>An offer to send a package, containing sufficient for one +month, to be paid for only if benefit is received, is largely +advertised. The advertisement usually includes an illustration +of a man’s head, said to represent “Prof. Theo. Noel,” described +as “the well-known geologist.” The following are +extracts from one of these advertisements:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>I discovered by accident the dried residue of the greatest curative +spring in the world. It seemed worth while to try whether this, when +redissolved, would have mineral spring virtues. The results astonished +me and those who experienced them. The spring was a marvel—far exceeding +anything that Homburg, Harrogate, Aix, Bath, or any other spa +can show. Some untraceable element defying the chemist’s analysis—is it +Radium?—enters into the rock. Whatever the element may be, its effect +can be distinctly felt when the drink made from this deposit, which I +call Vitae Ore, or “life-rock,” is taken as a beverage. Those who use +it say that it gives a degree of buoyant, cheerful energy, which they never, +perhaps, experienced before.</p> + +<p>Everyone knows a few people with health and vigour to spare—the men +whose breezy personality carries all before it, so that no one can resist +them; the women whose warm bloom and feminine grace capture all hearts. +Well, Vitae Ore will give these things to <span class="allsmcap">ALL</span>, if used as I will tell you +how to use it. No artificial drug enters into it. No artificial drug can +rival its effects.</p> + +<p>Whether you are well or ill—strong or weak—Vitae Ore will give you +new life. Under its influence Nature herself cures</p> + +<ul class="vitae_ore"> +<li class="indented"><i>Rheumatism</i></li> +<li class="indented"><i>Sciatica</i></li> +<li class="indented"><i>Gout</i></li> +<li class="indented"><i>Anæmia</i></li> +<li class="indented"><i>Dropsy</i></li> +<li class="indented"><i>Catarrh</i></li> +<li class="indented"><i>Indigestion</i></li> +<li class="indented"><i>Constipation</i></li> +<li class="indented"><i>Nervous Exhaustion</i></li> +<li><i>and all Liver, Blood, and Stomach Diseases....</i></li> +</ul> + +<p>Its effect in giving new vigour and nerve-force to people of mere ordinary +health, turning them into noticeably and radiantly strong men and women, +makes it worth using in every case....</p> + +<p class="center highline15">How to use Vitae Ore.</p> + +<p>Vitae Ore comes to you as a box of powder. You simply +dissolve it in a pint of cold water, and of this mixture drink +a teaspoonful in a half-tumbler of water three times a day, and +at bedtime, for a month. In a few days, a week, or later, according to +your present condition, you will begin to notice greater strength, better +digestion, higher spirits, a clearer complexion, a healthier appetite. These +are the effects of the new vitality in Vitae Ore.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page49">[49]</span></p> + +<p>A 4s. 6d. package contained 137 grains of the substance; +analysis showed it to contain a slightly basic but soluble iron +sulphate, magnesium sulphate, and combined water; the quantity +of each constituent was determined and found to be as +follows:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Ferric oxysulphate, calculated as anhydrous</td> +<td class="number">47.57</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Magnesium sulphate, calculated as anhydrous</td> +<td class="number">15.89</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Water, in combination</td> +<td class="number">36.54</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>No other substance was detected. The iron, magnesium, +sulphate, and water were all determined separately, and, as +the figures add up to 100.00 per cent., not much is left for +“some untraceable element defying the chemist’s analysis.” +If the directions, quoted above, are followed, each dose would +contain:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Iron oxysulphate, anhydrous</td> +<td class="number">0.47</td> +<td class="unit">grain.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Magnesium sulphate, anhydrous</td> +<td class="number">0.15</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>The estimated cost of the ingredients contained in one package +is about one-eighth of a penny.</p> + +<h3>COCAPHOS.</h3> + +<p>This preparation is supplied by a firm in London. A box +priced 4s. 6d. contained 94 tablets.</p> + +<p>The following extracts are from an advertisement in a magazine:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Gavin’s “Cocaphos” Puts New Life Into You.... You cannot +do your work if you are in a nervous state; the worry and stress of modern +life tells on the best of constitutions. Many fly to stimulants and find +temporary relief, but as there is always reaction, they find it necessary +to continue taking them, and thus a bad habit is formed. When you feel +run down and need energy and go the finest thing to take to brace you up +and allow you to make the most of your opportunities, to remove that tired +feeling, and to build up your nervous system is “<span class="smcap">Cocaphos</span>.” This is +composed of the finest ingredients for the purpose, acknowledged by the +Medical Profession to be a fine recuperative tonic.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The dose is given on the label as “One tablet after each +meal.”</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page50">[50]</span></p> + +<p>The tablets were sugar-coated, and coloured red externally; +after removal of the coating the average weight was 3.9 grains. +Analysis showed the presence of:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<th colspan="4"> </th> +<th colspan="3">In one<br>tablet.</th> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Iron hypophosphite</td> +<td class="intpart">20</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="unit"><span class="padr2">per cent.</span></td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.78</td> +<td class="unit">grain.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Quinine sulphate</td> +<td class="intpart">2</td> +<td class="fracpart">.8</td> +<td class="ditto spaced3">„</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.10</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Extract (probably damiana) about</td> +<td class="intpart">50</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto spaced3">„</td> +<td class="intpart">2</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="unit">grains.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sugar</td> +<td colspan="6"> </td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Talc</td> +<td class="intpart">11</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto spaced3">„</td> +<td colspan="3"> </td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>The extract agreed in characters and tests with extract of +damiana; it was not possible to determine exactly how much +was present. The name of the article appears to imply that a +preparation of coca is present; no evidence was obtained of +any, but a small proportion of extract of coca, if present, could +not be identified in the presence of the extract of damiana.</p> + +<p>The estimated cost of ingredients for 94 tablets is 8¹⁄₄d. The +most costly ingredient is the extract of damiana, which is also +the least certain in quantity; probably the figure given is a +liberal estimate.</p> + +<h3>DAMAROIDS.</h3> + +<p>The tablets sold under the name “Damaroids” are supplied +by a limited company in London at 2s. 9d. and 4s. 6d. per box. +A 2s. 9d. box contained 36 tablets.</p> + +<p>“Damaroids” are thus described in an advertisement:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>They are a Safe and Sure Cure of General Weakness, Physical Decay, +and Loss of Nerve Power, Varicocele, etc., etc. They are a Unique and +Wonderful Specific for men. Effectually Restore Lost Vitality and +Stamina, counteract result of late hours, etc. “Damaroids” is The True +Nervo-Spinal Tonic, the Safest and most effective medicine yet introduced +for nervous and all exhausting diseases.</p> + +<p>They have cured thousands of cases—and they Do cure.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>On the label they are described as:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>A Safe and Sure Remedy for General Weakness, Spinal Exhaustion, +Neurasthenia, Physical Decay, and Loss of Nerve Power.</p> + +<p>Directions:—One to be swallowed three times a day, after meals.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The tablets were sugar-coated and coloured red externally; +after removal of the coating they had an average weight of +3.9 grains. They exactly resembled the tablets just described +<span class="pagenum" id="Page51">[51]</span>as “Cocaphos” and showed the same composition, with some +difference in the proportions of the ingredients. The figures +arrived at are:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<th colspan="4"> </th> +<th colspan="3">In one<br>tablet.</th> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Iron hypophosphite</td> +<td class="intpart">14</td> +<td class="fracpart">.2</td> +<td class="unit"><span class="padr2">per cent.</span></td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.55</td> +<td class="unit">grain.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Quinine sulphate</td> +<td class="intpart">3</td> +<td class="fracpart">.4</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.13</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Extract (probably damiana) about</td> +<td class="intpart">50</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="intpart">2</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="unit">grains.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sugar</td> +<td colspan="6"> </td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Talc</td> +<td class="intpart">16</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td colspan="3"> </td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>The same remarks apply here as in the preceding case, and +the cost would be approximately the same, about 3d. for the +ingredients of 36 tablets.</p> + +<h3>INVIGOROIDS.</h3> + +<p>The tablets sold under the name Invigoroids are supplied +from an address in Yorkshire at 2s. 9d. per box containing 54 +tablets.</p> + +<p>They are thus described in a circular:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Invigoroids are a pure and powerful nerve and organic tonic and food, +designed to replace (at a reasonable price) the highly priced and pernicious +remedies that are so common. With results much more beneficial and yet +with no evil after-effects, Invigoroids are worth their weight in gold to +suffering, sorrowful men, and are regularly prescribed by leading +specialists. Invigoroids create blood, nerve force and energy. Fill weak +and worn-out men with healthy life and rampant vigour. Make existence +a perfect pleasure, and render the system disease-proof and capable of +sustaining prolonged exertion in any form.</p> + +<p>The only Cure for Impotence in Men....</p> + +<p>We Speak to You If your complaint is amongst the following: Back +Pains, Brain Fag, Dejection, General Weakness, Head Pains, Hysteria, +Impotence, Loss of Flesh, Lost Vitality, Nerve Paralysis, Nervous +Debility, Senile Decay, Unnatural Forebodings, Weakness of Generative +Organs, etc.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>In a newspaper advertisement it is stated that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Invigoroids contain free phosphorus (nerve and brain food) and rare +herbal blood and flesh-forming specifics.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The directions on the label were: “Take one three times +daily.” The label was printed, “Take two, twice or three +times daily,” but this was altered in ink, not very clearly, to +the preceding.</p> + +<p>The tablets were sugar-coated and coloured red externally, +after removal of the coating they had an average weight of +<span class="pagenum" id="Page52">[52]</span>2.8 grains. Analysis showed the presence of asafœtida, ferrous +carbonate, zinc phosphide, strychnine, brucine, and sugar of +milk. The alkaloids were probably added in the form of extract +of nux vomica, and the amount of this is calculated from +the proportion of alkaloids found; the asafœtida was estimated +from the proportion of resin found. The results of tests for +the zinc phosphide were somewhat obscured by the other substances +present; the amount was calculated from the proportion +of zinc found. The ferrous carbonate is calculated as the +official saccharated carbonate. The formula so arrived at is:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<th colspan="4"> </th> +<th colspan="3">In One<br>Tablet.</th> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Extract of nux vomica</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.0</td> +<td class="unit"><span class="padr2">per cent.</span></td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.028</td> +<td class="unit">grain.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Zinc phosphide</td> +<td class="intpart">2</td> +<td class="fracpart">.4</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.067</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Saccharated carbonate of iron</td> +<td class="intpart">18</td> +<td class="fracpart">.0</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.50</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Asafœtida</td> +<td class="intpart">9</td> +<td class="fracpart">.0</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.25</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sugar of milk.</td> +<td colspan="6"> </td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>The package was not labelled “Poison,” although it would +appear to come within the schedule of the Poisons and Pharmacy +Act.</p> + +<p>The estimated cost of the ingredients for fifty-four tablets +is ¹⁄₂d.</p> + +<h3>DR. MORGAN’S RADIO-VIMETTES.</h3> + +<p>This preparation is supplied by a limited company in London +at 2s. 9d. per box, containing 20 pills. They are advertised +in the following terms:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Proved by thousands to be unsurpassed in restoring lost vitality and +strength in all cases of Debility, Nervous Exhaustion, Lost Vitality, +Varicocele, and all Diseases of the Blood, Nerves, and Brain. Not a quack +remedy, but compounded from the Private prescription of a celebrated +Doctor.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>A supply was obtained by post, and a few days later a letter +was received from the makers as follows:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Dear Sir,</p> + +<p><span class="padl4">We</span> sent you a week ago a course of Dr. Morgan’s “Radio-Vimettes,” +and as in every case in which these are sent, we take, not +merely an interest to sell the Vimettes, but a genuine interest in your +ailment and its cure, we are writing now to know just what benefit has +accrued from the course of treatment you have had.</p> + +<p>If your case is a mild one we have no doubt that by this time your nerves +are strengthened, your energy restored and your general vitality and +health renewed, and it only remains for us to say how glad we are that the +Vimettes have once more vindicated their claim to supremacy.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page53">[53]</span></p> + +<p>If, on the other hand, you had not regarded the first signs of disease and +wrote us only when nature positively demanded relief from suffering we +know that you cannot possibly be <span class="allsmcap">ENTIRELY CURED</span>, and if such is your +ailment, our interest in its eradication still continues firm. For all such +ailments our primary desire is to relieve, and should you still be suffering +we beg you to let us know <span class="allsmcap">AT ONCE</span>, not merely saying “I am not cured,” +but by writing a quiet, friendly letter saying just how you feel, giving +particulars of your case,—the cause—and the result. Direct this to “The +Specialist” marked “Private,” and it will then be read only by him, +regarded by him as most strictly confidential and, if desired, returned to +you. Enclose a stamp for return postage and you will then obtain full +advice on your case <span class="allsmcap">FREE OF ALL CHARGE</span>, and we sincerely trust that by so +writing health, strength, and vitality may be yours again.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>A leaflet was enclosed on “Special Courses of Radio-Vimette +Treatment,” from which it appears that there are three such +courses, referred to as: “No. 1. Neurasthenic; No. 2. +Urinary; No. 3. Impotence.”</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>The Courses of Treatment in each case enumerated above are put up in +two forms, the supply being sufficient approximately for one month’s +treatment.</p> + +<p>No. 1. <span class="smcap">Special Strength</span> for mild cases, 11s. per Course, Carriage Paid.</p> + +<p>No. 2. <span class="smcap">Concentrated</span> for severe cases and cases of long standing, 21s. +per Course, Carriage Paid.</p> + +<p>The best advice of the Specialist is at the services of every Patient free +of all charge, and in every case correspondence is treated in the strictest +confidence.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>A list of questions to be answered was also sent.</p> + +<p>The dose is given, in a circular of “General Directions,” as +follows:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>The Ordinary Strength Radio-Vimettes will be found sufficiently powerful +for all mild cases of Nerve trouble, such as <span class="smcap">Nervous Dyspepsia</span>, +<span class="smcap">Headaches</span>, etc.</p> + +<p>For these troubles One Radio-Vimette should be taken night and +morning after meals.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The pills were ovoid in shape, sugar-coated, and coloured +purple externally. After removal of the coating they had an +average weight of 3.7 grains. Analysis showed the presence of +free phosphorus, reduced iron, quinine sulphate, and excipient. +The amounts found were:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<th colspan="4"> </th> +<th colspan="3">In One<br>Pill.</th> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Reduced iron</td> +<td class="intpart">70</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="unit"><span class="padr2">per cent.</span></td> +<td class="intpart">2</td> +<td class="fracpart">.6</td> +<td class="unit">grains.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Quinine sulphate</td> +<td class="intpart">11</td> +<td class="fracpart">.8</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.44</td> +<td class="unit">grain.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Phosphorus</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.13</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.005</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>The estimated cost of the ingredients for twenty pills is ¹⁄₂d.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page54">[54]</span></p> + +<h3>GORDON’S VITAL SEXUALINE RESTORATIVE.</h3> + +<p>This preparation and a number of others are supplied by a +firm in a Yorkshire town. The price of this “restorative” is +22s. per bottle, holding 21 fluid ounces.</p> + +<p>The usual advertisement is of a pamphlet called “Strength, +How Lost, How Regained,” which is thus referred to:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Interesting and instructive remarks to young and middle-aged men on +“How to Preserve Strength and Retain the Powers.” A Brief Treatise +on Nervous Exhaustion, Loss of Strength, and Debility in Men. This +book not only contains valuable remarks on how to preserve Strength and +retain the Powers to an advanced age, but points out the best means of +restoring Exhausted Vitality, Poverty of Nerve Force, Mental Depression, +and will especially interest those who wish to create Vitality, increase +Nerve Stamina, renew the Vital Forces, or fit themselves for business, +study, or marriage.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The pamphlet is further entitled:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>“A Confidential Treatise on Nervous Exhaustion, Spermatorrhœa, Varicocele, +Generative Weakness, Debility, Special Diseases and Urinary +Derangements in Men, <span class="smcap">Their Cause and Cure</span>, By Concentrated Herbal +Remedies. A Popular, Practical, and Moral Exposition of Some of the +Fundamental Problems of Sociology. By Charles Gordon, P.M.B.”</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>“P.M.B.,” it may be noted, does not represent any known +medical qualification, but is of unknown signification, and is +probably intended to suggest to the ignorant some sort of +medical degree.</p> + +<p>It is a booklet of 43 pages, with sections on Onanism, Spermatorrhœa, +Marriage, Varicocele, Impotence, Gonorrhœa, +Gleet, Syphilis, etc. An “advice form” was also sent, containing +a list of questions to be answered by those desiring +medicine.</p> + +<p>A price list gives the prices of the following: Vital Sexualine +Restorative (described as “for Onanism, Night Emissions, +Seminal Losses, Waste of Vitality, Brain Fag, Depression, +General Weakness, Loss of Energy, Nervous Debility, Spermatorrhœa, +and Varicocele”), Viro-Erectile Elixir, Anti-Syphilitic +Mixture, Bubo Compound, Gleet Compound, Gonorrhœal Mixture, +and Gravolene, all at 22s. per bottle, and Gentiana Tonic +and Varixolene Liniment, at 11s. per bottle.</p> + +<p>On the label of the “Vital Sexualine” it is called:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>The Great Nerve Restorative, Brain Fertilizer, and Vital Tonic. Feeds, +Strengthens, and Sustains the Nerves, prevents Losses and waste of +<span class="pagenum" id="Page55">[55]</span>Vitality, Creates Nervous Fluid, Brain Matter and Nerve Force. +Brightens the intellect, improves the memory and mental faculties, restores +strength, and promotes a renewal of life in the entire system. A proven +remedy for all weakened conditions of the system dependent upon the +deficiency of the vital forces.</p> + +<p>Permanently Cures—Neurasthenia, Nervous Breakdown, Brain Fag, +Depression, Loss of Energy, Sleeplessness, Nervous Headache, Melancholia, +Trembling, Poverty of Nerve Force, Nervous Prostration, General +Weakness, Loss of Strength, Exhausted Vitality, Premature Decay, Brain +Wreckage, Neuralgia, Nerve Tire, etc.</p> + +<p>Dose.—One small teaspoonful in a wineglassful of cold water three +times a day, immediately after meals.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The liquid was reddish-brown in colour, and syrupy. Analysis +showed it to contain:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<th colspan="5"> </th> +<th colspan="3">In One<br>Dose.</th> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="2" class="text">Iron hypophosphite</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.50</td> +<td class="unit"><span class="padr2">part</span></td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.27</td> +<td class="unit">grains.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="2" class="text">Calcium hypophosphite</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.50</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.27</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="2" class="text">Sodium hypophosphite</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.60</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.32</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="2" class="text">Potassium hypophosphite</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.14</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.07</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="2" class="text">Quinine sulphate</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.50</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.27</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="2" class="text">Citric acid</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.90</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.48</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sugar</td> +<td class="right"><span class="padr1">(approx.)</span></td> +<td class="intpart">51</td> +<td> </td> +<td colspan="4" class="unit">parts</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Glycerine</td> +<td class="ditto"><span class="padr1">„</span></td> +<td class="intpart">36</td> +<td> </td> +<td colspan="4" class="unit">parts by measure</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="2" class="text">Colouring matter</td> +<td colspan="6"> </td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Water</td> +<td class="right"><span class="padr1">to</span></td> +<td class="intpart">100</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td colspan="2" class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Metallic hypophosphites are not generally considered to be +“concentrated herbal remedies.”</p> + +<p>The estimated cost of the ingredients for 21 fluid ounces is +10¹⁄₂d.</p> + +<h3 id="Ref01">THE MARSTON TREATMENT.</h3> + +<p>This is supplied by a firm in London, and is advertised as +follows:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="center highline15">EVERY MAN</p> + +<p class="noindent">Suffering from <span class="smcap">General</span> and <span class="smcap">Physical Debility</span> should send for a +Valuable Pamphlet explaining how all Nervous and Organic Derangement +may be successfully treated without stomach medication. The method +is easy and pleasant, and will effect a perfect and permanent cure. Sent +in a plain sealed envelope post free 2 stamps.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Application to the address given brought a paper-covered +book of seventy-two pages, entitled <i>A Treatise on the Modern +Treatment of Nervous Diseases and Exhaustion in Men by +<span class="pagenum" id="Page56">[56]</span>Local Absorption</i>, the scope of which is indicated by the following +extracts:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>The object of this treatise is to describe, in as clear and simple a +manner as possible, for the non-professional reader, the various diseases +and affections resulting in the nervous and sexual systems from the indulgence +of early pernicious habits, excessive venery, fast living, and other +irregularities, the product of our modern civilisation....</p> + +<p>In issuing this edition of our treatise on <span class="smcap">Nervous Diseases</span>, we desire +especially to point out that ours is not an empirical or secret treatment, +nor do we use merely one single preparation and designate it a cure-all +and panacea for every variety of disease. On the contrary, the Remedies +used are varied, and such as long experience in the treatment of Nervous +and Sexual ailments have proved to be the most valuable in their cure. +Our object is to prescribe the course necessary to be taken to ensure the +result expected or hoped for; we claim no new or occult discoveries in +the domain of Medicine or Pharmacy, but we do claim that our method of +combining medicinal drugs, in the form of a suppository and applying +them directly to the immediate locality of the diseases described in this +treatise, is not only more successful in its results but is more effectual +and rational than purely stomach drugging for nervous Diseases allied +with sexual troubles.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The book was accompanied by various other papers, and a +letter from which the following extracts are taken:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>If for any reason after a perusal of our book you are unable to select +the course of treatment necessary, you may give us a full and as clear a +statement as possible of your symptoms, and we will submit it to the +consulting physician, when such course as will meet the requirements of +your case will be prescribed. The treatment can be sent to you by post, +together with the necessary medical and hygienic advice suitable for your +case.</p> + +<p>Should you still have any doubt as to the advantages of rectal treatment +in your case, possibly owing to some complication that does not +enter within the scope of our treatise, we shall be glad to hear from you, +and any letters will be treated in the fullest confidence. Consultation +personally or by letter free of charge.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>In a subsequent letter the following occurs:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>We are well aware that there are firms in existence which treat nervous +debility on similar lines to our own, but we again emphatically claim +and challenge all rivals to contradict the fact, viz., that we are the +oldest established advertising medical business, and that we were the first +to originate the Rectal Method for the cure of Nervous and Sexual +Diseases.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>From the papers sent it appears that five kinds of treatment +are supplied, as follows:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Graded Course for the cure of Seminal Losses, Spermatorrhœa, etc.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page57">[57]</span></p> + +<p>Impotence Course for the cure of Impotence, Loss of Sexual Vigour, +Erectile Power, etc.</p> + +<p>Urinary and Prostatic Course for all troubles of the Prostate Gland, +Bladder, Kidneys, etc.</p> + +<p>Developing Course for Atrophy or Wasting and Shrinkage of the +Organs, etc.</p> + +<p>Neurasthenic or Nervine Tonic Course for General Weakness, Debility, +Loss of Memory, Sleeplessness, Melancholy, Despondency, Depression, +Neuralgia, Brain Exhaustion, and all those conditions arising from +Debility associated with Nervous Diseases.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The price of the treatment is the same in all cases, namely, +£1 1s. for one month’s treatment, and £2 2s. for three months’ +treatment, of any course.</p> + +<p>In a third letter it was stated that—</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>To convince you of our confidence in our Treatment to effect your cure, +we will send you a three months’ course of treatment upon receipt of One-Half +the Regular Price, namely, 21s., and you need not pay the balance +of 21s. unless you are perfectly satisfied with the results.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>A guinea was accordingly sent for a three months’ supply of +the Nervine Tonic Course; this elicited a request for answers to +the printed questions that were sent, and a sample of urine, for +“our Consulting Physician.” The question paper was therefore +filled in with particulars of an imaginary case of nocturnal +emissions, and sent with a sample of normal healthy urine to +which some glycerine and water had been added. Three boxes +of suppositories were received, with a letter, of which the +principal parts were as follows:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>We have your favour with answers to questions and sample of urine +enclosed, and our Consulting Physician has submitted the latter to a +careful examination, and we are pleased to inform you that it was found +to be of normal specific gravity, and showed no evidence of any organic +kidney disease, but an examination of the urinary débris, together with +the statements made in the diagnosis form discloses sufficient evidence +to convince us that your nerve and sexual system is very much below +par, and in order to bring about your complete restoration to sexual health +and strength it will be necessary for you to undergo the treatment our +Consulting Physician has prescribed in your case....</p> + +<p>You will therefore see that it is absolutely necessary in your case for +you to undergo, in addition to the Tonic Course which you ordered in +your previous letter, a three months’ treatment of the Graded Course +to permanently check all losses either at stool, in your urine, or by nightly +emissions, and by this means a reinvigoration of the exhausted seminal +secreting organs will be gradually effected. This course could be used +every night whilst you are using the Tonic Course every morning ... +<span class="pagenum" id="Page58">[58]</span>we forward you herewith a three months’ treatment of the Tonic Course.... +Use from box No. 1 the first month, box No. 2 the second month, +and box No. 3 the third month.... If you would like to follow our +advice and use the Graded Course at night and will remit the reduced +fee of 21s. for the same, the further remedy will be at once prepared +and sent you....</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Each box contained 29 suppositories, or 87 in all, having an +average weight of 16¹⁄₂ grains. All three kinds were found to be +similar in composition; they differed a little in the proportions +of the ingredients, but, as the drugs are not soluble in the fat, +suppositories of such a composition, if prepared by melting and +pouring into moulds, would show such differences in strength +as those found, unless prepared in very small quantities and +with extreme care. The composition shown by analysis was:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr class="bt bb"> +<th rowspan="2" class="mid br">——</th> +<th colspan="4" class="br">No. 1.</th> +<th colspan="4" class="br">No. 2.</th> +<th colspan="4">No. 3.</th> +</tr> + +<tr class="bb"> +<th colspan="2" class="br">Per<br>Cent.</th> +<th colspan="2" class="br">Grains<br>in One.</th> +<th colspan="2" class="br">Per<br>Cent.</th> +<th colspan="2" class="br">Grains<br>in One.</th> +<th colspan="2" class="br">Per<br>Cent.</th> +<th colspan="2">Grains<br>in One.</th> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text br">Calcium hypophosphite</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart br">.4</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart br">.07</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart br">.3</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart br">.05</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart br">.3</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.05</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text br">Powdered gentian and powdered cinchona bark</td> +<td class="intpart">2</td> +<td class="fracpart br">.1</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart br">.35</td> +<td class="intpart">3</td> +<td class="fracpart br">.7</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart br">.61</td> +<td class="intpart">2</td> +<td class="fracpart br">.7</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.45</td> +</tr> + +<tr class="bb"> +<td class="text br">Oil of theobroma</td> +<td class="intpart">97</td> +<td class="fracpart br">.5</td> +<td colspan="2" class="center bot br">—</td> +<td class="intpart">96</td> +<td class="fracpart br">.0</td> +<td colspan="2" class="center bot br">—</td> +<td class="intpart">97</td> +<td class="fracpart br">.0</td> +<td colspan="2" class="center bot">—</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>The two vegetable drugs could not, of course, be determined +separately; they appeared to be present in something like equal +quantities.</p> + +<p>The estimated cost of the ingredients for the eighty-seven +suppositories (ordinary charge 42s.) is 5d.</p> + + +<h3>MURRAY’S COMBINED TREATMENT.</h3> + +<p>This “treatment,” which has so great a resemblance in many +respects to the preceding as to suggest that it can hardly be +merely accidental, is supplied by another London firm.</p> + +<p>It is advertised as follows:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="center highline15">BOON TO MAN.</p> + +<p>All Men suffering from Nervous Exhaustion, Physical Debility, and all +Allied Troubles, should send for my Illustrated Book, fully describing +Symptoms, together with most modern scientific method of cure, including +hundreds of testimonials of complete cures. No Trusses. No Electricity. +Sent sealed Post free two stamps.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>On application to the address given two paper books and a +small pamphlet were sent. The first entitled <i>The Combined +<span class="pagenum" id="Page59">[59]</span>Stomach and Rectal Treatment for the Permanent Cure of +Nervous Debility and Sexual Diseases, including Spermatorrhœa, +Impotence, and other Disorders, resulting from these +Conditions</i>, is a booklet of eighty-four pages, from which some +extracts are given below; the second is a booklet of forty pages, +entitled <i>Varicocele: Its Symptoms and Cure</i>; and the pamphlet, +of eight pages, is entitled <i>A Treatise on Venereal Diseases +Gonorrhœa, Gleet, Stricture, etc.</i></p> + +<p>The “Treatment” is thus explained:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>The present therapeutic methods of treating Nervous Debility may be +described as three distinct systems, viz.:—Treatment by the Stomach +alone, Treatment by Local Absorption, through the means of the Rectum +or opening of the lower bowel, and the Murray system of combined Rectal +and Stomach Treatment.</p> + +<p>The two former methods used separately have proved of considerable +advantage in removing some of the distressing symptoms of this disease, +but the successful cure of Nervous Debility, needless to say, depends upon +the cure and removal of every symptom associated with the disease.... +This result is effected by “Murray’s Treatment,” which has received the +appellation “Combined” from its peculiar means of administration. It +comprises two forms of treatment. The first consisting of prescribed +remedies taken by means of the stomach.... The second form +... is that of a Rectal Suppository.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The books were accompanied by various papers and a letter +of the usual type, which was followed at intervals by others, +in one of which it was stated that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>It is always the earnest endeavour of my Consulting Physician to carry +out to a successful issue the many cases that come under our care, and I +am glad to say that the results have in no way contradicted my claims as +to this satisfactory issue.</p> + +<p>In all cases that are submitted to my opinion, it is honestly given after +consulting with my Physician, and in no case do we encourage or give +hopes of a successful cure in those chronic cases which sometimes do not +yield to treatment.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="noindent">From the book it appears that five “courses” are supplied—namely:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<div class="centerblock"> + +<p>The Nervine Tonic and Brain Food Course.<br> +The Seminal Course.<br> +The Impotence Course.<br> +The Genito-Urinary Course.<br> +The Atrophy Course.</p> + +</div><!--centerblock--> + +<p>From a long and varied experience in the treatment of Nervous Debility +my Physician and myself find it very requisite that three months’ treatment +should be prescribed in order to bring about a thorough and complete +cure.</p> + +<p>The fee for a three months’ Treatment is £2 2s.</p> + +<p>The fee for a month’s Treatment is £1 1s.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page60">[60]</span></p> + +<p>No order having been sent, a further letter was received, +containing the following offer:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>... I shall be most happy to make such reduction in the cost of +the treatment as I hope will adapt itself to your means; and to show you +the confidence I have in the value and benefits of my method of cure, I +am willing to meet you in the matter of payment, and would suggest your +paying me, say, 20s. for a three months’ course, and the balance of 22s. +I shall only expect or look for, provided that you are perfectly satisfied +with the results obtained from its use.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="noindent">Twenty shillings was then sent for the “Nervine Course,” and +brought a request for answers to the questions on a sheet +forwarded, and a sample of urine. The questions were answered +in the same way as for the Marston Treatment (<a href="#Ref01">above</a>), and a +sample of the same mixture of urine, glycerine, and water was +sent. Not only was the result the same, that is, a discovery +that an additional course—at an additional fee—was necessary, +but it was conveyed in very similar words:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>It is evident that your case is more complicated than your first letter +indicated, and from the full particulars to hand, together with result of +examination of urine, your case needs in addition to the Nervine Tonic +Course a Special Seminal Course to permanently check all seminal losses, +whether at stool, in the urine, nightly or otherwise, and it will strengthen +the now weakened seminal secreting ducts. This extra Course would have +to be used in the morning, and in conjunction with the night Course they +will act in harmony with each other and attack every symptom of your +case.... I shall be pleased to let you have this extra Course on the +same reduced terms, viz., 20s., and upon receipt of this amount it will +immediately be prepared and sent you with full directions, and I trust +you will see your way clear to order the same at once so that they may be +used conjointly.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The preparations sent consisted of three boxes of gelatine +perles (called “gelatinoids”) marked “No. 1,” “No. 2,” and +“No. 3,” each box containing 10, and three boxes of suppositories, +similarly marked, each containing 30. It was explained +that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>I am only sending you the first month’s gelatinoids, as it may be necessary +to modify these next month.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="noindent">The general directions were to use a suppository</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p class="noindent">from box No. 1 first day, box No. 2 second day, and box No. 3 third day, +recommencing with box No. 1 again on fourth day, and so on in this order +day after day. The Stomach Gelatinoids are to be swallowed and in same +alternative order as Rectal Treatment.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="noindent">The directions on the gelatinoids were “Take one every morning +after breakfast.”</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page61">[61]</span></p> + +<h4 class="murrays"><i>Gelatinoids No. 1.</i></h4> + +<p>Each contained 0.75 grain of quinine sulphate, partly +dehydrated, equivalent to 0.84 grain of the <i>B.P.</i> salt. No other +substance was present.</p> + +<h4 class="murrays"><i>Gelatinoids No. 2.</i></h4> + +<p>The contents of one had an average weight of 1.35 grains, +and contained:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Ferrous phosphate (Fe<sub>3</sub>2PO<sub>4</sub>,8H<sub>2</sub>O)</td> +<td class="number">26</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Quinine phosphate (Q<sub>2</sub>H<sub>3</sub>PO<sub>4</sub>,8H<sub>2</sub>O)</td> +<td class="number">35</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Strychnine.</td> +<td colspan="2"> </td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Talc</td> +<td class="number">11</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Milk-sugar.</td> +<td colspan="2"> </td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>The strychnine was only a small proportion of the alkaloid, +and the amount of material available did not suffice for its +separate determination.</p> + +<h4 class="murrays"><i>Gelatinoids No. 3.</i></h4> + +<p>The contents of one had an average weight of 1.66 grains, and +consisted of a brown extract agreeing in most characters and +tests with extract of damiana. No other ingredient could be +detected, but some other extract <i>might</i> have been present, as a +mixture of some vegetable extracts could not be separated with +such a small quantity as was available.</p> + +<p>The estimated cost of the ingredients of the 30 gelatinoids +is 1¹⁄₄d.</p> + +<h4 class="murrays"><i>The Suppositories.</i></h4> + +<p>All the three kinds of suppositories had the same constituents, +only showing such small variations in the amounts as would +be inevitable in making a large quantity in the usual way; the +average weight was 16 grains. Analysis showed the presence of:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr class="bt bb"> +<th rowspan="2" class="mid br">——</th> +<th colspan="4" class="br">No. 1.</th> +<th colspan="4" class="br">No. 2.</th> +<th colspan="4">No. 3.</th> +</tr> + +<tr class="bb"> +<th colspan="2" class="br">Per<br>cent.</th> +<th colspan="2" class="br">Grains<br>in One.</th> +<th colspan="2" class="br">Per<br>cent.</th> +<th colspan="2" class="br">Grains<br>in One.</th> +<th colspan="2" class="br">Per<br>cent.</th> +<th colspan="2">Grains<br>in One.</th> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text br">Calcium hypophosphite</td> +<td class="intpart">4</td> +<td class="fracpart br">·05</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart br">·7</td> +<td class="intpart">3</td> +<td class="fracpart br">·54</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart br">·6</td> +<td class="intpart">3</td> +<td class="fracpart br">·70</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">·6</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text br">Powdered gentian and powdered cinchona bark</td> +<td class="intpart">3</td> +<td class="fracpart br">·90</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart br">·6</td> +<td class="intpart">4</td> +<td class="fracpart br">·30</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart br">·7</td> +<td class="intpart">5</td> +<td class="fracpart br">·30</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">·9</td> +</tr> + +<tr class="bb"> +<td class="text br">Oil of theobroma</td> +<td class="intpart">92</td> +<td class="fracpart br">·05</td> +<td colspan="2" class="center br">—</td> +<td class="intpart">92</td> +<td class="fracpart br">·16</td> +<td colspan="2" class="center br">—</td> +<td class="intpart">91</td> +<td class="fracpart br">·00</td> +<td colspan="2" class="center">—</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>In the mixture of powdered gentian and cinchona, the former +appeared to constitute more than half.</p> + +<p>The estimated cost of the ingredients for 90 suppositories is +5¹⁄₂d., and therefore of the entire “combined treatment” 6³⁄₄d.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page62">[62]</span></p> + +<h3>SEQUARINE.</h3> + +<p>Sequarine is supplied by a firm in London, at the price of +8s. a bottle, holding 1 fluid ounce. It is advertised as “The +New Serum Cure,” and both newspaper advertisements and +the descriptive pamphlet sent on application include what is +stated to be a portrait of “The Discoverer, Dr. Brown-Sequard, +F.R.S.” It is stated in the pamphlet that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Since the discovery of blood circulation by Harvey there has been no +greater addition to the forces of medical science than the strength producing +element discovered by Professor Brown-Sequard, F.R.C.P. (London), +L.L.D. (Cambridge). This element, which is the Serum-Sequarine, +has already become an indispensable aid to physicians.... The new +serum has been given various names, such as “Sequard Fluid” and +“Spermine,” etc., but the registered and generally recognised name of +Professor Brown-Sequard’s discovery is “Sequarine”—a name derived +from that of the discoverer himself, thus: Sequar—ine.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Since the general nature of the preparation is thus indicated, +it is not altogether a “secret” remedy; but from the way +in which it is advertised to the public, and the attempt to +identify Brown-Séquard’s orchitic fluid (which, of course, is <i>not</i> +a serum) with the preparation supplied by this particular firm +under a registered trade name, it is fairly to be classed among +nostrums.</p> + +<p>The following is an extract from a newspaper advertisement:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<h4 class="sequarine">Nature and Action of the Serum.</h4> + +<p>According to leading physicians the nature of Sequarine and the manner +of action on the human organism in curing disease may be briefly summarised +as follows:</p> + +<p>Within every animal body there exists a “power of disease resistance,” +the principle of “natural immunity”; this power resists the entrance of +any disease into the body, and if it is of normal strength readily repels +the disease even after it has gained entrance. In treating disease doctors +are aided greatly by the principle of “natural immunity.” The homœopaths +rely on it almost entirely—and in a great many instances drugs +get the credit for a cure when vital resistance has really effected it. The +greatest scientists have always been baffled in their endeavours to discover +the element or force which is the basis of this peculiar power. In his +search for this element Professor Brown-Sequard discovered that there +exists in the blood infinitesimal quantities of a fluid which subsequently +proved to be the <i>basis of the power of natural immunity from disease</i>.</p> + +<p>This fluid is the serum which has been named Sequarine in his honour.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page63">[63]</span></p> + +<p class="center highline15">What Sequarine Cures.</p> + +<p>Sequarine is a cure for any ailment or weakness brought about by lack +of nerve power or an accumulation of impurities in any part of the body.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The attempt to secure the prestige of the name of the late Dr. +Brown-Séquard, without stating precisely that he was in any way +responsible for the article now sold as Sequarine, is very obvious +in a circular letter sent with the pamphlet referred to above, +from which the following is an extract:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Since the introduction of Sequarine into England an ever-increasing +number of sufferers have taken this treatment with remarkable success. +The name of Dr. Brown-Sequard, L.L.D. (Cambridge), Fellow of the +Royal Society and Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians (London), is +a sufficient guarantee of its efficacy.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The directions on the label are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Dose.—Adults, 20-30 drops; children, 5-15 drops in half-a-glass of +water (soda-water or water which has been previously boiled preferred).</p> + +<p>To be taken three times daily, half-an-hour before meals.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The liquid contained 35.8 per cent. by volume of alcohol, +and a sufficient trace of oil of peppermint to give a flavour; +on evaporation it left 1.9 per cent. of solid residue, of which +0.6 was ash—principally sodium and potassium phosphates. The +nitrogen present was 0.22 per cent., equivalent to 1.4 per cent. +of protein, but a small portion of it was present as ammonia, +perhaps formed by decomposition of nitrogenous organic +matter. The liquid was thus shown to be of the nature of an +animal extract, with alcohol; definite constituents could not, of +course, be isolated.</p> + +<h3>NEUROVRIL.</h3> + +<p>The preparation known as Neurovril is supplied by the +Neurovril Company, London. The price is 21s. per bottle, +“sufficient for one month,” or 7s. 6d. for a smaller bottle, +“sufficient for one week.” The smaller bottle was found to +contain nearly 3 fluid ounces. An advertisement occupying the +space of a column in a London daily paper, is headed, in large +letters,</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Has the Elixir of Life been Discovered?</span></p> + +<p class="center highline15">Amazing Results of Great Health Discovery announced To-day.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page64">[64]</span></p> + +<p class="noindent">And the first paragraphs are as follows:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>There is announced to-day a mysterious serum, which, whilst according +relief in cases of severe illnesses, apparently, from the statements made, +actually introduces into the body not a mere stimulating force, but life +itself. Although the discovery has been made by a Continental scientist, +he has already sent particulars to his confrères all over the world, and so +important do British scientists consider this matter, that they are making +every effort to place the information at once in the hands of those who +are ailing.</p> + +<p>The amazing successes that have attended the application of this wonderful +new health discovery have aroused on all hands the question: +“Has the Elixir of Life at last been discovered?”</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>After much more of the same sort, it continues:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>The new serum is a new food for use in cases of</p> + +<ul class="nostyle"> +<li>Loss of Memory,</li> +<li>Headache,</li> +<li>Exhaustion,</li> +<li>Nervous Weakness,</li> +<li>Brain Fag,</li> +<li>Melancholia,</li> +<li>Irritability,</li> +<li>Slackness,</li> +<li>Nervous Prostration,</li> +<li>Partial Paralysis.</li> +</ul> + +<p>It is a blood food for use in cases of</p> + +<ul class="nostyle"> +<li>Anæmia,</li> +<li>Rheumatism,</li> +<li>Sciatica,</li> +<li>Impoverished Blood,</li> +<li>Kidney Troubles,</li> +<li>Disordered Liver.</li> +</ul> + +<p>It is a physical food for use in cases of</p> + +<ul class="nostyle"> +<li>Wasting Tissue,</li> +<li>Lack of Muscular Vigour,</li> +<li>Weak Back,</li> +<li>Thinness,</li> +<li>Aged Appearance,</li> +<li>Premature Decline.</li> +</ul> + +<p>The wonderful result after even the first dose will be a delightful sensation +to those who have long lost the vigour of full manhood or womanhood.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>A booklet is sent on application, from which the following +passages are quoted:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>When it is said that old men and women are made young, that the +decrepit take on a new virility, that the yellow-hued cheeks assume the +roses of youth, and the worn out brain gains new power to think and +control action—these are facts beyond all disputing.</p> + +<p>The great new basic serum makes it possible to defy the approach of +age, and, better still, enables men and women to come back from the +realms of senile decay and continuous illness to the vigour of perfect man +and womanhood. Tissue by tissue, new flesh, new energy-creating cells +are formed, and as the basic serum is absorbed into the system, throughout +the whole body is carried on a work of rejuvenation....</p> + +<p>Realising the inutility of conducting investigation on stereotyped lines, +elaborate search was made for a new idea, and in a most singular manner +the secret that proved the keynote of our scientist’s success was found. +His work involved ceaseless laboratory experiments through the realms +of organic chemistry and physiological science, and demanded abnormal +patience....</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page65">[65]</span></p> + +<p>Further experiments proved that the new basic serum not only supplied +vitality and strength to the body, but could be prepared in such a way as +to prove an anti-toxin, a means of resisting and curing illness....</p> + +<p>To say that Neurovril contains protoplasmic life is no rash assertion; +it is a perfectly true statement proven by exhaustive laboratory tests.</p> + +<p>Teeming with millions of life centres, every drop of Neurovril introduced +into the body effects a wonderful change. The life centres +develop and give up their energy to the body....</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The following appears on the label:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p class="tabhead">Analysis of Active Principle:</p> +</div> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="number">75</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +<td colspan="2" class="text nopad">phosphates, immediately assimilable.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="number">20</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td colspan="2" class="text nopad">albumen, remarkable for creating virility.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="number">2</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td colspan="2" class="text nopad">carbonate calcic.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="number">3</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="text nopad">water.</td> +<td class="right nopad">Total = 100 per cent.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p class="noindent">The directions are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Take of this Tonic, regularly, half of a Neurovril glass (supplied with +this bottle) night and morning directly after meals.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>“Half of a neurovril glass” is about 5 fluid drachms. Analysis +showed that 100 parts (by measure) of “neurovril” contained +18.9 parts (by measure) of alcohol, and gave 19.1 parts of +residue on evaporation, of which 18.1 parts consisted of sugar. +A trace of oil of cloves was present, giving a slight clove odour, +and a faint odour like that of an animal extract in a state of +incipient decomposition could also be detected.</p> + +<p>The liquid was slightly turbid, and a trace of fatty substance +was present. No appreciable amount of “serum” or other +animal substance was present; only the slightest indication of a +trace of nitrogenous matter could be detected, this being of the +nature of an organic base, and the amount of phosphate was so +small that it was doubtful, even with a very delicate test, +whether any at all were present. The total ash was 0.03 per +cent., and it contained a little lime. The 1 part per 100 fluid +parts which was not sugar was probably chiefly glycerine, but a +small quantity of glycerine in presence of a large quantity of +sugar can hardly be positively identified by examining a reasonable +quantity of the material.</p> + +<p>If the “active principle” contains, as stated on the label, +75 per cent. of phosphate and 20 per cent. of albumen, it follows +from the analysis that only a minute trace of it is present +in the liquid, which is practically a mixture of simple syrup and +diluted alcohol.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page66">[66]</span></p> + +<h3>OSOGEN.</h3> + +<p>Osogen is supplied by a firm in London at 2s. 9d., 7s. 9d., and +11s. a bottle. A bottle price 2s. 9d. was found to contain +1 fluid ounce, and a bottle price 11s. 5 fluid ounces.</p> + +<p>An advertisement, occupying the space of a column in a +London daily paper, is headed:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p><span class="smcap">Mysterious Seru-Phos.</span>—Amazing Elemental Combination Startles +Scientists. More Effective than the most powerful Serum.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Some extracts from it are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Scientific discussion is at present rife anent a mysterious new combination +of organic elements. Some time ago Professor Brown-Sequard, +F.R.S., F.R.C.P. (formerly head of Queen Square Hospital, London), +discovered a serum (Sequard Fluid) which was used with success in +treating various ailments. Another eminent scientist has now discovered +that by combining this serum with organic reconstituent elements its +curative value is more than doubled. After Professor Brown-Sequard +announced his discovery to the Paris Biological Society, Professor Prince +Tarkanhov (St. Petersburg) and other scientists began experiments with +the serum, and hence the new remedy is a direct product of the labour +and learning of some of the greatest scientific men of their age. This +seru-phos combination (called Osogen) has been pronounced absolutely +certain in curative effect and more swift in action than the most powerful +serum used alone. Scientists who investigated it were amazed by its +wonderful potency, and Physicians, both in London and on the Continent, +predict that Osogen will supersede many other forms of treatment....</p> + +<p>Osogen is not a secret remedy. It is a vital extract (C<sub>2</sub>H<sub>5</sub>N<sub>1</sub>), combined +with organic reconstituent elements (glycerophosphates), all of +which are now recognised by the Medical Profession, and appear in +Pharmacopœias throughout the world. One of the ingredients has been +called by famous scientists “More powerful than the interchange of +blood.” The whole is almost an exact replica of the elements which +combine to form the human economy. The vital extract increases +disease-fighting corpuscles, another constituent forms nerve cells (especially +cells of the Spinal Nerves), another forms tissue cells, etc. Its +action is restorative in every part of the body, and its use is especially +recommended in cases where the serum alone has not effected a thorough +cure.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>In a small pamphlet enclosed in the package, “Osogen” is +described as</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Serum and Glycerophosphates. A Natural Remedy for Neurasthenia, +Nervous Disorders, Brain Fag, General Debility, Anæmia, Bright’s +Disease, Influenza, Sciatica, Functional Weakness, Loss of Vital Power, +Indigestion, Dyspepsia, Rheumatism, Kidney Disease, Dropsy, Diabetes, +Asthma, Consumption, Locomotor Ataxy, and Paralysis.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page67">[67]</span></p> + +<p>The directions on the label are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>20 to 30 drops in a wineglass of water after meals three times daily. +Children over six: 5 to 15 drops as above.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Analysis showed the liquid to contain glycerophosphates of +iron, magnesium, sodium and quinine, a little alcohol and a +trace of chloroform, with glycerine in large quantity. Not +more than a trace of nitrogenous matter was present in addition +to the quinine, showing that if the mixture contained any of +Brown-Sequard’s Orchitic Fluid, the amount was very small. +Determination of the quantities of the various ingredients gave +the following formula:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Quinine glycerophosphate</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.75</td> +<td class="unit">part</td> +<td rowspan="4"> </td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Iron glycerophosphate</td> +<td class="intpart">2</td> +<td class="fracpart">.14</td> +<td class="unit">parts</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Magnesium glycerophosphate</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.77</td> +<td class="unit">part</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sodium glycerophosphate</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.90</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Spirit of chloroform</td> +<td class="intpart">3</td> +<td class="fracpart">.8</td> +<td class="unit">parts</td> +<td class="unit">by measure</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Glycerine</td> +<td class="intpart">73</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Water to</td> +<td class="intpart">100</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<h3>DR. LECOY’S VIGOROIDS.</h3> + +<p>These consisted of sugar-coated tablets, coloured blue externally. +After removing the coating, the tablets had an average +weight of 2.2 grains. The dose is stated to be two, three times +daily.</p> + +<p>Analysis showed them to contain:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<ul class="nostyle"> +<li>Ferrous phosphate.</li> +<li>Quinine.</li> +<li>Strychnine.</li> +<li>A vegetable extract.</li> +<li>Sugar.</li> +<li>Starch.</li> +<li>Talc.</li> +</ul> +</div> + +<p>The ferrous phosphate, calculated as Fe<sub>3</sub>(PO<sub>4</sub>)<sub>2</sub>,8H<sub>2</sub>O, from +the iron found, was 8.7 per cent., or 0.19 grain in each tablet. +The quinine and strychnine together amounted to 4.35 per cent., +or 0.09 grain in one tablet; the strychnine was clearly not more +than one-twentieth of the total alkaloid (= 0.005 grain in one +tablet), but it was not possible to determine the amount exactly +on the quantity available. The vegetable extract showed no +well-marked properties by which it could be identified; the +amount was small, the sugar constituting the largest part of the +tablet.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page68">[68]</span></p> + +<h3>ANTINEURASTHIN, A BRAIN AND NERVE FOOD.</h3> + +<p>Readers of daily or weekly papers or magazines who allow +their eyes occasionally to travel over the advertisement pages +of these journals can hardly fail to have seen somewhat frequently +a lengthy advertisement of a preparation called Dr. +Hartmann’s Antineurasthin. The advertisement is usually +headed “The Twentieth Century Disease.” This, it appears, is +neurasthenia, and the various stages of its manifestations are set +out in a sort of table, beginning with “Sensitiveness” and ending +with “Suicidal Tendency.” Antineurasthin, referred to as +“this marvellous twentieth century brain and nerve food discovery,” +is put forward as a specific for the cure of neurasthenia:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Dr. Hartmann’s discovery is one that should personally and very deeply +interest brain-workers in all walks of life. Every day are heard and seen +all too serious evidences of the undue strain of their intense work on the +vital power of the body. And now, on the highest possible authority, it is +heralded that science has proved equal to the stern necessity which +demanded the discovery of “Antineurasthin,” the brain and nerve food.</p> + +<p>For greater convenience “Antineurasthin” is compressed into small +tablets, and although its beneficial effect on the brain and senses is so +immediate, yet there is none of the depressing reaction that follows the +administration of artificial drug stimulants, “Antineurasthin” being a +special brain and nerve nutrient, and not a brain and nerve drug-irritant. +No longer need the brain-worker struggle on under the cloud of fear of +failing powers of brain and body. He or she may, by including “Antineurasthin” +as an article vitally necessary in the daily dietary, build up +and maintain that perfect balance of mental and physical power which alone +can uphold health and happiness.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>It appears that this article was sold in Germany before being +introduced here, and it was included in the series of proprietary +preparations analysed by Dr. Zernik. According to Zernik’s +analysis, it consists of dry yolk of egg, milk sugar, a small +quantity of starch, dextrin, and an aromatic substance.</p> + +<p>A detailed quantitative analysis of “Antineurasthin” as sold +in this country gave the results described below. A 4s. 6d. box +contained twenty-four tablets, having an average weight of +30¹⁄₂ grains each. The directions are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>To be taken when and as required, particularly before or after great +exertions (bodily and mental); in all cases of nervous disorders and mental +affections, general debility, etc.</p> + +<p>Usual dose 3-4 tablets a day between meals. Antineurasthin contains no +injurious ingredients, and is therefore absolutely harmless to the most delicate, +even if taken in large quantities.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page69">[69]</span></p> + +<p>Analysis showed the presence of:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Protein</td> +<td class="number">26.4</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Fat</td> +<td class="number">2.5</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sugar of milk</td> +<td class="number">32.8</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Ash</td> +<td class="number">5.7</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Water</td> +<td class="number">8.3</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text nopad">Gum <span class="righttext">about</span></td> +<td class="number">2.0</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Aromatic substances</td> +<td colspan="2" class="text nopad">traces.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text nopad"><span class="padr4">Potato starch (by difference)</span> <span class="righttext">about</span></td> +<td class="number">22.0</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>The material of the tablets is nearly white, with yellow particles +like dried egg-yolk distributed through it; extraction with +appropriate solvents proved a fair trace of lecithin to be present; +if the whole of the fat present were derived from egg-yolk it +would represent 3.8 per cent. of dried yolk, equivalent to 7.7 per +cent. of fresh liquid yolk in the tablets; this accounts for 1.3 +out of the 26.4 per cent. of protein. Sulphur in organic combination +was found to be present to the extent of 0.09 per +cent.; sulphur is practically absent from the yolk, but occurs +in the white of eggs, and the amount found corresponds to +5.4 per cent. of dried, or about 38.6 per cent. of liquid, egg-albumen +in the tablet; a further 5.1 out of the 26.4 per cent. +of protein is thus accounted for. This leaves 20 per cent. of +protein, and this stands in about the same ratio to 32.8 per cent. +of milk sugar, and about 5 per cent. of ash (deducting the ash of +the egg and gum), as corresponds to the composition of a dried +separated milk. The ash consisted principally of calcium phosphate, +like the ash of milk. The aromatic substances appeared +to include a trace of vanilla and of some other substance that +could not be identified; these are probably added to serve at the +same time as flavouring agents and preservatives.</p> + +<p>The starch was seen by the microscope to be very abundant, +corresponding in appearance to the amount required by difference. +On the above assumptions the composition of the tablets +would be approximately:—</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Dry yolk of egg</td> +<td class="number">3.8</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Dry white of egg</td> +<td class="number">5.4</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Dry separated milk</td> +<td class="number">57.8</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Gum</td> +<td class="number">2.0</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Potato starch</td> +<td class="number">22.7</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Moisture</td> +<td class="number">8.3</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Aromatic substances</td> +<td colspan="2" class="text nopad">traces.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>The daily dose of four tablets, or 122 grains, would, according +to this formula, contain the equivalent of 10 grains of yolk +<span class="pagenum" id="Page70">[70]</span>and 43 grains of white of egg (not dried); the ratio between +these is about the same as exists in an average egg, and the +two may be put together and regarded as about a teaspoonful +of fresh egg; in addition, the daily dose would represent about +2 oz., or a quarter of a tumblerful, of separated milk, and a +little starch.</p> + +<h3>A GERMAN NOSTRUM.</h3> + +<p>According to Dr. Zernik:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p><i>Dr. J. Schäfert’s physiological nutrient (nerve) salts for neurasthenia</i> +is a preparation made in Barmen. The prospectus states that it is composed +of glycerine phosphate compound with certain physiological salts, +which act on the formation of the red blood corpuscles and improve the +circulation generally; 100 grams of the salts put up in a glass vessel costs +4s. It consists of 40 parts of glycerine phosphate of calcium, 30 parts of +glycerine phosphate of sodium, and 20 parts of sodium chloride with a +trace of iron.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<hr class="chap"> + +<div class="chapter"> +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page71">[71]</span></p> +<h2 class="nobreak"><span class="chapno">CHAPTER IV.</span><br> +MEDICINES FOR COUGHS, CONSUMPTION, CATARRH, ETC.</h2> +</div> + +<div class="largersize"> +<p>The medicines described in this chapter include both old +and new nostrums, and vary from simple pills and lozenges +to more or less complex “treatments.” The claims +advanced for them also vary considerably, but are in most +cases very wide. A pill containing ipecacuanha only is put +forward, not merely as sometimes useful for coughs, but as +“The Best Remedy to Cure all Coughs, Colds, Asthmas, +etc.” A lozenge containing cubeb and liquorice is similarly +described as “the best article before the public for Coughs, +Colds, Bronchitis, Asthma, Catarrh, the Hacking Cough in +Consumption, and numerous affections of the throat.” +These, however, are modest claims compared to some of the +others. A lozenge, in which the only medicinal agent found +in any considerable quantity was extract of liquorice, is not +only put forward for most of the above disorders and others +allied to them, but also for “many cases of Headache, +Flatulence, and Indigestion.” A liquid which is said to be +“the best-known remedy for Colds, Influenza, Sore Throat, +etc.,” is also described as a valuable remedy for, among other +things, diarrhœa, disordered stomach, bad circulation of the +blood, and quinsy. The “treatments” are more especially +put forward for catarrh, but here, too, the net is cast rather +wide; in one case, asthma, whooping cough, croup and consumption +are among the diseases for which it is put forward +as a cure, while in another the comprehensive, if awkward, +description of those to whom it is recommended is “all who +wish to quickly cure Catarrh, Asthma, Adenoids, Polypi, +or other Nose-breathing, Chest or Lung, and Voice or Hearing +or Throat Bronchial Trouble.” Needless to say, their +<span class="pagenum" id="Page72">[72]</span>claims are mutually exclusive; one of them, an inhalation +“treatment,” claims to be “the only treatment through +which the diseased parts of the head, throat, and lungs can +be reached”; while the proprietor of another modestly +says: “I assert, without fear of contradiction, that mine is +the only apparatus which sends the medicated vapour over +every membrane that air can reach, and I also assert with +equal firmness that there are no preparations for similar +object which can compare in effectiveness with those supplied +by me.” Two of the treatments are supplied at somewhat +high prices; and, although no exact estimate is given +of the cost of the ingredients, it is evident that it is quite out +of proportion to the amounts charged for them.</p> +</div><!--largersize--> + +<h3>FENNINGS’ LUNG-HEALERS.</h3> + +<p>The article advertised under this name is in the form of small +pills, and is supplied by a firm in the Isle of Wight at 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. a +box, containing thirty pills.</p> + +<p>The pills are advertised as “The Best Remedy to Cure all +Coughs, Colds, Asthmas, etc.” The following quotations are +from a circular enclosed in the package:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Directions for taking Fennings’ Lung-Healers. The Certain Remedy to +cure all Colds, Coughs, Bronchitis, Influenza, Incipient Consumption, The +Coughs of Measles and Scarlet Fever, Asthmas, and other complaints of +the Lungs.</p> + +<p>The Dose is the same for all ages.</p> + +<p>These Lung-Healers, although so beneficial in curing Inflammation, +quelling Fevers, and eradicating the <i>virus</i> of disease, are perfectly harmless +and innocent, and can with equal safety be given to the most tender +infant as well as to the fullgrown person.</p> + +<p>To Cure Colds, Coughs, or Asthma.—One of these Lung-Healers should +be given to the infant, or person, in jam, or by itself, every morning or +evening.</p> + +<p>For Bronchitis, Influenza, Incipient Consumption, the Cough of Measles, +of Scarlatina, or Scarlet Fever, give one of the Lung-Healers, in jam, or +by itself, three times a day.... If, when freely taking of these +Lung-Healers, the child or person should perchance become sick, it need +not be heeded, or reckoned as a bad symptom, for sickness often proves of +great benefit in a complaint, and advantageously assists in lessening all +Fever and Inflammation.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page73">[73]</span></p> + +<p>The average weight of one pill was 0.22 grain. Chemical +analysis and microscopical examination showed that practically +the whole of the material consisted of ipecacuanha; the amount +of alkaloid present was 1.8 per cent., which is a little below +the average for ipecacuanha, and the alkaloid extracted possessed +the characters of ipecacuanha alkaloid. Careful search +for other ingredients, and comparison with powdered ipecacuanha, +showed nothing else to be present but the trace of +excipient used to bind the powder into pills. Estimated cost +of ingredients for thirty pills is ¹⁄₇d.</p> + +<h3>PEPS.</h3> + +<p>These much-advertised lozenges are supplied by a firm in a +Yorkshire town in boxes at 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. and 2s. 9d. per box. A +2s. 9d. box was found to contain ninety-eight lozenges. The +name of the article appears to be derived from the initial letters +of “Pine extract pastilles.” The nature of the claims made is +shown by the following extracts from a booklet issued by the +makers:—</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>In the course of scientific research singular freedom from bronchial +disease was noticed among the dwellers amidst the rich pine forests of +Europe. The great healing power of the odours and balsams of the pine +tree was also observed; and at last a striking connection between the two +facts made itself apparent....</p> + +<p>A study of the peculiar property of pine balsams led to their great +medicinal value becoming more fully recognised, and the idea was evolved +of capturing and storing up these rich essences in some form convenient +for the great masses who are not able to spend winter in the far-famed +forest resorts. It was practically a matter of finding how to transfer to our +crowded homes all the real benefits of the pine woods, so that those victims +of bronchitis, consumption, asthma, colds and other throat and chest affections, +who could not go to pine woods, should have the pine woods and the +rich pine air brought to them—into the very rooms in which they dwell.</p> + +<p>A novel tablet, containing the richest pine extracts—that is, with all +the best pine essences and odours held captive in them—was eventually +perfected; and these tablets, or Peps, as they are called, undoubtedly +supply a long-felt want in the family medicine cupboard. The need is one +that has never yet been properly met by any of the cough mixtures, +lozenges, jujubes, and gums, which no medical attendant can conscientiously +recommend, chiefly through the pernicious drug habits they +encourage and their sheer inability to grant real, lasting relief. “A Pine +Forest in every Home” aptly and pithily describes this new remedy....</p> + +<p>As a Household Medicine they are of unequalled service in cases of +Colds, Coughs, Bronchitis, Sore or Relaxed Throat, Huskiness, Loss of +Voice, Asthma, Influenza, Pneumonia, Pleurisy, the Hacking Cough of +<span class="pagenum" id="Page74">[74]</span>Consumption, Lung Weakness, Children’s Colds, Whooping Cough, Croup, +Chill or Tightness of the Chest, that old Breathing Difficulty, as well as +for many cases of Headache, Flatulence and Indigestion. For Clergymen, +Lawyers, Teachers, and all Public Speakers, they are an invaluable boon.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The lozenges had an average weight of 21 grains. The taste +and odour did not suggest pine oil, but peppermint with a trace +of anise, and on distilling out the oils it was evident that the +principal one present was oil of peppermint, but the quantity +was far too small to be determined quantitatively. Resinous +matter was only present to the extent of 0.7 per cent., and this +did not show the characters of pine resin. No alkaloid was +found, showing the absence of preparations of both opium and +ipecacuanha. Extract of liquorice was present in rather considerable +quantity, as was proved by extraction of the glycyrrhizin. +Sugars constituted about 75 per cent. of the tablet, but +a little of this would be derived from the extract of liquorice; +probably 70 per cent. would about represent the sugar added as +such. Talc was present to the extent of about 4 per cent., and +was doubtless added as a lubricant to aid in making the lozenges +by compression. No other ingredient was found beyond those +named; some sort of pine extract might have been present if it +were free from resin or oil, but in that case it could not be +expected to possess much medicinal value.</p> + +<p>The results of the analysis may be thus summarised:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text nopad"><span class="padr4">Sugar <span class="righttext">about</span></span></td> +<td class="intpart">70</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text nopad"><span class="padr4">Extract of liquorice <span class="righttext">about</span></span></td> +<td class="intpart">25</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Resinous matter</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.7</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of peppermint</td> +<td colspan="3" class="unit">trace.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of anise</td> +<td colspan="3" class="ditto spaced2">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text nopad"><span class="padr4">Talc</span> <span class="righttext">about</span></td> +<td class="intpart">4</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<h3>BROWN’S BRONCHIAL TROCHES.</h3> + +<p>These are supplied by a firm in Boston, U.S.A. A 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. +box was found to contain forty-eight lozenges.</p> + +<p>In a circular enclosed in the package it is stated that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>“<i>Brown’s Bronchial Troches</i>” or Cough Lozenges, allay irritation which +induces coughing, giving instant relief in Consumptive, Bronchial, and +Asthmatic complaints.</p> + +<p>“<span class="smcap">Brown’s Bronchial Troches</span>” were first introduced in the year +1850. <i>It has been proved that they are the best article before the public</i> +for Coughs, Colds, Bronchitis, Asthma, Catarrh, the <i>Hacking Cough</i> of +Consumption, and numerous affections of the Throat, giving <i>immediate +relief</i>....</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page75">[75]</span></p> + +<p>The Troches are efficacious for children with Whooping Cough, or other +affections of the chest, having a soothing influence, assisting expectoration, +and preventing the accumulation of phlegm, which causes the sense of +suffocation so common with this disorder.</p> + +<p><i>There are no particular directions to be observed in the use of the +Bronchial Troches. One or two should be allowed to dissolve slowly in +the mouth, repeating when necessary. We have seen instances of their +good effects in cases of inflammation of the Bronchial Tubes and the hoarseness +of children.</i></p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The lozenges had an average weight of 11.3 grains. Chemical +analysis and microscopical examination showed the presence of +powdered cubeb (about 6 per cent.), extract of liquorice in small +quantity, gum, and sugar (about 70 per cent.). No other substance +was found; if a little extract of cubeb were present as +well as the powdered drug, it could not have been detected with +certainty.</p> + +<h3>DR. WHITE’S KOMPO.</h3> + +<p>This is supplied by a firm in Yorkshire in bottles at 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. +and 2s. 9d. A 2s. 9d. bottle was found to contain 11¹⁄₂ fluid +ounces.</p> + +<p>It is stated in an advertisement that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Dr. White’s “Kompo” is the best-known remedy for Colds, Influenza, +Sore Throats, etc.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="noindent">with other similar statements. But a wider application is +claimed on the label, in the following words:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>A Valuable Remedy for Colds, Influenza, Diarrhœa, Pains in the +Stomach and Bowels, Disordered Stomach, Headache, Cold Feet, Cold +Sweats, Bad Circulation of the Blood, Sore Throat, Quinsy, etc.</p> + +<p>As a Pure Stimulant it is far better than Brandy, or any other Intoxicating +Drink.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The dose is given as</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>One or two teaspoonfuls in a cupful of warm water, well sweetened, +several times a day.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The bottle contained a brown, somewhat turbid liquid, smelling +of cloves and cinnamon. Analysis showed it to contain 6.42 +per cent. by volume of alcohol, and only 2.4 per cent. of solid +matter; this consisted largely of a tannic acid resembling that +of red gum. No alkaloid was present, but constituents of +capsicum, cinnamon, and cloves were recognised, and a small +proportion (0.07 per cent.) of salicylic acid was found. The +<span class="pagenum" id="Page76">[76]</span>following formula gave a mixture scarcely distinguishable from +the original by either physical or chemical means:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Eucalyptus gum (red gum)</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.5</td> +<td class="unit">part.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Caustic soda</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.08</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of cinnamon (or cassia)</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.25</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of cloves</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.25</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Tincture of capsicum</td> +<td class="intpart">7</td> +<td class="fracpart">.5</td> +<td class="unit">parts.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Salicylic acid</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.07</td> +<td class="unit">part.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Rectified spirit</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.5</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="4" class="text">Decoction of cinnamon and cloves<br>to 100 parts by measure.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>The decoction was made by boiling 5 parts each of cloves and +cinnamon with 200 of water until the volume was reduced by +half, straining and adjusting the volume to 100 by measure.</p> + +<p>The caustic soda in the above formula was used to darken the +colour of the red gum. A similar result may be obtained by +adding a very little burnt sugar, and there were some indications +of the presence of this in the original.</p> + +<p>The estimated cost of the ingredients for 11¹⁄₂ fluid ounces is +about 6d.</p> + +<h3>GLYKALINE.</h3> + +<p>This is a liquid supplied by a London firm of homœopathic +chemists. A 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. bottle was found to contain about 1¹⁄₂ fluid +drachms. It is described in an advertisement as:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>A Sure Cure for all Coughs, Colds, Catarrhs, Hay Fever, Influenza, +Asthma, Bronchitis, etc. Rapid and reliable in its effects. Checks a slight +cold with one dose. Cures a severe cold in 24 hours.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>And in a circular enclosed in the package it is stated that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>There is no medicine to equal it for promptly relieving those distressing +colds where there is a constant flow of a thin watery discharge from the +nose, accompanied by continual sneezing, throbbing of the head, and smarting +pains in the eyes, etc.—a few hours sufficing to overcome all these +unpleasant systems.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="noindent">The dose is given on the label as:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Three drops every hour in a tablespoonful of water until relieved, then +every two or three hours until quite well. Children under five years, a +third of the above quantity.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Analysis showed the liquid to contain 35 per cent. by volume +of alcohol, but only 0.15 per cent. of solid matter. This consisted +partly of potassium iodide and partly of organic matter. +Not the slightest trace of any alkaloid could be found.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page77">[77]</span></p> + +<p>Each dose would contain approximately ¹⁄₃₅₀ grain of potassium +iodide, with a trace of organic matter, which <i>may</i> be +derived from some drug.</p> + +<p>The cost of the preparation is practically that of the alcohol +which it contains, or about ¹⁄₆d. for the contents of the bottle.</p> + +<h3>LIQUFRUTA MEDICA.</h3> + +<p>The preparation sold under this name is supplied from “The +Liqufruta Laboratory.” There appear to be two varieties of +the medicine, the one being called simply “Liqufruta,” and +described on the label as “cure for consumption cough, whooping +and every other cough,” while the other is called “Liqufruta +Medica,” and is described on the label as “The Great Consumption +Cure.” The price of the latter is 2s. 9d., and the bottle +was found to contain 12¹⁄₂ fluid ounces.</p> + +<p>Other particulars given on the label are as follows:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Liqufruta Medica the Only Safe Cure for Pulmonary Consumption, +Chronic Asthma, Bronchitis, Catarrh.</p> + +<p>Certain of the germicidal constituents contained in this remedy are otherwise +unobtainable throughout the world.</p> + +<p>Guaranteed free of poison, laudanum, copper solution, cocaine, morphia, +opium, chloral, calomel, paregoric, narcotics, or preservatives....</p> + +<p>Liqufruta Medica heals the chest, lungs, and throat, arrests the inflammation, +loosens the phlegm, and effectually destroys the bacilli of consumption, +etc., which no other medicine can reach. Whilst the cough will +be eased at once, the expectoration will be more profuse for a short time.</p> + +<p>Directions. One dessertspoonful every two hours; in severe cases every +hour, and also during the night whenever cough is troublesome; take a +dose when getting into bed and the moment of awakening in the morning. +When symptoms moderate and pronounced benefit has been obtained the +doses may be administered with one and a-half to two hours’ interval if +desired.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The mixture was found to be a dark brown, rather thick +liquid, smelling like a mixture of garlic or onion and peppermint. +On distilling, a trace of volatile oil was obtained, the +distillate closely resembling the liquid obtained by distilling +onion and a trace of oil of peppermint with water; 100 parts +by measure of the mixture contained 10.05 parts of solids; of +these, 2.05 parts were of mucilaginous or pectinous nature, +3.44 parts were glucose, and 2.28 parts were cane sugar. A +decoction of onion was found to contain a mucilaginous substance +somewhat similar to that obtained from the mixture.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page78">[78]</span></p> + +<p>The liquid was acid, and on evaporation and ignition yielded +an ash which was alkaline, the acidity before and the alkalinity +after ignition being approximately equivalent. This is characteristic +of acid salts containing an alkali-metal and an organic +acid, such as potassium bitartrate. The ash contained a considerable +proportion of potassium, but in the presence of the +sugars and vegetable extractive the small quantity of tartaric +acid could not be identified; the acidity and alkalinity indicated +0.4 part (in 100 fluid parts) of potassium bitartrate, accounting +for 0.16 part of ash; the total ash was 0.4 part, and the other +constituents were such as are found in the ash of most vegetable +extracts.</p> + +<p>Alkaloidal matter was present in very small quantity, the +amount being about 0.01 per cent.; this consisted of two (or +more) alkaloids, neither of which gave the reactions of any of +the ordinary medicinal alkaloids. The other constituents consisted +of tannin, a trace of resin, and extractive. The original +liquid had a very slightly pungent taste, such as would be given +by a trace of a preparation of capsicum or ginger.</p> + +<p>The results of the analysis thus showed:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td colspan="4" class="text">Oil of peppermint</td> +<td rowspan="3" class="brace bt br bb"> </td> +<td rowspan="3" class="brace">-</td> +<td rowspan="3" colspan="3" class="unit mid">traces</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="4" class="text">Oil of onion, or garlic</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="4" class="text">Alkaloids</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="6" class="text">Potassium bitartrate</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.4</td> +<td class="unit">part</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="6" class="text">Glucose</td> +<td class="intpart">3</td> +<td class="fracpart">.44</td> +<td class="unit">parts</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="6" class="text">Cane sugar</td> +<td class="intpart">2</td> +<td class="fracpart">.28</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="6" class="text">Mucilaginous matter</td> +<td class="intpart">2</td> +<td class="fracpart">.05</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text nopad">Tannin</td> +<td rowspan="3" class="brace bt br bb"> </td> +<td rowspan="3" class="brace">-</td> +<td rowspan="3" colspan="3" class="unit mid">together</td> +<td rowspan="3" class="intpart mid">1</td> +<td rowspan="3" class="fracpart mid">.9</td> +<td rowspan="3" class="ditto mid">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text nopad">Extractive</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text nopad">Resin</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text nopad">Water</td> +<td colspan="8" class="right bot">to 100 parts by measure</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p class="noindent">No alcohol was present, and no metallic salts beyond the traces +ordinarily accompanying plant extracts.</p> + +<p>Examination of the plain Liqufruta (for cough) did not show +any important differences between it and “Liqufruta Medica.”</p> + +<h3>HYOMEI.</h3> + +<p>The preparation sold under the name Hyomei is supplied by +a firm in London. The price of an “outfit” is 2s. 6d., and this +consists of an inhaler (consisting of a vulcanite tube), ¹⁄₂ fluid +<span class="pagenum" id="Page79">[79]</span>ounce of inhalant, with pieces of gauze and a dropper; a 3s. 9d. +“refill” of the inhalant alone was found to contain 2 fluid +ounces.</p> + +<p>Hyomei has been widely advertised in the Press for some time +past, advertisements in the daily newspapers usually occupying +a column or so. The following is the first paragraph of one of +these:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Mr. R. T. Booth, who issues the following announcement, is the world-famous +temperance orator, who some years ago, in co-operation with such +friends and co-workers as the late Rev. C. H. Spurgeon, Rev. F. B. Meyer, +and the late Rev. Newman Hall, Archdeacon Wilberforce, Lord Mount +Temple, and others, founded the Blue Ribbon Army, which ultimately +led a million to temperance. This glorious work was cut short by acute +catarrh and threatened consumption, which sent him, by the order of +the late Sir Andrew Clark, health-seeking to Australia. There he made +his great discovery of Hyomei (pronounced Hi-o-me), which not only +cured him, but has since cured multitudes of other sufferers. Hyomei is +an inhalant which, being a powerful germicide, cures by just breathing it.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>In a booklet enclosed in the package it is thus described:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Hyomei, the new Australian Dry-Air Treatment for the Cure of +Asthma, Bronchitis, Catarrh, Catarrhal Deafness, Coughs, Rose Colds, +Whooping Cough, Colds, Croup and Consumption.</p> + +<p>The only Natural Method of Cure.</p> + +<p>The First and only Treatment for all Diseases of the Air Passages and +Lungs ever Endorsed by the Medical Profession....</p> + +<p class="center highline15">What “Hyomei” Is.</p> + +<p>Hyomei is a vegetable compound the result of recent scientific research. +It is a powerful germicide, and absolute destroyer of the germs which +cause diseases of the respiratory organs.</p> + +<p>Hyomei is a cure given by a new method—the only treatment through +which the diseased parts of the head, throat, and lungs can be reached.</p> + +<p class="center highline15">What “Hyomei” Does.</p> + +<p>Hyomei cures all diseases of the air passages. Cures them by just +breathing; cures them through the air you breathe, impregnated with +Nature’s own antiseptic. No douches, sprays, atomizers, or stomach +medicines are used. It at once kills the bacilli of catarrh, bronchitis, consumption, +asthma, and hay fever, bringing a complete cure that can be +obtained in no other way.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Another circular enclosed in the package is in the form of +a letter, beginning “Dear Friend.” From the heading of the +paper it appears that the company are the proprietors of +“Hyomei,” “Hyomei Balm, the wonderful ointment,” +“Hyomei Skin Soap, a medicated toilet soap,” and “Hyomei +<span class="pagenum" id="Page80">[80]</span>Catarmel, for catarrh and catarrhal deafness.” The letter +invites correspondence, as follows:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p class="noindent">... if you are a sufferer from any breathing trouble or from any +form of skin trouble I can help you. That is why I here invite you to +write me personally a letter telling me of your ailment, how long you have +had it, and what you have done so far to cure it. Then I will consider +your case from the particulars you give me, and if suitable for my treatment, +will, without charging you any fee, send you a letter telling you +what you must do to get your cure, and at the same time will send +you sufficient of what I recommend to give you a trial treatment, free.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>“Hyomei” is a liquid smelling strongly of eucalyptus oil. +Analysis showed the presence of eucalyptol, which is the chief +constituent of this oil, together with alcohol and liquid paraffin. +Since many essential oils possess common constituents, and for +the separation of the constituents of one oil, and still more of +a mixture, it is necessary to work on a large quantity of the +material, a full and precise analysis of the mixture in question +was not practicable. It was submitted to fractional distillation +<i>in vacuo</i>, and the various fractions were tested and compared +with, the corresponding fractions of mixtures made up to imitate +the original. It was concluded that the alcohol and liquid +paraffin formed each about 10 per cent. of the whole, and a +determination of the amount of eucalyptol showed nearly all +the remaining 80 per cent. to be oil of eucalyptus. A small +quantity (under 0.2 per cent.) of solid matter, not resinous, +was obtained on distilling the Hyomei, and this could not be +identified, but agreed in some respects with the solid obtained +in a corresponding way from a mixture containing a little wood +tar. A small proportion of creosote was also indicated.</p> + +<h3>THE RHYCOL TREATMENT.</h3> + +<p>This is supplied by a firm in London. The price of an +“outfit” is 17s. 6d. The advertisements of the preparations +sold under this name are mostly very lengthy, and application +to the address given led to the receipt of several circular letters +and a good deal of printed matter. A few extracts will +sufficiently indicate the nature of the statements made:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Free Information how to cure Catarrh and Nose-Breathing Difficulty. +Patient and Physician tell of how they found a cure. It is the hearty +desire of the discoverers of the new cure that all who suffer from the +above complaints should write for a gratis copy of the book they have +just published, under the title of “Rhycol Respiratory Re-Education: +<span class="pagenum" id="Page81">[81]</span>The Physiological Cure for Catarrh, Adenoids, Polypi, and other Nose-Breathing +Difficulties, Catarrhal Deafness and Head Noises, Loss of +Sense of Smell or Taste, Coated Tongue, Bad Breath, Asthma, Bronchitis, +and Weak Chest and Lungs.”</p> + +<p>The cure is remarkable, inasmuch as it calls for no sprays or injections, +no powders to be snuffed—no lozenges or tablets to suck—no operations, +and no painful cauterizing (burning) of the inflamed mucous +membrane....</p> + +<p>The joint authors of the discovery—as the result of a fruitless quest +for relief and cure—were led to experiment along the line of the “First +Cause”—the nose and its respiratory functions.</p> + +<p>The layman it was who made the first enlightening discovery. A +singer, he discovered How <i>the nose could be freed</i>....</p> + +<p>Upon this first-step discovery has been built the new “Rhycol” cure, +the details of which are given fully (and illustrated) in the book....</p> + +<p>In the book is explained how to stop</p> + +<ul class="nostyle"> +<li>Nasty Dropping in the Throat,</li> +<li>Head Stuffiness,</li> +<li>Nose Stuffiness,</li> +<li>Throat Dryness,</li> +<li>Loss of Smell,</li> +<li>Spitting of Thick Phlegm,</li> +<li>Discharge from the Nose,</li> +<li>Loss of Taste, or Offensive Taste in Mouth</li> +<li>Catarrhal (Coated) Tongue,</li> +<li>Catarrhal Deafness,</li> +<li>Gurgling in Ears,</li> +<li>Bad Breath,</li><li>Snapping Noise in Ears,</li> +<li>Voice Troubles,</li><li>Hay-Fever,</li> +<li>Physical and Mental Dulness arising from Respiratory Inefficiency.</li> +</ul> + +<p class="noindent">... all who wish to quickly cure Catarrh, Asthma, Adenoids, Polypi, or +other Nose-Breathing, Chest or Lung, and Voice or Hearing, or Throat +Bronchial Trouble should send for a copy.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The “outfit” consisted of two “inspirators,” 56 tampons, a +collapsible tube of lubricant, and a bottle of “Rhycol Antiseptic +Solution.”</p> + +<p>The “inspirators” were small celluloid shells, open at both +ends and along one side, to be placed in the nostrils to form a +lining. They were marked “R” and “L” respectively, and +the sides intended to lie against the septum and the outer wall +respectively were shaped rather differently; it was not easy, +however, to feel quite such enthusiasm about their beauty, as is +shown in the description which accompanied the outfit:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>The Inspirators ... are hand-modelled and made by one of the most +skilful Anatomical Instrument Makers in the world. They are constructed +on perfect anatomical principles, and from a material that is +not only completely Asceptic in itself, but which cannot be in any way +contaminated or infected by noxious or morbific matters, and is entirely +<span class="pagenum" id="Page82">[82]</span>unaffected by oxidation. The inner side—that part inclined to the +middle septum of the nose—is exquisitely modelled, so as to adapt +itself perfectly to all the sinuosities and flexuations of the central cartilages +and, by a most skilful conformation, the current of air on each +inspiration is most favourably directed through the spongy nasal passages +to the air-openings (nares) at the upper and back of the pharynx.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Since the “inspirators” are supplied to fit (or otherwise) a +strange pair of nostrils, the “exquisite hand-modelling” of one +of the most skilful anatomical instrument makers in the world +appears to be rather wasted. Possibly it is referred to as some +justification of the price of 7s. 6d., which is charged for these +without the remainder of the outfit, but to a disinterested eye +they appear likely to have cost at most a few pence per pair. +It may be remarked that each of the articles constituting the +outfit, even including the box, is elaborately described in a +similar laudatory strain.</p> + +<p>The tampons were small cylinders of cotton-wool, medicated +with a substance having a fragrant and rather terebinthinate +odour. The instructions are to place an “inspirator” in each +nostril and a tampon in each “inspirator,” so that air is drawn +into the nose through the tampons. They are to be kept in +position for about a quarter of an hour the first time, gradually +increasing the time until they can be worn all night. On +extraction with a suitable solvent the tampons yielded a small +quantity of a volatile oil, the average quantity being ¹⁄₁₀ +minim. This had the odour of a mixture of oil of eucalyptus +and essential oil of camphor with a little terebene and a trace of +oil of wintergreen, but the total quantity was far too small for +analysis. The price of the tampons alone is 8s.</p> + +<p>The tube of Rhycol lubricant, which is priced 1s., contained +one-third of an ounce of soft paraffin with the addition of a very +small quantity of carbolic acid. It is directed to be applied +to the inspirators to facilitate their introduction into the +nostrils.</p> + +<p>The Rhycol Antiseptic is to be added in small quantity to +water, to make a liquid in which the inspirators are to be laid, +after washing, when not in use. The bottle contained 1¹⁄₂ fluid +drachms of the antiseptic, which was a solution of formaldehyde. +Thus the actual medicament supplied for the 17s. 6d. consists +of some 6 drops or so of essential oils, distributed on a number +of small wads of cotton wool, the other articles being merely +accessories to facilitate the inhalation of this oil.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page83">[83]</span></p> + +<h3>THE COLMAN METHOD.</h3> + +<p>Under the name “The Colman Method” various medicaments +and apparatus are supplied by Erasmus Colman, London.</p> + +<p>The following are extracts from an advertisement headed:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="center highline15">Dangerous Catarrh! or, Chronic Cold in the Head.</p> + +<p>It is a fearful mistake to neglect catarrh. It is quite certain to develop +into something worse. It will not cure itself.</p> + +<p>I, Erasmus Colman, declare that I have a perfect and speedy cure for +nasal and throat catarrh. It is a system of vapourised medication, complemented +by other highly effective therapeutic aids. It is a home treatment, +occupying but a moment or two of one’s time daily. The benefit +becomes obvious from the first hour. The healing of the diseased condition +is gradual, yet speedy and certain. There is nothing complex about +it. Anybody can easily understand it. It is a pleasant form of cure. It +is permanent.</p> + +<p>I offer a perfectly genuine system of treatment. You cannot obtain it +anywhere else, because it is the result of years of study and active experience, +coupled with extraordinary ability in this particular line of ailment.</p> + +<p>Any sufferer, regardless of his or her position, can obtain my treatment +upon simple and easy terms by confiding in me. I know that I have the +complete cure for catarrh and its consequent ills, including asthma, deafness, +etc. I want to cure every man, woman, and child that suffers.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>In a booklet which is sent to inquirers, entitled <i>Book of +Information concerning My System</i>, etc., many statements are +made in which the modesty of the above claims of “extraordinary +ability” and “the complete cure” are quite equalled:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>I assert, without fear of contradiction, that mine is the only apparatus +which sends the medicated vapour over every membrane that air can reach, +and I also assert with equal firmness that there are no preparations for a +similar object which can compare in effectiveness with those supplied by +me.... It is seldom that a sufferer who applies to me for treatment +does not mention that he has paid out a considerable sum to doctors, and +has never succeeded in getting more than temporary relief. After treating +a sufferer until a patient’s patience (excuse pun) is exhausted, he, the +medical man, usually advises a change of climate or method of living. +This is sometimes practically impossible, and can only be adopted at +serious and, perhaps, total sacrifice of one’s opportunity for supporting his +family. He is, therefore, a true martyr—remains where he is, and bears +the distress of his asthmatic attacks. I want all such persons to come or +write to me. I assert, upon my word of honour, that I have the true cure, +and being the genuine—it is the most inexpensive that money can buy.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Such statements about the medical profession are, of course, +commonly met with in the utterances of nostrum vendors. It +<span class="pagenum" id="Page84">[84]</span>is not always, however, that contempt for “ethics” is so plainly +expressed as in the following:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Because of a narrow-minded custom, which, like other relics of barbarism, +will ultimately be swept away by modern ideas, the practitioners of +medicine are bound together by a sort of mysterious girdle, outside of +which they dare not step. If they do—they are boycotted by their fellows. +One of the rules of the medical fraternity is that they may not advertise in +the newspapers. They must keep their light hidden under a bushel, and, +no matter how skilful they are, they are almost hopelessly smothered by +that large, heavy blanket called “ethics.” ... It is a cruel and +erstwhile stupid form of “protection”—medical ethics. If a registered +medical man dares to advertise, his name is soon struck from the register. +My nature is independent—I am frank, straightforward, outspoken, and +honest. I may be considered as outclassed by medical men, who choose to +remain fettered by the barbaric bonds of so-called etiquette; but I know +that I am near to the hearts of my patients, whose shower of letters by +every post represents an unparalleled outpouring of sincere gratitude. +That is the reason why I stand aloof from medical societies and their old-fashioned +rules of etiquette. I advertise—I cure—and the world is the +better for it.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Since medical societies consist of qualified medical practitioners, +it is just possible that the fact of his not possessing a +qualification may be another reason for this gentleman “standing +aloof.”</p> + +<p>“Patient’s Report Forms,” with a long list of questions to +be answered, were sent to be filled up and returned. One of +these has a space headed:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="center highline2">Particulars of Previous Treatment.</p> + +<p class="noindent">(<i>Patients should here state what doctors have said about case, and give +particulars of treatment previously followed.</i>)</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>However, on applying for a “treatment” and sending the +money, without any particulars of any case, the articles described +below were supplied. The price charged was 14s. 6d., but it +appears that a larger amount is usually asked at first.</p> + +<p>The “outfit” sent comprised:</p> + +<p>An atomiser, for producing a spray, with indiarubber ball.</p> + +<p>A “nasal irrigator,” consisting of a bent glass cylinder for +pouring liquid into the nostrils.</p> + +<p>Two boxes of “Nebular Tablets,” together containing 41.</p> + +<p>A box of “Gargle Tablets,” containing 21.</p> + +<p>A bottle of “Atomising Fluid,” containing 1 fluid ounce.</p> + +<p>A box of pearl-coated pills, containing 21.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page85">[85]</span></p> + +<p>Lengthy directions were enclosed, which may be summarised +as follows:—Every morning: One Nebular Tablet is to be dissolved +in two tablespoonfuls of warm water and the liquid passed +into the nose through one nostril by means of the nasal irrigator +until the nasal cavity is full, retained for two minutes, and run +out; this is then repeated through the other nostril; then, after +gently blowing the nose, the atomising fluid is applied through +each nostril by means of the atomiser. Every evening: Repeat +the above treatment, then dissolve one Gargle Tablet in two +tablespoonfuls of cold water and gargle the throat with the +solution. Take one of the pills daily, after the midday meal.</p> + +<p>The nebular tablets had an average weight of 20 grains. +Analysis showed them to consist of</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sodium chloride</td> +<td class="number">28.3</td> +<td class="unit">per</td> +<td class="unit">cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Borax, slightly dehydrated, equivalent to crystalline borax</td> +<td class="number">28.7</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sodium bicarbonate</td> +<td class="number">29.5</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sugar</td> +<td class="number">12.3</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Talc</td> +<td class="number">3.1</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="4" class="text">Oil of wintergreen—sufficient to impart a fairly strong smell.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>The atomising liquid was shown by analysis to consist of +liquid paraffin, with small quantities of menthol and oil of +cinnamon (far too small to be determined quantitatively). +Traces of other essential oils may have been present.</p> + +<p>The gargle tablets had an average weight of 20 grains. +Analysis showed them to contain:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Borax, equivalent to crystalline borax</td> +<td class="number">4.6</td> +<td class="unit">per</td> +<td class="unit">cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sodium bicarbonate</td> +<td class="number">87.0</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sugar</td> +<td class="number">4.0</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Talc</td> +<td class="number">2.1</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text nopad"><span class="padr4">Powdered vegetable drug</span> <span class="righttext">about</span></td> +<td class="number">1.5</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>They had a faint terebinthinate odour, such as might be given +by a trace of turpentine. The histological characters of the +powdered drug, and the properties and behaviour of the trace +of alkaloid extracted from it, agreed with those of powdered +hydrastis rhizome.</p> + +<p>The pills, being only subsidiary to the other articles, were not +fully analysed. They had an average weight of about ²⁄₃ grain, +and contained aloin; indications of the presence of jalap resin +and podophyllin were also obtained.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page86">[86]</span></p> + +<p>The following extracts from “Truth Cautionary List for +1912,” with reference to the advertiser of the “treatment” +just described, require no comment:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>“Colman, Erasmus, Gray’s Inn Road, London, W.C.—Under this name +Edward Marr poses as a ‘catarrh specialist,’ and sells an appliance for +spraying the nostrils. Asks 15s. at first, but in ‘follow-up letters’ +gradually reduces the price to 7s. 6d. for a three weeks’ trial.”</p> + +<p>“Aural Remedies Co., Craven-house, Kingsway, London, W.C.—One +of the numerous aliases of the aural quack Edward Marr, who also +exploits the deaf as ‘Professor Keith Harvey.’ This concern is run on +the lines of the late Drouet Institute. It had for ‘consulting specialist’ +the notorious H. H. Crippen, who was executed in November, 1910, for +the murder of his wife. Testimonials given to the Aural Remedies Co. +have been used for advertising purposes by E. Colman and by Elmer +Shirley.”</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<h3>A GERMAN NOSTRUM.</h3> + +<p>According to Dr. Zernik:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p><i>Victoria Asthma Drops</i> are put up by the “Victoria Apotheke” in +Berlin, and are supposed to be taken in doses of from 25 to 30 drops during +an attack every half-hour, and 25 drops regularly three times a day as a +preventive. The bottle contains a brownish-yellow fluid, which was found +to consist of tincture of lobelia, tincture of opium, liquor ammonii anisatus, +acetic ether, and potassium iodate.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<hr class="chap"> + +<div class="chapter"> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page87">[87]</span></p> + +<h2 class="nobreak"><span class="chapno">CHAPTER V.</span><br> +MEDICINES FOR INDIGESTION, CONSTIPATION, ETC.</h2> + +</div><!--chapter--> + +<div class="largersize"> + +<p>The present chapter includes the results obtained on +examining a number of the most widely advertised pills and +other proprietary preparations put forward as remedies for +indigestion or as general aperients. The majority of these +are in the form of pills, which show much similarity in their +composition; aloes or aloin is a constituent of all of them, +and is accompanied by one or more of a small series of drugs +in regular use, comprising colocynth, jalap, rhubarb, podophyllin, +ginger, capsicum, cardamoms, soap, and oils of +peppermint, and cinnamon. The secrecy of the formula in +these cases does not apparently conceal any facts which +would be damaging to the sale of the articles if revealed; +but this is, of course, no argument in favour of secrecy. +Two others of the articles here described, both in the form +of tablets, and put forward especially for indigestion, were +found to contain pepsin and diastase, with a small dose of a +vegetable bitter aperient; the dose of both the digestive +ferments was small, the diastatic action of the tablets being +so slight as to be practically negligible. The lengths of +mendacity to which advertisers may go when the real composition +of their wares is unknown is well illustrated by +another nostrum dealt with in this chapter, which is stated +to be composed of the active principles of rare herbs growing +on the Himalaya mountains, and to have the magical property, +when swallowed, of seeking out any organ or portion +of the body which is in an unhealthy state and proceeding +to cure it. It is further asserted, with the emphasis of +<span class="pagenum" id="Page88">[88]</span>italics, that “it <i>cures in one dose</i>.” The booklet in which +this pretended treasure is puffed shows the most gross ignorance +on the part of the writer, who gravely asserts that +“beetles, spider’s web, crab’s eyes, tiger’s tongue, +rhinoceros’s horn, and other repulsive objects form part of +the materia medica now in vogue with the medical profession,” +and that “all organic substances defy detection by +any means known to chemical science,” with much more +preposterous nonsense of the same sort. Analysis, however, +showed the powder to consist of potato flour, and no +other substance could be detected in it.</p> + +<p>In the examination of pills or tablets containing mixtures +of such substances as aloes or extract of aloes, extract of +colocynth, resins of jalap, scammony, or podophyllin, oils +of peppermint, clove, or cinnamon, with powdered drugs +like ginger, capsicum, cardamoms, colocynth, rhubarb (all +yielding extracts as soon as the pills are treated with solvents), +and the whole probably massed with the aid of +syrup, glucose, liquorice powder, etc., the difficulties to be +encountered by the analyst are far greater than in many of +the combinations that are dealt with in other chapters; +and it is not possible as the result of any reasonable and +practicable amount of investigation to assign a quantitative +formula for any such combination of articles which are +themselves variable, and it may easily happen that some +constituents will escape detection, or will be impossible of +identification. It is, therefore, better to avoid naming any +quantities of the different ingredients found, even when the +quantitative determinations (which have been made in +every case) have left very little doubt as to the amount of +some particular substance present in a given combination. +And it must be remembered that with several of the pills +other ingredients than those named may have been present +in small quantity and escaped detection, though it may +fairly be said that this does not apply to powerful or very +important ingredients.</p> + +</div><!--largersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page89">[89]</span></p> + +<h3>MER-SYREN.</h3> + +<p>This consists of powders which are supplied at 2s. 9d. per box +of twenty by Mer-Syren, Ltd., London. There are several +indications that the claims made for this article have undergone +progressive evolution. The earliest advertisement of it which is +before us is a handbill apparently issued three or four years ago, +which commences thus:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>“They that go down to the sea in ships” and Suffer from the distressing +Malady of Sea-sickness will find a Safe and Sure Preventive and Antidote in +Mersyren.</p> + +<p>Mersyren is a never-failing Rapid Remedy.</p> + +<p>Mersyren is not a Drug.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The name at the foot being:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>The Mersyren Syndicate, —— London, E.C., and Singapore Dispensary, —— Singapore.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>A little later a lengthy advertisement in a weekly paper is +headed:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Try this “quick cure” for Biliousness and Indigestion—Free of Cost.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The following extracts are from what follows the heading:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Digestive troubles are the curse of the present generation. And drug +remedies for digestive ailments are almost a bigger curse still....</p> + +<p>Here is a way (and a free way) by which you can absolutely cure your +Digestive trouble by a remedy which is neither a drug nor a purgative.</p> + +<p>Here is a way by which you can absolutely cure:—</p> + +<ul class="nostyle nobot"> +<li>Biliousness,</li> +<li>Sick Headache,</li> +<li>Dyspepsia,</li> +<li>Gastritis,</li> +<li>Indigestion,</li> +<li>Liver Trouble, and other</li> +<li>Digestive Disorders.</li> +<li class="paddedtop">Free of Charge.</li> +</ul> + +<p>Here is a perfect natural remedy which will be freely sent to every reader +who writes for it, and which will quickly, almost instantaneously, cure +your trouble and enable you to regain that good health, those unburdened +spirits, to which, perhaps, you have been a stranger for so very long.</p> + +<p>You have heard of “Mer-Syren,” of course!</p> + +<p>You have heard of it as a non-drug, non-purging remedy for Stomach and +Liver Trouble.</p> + +<p>But perhaps you have not as yet quite realised what a wonderful remedy +it is....</p> + +<p>“Mer-Syren” is a <i>tasteless powder</i>. It is pleasant to take, and swift and +sure in action. It is neither a drug nor an aperient. And it <i>cures in one +dose</i>.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page90">[90]</span></p> + +<p>A little later again appears a whole-page advertisement in a +London daily; the heading of the first two columns is—</p> + +<p class="center blankbefore75">“Remarkable New Book on Health<br> +by Dr. Pearson.<br> +‘How the Body Cures Itself.’”</p> + +<p class="noindent blankbefore75">and the remainder is headed:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p class="center highline15">“The ‘10 Minute Mer-Syren Health Lessons.’”</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The first part is devoted to a description of the book, and a +summary of its twenty so-called chapters. The following extracts +will suffice as a specimen:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Originally published at 2s. 6d., a popular Second Edition is now being +given free to all who will put to the practical test of personal trial the +Author’s “10 Minute Health Lessons.”...</p> + +<p>The book tells what every good Doctor knows, but is, for many reasons, +unable to tell his patients.</p> + +<p>The whole book is written in straightforwardly candid appreciation of +the fact that the Layman Needs—and Desires—Health Knowledge of this +vital kind....</p> + +<p>“Mer-Syren” is the name of a tasteless powder derived from a herb +which powerfully aids the health-reparative power of the body.</p> + +<p>It is not a pill—not a purgative—not weakening—not stomach-upsetting—but +just a “Mer-Syren 10-Minute Health-Lesson” to that part of your +body which needs it....</p> + +<p>... first of all, get and read Dr. Pearson’s book, <i>How the Body Cures +Itself</i> (by means of the “Mer-Syren 10-Minute Health-Lessons”)....</p> + +<p>The book itself is free.</p> + +<p>You have only to get a 2s. 9d. packet of 20 “Mer-Syren 10-Minute +Health-Lesson” Powders.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The “book” is unquestionably the <i>pièce de résistance</i> of all +this advertising. It is a paper-covered pamphlet of 63 pages, +each of the “chapters” referred to in the advertisement occupying +an average space of less than three pages. It is described +as—</p> + +<p class="center blankbefore75 blankafter75">By Dr. Pearson, Author of<br> +“The Liver in Health and Disease,”<br> +“What to Eat and What to Avoid,”<br> +“The Abuse of Phosphorus,”<br> +“The Etiology of Cholera,”<br> +etc., etc.<br> +(Late Principal Medical Officer, North Bhangulpore, India).</p> + +<p>Reference to the volume of maps in the <i>Encyclopædia +Britannica</i> failed to discover any place named Bhangulpore or +North Bhangulpore in India.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page91">[91]</span></p> + +<p>The knowledge possessed by this “Late Principal Medical +Officer,” who curiously omits to give his initials, or his degrees +or qualifications justifying the prefix “Dr.,” may be judged +from the following extracts:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>This pamphlet has been compiled for the benefit of the myriads of +afflicted in every part of the globe, who, after trying the ordinary means +of cure at present obtaining to no purpose, are casting about to discover +a method of treatment for disease which shall cure their ailments and +restore them to their former healthy condition....</p> + +<p>This remedy—Mer-Syren—the direct outcome of many years’ careful and +painstaking study on the part of a few men who may be said to have +devoted their whole lives to investigations as to the Cause and Cure of +Disease—is assuredly one of the greatest boons ever conferred upon suffering +humanity.</p> + +<p>The plain fact is that, as regards the nature of disease, the Medical +Profession is pretty much where Harvey left it nearly three centuries +ago, whilst the means of cure are little better than those employed by +Celsus or Galen, and diseases are arranged in a few haphazard groups, as +motley and incongruous in their composition and disposition as the various +sections of, say, a political party.</p> + +<p>We are, therefore, driven to accept the dictum of Hippocrates: “<i>All +diseases spring from one cause, and the types of all diseases are the same.</i>” +This common origin of all diseases is to be found in that condition, which, +for want of a better definition, we shall call “<i>Debility of the Cells</i>,” either +<i>partial or general</i>. Systems and theories may follow each other like the +waves of the sea, but the trend of medical opinion is setting in this direction, +and, to the opinion expressed by the Father of Medicine, all Schools +of Medicine must come at last....</p> + +<p>The Mineral Acids, Nitric, Hydrochloric and Sulphuric, and Mineral Oils +(Petroleum) are in everyday use as remedies, whilst many of the Earths are +diverted from the uses for which they were intended by the Creator, and +forced into the human stomach. Animal substances, many of the most +repulsive nature and origin, are almost universally used by Medical Men +the world over.... beetles, spider’s web, crab’s eyes, tiger’s tongue, +rhinoceros’ horn, and other repulsive objects form part of the Materia +Medica now in vogue with the Medical Profession....</p> + +<p>The old Blue Pill and Black Draught of our forefathers has given place +to various Salines and the waters of many Spas in the treatment of Bilious +affections, but all to no purpose, the discovery of Mer-Syren ushered in a +new era in the History of Medicine; not only so far as the Liver was concerned, +but also in the case of many other affections regarding the treatment +of which medical men of every school confessed themselves to be +nonplussed.... Under its specific and benign—yet effective—operation the +powers of Nature have been reinforced and strengthened so that she has +been enabled to quickly relieve herself from the incubus of disease, and +phœnix-like, arise from her ashes renewed, invigorated, and endowed with +all her pristine vitality.</p> + +<p>This is the sober opinion gleaned from an experience of one versed in +medicine for a period of nearly forty years....</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page92">[92]</span></p> + +<p>Mer-Syren is composed of the active principles of certain rare plants +which flourish in the valleys situated on the southern slopes of the Himalaya, +between the immense gorge separating Nepaul from Bhutan on the +East, and Almorah on the North-West—the very names of which are +unknown to Western Science, and are therefore not included in any Pharmacopœia +extant. Mer-Syren, therefore, cannot be imitated either in +Europe or the two Americas. Nevertheless, purchasers should protect themselves +by observing that the name of the Mer-Syren Company appears on +every box, and that the place of origin is clearly stated thereon. The +alkaloids upon which its extraordinary and startling effects depend cannot +be determined by analysis, as <i>all organic substances defy detection by any +means known to chemical science</i>....</p> + +<p>There are, in fact, no diseased states or conditions in which the use of +Mer-Syren does not produce beneficial results.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Thus the “powder derived from a herb” of the newspaper +advertisement has become the “active principles of certain rare +plants” in the book, just as the syndicate has become the +limited company, and the remedy for sea-sickness has become +the cure-all:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p class="noindent">for Mer-Syren possesses the wonderful property of permeating every part +of the organism with the same good influences. Moreover, although its +gentle stimulating and strengthening powers are felt throughout the entire +organism, yet its specific healing actions are principally directed to any part +labouring under diseased or disordered action. By virtue of its unique +and specific properties, Mer-Syren immediately operates upon any organ or +tissue whose functions may be in any way deranged, or whose structures +may be breaking down in consequence of disease. And all structures in +either of the two just-named abnormal conditions will instantly respond to +the gentle action of Mer-Syren, when every other form of treatment produces +no effect whatever.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The directions supplied with the powders were as follows:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>For Indigestion and Dyspepsia: Upon rising place two Powders dry upon +the tongue and wash down with a draught of hot water. For Bilious +Headaches: Take one Powder, or two if the attack be very severe, and +wash down with cold water.</p> + +<p>In chronic cases it is obvious that in order to effect a complete recovery +the Powders should be taken regularly until cured.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The powders had an average weight of 25¹⁄₂ grains. Analysis +showed the material to consist principally of starch, with a +little broken vegetable tissue. Microscopical examination +showed the starch to be that of the potato, while the histological +elements of the tissue also agreed exactly with those of the +potato. Some raw potato was therefore dried without heat and +powdered, and the two powders compared in their behaviour to +<span class="pagenum" id="Page93">[93]</span>a large number of tests, qualitative and quantitative, and also +by means of the microscope. The potato which was prepared +as described became greyish in colour during the drying, whereas +the Mer-Syren powder was of a creamy colour; no other difference +was found between them, and no other substance but potato +could be detected.</p> + +<h3>CICFA.</h3> + +<p>This medicine, which has had four different names, but +appears to be called Cicfa at present, is supplied at 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. and +2s. 9d. per package by a London limited company. A 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. +package was found to contain 21 tablets, and a 2s. 9d. package +63.</p> + +<p>The original name of these tablets appears to have been +“Tablones,” but in consequence of legal action taken by +another firm, whose trade mark this word was considered to +resemble too closely, it was changed to “Cicfa.” The derivation +of this word is supplied by the phrase which occurs freely +in the advertisements, “Cures Indigestion, Constipation, Flatulence, +Acidity.” Later, however, this word was dropped, +and the medicine advertised as “Mother’s Advice”; more +recently still it was advertised as “Tablenes,” while now the +former name of Cicfa seems to have been re-adopted.</p> + +<p>The preparation is advertised in the following terms:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>You may eat what you please when you please as your Indigestion, +Flatulence and Constipation are not merely Relieved but permanently +cured by “Mother’s Advice” (Formerly called “Cicfa”). Purgatives +often relieve Indigestion and make you feel better for a few days. +“Mother’s Advice” cures absolutely and permanently, because while +purgatives simply remove the undigested food, “Mother’s Advice” +completely digests everything you eat.</p> + +<p class="center highline15"><span class="smcap">Why “Cicfa” Must Cure Every Case.</span></p> + +<p>All the tortures of Indigestion, the Acidity and Heartburn, with Teeth +on Edge, the Burning Spot behind the Left Shoulder Blade, with pains +shooting through towards the Heart, the Heart Palpitation, with Cold +Hands and Feet and General Weakness, the Flatulence and Pressure and +Discomfort, the rumbling and often excruciating Bowel pain, are all due +to your failure to digest your food, and three-quarters of it is due to +Failure To Digest Starchy Food Like Bread, Potatoes, Bananas, etc.; but +you like to eat those, and you need them, and if you could digest them +you would have none of this pain, discomfort, and misery, and you would +have all the nourishment which comes from such food when well digested</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page94">[94]</span></p> + +<p>You do not digest the food because you have not enough digestive juices +in the Stomach and Bowels. “Cicfa” contains just enough digestive +material to make sure that the albuminous food like meat, eggs, etc., will +be digested in your stomach, and just enough of that wonderful digestive +material Which Is Not Found In Any Other Proprietary Medicine which +digests all starchy food like bread, potatoes, bananas, etc.</p> + +<p><span class="smcap">Dose.</span>—One with the early part of each meal three times daily. Severe +cases may take two with each meal for a short time, and then reduce the +dose as the cure proceeds.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The tablets had a chocolate-coloured sugar coating; after +removal of this they had an average weight of 1.85 grains. +Analysis showed the presence of pepsin, diastase, reducing sugar +(apparently maltose), a bitter extract agreeing in characters +with extract of cascara sagrada, a small quantity of a pungent +substance which appeared to be oleo-resin of capsicum, together +with talc and a little starch, the last being probably derived +from the coating. The digestive power on egg-albumen and on +starch was determined; the former corresponded to about ²⁄₃ +grain of pepsin of B.P. strength in each tablet; the material +digested about 1.4 times its own weight of starch in half an +hour at 40°, which corresponds to a very small proportion of +diastase, but as commercial diastase varies much in strength, +no quantity can be specified as equivalent; from a comparison +of the bitterness and pungency of a mixture made up to imitate +the tablets the amount of extract of cascara appeared to be +about ¹⁄₄ grain in each, and of oleo-resin of capsicum about +¹⁄₃₀₀th grain.</p> + +<h3 id="Ref03">CELMO NO. 2.</h3> + +<p>This is supplied by the same makers as Celmo, <a href="#Ref02">reported on</a> in +Chapter I. It is recommended for “indigestion, gouty +dyspepsia, flatulence, etc., etc.”</p> + +<p>A bottle, price 2s. 9d., contained 30 tablets, of average weight +5.8 grains. The principal ingredients were found to be pepsin +and diastase. The amount of pepsin was found, by its digestive +action on albumen, to be equivalent to about 3 grains of pepsin +(<i>B.P.</i>) in each tablet. The amount of diastase could only be +inferred from the diastatic power of the mixture, but, as commercial +diastase is very variable in strength, no exact quantity +can be stated as the amount present; the diastatic power was +such that a tablet digested 1.9 times its weight of starch in +half an hour under the conditions of the test of the <i>British +<span class="pagenum" id="Page95">[95]</span>Pharmaceutical Codex</i>, so that about 100 tablets would be +required to have as much effect in the digestion of starch as an +average teaspoonful of a good active malt extract. Maltose was +also present, suggesting that the diastase may have been added +in the form of malt extract.</p> + +<p>A small quantity of a bitter substance was present, which +agreed in its characters with Socotrine aloes, the amount being +about ¹⁄₂ grain in each tablet. Stearic acid and starch were +present in small quantity; these materials are commonly employed +as accessories in tablet making. No evidence was found +of any other ingredients.</p> + +<h3>WHELPTON’S PURIFYING PILLS.</h3> + +<p>Whelpton’s Purifying Pills are supplied by a firm in London +at 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. per box containing 60 pills.</p> + +<p>They are advertised in the following terms:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Indigestion is the primary cause of most of the ills to which we are +subject. Hence a medicine that stimulates the digestive organs will +relieve quite a number of complaints. Whelpton’s Vegetable Purifying +Pills arouse the stomach to action, promote the flow of gastric juice, and +give tone to the whole system. Headache flies away. Biliousness, +Kidney Disorders, and Skin Complaints disappear, while cheerful spirits +and clear complexions follow in due course.... The occasional or +regular use of Whelpton’s Pills, by assisting Nature to get rid of superfluous +matter, relieves the congested condition of skin and kidneys, and +speedily restores the natural functions of these important organs. Whelpton’s +Purifying Pills are thus a direct purifier of the blood.... Daily +doses of Whelpton’s Purifying Pills will arouse the Liver to proper action, +and, by removing the cause of obstruction, speedily restore the general +health of the body.</p> + +<p>These Pills may be taken at any time, but it is generally found most +convenient to take them at bed-time. In ordinary cases two will be a +sufficient dose, but three or four may sometimes be necessary according +to the age and strength of the patient or obstinacy of the complaint.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The pills had an average weight of 2¹⁄₂ grains. Chemical and +microscopical examination showed the presence of aloes (apparently +Socotrine), powdered colocynth, ginger, and gentian, the +last-named ingredient being less positively indicated than the +others. No evidence of the presence of mercury or calomel was +obtained.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page96">[96]</span></p> + +<h3>CHAS. FORDE’S BILE BEANS.</h3> + +<p>These “beans,” which consist of ovoid, coated pills, are +supplied by a firm in London. A box, price 1s. 1¹⁄₂d., was +found to contain 30 pills, and a 2s. 9d. box 90.</p> + +<p>In a circular enclosed in the package they are described as +“absolutely unequalled” for biliousness and other complaints, +of which thirty-eight are named, including anæmia, piles, influenza, +despondency, blackheads, rheumatism, etc. It is further +stated that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Chas. Forde’s also cure Fatty and Waxy Degeneration of the Liver, +“Hob-nailed” or “Gin-drinker’s” Liver (Cirrhosis), and the host +of ailments having a common origin in impaired digestion, assimilation, +and secretion, and in defective working of the excretory organs. Chas. +Forde’s are likewise of inestimable service in all the disorders peculiar to +women, while as a general aperient and tonic remedy they are unsurpassed.</p> + +<p>Chas. Forde’s bile beans do not contain a single particle of Mercury, +Bismuth, or other poisonous mineral substance, and are also devoid of +Aloes....</p> + +<p>As a General Aperient.—Two to four beans as occasion may require.</p> + +<p>As a Tonic.—One bean after the midday meal, and one upon going +to bed.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The pills were coated with gelatine, the coating being coloured +black. The average weight after removal of the coating was +2.3 grains.</p> + +<p>The statement that they are devoid of aloes appears to be +true only if it is taken to refer to aloes itself and not to preparations +of aloes, as tests showed very clear evidence of the +presence of aloin; other constituents shown by chemical and +microscopical examination were powdered cardamoms, oil of +peppermint, and wheat flour; some evidence was obtained of +extract of colocynth, but not sufficiently conclusive for its presence +to be definitely asserted. No evidence of the presence of +mercury or calomel was obtained.</p> + +<h3>CARTER’S LITTLE LIVER PILLS.</h3> + +<p>These are supplied by a New York firm; they are largely +advertised and sold in Great Britain. A package, price 1s. 1¹⁄₂d., +was found to contain 42.</p> + +<p>They are described on the package as:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Purely Vegetable. For Headache. For Dizziness. For Biliousness. +For Torpid Liver. For Constipation. For Sallow Skin. For the +Complexion,</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page97">[97]</span></p> + +<p class="noindent">and in a circular contained in the package as:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p class="noindent">designed to act upon the Liver and Bile in such a manner as to secure all +the benefits of a prompt and active medicine, without any of the unpleasant +effects which usually attend the use of ordinary liver remedies.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The pills were sugar-coated, and after removing the coating +had an average weight of ¹⁄₃ grain. Chemical and microscopical +examination gave evidence of the presence of aloes +(Barbados) or a preparation of aloes, podophyllin, powdered +liquorice root, and wheat starch, the last probably from the +coating. No other ingredient could be detected.</p> + +<h3>HOLLOWAY’S PILLS.</h3> + +<p>These are supplied by Thomas Holloway, London. A box, +price 1s. 1¹⁄₂d., was found to contain 49 pills.</p> + +<p>It is stated in the advertisement that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>They have positively no equal for thoroughly cleansing the system and +putting the liver and kidneys in functional order, without pain or griping.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>A pamphlet which was wrapped round the box is entitled:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>A Key to Health!!! The Hollowayian System of Medicine and its adaptation +for the treatment of many Diseases incident to the human frame.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="noindent">It appears from the pamphlet that “the Hollowayian System +of Medicine” might be summoned up in the words: Take Holloway’s +Pills; apply Holloway’s Ointment. Among the complaints +for which this “system” is prescribed are gout, rheumatism, +sciatica, paralysis, liver complaints, asthma, inflammation +of the kidneys, bronchitis, quinsy, bad legs, bad breasts, +ulcers, wounds, sores, tumours, piles and fistulas, the turn of +life, floodings and the whites, obstruction of the menses, dropsies, +jaundice, youthful indiscretion, impotency, palpitation of the +heart, debility, indigestion, constipation, gravel, stone, venereal +diseases, influenza, erysipelas, lepra blotches, scald heads and +ringworms, scrofula, ague, diarrhœa, etc. The dose recommended +in different cases varies from two pills a day to seven +pills night and morning.</p> + +<p>The pills had an average weight of 1.4 grain. Chemical and +microscopical examination showed the presence of aloes (Barbados), +or a preparation of aloes, powdered ginger, and soap. +There was no evidence of the presence of mercury or calomel.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page98">[98]</span></p> + +<h3>PAGE WOODCOCK’S WIND PILLS.</h3> + +<p>These pills are supplied by Page Woodcock, Limited. The +price of a box containing 32 pills was 1s. 1¹⁄₂d.</p> + +<p>They are thus described in a circular enclosed in the package:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>The Most Effectual Medicine Yet Discovered for the Prevention and +Cure of Disease....</p> + +<p>In all cases of Indigestion, Liver Complaints, Biliousness, Constipation, +Palpitation, Debility, Anæmia, Irregularities, Bad Assimilation, Wind in +the Stomach and Bowels, Spasms, Heartburn, Giddiness, Disturbed +Slumbers, Piles, Toothache, Neuralgia, etc., they will, if taken in accordance +with the following directions, effect a positive and permanent cure in +the most stubborn and deep-rooted cases.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The directions in various cases are from three to nine pills to +be taken daily.</p> + +<p>The pills were pearl-coated, and after removal of the coating +had an average weight of 1.6 grain. Chemical and microscopical +examination showed the presence of aloes (Barbados) or a preparation +of aloes, a little ginger, a little soap, a trace of +capsicum, and oils of peppermint and cinnamon; some other +vegetable tissue was also present, but it did not possess any +characters by which it could be identified. No mercury or +calomel was present.</p> + +<h3>SCOTT’S PILLS.</h3> + +<p>Scott’s Pills are supplied by W. Lambert, London, in boxes, +price 1s. 1¹⁄₂d., containing 24 pills. A circular sent with the +pills is headed:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Bilious and Liver Complaints, Indigestion, Costiveness, Loss of Appetite, +Worms, Gout, Inflammations, Rheumatism, Lumbago, etc., effectually +removed by the use of Dr. Scott’s Bilious and Liver Pills.... Prepared +from the Recipe of Dr. Scott, of Bromley, Kent.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The recommendations for their employment include the +following:—</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>The evil effects arising from intemperance will be prevented if recourse +is had to them after excess of eating or drinking. Preparatory to Sea or +Cold Bathing they are particularly necessary; by taking a Pill or two for +a few nights previous the bowels will be cleansed from any crudities that +may adhere to them, and the body rendered in a proper state for the prevention +of many uncomfortable complaints. They are also the most excellent +alterative and cleanser of sallow complexions, caused by obstructions +of the Liver. To seafaring persons they are particularly recommended, as +the use of them will prevent many disorders incident to such a life, which +<span class="pagenum" id="Page99">[99]</span>frequently prove fatal. Pregnant women will find them a most efficacious +medicine in preventing Bilious Vomitings, Nervous Headaches, and other +complaints peculiar to their situation....</p> + +<p>Mr. Lambert wishes to impress on parents the necessity of administering +these Pills to their children; they will find them a most efficacious Medicine +for eradicating Worms, Fevers, Coughs, Inflammations, and all disorders +of the Stomach and Bowels; the child will be strengthened, saved +from all sickness, and the parents themselves much trouble and uneasiness.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The pills had an average weight of 2.4 grains. Chemical and +microscopical examination indicated the presence of aloes (Socotrine) +in rather small quantity, ginger, rhubarb, and soap. No +mercury or calomel was present.</p> + +<h3>KER-NAK.</h3> + +<p>Ker-Nak, or Ker-Nak Pills, are supplied by a company in +Leeds at 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. per package, containing 41 pills. They are +thus described in a circular accompanying the package:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Ker-Nak is a natural and valuable remedy which marks an important +step in advance of old-fashioned purges and drastic mineral pills. These +latter, with their mercury, bismuth, and other crude ingredients, only +irritate, inflame, and, in the end, seriously injure, the delicate linings of +the stomach and bowels. All such mineral drugs, doubtful in their +physiological action and paralysing and harmful in their eventual effect, +do not in any way, directly or indirectly, enter into the composition of +Ker-Nak, which, on the contrary, contains certain essences and oils, +the valuable constituents of fresh ripe fruit, together with valuable +vegetable extracts and internal disinfectants reputed for their purity and +medicinal worth.... The unapproachable excellence of Ker-Nak from a +medicinal or healing standpoint, as well as its greater suitability for +sickness contracted under present-day conditions ... renders this <i>natural</i> +treatment, so invaluable in cases of: Constipation, Headache, Indigestion +... Sleeplessness, Neuralgia, Palpitation ... Anæmia, and most +Female Ailments (in youth, motherhood, middle-age, and declining +years), Piles ... Hysterics, Shortness of Breath ... Rheumatic Affections, +Influenza, and its after-effects....</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The lengthy circular concludes with a paragraph headed:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="center highline15"><span class="smcap">Free Advice.</span></p> + +<p>Any reader in need of sound advice upon his or her own ailment can +have, Free of Cost, the assistance of our fully qualified Medical Staff.</p> + +<p>Describe in detail all the symptoms of your illness, say how long the +illness has lasted, and what you have been doing for it in the past: +and have no hesitation in stating fully any matter which troubles you. +The medical staff will tell you frankly and in confidence what is the +best treatment for you to adopt.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page100">[100]</span></p> + +<p>The directions on the package are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Dose—1 to 3, or in severe cases, two doses of 2 each, one dose at night +and repeat after the next mid-day meal.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The pills were coated with orange-coloured pearl-coating; +after removing it they had an average weight of 1¹⁄₂ grain. +Chemical and microscopical examination indicated the presence +of aloes (Barbados) or a preparation of aloes, a little soap, a +very little oleo-resin of capsicum, and a little vegetable tissue +which appeared to be marshmallow root (used as an excipient). +There was no evidence of the presence of mercury or calomel.</p> + +<h3>COCKLE’S PILLS.</h3> + +<p>The present maker’s name of these is not given, but they are +described in the circulars which accompany them as being +“Prepared by the late James Cockle, Surgeon and Apothecary, +4, Great Ormond Street, London.” A box, price 1s. 1¹⁄₂d., was +found to contain 16 pills. It was also stated that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>These pills consist of a careful and peculiar admixture of the best and +mildest vegetable aperients, with the pure extract of the flowers of the +camomile. They will be found a most efficacious remedy for derangement +of the digestive organs, and for obstructions and torpid action of +the liver and bowels, which produce Indigestion and the several varieties +of Bilious and Liver Complaints ... these Pills are not recommended +as containing any new or dangerously active ingredients; on the contrary, +they are characterised by a remarkable simplicity of combination, and +whatever merit they may be found to possess depends as much upon +the selection of pure drugs and the unusual labour and attention bestowed +upon their subsequent preparation, as upon the acknowledged peculiarity +of their composition. They are not recommended as a panacea, nor are +they adapted to all complaints; but as a mild and efficacious <i>aperient</i> +and <i>tonic</i> in the various forms of Indigestion, with intestinal irregularity +admitting their use, it will not, perhaps, be an exaggeration to state that +they have been resorted to under all systems of diet, changes of climate, +or atmospheric alternations, with an extraordinary degree of success, for +a period extending over more than half a century.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The directions vary from “One Pill to be taken an hour +before dinner” to “Two or three at any time.”</p> + +<p>The pills had an average weight of 4 grains. Chemical and +microscopical examination indicated the presence of aloes (Socotrine), +a little soap, powdered colocynth, powdered jalap, and +another vegetable tissue which did not agree in characters with +any drug now in ordinary use, and which could not be identified. +No evidence of the presence of mercury or calomel was detected.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page101">[101]</span></p> + +<h3>BURGESS’ LION PILLS.</h3> + +<p>The first volume of this book contained the results of analysis +of Burgess’ Lion Ointment, and the Pills are a companion medicine. +A box, price 1s. 1¹⁄₂d., was found to contain 24 pills. In +a circular enclosed in the package it is stated that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>The Pills act beneficially by imparting a healthy action to the Liver +and Digestive Organs, removing Obstructions and purifying the Blood, +completely renovating the health by expelling and preventing the recurrence +of disease. When suffering from Headache, Giddiness, Pains in the +Back or Loins, Loss of Appetite, or a feeling of General Debility, these +Pills will be found most invaluable.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The directions on the label are “Two to be taken at bedtime.”</p> + +<p>The pills were pearl-coated; after removal of the coating they +had an average weight of 4¹⁄₄ grains. Chemical and microscopical +examination indicated the presence of ipecacuanha, +rhubarb, a little jalap, probably aloes (Socotrine), and oil of +peppermint, and soap. There was no evidence of the presence +of mercury or calomel.</p> + +<h3>HOOD’S VEGETABLE PILLS.</h3> + +<p>These are supplied by a limited company in London, in +bottles, price 1s. 1¹⁄₂d., containing 34 pills.</p> + +<p>They are described on the package as:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>The great Liver Invigorator. A mild, efficient cathartic, purely vegetable, +unequalled as a family physic and after-dinner pill. A valuable +remedy for Liver Complaint, Constipation, Nausea, Billiousness, Headache, +Indigestion, Sour Stomach, Distress after Eating, Jaundice.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The directions, given in a circular enclosed in the package, +are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>For Biliousness, Jaundice, Sick Headache, Constipation, Flatulence, +Dizziness, Nausea, and all Liver Troubles, and to Relieve or Prevent +Malaria and Influenza. For laxative effect, the usual dose is one, two, +or three pills taken at bedtime in a draught of water; for purgative effect, +from three to six pills, taken in the same way....</p> + +<p>For Indigestion, Heartburn, Distress in the Stomach, Fulness after +Eating: The usual dose is one pill taken immediately after eating, in a +draught of water.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The pills were sugar-coated, and, after removal of the coating, +they had an average weight of ¹⁄₂ grain. Chemical and microscopical +examination showed the presence of aloes (Barbados) +or a preparation of aloes—probably aloin, ginger, capsicum, +colocynth, soap, and probably a little jalap. There was no +evidence of the presence of mercury or calomel.</p> + +<hr class="chap"> + +<div class="chapter"> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page102">[102]</span></p> + +<h2 class="nobreak"><span class="chapno">CHAPTER VI.</span><br> +KIDNEY MEDICINES.</h2> + +</div><!--chapter--> + +<div class="largersize"> +<p>The secret remedies dealt with in this chapter comprise a +further selection from those advertised for the cure of backache +and kidney disorders. Several of those which were +described in the previous report on nostrums of this class +(<i>Secret Remedies</i>, p. 66) were pills, nearly all containing +potassium nitrate and oil of juniper. Of the four pills now +reported on, only one contains these ingredients; two consist +chiefly of soap and sodium carbonate, and the fourth +contains copaiba as the only active substance found; this, +although advertised for backache and kidney troubles, appears +to be principally put forward for gonorrhœa, gleet, +and similar disorders. Neither of the two liquids described +in the report appears to contain any very active substance; +one of these, of American origin, and stated to contain more +effectual doses and more medicine in each dose than any +other remedy at the same price, proved to contain 10.5 +per cent. of alcohol and 46.5 per cent. of sugars, with only +2.4 per cent. of vegetable extractive, which appeared to be +partly derived from cascara sagrada, a trace of oil of wintergreen +giving an aromatic flavour to the whole. Needless to +say, the claims advanced for this combination do not show +more modesty than is displayed in other cases, including as +they do the assertions that it cures Bright’s disease, expels +gall stones, cures impotence, drives malarial poison out of +the system, is the best remedy for liver complaint, torpid +<span class="pagenum" id="Page103">[103]</span>liver, and biliousness, and possesses the rarest electric and +therapeutic properties in a very concentrated form. The +other liquid preparation appears to depend chiefly on magnesium +sulphate and potassium citrate, with a very little +sweet spirit of nitre and some vegetable extractive in which +no active substances were recognised. The extraordinary +carelessness with which the ingredients of nostrums may be +thrown together is shown by comparing the contents of different +bottles; one contained five times as much magnesium +sulphate as the other. This preparation is foisted upon the +public as an ingredient in a “prescription” which is published +in various papers in the guise of an item of information; +readers are advised to take it only to “chemists of +well-known standing,” in order to avoid some other ingredient +being substituted for one of those named; probably +chemists of well-known standing who received such a “prescription” +would take good care to inform the purchaser +that one of the ingredients was a secret nostrum and not a +recognised preparation of known composition like the others, +and our analysis may allow of a little further information +being now given. One of the pills reported on is one +member of a series called “The Home Doctor Remedies,” +which furnishes a good illustration of the advantage to the +proprietor of a nostrum in supplying directly to the public. +In this case the proprietor is a limited company—though +using the name of an individual—claiming to be “Specialists +in the Treatment and Cure of Rupture,” and inviting every +one suffering from rupture to submit particulars and +measurements, etc., in order to be supplied with an appliance +and the application, shown in a previous report to be +a tincture of capsicum with certain essential oils, which is +to “cure” the rupture. In this way large numbers of +names and addresses are doubtless obtained, and the persons +applying are not only furnished with particulars of the rupture +“treatment,” but also—in due course—with the particulars +<span class="pagenum" id="Page104">[104]</span>of “The Home Doctor Remedies” for various +disorders, remedies said to have been evolved for the treatment +of complications interfering with the cure of rupture; +they no doubt provide a remunerative subsidiary business. +The pamphlet describing them contains the statement “we +have no large advertising expenses, and are thus in a position +to exclude all but the very best quality of articles used in +their manufacture, and still supply the articles at a reasonable +price”; how reasonable the price is may be seen by +comparing the estimated cost of the ingredients (about ¹⁄₂d.) +with the price charged for the pills (1s. 9d.).</p> +</div><!--largersize--> + +<h3>HOLDROYD’S GRAVEL PILLS.</h3> + +<p>These are supplied by a firm in the north of England in +boxes at 1s. 1¹⁄₂d., containing twenty-five.</p> + +<p>They are advertised as:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>A positive cure for Gravel, Pains in the Back, Dropsy, Diseases of the +Kidneys, Gout, Sciatica.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Some extracts from circulars enclosed in the package are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Have you Pains in the Back, Between the Shoulders, In the Joints? +If so, don’t go on suffering day after day when you can be quickly and +permanently cured by Holdroyd’s Gravel Pills, which are guaranteed to +give Immediate Relief in all cases of Gravel, Lumbago, Pains in Back, +Dropsy, Wind and Water Complaints, Rheumatism, Gleet, Kidney +Disease, Gout, Sciatica, etc.</p> + +<p>They have never been known to fail and never can. They have cured +diseases after long years of suffering, when various remedies, hospitals, +and medical men have tried in vain. A steady perseverance with these +marvellous Pills has effected wonderful cures.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The directions are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Two Pills three times a day, morning, afternoon, and night.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The pills were not regularly coated, but had a thick covering +of loosely adhering magnesia, more or less impregnated with +oil of anise and colouring matter from the pill. After removal +of this layer their average weight was 4.3 grains. Analysis +showed the presence of oil of anise, soap, sodium carbonate, and +powdered rhubarb. The proportions of the different ingredients +<span class="pagenum" id="Page105">[105]</span>were determined as nearly as possible, and the following formula +was arrived at:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Soap</td> +<td class="number">40</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Dried sodium carbonate</td> +<td class="number">20</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered rhubarb</td> +<td class="number">20</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of anise</td> +<td class="number">10</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Syrup</td> +<td class="number">10</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Estimated cost of ingredients for twenty-five pills ¹⁄₃d.</p> + +<h3>DR. DE ROOS’ COMPOUND RENAL PILLS.</h3> + +<p>These pills are supplied by a firm in London at 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. per +box, containing fifteen pills.</p> + +<p>They are advertised as follows:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Dr. De Roos’ Compound Renal Pills have over Fifty years’ reputation +as the most safe and speedy remedy for Pains in the Back, Gravel, Lumbago, +Gout, Rheumatism, Weakness across the Loins, Sandy or other +deposits, Stone, Stricture, and Diseases of Kidneys and Urinary Organs +generally.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="noindent">And in a pamphlet enclosed in the package it is stated that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>By their use alone many thousands are annually restored to health, +and the agonies of gout and rheumatism may now be considered a voluntary +affliction, as no one need suffer these excruciating torments if they +will only have recourse to these Pills, which are confidently recommended +by the proprietor as the only real specific, and being entirely free from +colchicum, mercury, and other injurious ingredients, may be taken with +perfect safety by sufferers of either sex. For weakness across the loins, +sandy or other deposits, discharges, and diseases of the urinary organs +generally, they are altogether unrivalled. They correct acidity of the +stomach, promote the functions of the kidneys, thereby preventing stone in +the bladder, and many other serious disorders to which these important +organs are liable. Many complaints, long supposed to be nervous, often +arise solely from contamination of the blood with certain impurities which +should have been carried off by the kidneys. Several unsightly eruptions +of the skin and face also arise from the same cause, and may be as readily +removed by these Pills.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Varying directions are given for different cases, the dose varying +from “one or two” to “two or more” to be taken either +every night, or every morning, or both night and morning.</p> + +<p>The pills were not regularly coated, but had a thick covering +of powdered liquorice. After removing this, their average +weight was 4.5 grains. Analysis showed the presence of soap +(34.2 per cent., calculated as anhydrous), sodium carbonate +(19.7 per cent. of the dried salt), a resin (3.3 per cent.), and a +<span class="pagenum" id="Page106">[106]</span>small quantity of vegetable tissue with moisture and extractive. +The resin did not contain colophony, and did not show the characteristic +behaviour of galbanum, but may have been derived +from ammoniacum. It possessed no characters by which its +source could be determined. The vegetable tissue appeared to +be derived from a leaf, but could not be identified with any drug +in ordinary use. No other active ingredient was found.</p> + +<h3>RED CROSS PILLS.</h3> + +<p>Red Cross Pills are supplied by a limited company in Liverpool. +A 2s. 9d. box was found to contain sixty-one pills.</p> + +<p>An advertisement of the pills is as follows:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Red Cross Pills are the Wonder of the Day. Cure for Kidney, Bladder, +Backache, Gravel, and all discharge from any cause. 30 years’ Reputation. +Thousands of Testimonials. Send 2s. 9d. postal order.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>A box of the pills was sent for, no reference being made to +the purpose for which they were required. They were received +by post with the following letter (the punctuation is unaltered):</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Dear Sir,</p> + +<p class="noindent"><span class="padl4">We</span> thank you for your letter, Pills herewith. You will make better +progress if you do not touch any intoxicants drink Soda and Lime Juice +or a little Claret instead; at home plenty of Barley Water, if can help +you in any way, please write to us, and we will do our best for you in +the way of advice. With our best wishes for a speedy cure. Yours truly.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The following is an extract from a pamphlet enclosed in the +package:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>If you suffer from pains in the back and Lumbago, take the Red Cross +Pills; thousands have been cured by their use.</p> + +<p>If you suffer from Gravel, the Kidneys, and Inflamation of the Bladder, +take Red Cross Pills; thousands have been cured by their use.</p> + +<p>If you suffer from old standing ailments which are the curse of manhood, +and which bring premature decay of Nervous and Physical Strength, +such as Strictures, Spermatorrhoe, Nocturnal Emissions, Prostate Affections, +etc., etc., take the Red Cross Pills; thousands have been cured by +their use.</p> + +<p>If you suffer from what is generally known to be red sand deposit in +the urine, or urine unclear and cloudy, take the Red Cross Pills; thousands +are relieved every day by their use for the same complaints.</p> + +<p>If you suffer from want of energy caused by old standing ailments +and impurity of the Blood, take the Red Cross Pills: thousands have been +cured by their use.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page107">[107]</span></p> + +<p>If you suffer from Gonorrhœa, Gleet, or discharges of any description, +accidental, recent, or chronic cases, arising from any causes, take the +Red Cross Pills; thousands have been cured by their use.</p> + +<p>The Red Cross Pills are warranted to be purely vegetable and not to +contain a particle of mercury.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Directions are given in which the dose varies from two pills +twice a day to three pills three times a day. The pills were +sugar-coated, and coloured pink externally. After removal of +the coating they had an average weight of 2.6 grains. Analysis +showed the presence of a resin (24.3 per cent.) which appeared to +be copaiba resin, a much smaller quantity of oil of copaiba, +magnesia (about 8 per cent.), with liquorice and starch; no +other active ingredients were found. The principal constituent +thus appears to be copaiba, from which most of the oil has been +removed to facilitate its preparation as a pill, the remainder +being apparently of the nature of excipient. Such pills sugar-coated, +can be obtained wholesale at less than 1s. per gross.</p> + +<h3>THE HOME DOCTOR BACKACHE AND KIDNEY PILLS.</h3> + +<p>These pills belong to a series called “The Home Doctor +Remedies,” supplied by a limited company in London, which +advertises largely a “treatment for rupture.” In a previous +report (<i>Secret Remedies</i>, pp. 158-160) is published the result of +analysis of their “Developing Lymphol,” supplied as part of +the treatment; the connection of this side of the business with +“The Home Doctor Remedies” is thus described in a pamphlet +sent to a person who had previously purchased an appliance for +rupture:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>In successfully treating rupture it is necessary to take into consideration +the other physical disabilities of the patient as well as devoting attention +to the rupture, and as there are some diseases which directly, and others +indirectly, affect the cure of rupture, we have found it necessary to give +special attention to those which are most likely to delay a cure.</p> + +<p>We are not general Patent Medicine dealers, but we are Specialists in +the Treatment and Cure of Rupture, and it is to the fact that we give the +closest attention to all the various conditions connected with each individual +case that we have been able to attain such remarkable success in +curing rupture. Whenever we find any complication that has any tendency +to delay the cure, we endeavour to overcome this complication, so that +the cure of the rupture may proceed without interruption. To that end +we have gradually evolved a series of medicines for these complications, +accepting none that had not been thoroughly tested and recommended by +the best authorities, or that could in any way be harmful to the patient. +<span class="pagenum" id="Page108">[108]</span>The ingredients of each of our formulas are practically all vegetable products, +and the formulas themselves are recommended and used by medical +men of high standing.</p> + +<p>We, ourselves, can strongly recommend these remedies, and patients can +use them with confidence, knowing that in them they have the very best +that actual experience can produce.</p> + +<p>We supply these remedies at Prices which cannot be equalled where +results are considered.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>There are six other “Home Doctor Remedies” besides the +Backache and Kidney Pills. The latter are thus referred to:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Our remedy for backache cannot be surpassed. In nearly every other +remedy used it is necessary to gradually increase the size of the dose, as +well as the frequency of it. With our remedy the same dose is taken at +all times and will give exactly the same results. It is absolutely harmless +and will at once relieve all disagreeable symptoms, and induce the kidneys +to perform their proper functions.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The price is 1s. 9d. per bottle, post paid; a bottle was found +to contain fifty-three pills, ovoid in shape, and coated with +gelatine coloured black. After removal of the coating the +pills had an average weight of 3.3 grains. Analysis showed the +presence of potassium nitrate, powdered capsicum, a very little oil +of juniper, with soap, sugar, magnesia, starch, and gum. There +was no evidence that the extractive present came from anything +besides the capsicum, but a small quantity of some other extract +possessing no distinctive characters might have been present. +The quantities of the different ingredients were determined as +nearly as possible, and the formula was found to be, +approximately:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of juniper</td> +<td class="number">3</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Potassium nitrate</td> +<td class="number">26</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Magnesia</td> +<td class="number">8</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered capsicum</td> +<td class="number">20</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sugar</td> +<td class="number">17</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Soap</td> +<td class="number">1</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="3" class="text nopad">Starch, gum, moisture, etc., to 100.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Estimated cost of ingredients for fifty-three pills about ¹⁄₂d.</p> + +<h3>DR. KILMER’S SWAMP-ROOT.</h3> + +<p>This preparation is stated to be prepared only by a firm +giving a London address; the package, however, bears the words, +“made in U.S.A.” The price of the small-size bottle is +1s. 1¹⁄₂d., and this was found to contain just over 3 fluid ounces.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page109">[109]</span></p> + +<p>An advertisement in an English periodical is headed:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Are your kidneys weak? Thousands of Men and Women have Kidney +Trouble and Never Suspect It.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="noindent">And other statements which follow include:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Most people do not realise the alarming increase and remarkable prevalence +of kidney disease. While kidney disorders are the most common +diseases that prevail, they are almost the last recognised by patients and +physicians, <i>who content themselves with doctoring the effects</i>, while the +<i>original disease</i> undermines the system.... In taking Swamp-Root, +you afford natural help to Nature, for it is the most perfect healer and +gentle aid to the kidneys that has ever been discovered.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>On the front page of a pamphlet enclosed in the package +appears the following:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="center highline15">How To Find Out.</p> + +<p>Fill a bottle or common glass with urine and let it stand twenty-four +hours; a sediment or settling indicates an unhealthy condition of the +kidneys. When urine stains linen it is evidence of kidney trouble. Too +frequent desire to urinate, scanty supply, pain or dull ache in the back, +is also convincing proof that the kidneys or bladder are out of order.</p> + +<p class="center highline15">What To Do.</p> + +<p>There is comfort in the knowledge so often expressed, that Dr. Kilmer’s +Swamp-Root, the great kidney, liver, and bladder remedy, fulfils every +wish in quickly relieving pain in the back, kidneys, liver, bladder, and +every part of the urinary passage.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="noindent">And on the package it is stated that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>This great specific cures Acute and Chronic Diseases of the Kidneys, +Liver, Bladder, or Urinary Organs, Kidney Complaint, and all Uric +Acid Troubles. Cures Bright’s Disease. Dissolves, expels Gravel, Stone +in Bladder. It heals and cures Irritation, Inflammation, Ulceration, or +Catarrh of Bladder, Blood or Mucus in Urine, Retention of Urine, Pain +in Urinating, Frequent Calls, Highly Coloured Urine, Brick Dust in +Urine, Stoppage of Urine, Thick, Sluggish, Scanty Urine. Builds up +a run down Constitution, and is the <i>Best Remedy</i> and most reliable for +Liver Complaint, Torpid Liver and Biliousness, Expels Gall Stones, +Diabetes, Dropsy. It cures Enlargement of Prostate Gland, Seminal +Weakness, Spermatorrhœa, Impotence, Generative Debility, and General +Languor. Drives Malarial Poison out of system. Gravel. It removes +the causes producing Nervousness, Sleeplessness, Headache, Neuralgia, +Slime Fever, Inward Heat and Thirst, and cures when all other remedies +have failed. It purifies the blood!</p> + +<p>The contents of this bottle is a <span class="smcap">Pure Medicine</span>, and contains <i>more +effectual doses</i>, and each dose contains <span class="allsmcap">MORE MEDICINE</span> than any other +remedy at the same price.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page110">[110]</span></p> + +<p>Contains the active medicinal properties of Swamp Roots, Field Herbs, +Sea Weeds, Native Balms and Balsams, possessing the rarest Electric +and Therapeutic properties in a very concentrated form.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The directions on the label are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>May Take one, two, or three teaspoonfuls before or after meals, and at +bedtime. Children less according to age. May commence with small +doses and increase to full dose or more, as the case would seem to require.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The liquid was brown in colour and turbid, giving a small +deposit on standing. Analysis showed that 100 parts by +measure contained 48.9 parts by weight of solid matter, of +which 46.5 parts consisted of sugars; 10.5 per cent. of alcohol +(by measure) was present, with a trace of oil of wintergreen. +The mineral constituents only amounted to 0.05 per cent., and +consisted of the elements usually found in vegetable drugs; no +alkaloid was present. The extractive was bitter, and contained +emodin, agreeing in these respects with extract of cascara +sagrada. A liquid containing 2 parts of extract of cascara +sagrada and 0.5 parts of oil of wintergreen in 100 parts by +measure, together with sugar and alcohol in the proportions +found in the original, agreed well with it in regard to degree +of bitterness and the strength of the wintergreen flavour; but +small quantities of extractives of “swamp roots, field herbs, sea +weeds,” etc., if present, could not have been detected in presence +of so large a proportion of sugar and the bitter substance. +Definite active constituents could, of course, have been found. +The sediment of the original mixture, when examined with the +microscope, showed traces of vegetable tissue in considerable +variety.</p> + +<h3>KAROX COMPOUND.</h3> + +<p>This is supplied by the Karox Manufacturing Company from +an address in the north of England, in bottles containing one +fluid ounce, price 1s. 1¹⁄₂d.</p> + +<p>The method of advertising chiefly employed in this case is the +insertion in newspapers of small paragraphs having the appearance +of news paragraphs, and so worded as to appear to be +disinterested information supplied by the paper to its readers. +The following is an example of such a paragraph:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>We have recently published a prescription for the relief and cure of +Kidney and Liver Diseases, Rheumatism, etc. We regret to learn from +some of our readers that in some cases the prescription has not been +accurately dispensed, one of the ingredients being apparently substituted +by other cheaper drugs for the sake of extra profit. As it is essential +<span class="pagenum" id="Page111">[111]</span>that the prescription should be dispensed accurately if the remedy is +to be beneficial, we desire to warn the readers of this paper against such +substitution, and would advise them to have the prescription dispensed +only by chemists of well-known standing, or purchase the ingredients +separately and mix them at home by shaking well in a bottle. The +correct prescription is Tincture of Buchu, 1 oz.; Karox Compound, 1 oz.; +Syrup of Lemons, 2 oz. Dose: One teaspoonful in a wineglass of water +three times daily after meals, and at bedtime.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>On the wrapper of the package “Karox Compound” is +described as:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>A Natural Remedy invaluable for promoting the regular action of the +Liver, Kidneys, Bowels, and Kindred Organs, purifying the blood and +building up the whole body.</p> + +<p>Karox Compound is not a cure-all.</p> + +<p>A large proportion of disease is the direct result of Sluggishness of the +Liver and Kidneys, and by gently stimulating these important organs it +cures Biliousness, Headaches, Constipation, Indigestion, Jaundice, Offensive +Breath, Skin Eruptions, Pains in the Back, Female Ailments, etc.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The contents of several bottles of this preparation were +examined, and were found to differ very considerably in composition. +The ingredients found were magnesium sulphate, +potassium citrate, alcohol, spirit of nitrous ether, sugars, vegetable +extractive, and faint traces of alkaloid and formaldehyde. +The magnesium sulphate varied from 1.45 to 6.87 parts per +100 parts by measure, and the potassium citrate from 4.76 to +6.55; the sugars were about 8 per cent., and the alcohol in one +specimen was found to be 6 per cent. by volume. The liquid +smelt strongly of spirit of nitrous ether and gave qualitative +evidence of the presence of nitrite, but the amount was not +sufficient to give any nitric oxide when tested in a nitrometer. +The vegetable extractive was between 1 and 2 per cent., but +showed no characters indicative of its source. There was a +trace of sediment in the liquid, and microscopical examination +of this showed the presence of yeast or yeast-like cells and the +minute plants known as desmids.</p> + +<hr class="chap"> + +<div class="chapter"> +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page112">[112]</span></p> +<h2 class="nobreak"><span class="chapno">CHAPTER VII.</span><br> +OBESITY CURES, AND A “FLESH PRODUCER.”</h2> +</div> + +<div class="largersize"> + +<p>A good many nostrums advertised for the treatment of +obesity were dealt with in the previous volume of this book, +and some of those described which were formerly advertised +extensively are now but little in evidence, if, indeed, they +have not disappeared altogether; how far this may be due +to the exposure which was there made, we are unable to say. +But others have appeared on the market, and the extent to +which such preparations are advertised suggests either that +obesity is on the increase, or that people are becoming more +conscious of its disadvantages and, therefore, more ready to +lay out money on medicines promising to restore them to +normal weight. Somewhat curiously, while advertisements +appeared numerous and lengthy advertisements of an article +intended to cure the opposite condition, that of excessive +leanness. In the present chapter we give an account of some +nostrums for obesity not previously dealt with, and also of +the “flesh producer” just referred to.</p> + +<p>It was shown by the analyses published in the former +volume that extract of bladderwrack was the basis of several +of the medicines described, and the same substance appears +in nearly all those now dealt with. Bladderwrack (<i>Fucus +vesiculosus</i>) is a common seaweed found on and around our +shores, and, in common with other seaweeds, it contains +considerable quantities of the salts occurring in sea-water, including +a small quantity of a compound of iodine; the extract +was at one time credited with having some effect in reducing +<span class="pagenum" id="Page113">[113]</span>superfluous fat, but it does not appear to be used at all in +legitimate medicine now, and there is no official process for +preparing it. Since it contains no definite active constituent +and is likely to be very variable in composition, it is +not possible to determine exactly the amount that is present +in a mixture with other substances. Another drug which +has been given for obesity is thyroid extract, or some other +preparation of the thyroid gland; this appears to have been +present in one or two of the articles examined, but there is +the same difficulty in regard to determining the quantity of +it present in a mixture, or even identifying it beyond the possibility +of question, as that just referred to in connection +with extract of bladderwrack.</p> + +<p>It is not only in the composition of their wares that the +makers of these preparations show similarity of practice; +even the devices used in advertising and selling them have a +strong family likeness. The plan of giving away a free +sample and accompanying it with statements as to the importance +of following it up with a “full treatment” are +characteristic of nearly all the advertisers dealt with. It is, +moreover, quite in keeping with what we are accustomed to +find that each should advance the claim that his own preparation, +though found on examination to contain the same +drug as those of his rivals, is totally different from all others, +and that each should claim to be the discoverer of this wonderful +substance. The absurdity of the claims becomes more +striking when they are brought together. The first of the +nostrums described is put forward with the assertions, “I +know I have found a cure at last,” “My method is unlike +any other.” The next maker says that his pills “in any case +will do more to reduce corpulency than any other remedy +extant,” and they “present a striking contrast to many so-called +remedies so freely offered at extravagant prices to the +public, some of which are useless and others dangerous.” +A third calls his “the only safe and certain remedy,” “the +most remarkable scientific discovery of the present age,” and +<span class="pagenum" id="Page114">[114]</span>guarantees to cure; and so on. Such vague titles as “specialist” +and “certified chemist” are so used as to imply +that they are qualifications; and the usual feature, exorbitant +price—the mainspring of the whole business—is, of +course, conspicuous, drugs costing a few pence being supplied +for various sums up to £2 1s. 1d. One advertiser +appears to have hit on a little novelty with the claim that +“my remedy is a woman’s cure for women only. Nobody +but a woman could have discovered it, and it is offered to +women only,” while a certain amount of originality must +be allowed to the statement, emanating from the same +source, that, “what happens in these cases” (of heart +failure) “is fatty penetration of the heart, which leads of +syncope.”</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<h3>A. GORDON WALLACE’S “TREATMENT.”</h3> + +<p>This is advertised by A. Gordon Wallace, London. It is +priced at one guinea for a month’s “treatment,” but as the +first fortnight’s medicine is supplied free, the actual amount +to be paid for it is 10s. 6d. The following extracts from advertisements +will show the nature of the claims advanced:—</p> + +<p class="noindent">ARE YOU TOO STOUT?</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Famous Obesity Specialist tells how everyone can lose Superfluous Flesh +and Improve their General Health....</p> + +<p>If you are one of the thousands of much-enduring men and women who +are unhealthily stout, or growing too stout, this article will bring new +hope to you. If your appearance is marred by a double chin, or an +ungainly bust, or a protruding abdomen, or any other disagreeable +evidence of Obesity, here is an offer that will help you to remove the +ugly defects in your physical appearance. If your health is threatened—as +it must be—by superfluous flesh, which generally carries in its train +gout, or rheumatism, or palpitation, or “fatty” heart, or some other +serious ailment, read and profit by this advice from a famous Obesity +Specialist....</p> + +<p>I do guarantee to reduce your weight safely and scientifically, and +strictly according to well-defined and recognised physiological laws, if +you will conscientiously follow out my directions while you are taking a +course of my Treatment.</p> + +<p>Medical men, have, on their own admission, been so far baffled for <span class="smcap">A +Real and Effective Cure</span> that will bring in its train no other injury +to the patient’s system. I know I have found a cure at last. I know +<span class="pagenum" id="Page115">[115]</span>what it has done for thousands of others and I know it will do the same +for you. All you need do is to write to me to-day, and you will receive +my book, which will be of invaluable service to you, by return post, free +of charge.... I will send securely and privately packed, to any +reader who forwards me 3d. for postage, a full-size fortnight’s package of +my remedy free of charge.... You will not have to wait for weeks, +or even days, before deriving benefit. You will experience at once a +wonderful feeling of lightness and brightness; you will be able to walk +longer distances without being fagged; your heart will beat more +regularly; and your breathing will be better.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The “fortnight’s package” was accompanied by a letter, +of which the following is a part:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>As a rule, One Month’s Treatment is sufficient, though, of course, I +need scarcely say that in some cases the Treatment must extend to two +or even three months, in order to secure complete and permanent results. +My usual fee for an ordinary month’s course is One Guinea (credit, of +course, being given for the cost of the free fortnight’s trial treatment +enclosed), and on receipt therefore of P.O. for 10s. 6d., together with the +accompanying Consultation Form, fully filled up, I will at once formulate +and send you the directions and various preparations suited to your requirements, +thus enabling you to complete the full month’s course at +half price without any interruption.</p> + +<p>The second fortnight’s treatment really begins the actual flesh-reducing +portion of my system following upon the elimination of the impurities +that are robbing you of your vital <span class="smcap">Nerve Force</span>, and I would emphasise +the importance of this continuity of treatment to ensure a satisfactory +reduction of your superfluous flesh, and also generally improved health.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The “book” referred to was also sent; it is a small paper +booklet of about fifty pages, entitled “Obesity: Cause and +Treatment. By A. Gordon Wallace, Specialist.” This curious +qualification is the only one that is mentioned on the title page; +but on page 33 the following appears under the heading</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="center highline15">In Plain Language.</p> + +<p>It is apropos for me to here mention that I am a physician holding +diplomas by examination, and I have made the cause and treatment of +Obesity a special study. My methods of treatment are based on sound +physiological grounds, and not merely tentative or empirical.</p> + +<p>This little treatise is not an essay such as I would deliver before a +medical society, but is a talk to the laity, therefore I purposely avoid the +use of technical language. I am to discuss the subject here in as simple +a manner as I possibly can so that everything will be clearly understood.</p> + +<p>I am confident that this method of stating the facts will be appreciated.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>On other pages it is stated that</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>My method is unlike any other. I give my patients a true physiological +treatment that restores lost Nerve-Force, and Nature does the rest.</p> + +<p><i>My Treatment allows you to eat what you like and drink what you like.</i></p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page116">[116]</span></p> + +<p>The “fortnight’s package” contained 54 sugar-coated tablets. +The directions on the label were “Two Tablets to be taken three +times daily between food.” At this rate the “fortnight’s” +supply would last nine days.</p> + +<p>After removal of the coating, the tablets had an average +weight of 2.9 grains. Analysis showed them to consist of an +extract and a vegetable powder; the extract agreed in characters +with extract of bladderwrack (<i>Fucus vesiculosus</i>) which is the +basis of a great many of the nostrums for obesity; although this +extract is not known to contain any definite active principle +which can be isolated and identified, its mineral constituents +differ so much from those of most vegetable extracts that a careful +examination of these, together with the characters of the +extract itself, enable it to be identified with practical, though +not absolute, certainty. The vegetable powder was found by +microscopic examination to consist of liquorice root, together +with a large proportion of the cells characteristic of powdered +nutshells, olive stones, etc.; the cheapest liquorice powders in +the market are largely adulterated with powdered nutshells +and olive-stones, and this fact may perhaps account for the +presence of the tissues in question. The quantity of extract in +each tablet was about 2 grains. Similar tablets can be obtained +wholesale at about 1s. a thousand.</p> + +<p>Some further information with regard to this “famous +obesity specialist” appears in <a href="#Page256">Chapter XIX</a>.</p> + +<h3>DR. VINCENT’S ANTI-STOUT PILLS.</h3> + +<p>These pills are supplied by Dr. Vincent’s Medicine Co., +London, at 2s., 4s. 6d., and 10s. per box. A 2s. box was found +to contain 38 pills.</p> + +<p>In an advertisement of these pills it is stated that</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>One 2s. Box of Dr. Vincent’s Anti-Stout Pills has in hundreds of instances +completely cured, and in any case will do more to reduce corpulency +than any other remedy extant.</p> + +<p>Dr. Vincent’s Anti-Stout Pills are small, harmless, pleasant to take, +and without change of diet will reduce superabundant flesh as much as +10 lbs. in a week.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>A printed circular and a circular letter were sent with the +pills, and the following are extracts from these:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Dr. Vincent’s famous and most successful method for the elimination +of superabundant flesh is now well known throughout the English speaking +<span class="pagenum" id="Page117">[117]</span>world.... Where a fair trial has been given it has never been +known to fail.... The pills are purely vegetable, and present a +striking contrast to many so-called remedies so freely offered at extravagant +prices to the public, some of which are useless and others dangerous.</p> + +<p>Every case is amenable to my treatment if two simple rules are followed. +First, the treatment must be carried on with regularity, and +second, without interruption.... Naturally you want to complete +your cure and I have a special offer to make you. The Ten Shilling Box +of Dr. Vincent’s Treatment is usually sufficient for a complete and lasting +cure, and so as to encourage you to continue the process of reducing your +weight, I shall be pleased to send a Regulation Full Size 10s. box for a +remittance of 8s. In other words, I allow you the 2s. you have paid for +the Trial box sent herewith off the price of the 10s. Treatment, if you +apply within 21 days of the date of this letter.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>(The letter, however, was undated.)</p> + +<p>The directions on the box are: “Dose—Two Pills every night, +also One Pill every morning.”</p> + +<p>The pills were coated with talc; after removal of the coating +they had an average weight of 2.6 grains. Nearly half the +mass consisted of “extract”—apparently a mixture, about 15 +per cent. was resinous in nature, and the remainder consisted +chiefly of the tissues and cell contents of powdered vegetable +substances. The nature of these was investigated with the aid +of the microscope, and from the histological characters of the +powder, together with the results of tests applied to the pill, +evidence was obtained of the presence of</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<ul class="nostyle"> +<li>Jalap</li> +<li>Colocynth</li> +<li>Cloves</li> +<li>Aloes, or extract of aloes</li> +<li>Extract of <i>Fucus vesiculosus</i></li> +</ul> +</div> + +<p class="noindent">The last named could not be identified as fully as in the preceding +case, owing to its being present in not very large proportion +in admixture with the other drugs named, but the evidence +for its presence appeared adequate.</p> + +<p>It is not possible in such a mixture to give with any certain +near approximation the proportions in which the different ingredients +were present.</p> + +<h3>PHATOLENE TABLETS.</h3> + +<p>“Phatolene” Tablets are sold by the Phatolene Co., Limited, +London, at 6d., 4s., and 10s. per box.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page118">[118]</span></p> + +<p>An advertisement of these tablets is in the following terms:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Don’t be fat when Phatolene Tablets will cure you absolutely. The +only safe and certain remedy. Registered by Government. Thousands +of Testimonials. Phatolene Tablets are guaranteed to cure you of stoutness +without starvation, aperients, or interference with your ordinary +method of living. Phatolene Tablets are the most remarkable scientific +discovery of the present age. Phatolene Tablets are an aid to health, +make you look younger, and produce a charming figure. We are so confident +that Phatolene Tablets will reduce your weight daily that we offer +to send you a large trial box in return for a sixpenny postal order only.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The box which was sent bore no patent medicine stamps, and so +presumably “registered by Government” refers to the name +being registered as a trade-mark; it is clearly intended to suggest +much more than this. A letter sent with the “trial box” +was headed:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p class="center"> +The Phatolene Co., Ltd.<br> +(Sole Agents for the Discoverer of the “Phatolene” Remedy),<br> +F. Lawrence, Manager and Certified Chemist.</p> +</div> + +<p>It should be observed that “certified chemist” is not a legal +qualification, and may mean anything or nothing; it is not to +be confused with “registered chemist and druggist” or “pharmaceutical +chemist.” Some extracts from the letter are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>As a chemist of over 20 years’ practice I have often been personally +consulted by my clients of both sexes in regard to obesity and local over-fatness. +But it is even more pleasure to me to come in touch with those +who prefer to do so under the Government-guarded secret service of His +Majesty’s Post Office.... As a matter of fact I have to charge more +if people use up my time as well as their own in personal consultations. +And there is no necessity for this time-wasting or money-wasting, as I +know that my Phatolene discovery will succeed in your case as it has +done in others.... My One Week’s Trial Supply is not sufficient, of +course, to overcome a bodily condition that may have been developing +for nearly a year. My Phatolene reduces all fat within the body at a +steady and safe rate, and one, two, or three months’ supply is sufficient to +restore all but the unusually fat to their proper size, weight, and appearance.</p> + +<p>What quantity may I send you? For your guidance I may point out +that my experience enables me to inform you that you will require the +following quantities according to these conditions.</p> + +<p>If you have been fat or growing fat less than one year, you will require +one month’s supply for 4s., post free. If fat or growing fat one year, +and not two years, you will require three months’ supply for 10s., post free.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>From a second letter:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>To cure any ordinary case takes about 12 weeks, for if the reduction +is forced in a more violent way the stoutness is sure to return and thus +you gain only a temporary relief, and you should therefore take advantage +of our 12 weeks’ treatment, which will cost you 10s. only....</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page119">[119]</span></p> + +<p>You are aware I have made a study of obesity, and you can naturally +understand I am interested in your case and shall be only too pleased at +all times to answer any questions on the subject, but please enclose +stamped directed envelope.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>In a leaflet enclosed with the package occurs the following +impudent attempt to make it appear that the nostrum has the +support of medical practitioners and of the <span class="smcap">British Medical +Journal</span>:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>The Treatment of obesity should not be quick, but slow. To attempt +to reduce superfluous fat by violent or sudden means is dangerous, especially +if the heart is at all weak, and this is why medical men invariably +recommend Phatolene Tablets.... Doctors cannot dispute the fact +that this preparation has for a long time had the reputation of reducing +corpulence.</p> + +<p><i>The Practitioner</i> says: “Taken three times a day reduced the fat of a +lad who had suddenly become corpulent.”</p> + +<p><i>The British Medical Journal</i>: “Given to lessen fat with good results.”</p> + +<p>Again, the same Journal says: “Given with good results and does not +produce dyspepsia or diarrhœa. A lady lost 20 lbs. in 9 weeks when +taking this, and a gentleman 8 lbs. in 3 weeks without bad results.”</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>It is scarcely necessary to say that neither the nostrum in +question nor any other has ever been referred to in the <span class="smcap">British +Medical Journal</span> in the terms quoted.</p> + +<p>The directions on the package are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Dose.—For the first week take one tablet three times a day, and afterwards +increase the dose to three Tablets three times a day, one hour before +meals. Can be swallowed whole or allowed to dissolve in the mouth.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The “tablets” were really ovoid pills, coated with talc and +coloured brown externally. The “6d. trial box” contained +twenty-one. After removal of the coating the pills had an +average weight of 2.7 grains. Analysis showed them to consist +of an extract agreeing in all respects with extract of bladderwrack +(<i>Fucus vesiculosus</i>), together with about 10 per cent. of +powdered liquorice root. No other ingredient was found.</p> + +<h3>KELLOGG’S SAFE FAT REDUCER.</h3> + +<p>Kellogg’s “Safe Fat Reducer” is an American preparation, +supplied by F. J. Kellogg, Michigan, U.S.A. It is also advertised +in Great Britain, and the following extracts are from an +advertisement appearing here:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>4/- Box of my Safe Fat Reducer Free.</p> + +<p>I Want To Prove To You Before Your Own Eyes and At My Expense +That I Can Reduce You to Normal Weight Safely, Without Starvation +Diet or Tiresome Exercises.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page120">[120]</span></p> + +<p>It Doesn’t Matter What You Have Tried, Send for This Free 4/- Box +of my Safe Fat Reducer To-day.</p> + +<p>My treatment is prepared scientifically. It does not stop or hinder +digestion; on the contrary, it promotes proper digestion and assimilation +of food, which 99 fat people in a hundred haven’t got, and that’s why +they are fat.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>On applying for a sample, it was sent accompanied by a circular +letter, and this was followed by others at intervals. Some +extracts from these are here given:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Of course, I do not promise that this 4s. treatment alone is going to cure +you of all your fat, but I want to start you on the treatment without any +expense to you so that during the next few days it will put your system +in such a condition that the next treatment may produce results without +any waste of time.</p> + +<p>You have a right to feel sure that Kellogg’s Safe Fat Reducer is safe. +You can depend upon it that it is positively safe, and you need never fear +that it will reduce you too much.</p> + +<p>Kellogg’s Safe Fat Reducer builds up the entire system from one of +fatty weakness to muscular strength, and the results have been that it +makes patients grow remarkably healthy as they continue the treatment.</p> + +<p>Excess fat, I found, is the result of mal-assimilation of food. My +Kellogg Safe Fat Reducer stops this defect; it prevents the stomach from +its unnatural tendency to produce fat; it makes the stomach “mill out” +the food into muscle fibre, bone, nerve tissues, brain pigment, and rich +blood instead of fat; it resolves the unnatural fat you have and expels +it naturally and harmlessly through Nature’s channels.</p> + +<p>As a result there is no other treatment in the world like Kellogg’s Safe +Fat Reducer. It does not interfere in the least with your business. You +don’t have to diet yourself, but you can eat all you want. You don’t have +to go through any tiresome exercise at all. All you have to do is to be +faithful to the treatment, take it according to directions and go about your +work as usual; then you should be happy in feeling that the reduction will +be sure to come in a few days, that you will be healthier than ever before, +and more muscular, energetic, and athletic. A loss of a pound a day is +nothing unusual, and will by no means hurt you....</p> + +<p>Now that I have started you on the treatment, I want you to continue. +I will send you a full treatment of my Kellogg’s Safe Fat Reducer for only +£2 1s. 1d. There is positively no doubt of the result. And I know you +will appreciate it when after a few days you will be able to note a distinct +relief from the heavy burden you are now carrying, and the terrible +dangers of apoplexy and paralysis which threaten all fat people are +lifted from your mind for ever.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>From the second letter:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>I make each case an individual case, thus I have to have the enclosed +blank filled out, so that I may understand exactly the conditions, and thus +employ the means that will most rapidly, and at the same time safely +reduce your fat and make strong, healthy tissue and muscle....</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page121">[121]</span></p> + +<p>The price of the treatment is but £2 1s. 1d. Order it to-day, and be free +from your heavy weight in a few weeks. Don’t stop to figure or argue with +yourself. I hope to receive your order by return mail, but if you cannot +order write me frankly what stands in your way of securing a reduction.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>From the third:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>I really cannot understand why you do not order my wonderful treatment, +and begin at once to reduce your fat that has so long been a bother +and annoyance to you.... I have given much thought to your case +[no case had been even mentioned in sending for the sample] and I feel +sure if you still had any doubts of the splendid power of my remedy to +reduce you of fatness, you would have written me fully at once. As I have +not received any letter from you, I have concluded that you do not feel +that you can afford to take the treatment at present. I believe so +positively that I can reduce you, and I feel so sure that you would appreciate +fully the splendid reduction I will give you, that I am going to make +you a strictly confidential proposition, by which you can secure the treatment +you so much desire, and at the same time do me some good.</p> + +<p>You certainly know a number of people in your vicinity who are annoyed +by fat, and who would be glad to know of my treatment, so if you will send +me £1 8d. and the names of six fat people I will send you a regular full +month’s treatment. Remember I do not ask you to become my agent, and +I shall not refer to you in any way when I write to your friends or +acquaintances whose names you send me ... if you have not got +the money by you, it seems to me that it would be no more than right to +go to some dear friend and ask a favour for a short time. Surely no one +could refuse you when it means your health and happiness.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The “trial box” sent contained 16 tablets and 6 “casca +beans,” recommended as an aperient; the latter were not examined. +The directions are “Eat one tablet before each meal +and one at bed-time, thoroughly masticating them before swallowing.” +The tablets had an average weight of 70 grains +each; analysis showed them to contain starch, dextrin, a sugar +(glucose or maltose), protein, mineral salts, vegetable tissue, and +a small quantity of an organic compound containing iodine. +The proportions of the different constituents were determined as +far as practicable, and the figures obtained, together with +microscopical examination of the tissue, showed that the tablets +consisted principally of wheat flour from which much of the +starch had been removed, made into a coherent mass by means +of malt extract or glucose; traces of the germ or embryo of the +wheat were found. All this is, of course, a vehicle for the +organic substance containing iodine; both thyroid gland (or its +extract) and extract of bladderwrack are characterised by containing +iodine in combination in small quantity, and many +tests were employed to ascertain which was present; no other +evidence of extract of bladderwrack was obtained, but there +<span class="pagenum" id="Page122">[122]</span>was a good deal of evidence, not quite amounting to positive +proof, of the presence of a preparation of the thyroid gland. +It is impossible to state the quantity present in each tablet, +and it would convey no real information if it could be given, +as preparations of thyroid may differ so widely in their activity +and no standardisation has as yet been attempted.</p> + +<h3>“NORMAL” PILLS.</h3> + +<p>These are supplied by the Normal Powder Company, Beauty +Specialists, at 10s. 6d., a “trial box” being priced 6d. They +are advertised in the following terms:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="center highline15">Too Stout!</p> + +<p>Simply follow our instructions and we will guarantee a perfect cure. +Our treatment is in every way as scientific and complete as that for which a +London Specialist charges £21.</p> + +<p class="center highline15"><span class="smcap">Free Offer!</span></p> + +<p>To prove the great value of our remedy we will send you a large trial box—14 +days’ supply—Free on receipt of 6d. P.O. to cover cost of packing and +postage, etc.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The 6d. box was accompanied by a “chart, to be carefully +filled up,” for particulars as to weight, measures, etc., and the +following to be signed by the purchaser:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>I duly received your “free” sample of the “Normal” Pills quite safely, +and since using them I have lost —— lbs. in weight. I quite understand +that the cure cannot be completed without continuing the treatment for +some time, and in conjunction with the London Specialist’s diet instructions, +which I promise to faithfully follow out. Please send me per return, +carriage paid, in plain wrapper, a large box of the Pills and the instructions +which cost you £21. I enclose you cheque or P.O. for 10s. 6d. as +requested.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The box, which bore no label, contained 83 pills, which were +coated with talc. After removal of the coating their average +weight was found to be 1.28 grains; analysis showed them to +consist of a mixture of extracts with vegetable powder. The +powder consisted partly of liquorice root, with a large proportion +of the tissues characteristic of ground nutshell, which, as +mentioned above, is a regular adulterant of the lowest grade of +liquorice powder; the microscope also gave indications of traces +bladderwrack (<i>Fucus vesiculosus</i>), such as are contained in +extract of this substance. Various tests indicated that the +<span class="pagenum" id="Page123">[123]</span>extracts present in the pill were those of cascara sagrada and +bladderwrack the proportions being approximately as follows:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Extract of cascara sagrada</td> +<td class="number">¹⁄₄</td> +<td class="unit">grain</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Extract of <i>Fucus vesiculosus</i></td> +<td class="number">¹⁄₂</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered liquorice (adulterated)</td> +<td class="number">¹⁄₄</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Talc and moisture</td> +<td class="number">¹⁄₄</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="3" class="bottomline">in one pill.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<h3>MRS. SEYMOUR’S TREATMENT.</h3> + +<p>This is supplied by Mrs. M. Seymour (London), at 15s.</p> + +<p>An advertisement of this preparation is headed “A woman’s +offer to over-fat women”; some extracts from it are as follows:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>I invite other ladies to participate in a discovery which reduced me +4 st. 8 lbs. and got rid of my ugly double chin.... My remedy is a +woman’s cure for women only. Nobody but a woman could have discovered +it, and it is offered to women only.... I am presenting 5,000 +free boxes of my cure and copies of my book, <i>Obesity in Women</i>. I +ask you to post the coupon below to me now and accept one of these +free packages....</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The passages which follow are from the “book” in question:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Every one of the cures I have made is a proof of the all-important +fact that obesity in women is a different ailment from corpulence in men. +It has an absolutely different origin.... There is no case of obesity in +which heart trouble has not been reckoned with.... It is heart failure +that is responsible for 75 per cent. of cases which end fatally. What +happens in these cases is fatty penetration of the heart, which leads of +syncope....</p> + +<p>Obesity is always due to imperfect nutrition. The food which is eaten +makes fat instead of healthy tissue, muscle, bone, and nerve. Up to a +certain point the process of nutrition (whereby the food is transformed +into the constituents which make up the various parts of the body) is +practically the same in women as in men. Beyond that point it is +obviously an entirely different process, for the generative organs then +become involved.</p> + +<p>Now the all-important secret which governs the whole subject of +obesity in women is this: Obesity is caused as the result of a species of +mal-elimination in those stages of the nutritive processes wherein the +organs peculiar to the sex are involved. In other words, the unhealthy, +fat-forming process is set up because of the imperfect disposal of those +nutrient elements with which the menstruous organs are concerned.</p> + +<p>You are certain to have noticed how any marked stage or change in +the functions of the menses will influence fat formation. For instance, +girls who from childhood are inclined to fatness invariably become of +normal proportions on attaining puberty, while at least 70 per cent. of +the cases of obesity in women occur at the menopause, between the ages +of 40 and 50.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page124">[124]</span></p> + +<p>Now there are changes connected with the organs under consideration +which occur without any outward or visible signs—changes which induce +obesity. These are changes which result in the fat-loading of the blood, +and the depositing of fat in the different parts of the body as the blood +circulates.... Please remember that I treat women only. I have no +cure for corpulence in men.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The free sample which was sent with the book consisted of +nine capsules containing a dark extract of bitter taste. The +quantity in the sample was not sufficient for analysis. A +“symptom form” was received with the sample; on sending for +a further supply, a letter was received asking for certain particulars, +and the symptom form was accordingly filled up as +follows (the words in italics are the answers given):</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Age.—<i>38.</i> Weight.—<i>13 st. 13.</i> Height.—<i>5 ft. 7¹⁄₂ in.</i> Waist.—<i>33 in.</i> +Bust.—<i>42 in.</i> Hips.—<i>50 in.</i></p> + +<p>How long have you been about this weight?—<i>Gradually increasing for +a year or two.</i> What parts are fattest?—<i>Abdomen and bust.</i> Constipated?—<i>No.</i> +Have you backache or any kidney trouble?—<i>No.</i> Palpitation?—<i>No.</i> +If married, how long?—<i>14 years.</i> How many children?—<i>3.</i> +Age of youngest?—<i>5.</i> Any sediment or peculiarity about the urine, etc.?—<i>No.</i> +Had miscarriage?—<i>No.</i> What is your general health and condition +now?—<i>Fair.</i></p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The medicine which was sent in reply was not capsules, but +sugar-coated tablets, 169 in number. Directions were given +as follows:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>There are sufficient tablets for you to take four each day, one just +before each meal. If you only take three meals—and I strongly advise +you to—take two tablets before the heaviest meal.</p> + +<p>I want to impress upon you the great importance of keeping the +bowels perfectly free all the time you are taking this treatment. For +a day or two the treatment itself may keep the bowels open, but afterwards +most ladies require an aperient. I have made many experiments, +and I find there is only one way to keep the system clear without hindering +the process of reduction. Pills, Epsom salts, cascara, etc., are quite +useless. You must have genuine Vichy and Kissingen salines. You can +get them in powder form of any good-class chemist, but they must be +guaranteed full strength, be saccharine-sweetened, and contain no sugar.</p> + +<p>Take them, dissolved in water, half an hour before breakfast, as +follows:—A Vichy powder the first morning, none the second morning; +a Kissingen powder the third morning, none the fourth morning; a Vichy +powder the fifth morning, and so on. If you prefer to purchase the +powders from me I can supply you with sufficient to last the six weeks’ +treatment for 3s. 6d., post free. I can guarantee these to be full +strength, and exactly suited to the purpose.</p> + +<p>Get into the habit of breathing deeply. Take at least a hundred deep +breaths in front of the open window every morning on rising. Breathe +deeply whenever you think of it. It will soon become habitual. For +exercise take a gentle walk every day.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page125">[125]</span></p> + +<p>I have just one other suggestion to make in your case, and that is in +regard to food. You will find on page 15 of my booklet particulars of +the foods and beverages I avoided during the first month of my cure, +and I strongly advise you to do as I did in this matter. I also advise +you to eat only bread, cakes, etc., made from gluten flour; that is, +flour from which the starch has been removed. Masticate your food +thoroughly. Always stop eating just before you feel you have had +enough, and wait until you have finished eating before you take anything +to drink. Drink as much hot water as you can between meals.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The tablets were sugar-coated, and of a bluish colour externally. +After removal of the coating their average weight was +found to be 4 grains. Examination showed that they consisted, +wholly or in part, of roughly ground up sugar-coated tablets or +pills, the coating of which was coloured pink; since the coating +of these had been ground in with the tablets, it was not possible +to separate it, and the mass accordingly contained a good deal +of sugar and starch; besides these, an extract was found agreeing, +as far as its characters could be ascertained, with extract +of bladderwrack; a trace of iodine in combination was present, +such as is found in preparations of bladderwrack and of thyroid +gland; also a very small quantity of boric acid, and a little +vegetable powder. Part of the last-named showed the characters +of the débris of a seaweed, though it could not be definitely +identified with <i>Fucus vesiculosus</i>; a further small portion, +amounting to an extremely small proportion of the whole, +consisted of woody tissue which did not agree in characters with +any drug in common use. The boric acid points to the probable +presence of an animal gland or a preparation of such, and some +collateral evidence was obtained of the presence of thyroid in +small quantity, but definite proof of the latter is impossible +in such a mixture.</p> + +<h3 class="highline">A “FLESH PRODUCER.”<br> +SARGOL.</h3> + +<p>A preparation named Sargol has been very widely advertised +of late for the increase of flesh and development of the figure of +persons who are too thin; the advertisements often include pictures +intended to represent the results to be attained. One +of these advertisements is headed:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>We invite every thin man, woman, and child here. Every Person in +the British Isles to Eat With Us at Our Expense.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page126">[126]</span></p> + +<p>Other extracts are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>This is an invitation that no thin man or woman can afford to ignore. +We’ll tell you why. We are going to give you a food that helps digest +the other foods—a food that puts good solid flesh on people who are thin +and underweight, no matter what the cause may be. A food that makes +brain in five hours and blood in four—a food that puts the red corpuscles +in the blood which every thin man or woman so sadly needs....</p> + +<p>Chew one up with every meal, and in five minutes after you take the +first concentrated tablet of this precious food it will commence to unfold +its virtues, and it will by actual demonstration often increase the weight at +the rate of one pound a day.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Application to the Sargol Co. at the address given brought +a small package of the tablets, with a circular letter, which was +followed at intervals by others. We subjoin a few sentences +from these lengthy documents:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Whether your lack of bodily weight comes to you by inheritance, by +overwork, by indoor occupation, or no matter what you have done or +how many ineffectual preparations you have tried, Sargol will be a revelation +to you....</p> + +<p>Remember; until the discovery of Sargol, nothing has ever been known +which could be depended upon to put 10, 15, and even 30 pounds of permanent, +healthy tissue on a thin person’s body.</p> + +<p>As we receive so many letters from people who say they have been +disappointed and deceived by so-called fatteners we think it is best to take +you into our confidence and give you some of the inside facts relative to +Sargol. By a recent discovery it is now possible to reproduce chemically +a very important natural fatty substance which is found in the yolk of +eggs, in the roe of fishes, in the blood, also in the brain and nerve tissue +of human beings. This substance can now be obtained in a highly concentrated +form in combination with other valuable vitalising and tissue +building agents....</p> + +<p>Each dose of Sargol contains a generous amount of this newly discovered +substance, the very element which thin folks lack. Each time you take +a Sargol tablet you are introducing directly into your system in concentrated +form the actual fat forming substance which you so sadly need, +and yet this is but one of the component parts of Sargol. Five other +strength giving, fat producing elements of known and acknowledged +merit and great potency are carefully combined to form this peerless +preparation.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>A box of Sargol, price 4s. 6d., was found to contain 30 +tablets; it is strongly recommended that a six weeks’ supply, +equal to six 4s. 6d. boxes, should be obtained, the price of this +being 21s. The directions are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>1. Take one tablet with each meal and one at bed-time. 2. Be reasonable +as regards diet.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page127">[127]</span></p> + +<p>The tablets were sugar coated and coloured pink. After +removal of the coating they had an average weight of 5.3 grains. +Analysis showed them to contain lecithin, hypophosphites of +calcium, sodium, and potassium, zinc phosphide, sugar, albumen, +and insoluble protein, with talc and kaolin or similar +mineral matter, evidently added as excipient. In the course +of the analysis it was necessary to obtain more than one supply +of the tablets, and the different specimens showed a large variation +in the proportions of some of the ingredients. The amounts +actually found were:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Zinc phosphide</td> +<td class="number">0.7</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Lecithin</td> +<td class="number">1.9</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Calcium hypophosphite</td> +<td class="number">12.9</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sodium and potassium hypophosphites</td> +<td class="number">7.7</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Albumen (soluble)</td> +<td class="number">4.2</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Insoluble protein (? coagulated albumen)</td> +<td class="number">10.8</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sugar</td> +<td class="number">18.0</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Talc, kaolin, moisture, etc.</td> +<td colspan="2"> </td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Estimated cost of materials for thirty tablets, about 1¹⁄₄d.</p> + +<hr class="chap"> + +<div class="chapter"> +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page128">[128]</span></p> +<h2 class="nobreak"><span class="chapno">CHAPTER VIII.</span><br> +MEDICINES FOR ALCOHOLISM AND FOR THE +TOBACCO HABIT.</h2> +</div> + +<div class="largersize"> + +<p>The “treatments” for the drink habit described in this +chapter include some which have only recently been advertised +in this country; two of them are of American origin. +With these we include an account of a “cure” for the +tobacco habit, supplied by the same limited company as one +of the drink cures. It will be seen that with the three first +described the claims advanced are a good deal alike, but the +drugs used are almost entirely different. Each of the preparations +is supplied in two forms, the one to be taken +voluntarily by patients desirous of being cured, and the other +to be administered without the patient’s knowledge; +obviously, if a cure can be effected in the latter way, there +can be less hesitation in ascribing the result to the drugs +than when the patient has exercised his will in the same +direction, and the preparation for secret administration was +therefore selected for analysis in each case. The first of the +articles examined was found to consist merely of powdered +cinchona bark, diluted with milk-sugar and magnesium +carbonate; of this it is asserted that “it does not contain +any drugs, poison, or minerals of any description,” although +cinchona is generally regarded as a drug and magnesia as a +mineral; since the dose of cinchona which is given is only +6 grains a day, containing about ¹⁄₃ grain of alkaloids, it is +scarcely to be expected that any great result will be obtained +from the administration of this preparation. In the next +article described, which appears to be of American origin, +<span class="pagenum" id="Page129">[129]</span>tartar emetic is the only active ingredient found in the +powders and tablets. What is evidently aimed at is to produce +nausea or vomiting, and to lead the patient to associate +these symptoms with the consumption of alcoholic liquors. +Much is said about the “treatment” being capable of +curing any case in three days, and it purports to be made +and sold by an individual who was cured by it in three days, +after having been a heavy drinker for sixteen years. If the +statements are carefully read, it does not appear to be +definitely asserted that the “B treatment,” that is, the +remedy which is administered secretly, will effect a cure in +that time, although the impression might easily be received +that three days will suffice, “between Friday night and +Monday night, or any other 72 hours,” whether the patient +is treated with or without his own knowledge and co-operation; +but when the money has been paid and the medicine +is sent, the purchaser is urged to have patience and not to +be discouraged if months should be necessary for the accomplishment +of a cure. In the advertisements, letters and +circulars, the first person singular is largely used, and they +are ostensibly issued by the individual by whose name the +preparation is called, and who is said to have been cured by +it; but it appears that the vendor is really a limited company, +which deals also in a large number of other nostrums +having nothing to do with alcoholism, such as “anti-deafness +tablets,” “asthma tablets,” “rheumatism remedy,” +etc. The third article reported on is made in America, but +it is advertised in this country. In this case strychnine in +small doses and caffeine are the principal medicaments, +tartar emetic being also employed, in the hope, no doubt, +of causing a feeling of nausea to be associated with alcoholic +drink. The lowest price charged for any of the three preparations +is a sovereign, while each of the other two is +priced at two guineas; in every case the prime cost of the +ingredients is shown to be so small as to be practically +negligible.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page130">[130]</span></p> + +<p>The fourth of the medicines described was not purchased +for analysis, but formed part of what was supplied to a +patient who ultimately decided not to take it; it appears +that it constituted the second part of the course, and we did +not receive any of the medicines forming the first part. In +this case a very small quantity of a neutral bitter substance +was found, the amount of which did not suffice for its full +identification, but which resembled picrotoxin; the principal +other substance present was a tincture of nux vomica.</p> + +<p>The medicines for the cure of tobacco habit are apparently +only intended to play a subsidiary part; the directions as to +the way in which they are to be taken and for the frequent +practice of breathing exercises, bathing, the use of an enema, +etc., are evidently intended to keep the patient’s mind constantly +turned to the breaking off of the habit; some of the +medicines, containing asafetida and methylene blue, appear +to be given for the sake of their subjective effect, while the +others consist principally of bitter tonics and laxatives. In +this case, as in the others, the price charged is such that the +prime cost of the ingredients forms only an insignificant +fraction of it.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<h3>THE TEMPERANCIA ASSOCIATION TREATMENT.</h3> + +<p>The medicines sold under this name are supplied from an +address in London; the price charged for a supply (price stated +as two guineas) was 21s., for which sixty capsules were sent.</p> + +<p>Some extracts from an advertisement of this “treatment” +are as follows:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>The “Temperancia” Assn. organised in 1895 by Dr. Alexr. G. Edison, +M.D., L.F.P.S., etc., and the Revd. Henry Martin Janeway, D.D., +B.A., L.H.D., are accepting Free and paying patients for the Treatment +of Alcoholism (Drunkenness in any form).</p> + +<p>With the methods adopted by this Association all desire for alcoholic +stimulants is permanently destroyed, a distaste for alcohol created, and +the nervous and diseased system restored to a healthy and natural condition +at your own home, hotel, or while at work, without publicity or +inconvenience.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page131">[131]</span></p> + +<p>The treatment can be taken either voluntarily, or those who, through +“the grasp of drink,” fail to realise their peril, and will not listen to +reason, can be cured <span class="smcap">Secretly</span>, against their own free will, and without +their co-operation, by any member of the family, with the special course +prepared for this purpose. Either course is perfectly harmless, adapted +for both sexes, of any age, even of the most delicate health, and is +endorsed by the Medical profession, the Press, the Clergy, and thousands +of cured patients.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Application to the address given brought a booklet on the +“treatment,” various leaflets, and a list of questions to be +answered. The following extracts are from the booklet:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>The treatment is prepared in Two distinct forms, viz.:—</p> + +<table class="temperancia"> + +<tr> +<td class="right mid"><span class="smcap">Liquid</span></td> +<td class="left mid"><span class="padl4">To be used in all cases when a patient treats himself +voluntarily, with his own free will</span></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td> </td> +<td><span class="left padl10">and</span></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="right mid"><span class="smcap">Capsules</span></td> +<td class="left mid"><span class="padl4">To be used in all cases where a patient is to be treated +secretly without his knowledge.</span></td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>The treatment in <span class="smcap">Capsule</span> form is absolutely tasteless and odourless, +and is placed in coffee, tea, soup, or any other convenient food.... +To do good by stealth is enjoined upon us by the teachings of the highest +authorities, and is in strict accordance with the highest morality.</p> + +<p>It does not matter whether a patient is treated secretly or voluntarily, +the results are the same. Almost from the very first day of its use the +appetite improves, he eats and sleeps better, he becomes less restless than +usual, his eyes become bright, his hands steady, the brain clear, and the +spirit buoyant....</p> + +<p>The “Temperancia” Treatment, both the Liquid or Capsule, can be +given with utmost <i>safety</i>. As already explained, it does <i>not</i> contain any +drugs, poison, or minerals of any description, but it is entirely of a vegetable +preparation. An overdose is perfectly harmless; it will not injure a +man, woman, or child even of the most delicate health....</p> + +<p>Both our Liquid and Capsule treatment are prepared in courses. Each +course of the Liquid treatment contains Two (2) full-sized bottles, and +each course of the Capsules Two (2) full-sized packages. The cost per +course, either the Liquid or Capsules, is Two Guineas (£2/2/0), or +Two courses, if ordered at one time, Three Pounds Ten Shillings +(£3/10/0).</p> + +<p>It is impossible to estimate the time required to effect a permanent +cure in any individual case ... the “Temperancia” Treatment often +effects a complete cure in but a few days.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>After the lapse of an interval, in which no order was sent, +a circular letter was received, from which the following extracts +are quoted:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>We are indeed surprised not having received from you an order for the +treatment prepared by this Association.... There is only one conclusion +we can arrive at, namely, that financial circumstances make the +cost of a treatment prohibitive to you. Should this be the case we would +<span class="pagenum" id="Page132">[132]</span>like to say, that this Association being at all times willing to extend a +helping hand to everybody, is prepared to treat your patient for a fee +of only 21s. per course.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>One guinea was then sent for a supply of capsules, together +with answers to the list of questions. These questions were as +follows, the answer given being here printed in italics:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="blankbefore75">Name or initials of patient.</p> + +<p>Age? <i>34.</i></p> + +<p>Sex. <i>M.</i></p> + +<p>Married? <i>Yes.</i></p> + +<p>How long? <i>7 years.</i></p> + +<p>Any children? <i>2.</i></p> + +<p>Height? <i>5ft. 11.</i></p> + +<p>Weight? <i>12 stone.</i></p> + +<p>Complexion? <i>Fair.</i></p> + +<p>Occupation? <i>Clerk.</i></p> + +<p>Works hard? <i>Yes.</i></p> + +<p>Is the patient to be treated secretly or voluntarily? <i>Secretly.</i></p> + +<p>How long since he commenced drinking? <i>Four years.</i></p> + +<p>Nature of liquor used? <i>Whisky; and other spirits.</i></p> + +<p>Quantity per day, or as near as possible? <i>Varies from 2 glasses to a +bottle or more.</i></p> + +<p>Does he drink during the night? <i>No.</i></p> + +<p>Before breakfast? <i>Sometimes.</i></p> + +<p>Does he ever become drunk? <i>Yes.</i></p> + +<p>Does he drink daily or periodically? <i>Daily; but to excess only +periodically.</i></p> + +<p>If periodically, how often? and how long does each bout last? <i>Sometimes +every week, sometimes once in several weeks. One or two days.</i></p> + +<p>When did he have his last bout? <i>A week ago.</i></p> + +<p>What mental effect does he suffer with from drink? <i>Excitement; +sometimes delusions.</i></p> + +<p>How is his appetite, sleep, and digestion, both when drunk or sober? +<i>Good when sober; not bad when drinking.</i></p> + +<p>Is he nervous, irritable, or phlegmatic? <i>Rather irritable.</i></p> + +<p>Is he getting thinner or stouter? <i>Not changing.</i></p> + +<p>Constipated? <i>No.</i></p> + +<p>Does he ever complain of heart trouble? <i>No.</i></p> + +<p>Any disease he was or is suffering with? <i>No.</i></p> + +<p>If so, what was the doctor’s advice?</p> + +<p>Taking any medicine at present, and for what purpose? <i>No.</i></p> + +<p>Any of the parents or grandparents addicted to drink? (state which, +and if not alive, give cause of death) <i>No.</i></p> + +<p>Did the patient ever have delirium tremens? How often, and when? +<i>Two or three times last year.</i></p> + +<p>Does he use Tobacco (state what form, quantity, and if he inhales)? +<i>Pipe and cigars; about 3 oz. and 6 or 8 cigars a week. Does not inhale.</i></p> + +<p>Does he use any Narcotic Drugs (state which, quantity per day, and +how long used)? <i>No.</i></p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page133">[133]</span></p> + +<p>Has he ever been treated for the liquor habit (state when, what +treatment, if voluntarily, how long treated, cost of same and results)? <i>No.</i></p> + +<p>P.S.—Write fully on the other side any additional information regarding +the patient’s past and present condition that the physician should +know of.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="blankbefore75">Two boxes of capsules were received, each containing thirty, +with no labels. A written letter was received separately, in +which the following directions were given:—</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>For the first two days take three capsules daily, four the third day, +five the fourth, and then six every day until the course is finished.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>(The sixty would thus last eleven days, and leave three capsules +over.)</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>The way to take them is in either hot tea, coffee, or soup. Empty +the contents into the cup, not put the whole capsule, and thoroughly stir +until dissolved. Eat plain, wholesome food, good fruit, and keep the +bowels well open.</p> + +<p>The best time for taking the powders is on rising in the morning, +mid-day, and before retiring at night. Should you find it difficult to +give the six daily, two may be taken at one time, but not more, as they +might taste, and they must be well stirred and dissolved.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>(They were previously described as “absolutely tasteless.”)</p> + +<p>The contents of the capsules consisted of a light brown powder, +the average amount in one being 8 grains. Determination of +the weight of the contents of several capsules singly, taken without +selection, showed them to vary from 5 grains to 9.4 grains. +Analysis showed the powder to consist of powdered cinchona, +sugar of milk, and magnesium carbonate. The amount of +cinchona was ascertained by weighing the fibre after removing +other ingredients with solvents and comparing it with the fibre +left by powdered cinchona when similarly treated; and also +independently by determining the amount of alkaloid present. +Both results showed the cinchona to form about 13 per cent. +of the powder; milk-sugar was found to amount to 55 per cent., +and the magnesium carbonate to about 32 per cent. Each capsule +would thus contain about 1 grain of cinchona. The estimated +cost of the powders for sixty capsules is 1d.</p> + +<h3 id="Ref04">EDWARD J. WOODS TREATMENT.</h3> + +<p>The medicines sold under this name are supplied by Edward +J. Woods, Ltd. The price charged is 2 guineas, for which +60 powders and 68 tablets were sent.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page134">[134]</span></p> + +<p>Advertisements are usually accompanied with a picture of a +man’s head, purporting to represent the advertiser. The following +extracts from such an advertisement show their general +tenor:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="center highline15">I was a Heavy Drinker.<br> +Consumed quart of whisky every 24 hours.<br> +Cured in 3 days.</p> + +<p>If you know anyone who drinks alcohol in any form, regularly or +periodically, let me send my Free Book, “Confessions of an Alcohol Slave.”</p> + +<p>I drank beer at first, then gradually developed into a drinker of strong +liquors. When drinking heavily I did not hesitate to pawn my coat or +break a public-house window to get spirits. For long periods I drank over +a quart of whisky, rum or gin daily. And some mixed drinks and beer +additionally!...</p> + +<p>For 16 years I kept it up, and I was regarded as a hopeless case. +Various “cures” did me no good. But now I have a joyful message for +drinkers and <span class="smcap">Mothers</span>, <span class="smcap">Wives</span>, <span class="smcap">Sisters</span>.</p> + +<p>While drifting from bad to worse, as all slaves of King Alcohol do, I +unexpectedly found a true cure. It was (and is) genuine. It saved my +life. My health was quickly restored, I became and am a respectable man, +enjoying every benefit of freedom from the accursed alcohol. I speedily +and naturally lost all desire for drink. I took less and less. I began to +prefer tea, coffee, and other non-alcoholic liquids; the craving for liquor +ceased, I could sleep perfectly, my stomach became well, and I recovered +from other ailments which I now know were due to my indulgence in strong +drink.</p> + +<p class="center highline15"><span class="smcap">Wonderful.</span></p> + +<p>My cure took 3 days; if I had relied upon will power or faith I should +still be a drunkard, because an alcohol slave has no will power while +drinking. I rejoiced so greatly at having found a true cure that I decided +to devote my life to removing the curse from others. My success has been +marvellous....</p> + +<p>What I promise is absolutely guaranteed. My remedy is for either steady +or periodical drinkers. Think of it, a complete and permanent home cure +between Friday night and Monday night—or any other 72 hours!</p> + +<p>Men, or Women, Any Age, Quickly Cured....</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>On application to the address given, the “Confession” +referred to above and various other papers were sent. From +these it appears that the “Treatment” is of American origin, +and the business seems to have attained considerable dimensions +in America before being established in England. Two sets of +remedies are supplied—“the A Set of Remedies, to be given +with the knowledge and consent of the person,” and “the B Set, +for conquering his drink habit secretly, so that he will gradually +form a disgust for alcoholic drinks of all kinds and will never +<span class="pagenum" id="Page135">[135]</span>know what saved him unless you chose to tell him.” One of +the papers was an “Information Form No. A 4,” which was +as follows—the answers given to the various questions are +printed in italics:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="blankbefore75">Sex? <i>M.</i></p> + +<p>Age? <i>34</i> years.</p> + +<p>Married? <i>Yes.</i></p> + +<p>Approximate weight? <i>12</i> stone <span class="padl4">lbs.</span></p> + +<p>Height about? <i>5</i> ft. <i>11</i> in.</p> + +<p>Steady drinker, or does he (or she) drink in a bout (spree) after keeping +sober for some time? <i>Steady drinker in slight excess; bout occasionally.</i></p> + +<p>What kind of alcoholic drink mostly taken? <i>Whiskey and other spirits.</i></p> + +<p>About how much every 24 hours? <i>Varies from 2 or 3 glasses to 2 bottles.</i></p> + +<p>Has person ever had delusions? <i>Yes.</i></p> + +<p>Fits? <i>No.</i></p> + +<p>Delirium tremens? <i>3 times.</i></p> + +<p>Insanity? <i>No.</i></p> + +<p>Apoplexy? <i>No.</i></p> + +<p>Will remedies be given with or without person’s knowledge? <i>Without.</i></p> + +<p>Do bowels move freely, or are they constipated? <i>Alright.</i></p> + +<p>About how many years has person been accustomed to use of alcoholic +drinks? <i>All his life; only to excess about 4 years.</i></p> + +<p>Does person sleep soundly through the night? <i>Usually.</i></p> + +<p>Does person need to drink alcohol during the night? <i>Not as a rule.</i></p> + +<p>Is person drinking at present? <i>Yes.</i></p> + +<p>What is occupation (or nature of same) and how much outdoor exercise is +usually taken? <i>Clerk. Does fair amount of walking and little cycling.</i></p> + +<p>Does person prefer to drink with company, or quietly, alone? <i>Both.</i></p> + +<p>Are any medicines or drugs being taken for any purpose? <i>No.</i></p> + +<p>Here please give further details of case.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The preparations sent (B set) consisted of 60 powders and +68 tablets. They were accompanied by a circular letter, in +which the following directions were given:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>The chief rule is that you are to give three No. 777 Powders and three +No. 1010 Tablets every day, if you can, and that these are to be given at +different times, not all together. If you miss doses, you are not to make +them up.</p> + +<p>If the dose should seem to be too strong, it can be reduced by giving a +half or quarter Powder or Tablet. But do not increase the doses until +you have sent me the report, which should come at the end of your having +given 42 each of the Powders and Tablets, i.e., about two weeks. If it +takes a longer period to give these, then your report can be delayed +accordingly.</p> + +<p>Be cheerful and optimistic. Maintain your perseverance and kindly +temper. Watch and wait! Success may come slowly, but it will come +surely.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page136">[136]</span></p> + +<p>This is somewhat different from “a complete and permanent +home cure between Friday night and Monday night, or any +other 72 hours”! An extract from a pamphlet of general +directions sent with the medicines is:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Even if six months are required to accomplish the desired purpose, it is a +highly satisfactory reward for the expense, time, and effort used.</p> + +<p>I beg of you, therefore, to treat this matter with calmness. Do not write +me that you are utterly disappointed, that you feel as if nothing can ever +do any good, and other similar remarks, but keep perseveringly on.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>From another leaflet it appears that Edward J. Woods, Ltd., +does business in other articles as well. A list is given of twenty-six +medicines supplied by the company, which includes such +varied ones as:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>No. 444.—Blood Purifier, Liver Regulator, and Stomach Improver.</p> + +<p>No. 555.—Aphrodisiac tablets.</p> + +<p>No. 1111.—Tablets for the kidneys.</p> + +<p>No. 1616.—Rheumatism, gout, lumbago, neuralgia, and sciatica remedy.</p> + +<p>No. 2020.—Tablets to prevent incontinence of urine.</p> + +<p>No. 2222.—Anti-deafness tablets.</p> + +<p>No. 4444.—Asthma tablets.</p> + +<p>No. 5555.—Preparation for darkening grey or white hair to natural black or dark brown.</p> + +<p>No. 1212.—Special method for reduction of superfluous fat.</p> + +<p>No. 3333.—Anti-nicotine Tablets.</p> + +<p>No. 1515.—Female Remedy.</p> + +<p>No. 44.—Flesh Developing Cream.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="noindent">The powders had an average weight of 9.9 grains, single ones +varying from 7.2 to 11.9 grains. Analysis showed them to +contain:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Tartar emetic</td> +<td class="number">3.6</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sugar of milk</td> +<td class="number">96.4</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>No trace of any other substance was found. A powder of +average weight would thus contain 0.35 grain of tartar emetic.</p> + +<p>The tablets had an average weight of 1.6 grains. Analysis +showed them to contain</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Tartar emetic</td> +<td class="number">13.2</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Boric acid</td> +<td class="number">10.7</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sugar of milk</td> +<td class="number">76.1</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>No trace of any other substance was found. One tablet +would thus contain 0.2 grain of tartar emetic, and the daily +dose of three powders and three tablets would contain 1.65 +grains.</p> + +<p>The estimated cost of materials for 60 powders and 68 tablets +is about 1d.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page137">[137]</span></p> + +<h3>ALCOLA.</h3> + +<p>Alcola is supplied by “Physicians Co-operative Association,” +Chicago, and the price charged for it is £1.</p> + +<p>The method of advertising which appears to be adopted in +this case is for a Mrs. Anderson, of New York, to advertise +offering to send, without charge, information about a medicine +which cured her husband of the drink habit. On writing to the +address given, a lithographed letter was received purporting to +be from Mrs. Anderson; its nature is shown by the following +extracts:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>My dear friend</p> + +<p><span class="padl2">I</span> have just read your letter asking me how I cured my husband of +drinking, and I will answer it at once as I am sure that you are anxious +to drive drunkenness from your home just as soon as you possibly can.</p> + +<p>Mr. Anderson was a hard drinker for over 20 years and the disease had +got such a firm hold that it was impossible for him to shake it off and it +continued to grow worse and worse with no sign of ever stopping.</p> + +<p>Just about this time I received a letter from a lady telling me about a +remedy called Alcola which she said had never been known to fail and she +urged me to send for it at once as she knew it would certainly cure.</p> + +<p>I had already tried about every remedy that I had seen advertised for +the cure of drunkenness but none of them did any good whatever and I +was tired of spending my money for nothing but you know a person +especially a woman will do anything to save her family and home and I +made up my mind to make one more effort to cure Mr. Anderson if it was +possible so I managed after some trouble to get the money and took her +advice and sent for it and gave it as directed and in a very short time +he lost all the terrible craving for liquor that he had had for so long. His +health improved in every way too. This was about eight years ago and +he has never drank since.... The Physicians Co-operative Association ... +are the only ones who prepare and sell Alcola and I will write them to-day +and ask them to send you full information....</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>A little later a long circular letter was received from the +“Physicians Co-operative Association,” together with a booklet +in which it was stated that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Alcola is the very best treatment for drunkenness that you can possibly +obtain....</p> + +<p>It cures all stages of the disease, from the beginner to the one who has +drank for years, and is thought beyond hope. It makes no difference +whether the disease was inherited or acquired, nor what kind of liquor +the patient uses. Alcola is absolutely harmless.... Alcola does not contain +even a trace of opium, morphine, cocaine, chloral, cannabis indica, or any +other dangerous narcotic or habit-producing drug....</p> + +<p>Alcola is prepared either to be taken with the patient’s knowledge or to +be given secretly. When you send your order state which treatment you +wish.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page138">[138]</span></p> + +<p>A short list of questions, as follows, was also sent; the +answers given are printed in italics:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="center highline15">Information Regarding Patient.</p> + +<p>Age. <i>34.</i></p> + +<p>Occupation. <i>Clerk.</i></p> + +<p>How long has patient drank? <i>Five years.</i></p> + +<p>Does he keep liquor in the house? <i>Yes.</i></p> + +<p>Has he any chronic disease that you know of? <i>No.</i></p> + +<p>How is his general health? <i>Fair otherwise.</i></p> + +<p>Will the treatment be given secretly? <i>Yes.</i></p> + +<p>Are you yourself to give treatment to the patient? <i>Yes.</i></p> + +<p>What relation is patient to you? <i>None; we live together.</i></p> + +<p class="center highline15">IMPORTANT.</p> + +<p>Will tablet be given twice a day or three times? <i>Twice.</i></p> + +<p>Will you begin treatment at once? <i>Yes.</i></p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The medicines sent consisted of three boxes of tablets, labelled +respectively No. 1, No. 2, and No. 3. They were accompanied +by a long printed paper of directions, a long circular letter, a +“Report Blank,” and other papers giving particulars of “our +Co-operative Plan,” by which the purchaser obtains a commission +on sales to others resulting from his introduction of +“Alcola.” The chief parts of the directions are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Tablets Nos. 1 and 2 are to be given as follows: One tablet three times a +day at meal time. Give alternately, that is, tablet of No. 1 at one meal, +No. 2 at the next meal, No. 1 the next, No. 2 the next, and so on.</p> + +<p>They can be given in almost any liquid except water, but strong tea, +coffee, highly seasoned soups, etc., are preferred.... Tablet No. 3. This +tablet is to be used only when the patient has been drinking to a noticeable +degree, or if the patient is a moderate daily drinker, give every third day. +This tablet should be given as soon after the patient has been drinking as +is possible, that is, if the patient comes home under the influence of Drink +give No. 3 at once, if you can. If patient does not drink, do not use No. 3.</p> + +<p>After you have been using the treatment three weeks fill out the enclosed +report blank carefully and fully, and send it to us. This is a most +important point, for in this way we can judge how your patient is getting +along, and if necessary can give you further advice that we are sure will +be of great assistance and value to you.</p> + +<p>It is absolutely impossible for any physician to tell the length of time or +the amount of medicine it will require to cure any particular case....</p> + +<p>The length of time it requires to effect a cure depends entirely upon the +patient’s susceptibility to the action of the medicine....</p> + +<p>... we even find cases where but little improvement is noticed with +the use of the first package ... when these cases are found it will be +necessary to continue the use of Alcola longer than the average amount of +time in order to effect a complete cure.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page139">[139]</span></p> + +<p><i>No. 1 Tablets.</i>—The box contained 62 tablets of a pale yellow +colour; the average weight of one was 5.7 grains. Analysis +showed the presence of—</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Strychnine</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.12</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Caffeine</td> +<td class="intpart">4</td> +<td class="fracpart">.72</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sugar of milk</td> +<td class="intpart">86</td> +<td class="fracpart">.9</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Talc</td> +<td class="intpart">4</td> +<td class="fracpart">.1</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="4" class="text nopad">With starch, a little gum or dextrin, and<br>a trace of colouring matter.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Each tablet would thus contain 0.007 grain of strychnine and +0.26 grain of caffeine.</p> + +<p><i>No. 2 Tablets.</i>—The box contained 63 tablets of a light chocolate +colour; the average weight of one was 5.7 grains. Analysis +showed the presence of—</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text nopad"><span class="padr4">Strychnine</span> <span class="righttext">approximately</span></td> +<td class="number">0.2</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Boric acid</td> +<td class="number">4.4</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sugar of milk</td> +<td class="number">82.8</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Talc</td> +<td class="number">3.0</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="3" class="text nopad">With starch and colouring matter.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>A trace of vegetable débris was present, perhaps from a small +quantity of some vegetable extract showing no distinctive characters. +The colouring matter was basic in nature and could not +be separated from the strychnine; hence the figure for the latter +is approximate only.</p> + +<p>Each tablet would thus contain about 0.011 grain of +strychnine.</p> + +<p><i>No. 3 Tablets.</i>—The box contained 29 tablets, which were +greyish with a pink tinge; the average weight of one was 2.9 +grains. Analysis showed the presence of—</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Tartar emetic</td> +<td class="number">16.7</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Calcium sulphate</td> +<td class="number">61.4</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Talc</td> +<td class="number">3.1</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="3" class="text nopad">With starch and colouring matter.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>A trace of a pungent substance was present resembling the +pungent principle of pepper, and a trace of vegetable débris, +which may have been from a small quantity of a vegetable +extract showing no distinctive characters.</p> + +<p>Each tablet would thus contain 0.48 grain of tartar emetic. +The estimated cost of the ingredients for all the tablets in the +three boxes is about 1³⁄₄d.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page140">[140]</span></p> + +<h3>THE “NORMYL” CURE FOR ALCOHOL AND DRUG +ADDICTIONS.</h3> + +<p>The specimen of this medicine described in the following paragraph +was sent for examination by the medical adviser of a +patient who did not continue the “cure.” It appears from the +printed matter on the package that the full course consists of +twenty-four days’ medicine, supplied in twenty-four bottles; +the package sent by our correspondent was marked “second +treatment”; it had contained twelve bottles, but one had been +removed before it reached us, and the eleven sent were marked +respectively “14th day,” “15th day,” etc., to “24th day.” +Each bottle had the cork and neck covered with tinfoil, over +which was the label indicating the day on which the contents +were to be taken, showing that they had not been opened or +tampered with. On the outside of the box was a proprietary +medicine stamp for 3s., this being the duty payable on proprietary +medicines of selling price of 20s. to 30s. (exclusive of +stamp); an article bearing a 3s. stamp is usually sold at 33s.</p> + +<p>Each bottle contained about 150 minims of a light reddish-brown +liquid. The directions for use are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Secure from your chemist what is known as a flat eight ounce bottle for +pocket use and a dose glass. Mix the contents of vial marked “1st day” +in eight ounces of water and take half-an-ounce (one tablespoonful) of the +mixture every hour while awake. When any of the mixture remains from +the previous day, throw it away, as it loses its virtue after 24 hours. Mix +a fresh bottle every day. Keep the bowels regular, and in case of constipation +take some gentle aperient as often as may be necessary, and use +no intoxicating liquor. Eat of any food you like.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>It is further stated that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>As this preparation contains a small medicinal dose of Nux Vomica, it +must, in order to comply with the Pharmacy Act, be labelled poison, but +its composition remains unaltered.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="noindent">And:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>N.B.—Although a cure will apparently be effected in a few days, it is +absolutely necessary in order to ensure a Permanent Cure that a full course +of 24 days’ medicine (24 bottles) shall be taken without a break, so that +the alcoholic or drug poison may be thoroughly eliminated from the system +and thus prevent a return of the crave.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Qualitative examination of the contents of some of the +bottles did not indicate any differences of composition, and as +the quantity in one bottle was far too small for quantitative +<span class="pagenum" id="Page141">[141]</span>analysis, the contents of several were mixed for analysis. The +mixed liquid was found to contain:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Alcohol</td> +<td class="intpart">75</td> +<td class="fracpart">.5</td> +<td colspan="3" class="unit">per cent. by volume</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Alkaloid</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.09</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +<td class="unit">(weight in</td> +<td class="unit">volume)</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">A soft resin</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.5</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">A non-alkaloidal bitter principle</td> +<td colspan="5" class="unit">A fair trace</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Ash</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.1</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +<td class="unit">(weight in</td> +<td class="unit">volume)</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Extractive, including colouring matter</td> +<td class="intpart">2</td> +<td class="fracpart">.3</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>The alkaloid consisted principally of strychnine, with a little +brucine; the amount present corresponds to about 25 per cent. +(by volume) of tincture of nux vomica, or 38 minims in one +bottle (one day’s medicine). The resin did not agree in character +with jalap or scammony resin, and the quantity available +was too small for its identification. The non-alkaloidal bitter +principle was extracted from acid solution by chloroform, like +the principles of several common bitter drugs. It agreed in +its behaviour to various colour tests with picrotoxin, and a +small quantity of the latter was accordingly prepared in an +impure state from a tincture of <i>Cocculus indicus</i>, for special +comparison with it; they agreed very closely, though not perfectly, +in their behaviour with various tests—perfect agreement +between necessarily impure substances was not to be expected—and +there appears a high probability that the substance extracted +from the “Normyl” medicine was picrotoxin, though +it was impossible to prove its identity conclusively with the +minute quantity available. The ash, extractive, and colouring +matter did not give any evidence as to the drug from which +they were derived; there was an aromatic flavour in the mixture +resembling that of orange.</p> + +<h3>WOODS’ CURE FOR TOBACCO HABIT.</h3> + +<p>This series of tablets and pills is supplied by E. J. Woods, +Limited, the company whose “cure” for alcoholism is described +<a href="#Ref04">above</a>. Recently advertisements have been appearing +in newspapers and magazines over the name of E. J. Woods (the +“Ltd.” does not appear) offering a three-day cure for tobacco +habit. One of these is worded thus:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="center blankbefore75 blankafter75">TOBACCO HABIT<br> +Conquered in 3 Days.</p> + +<p>I offer a genuine guaranteed Remedy for tobacco or snuff habit, in 72 +hours. It is mild, pleasant, strengthening, overcomes that peculiar +<span class="pagenum" id="Page142">[142]</span>nervousness and craving for cigarettes, cigars, pipe, chewing tobacco, or +snuff; they are poisonous and seriously injurious to health, causing such +disorders as nervous dyspepsia, sleeplessness, gas, belching, gnawing, or +other uncomfortable sensation in stomach; constipation, headache, weak +eyes, loss of vigour, red spots on skin, throat irritation, asthma, bronchitis, +heart failure, lung trouble, catarrh, melancholy, neurasthenia, impotency, +loss of memory and will-power, impure (poisoned) blood, rheumatism, +lumbago, sciatica, neuritis, heartburn, torpid liver, loss of appetite, bad +teeth, foul breath, enervation, lassitude, lack of ambition, falling out of +hair, baldness, and many other disorders. It is unsafe and torturing to +attempt to cure yourself of tobacco or snuff habit by merely stopping—don’t +do it. The gentle, safe, agreeable way is to eliminate the nicotine +poison from the system, strengthen the weakened irritated membranes and +nerves, and genuinely overcome the craving. You can give up Tobacco +and enjoy yourself a thousand times better, while feeling always in robust +health. My Free book tells all about the wonderful 3 days’ method. +Inexpensive, reliable.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The “Free book” is entitled “How to Speedily and Perfectly +Conquer the Tobacco Smoking and Chewing Habits, also +the Snuff Habit”; it is a pamphlet of thirteen pages, chiefly +devoted to describing the awful effects of the use of tobacco, +and evidently intended to impress the reader and enlist his +terrors to aid the “cure.”</p> + +<p>A few extracts will suffice as samples:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Nicotine is one of the most intense of all poisons, approaching in its +strength the highly powerful prussic acid.</p> + +<p>The other important element is an oil called <i>nicotianin</i>; probably this is +Shakespeare’s “juice of the cursed henbane,” mentioned in “Hamlet.” +This is also an intense poison....</p> + +<p>There are several kinds of cigarettes that are prepared with opium, +cannabis indica (hasheesh), or cocaine. Thus, another very insidious and +killing poison is taken into the system.</p> + +<p>The muscles as well as the nerves become poisoned by nicotine.</p> + +<p>The effect of tobacco upon the nerves and muscles of the eyes is a reason +why oculists and opticians flourish.</p> + +<p>Tobacco causes enfeebling of the mind and too often it leads to insanity. ... +tobacco is a frequent cause of heart failure and premature death.</p> + +<p>I have been told by medical men that there is a belief, becoming better +founded from year to year, that tobacco is a cause of appendicitis.</p> + +<p>Falling of the hair, followed by baldness, also the turning of dark hair +to grey shade, is due very often to the poisoning of the blood nerves by +nicotine.</p> + +<p>The nicotine must be removed from the blood, muscles, nerves, membranes +and all other parts of your body. Do not waste time in trying to +accomplish this by the power of the will. No doubt you can make a +gallant fight, but the poison will remain and will continue to do its +mischief, like the uric acid of the rheumatic.</p> + +<p>Thus far, over two hundred cases of leprosy in the United States have +been traced to cigarette smoking.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page143">[143]</span></p> + +<p>A paragraph headed “A Deadly Weed” gives a list of rather +more than a hundred disorders of various kinds, with the statement +that “no tobacco user can escape one or more of the +harmful consequences mentioned in the list.” They are of very +miscellaneous nature, “anxiety” and “softening of the brain” +standing together, and “cowardice” coming between “amaurosis” +and “apoplexy.”</p> + +<p>There are two forms of the treatment, at the same price:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>The cost of the Woods C Treatment is one guinea. The result is +absolutely guaranteed. All craving for tobacco in any form should be +completely eradicated and in most cases this result will be accomplished +in only seventy-two hours.</p> + +<p>My C Treatment (regularly) for the Tobacco Habit is to be taken by +the person who desires to be cured. Obviously, he knows that he is +taking it.</p> + +<p>I am asked sometimes if I can provide a Treatment which can be given +without the tobacco user’s knowledge. Yes, I can. This is my C Secret +Treatment. It can be given secretly in any kind of food or drink. It +is tasteless. The person finds that he is losing his desire for tobacco and +soon abandons its use altogether. The price of this C Secret Treatment +is one guinea, the same as the regular C Treatment.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The “treatment” obtained was the “regular,” to be taken +knowingly by a person desiring to be cured. It was accompanied +by a letter, in which it was stated that “the preparations +are very potential,” and a postscript runs thus:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>I would appreciate a testimonial from you, to add to the great collection +that I am compiling. I hope you will see your way clear to send this.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The materials sent consisted of seven different kinds of +tablets and one lot of pills; these bore various numbers as +follows:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text nopad">No. 301:</td> +<td class="number">7</td> +<td class="text nopad">small pink-coated tablets.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text nopad">No. 302:</td> +<td class="number">64</td> +<td class="text nopad">small brown tablets, not coated.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text nopad">No. 303:</td> +<td class="number">15</td> +<td class="text nopad">small pink-coated pills.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text nopad">No. 304:</td> +<td class="number">6</td> +<td class="text nopad">chocolate-coated tablets.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text nopad">No. 305:</td> +<td class="number">4</td> +<td class="text nopad">small grey tablets, not coated.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text nopad">No. 306:</td> +<td class="number">10</td> +<td class="text nopad">grey tablets, not coated.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text nopad">No. 307:</td> +<td class="number">2</td> +<td class="text nopad">small black-coated tablets.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text nopad">No. 308:</td> +<td class="number">17</td> +<td class="text nopad">chocolate-coated tablets.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Since in every case one is directed to be taken for a dose, the +total includes 125 doses for the 72 hours requisite for the cure; +the elaborate 3-day time table sent, however, only provides for +one to be taken at every hour from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., and one +on awaking in the morning and one at bedtime, and “if awake +in the night or early morning, a No. 302 tablet may be taken +<span class="pagenum" id="Page144">[144]</span>each two hours. To induce sleep, if necessary, take one +No. 304, followed by another in half an hour”; so that if five +are taken during the night, just seventy-two doses are directed. +For the first twenty-four hours the order of taking, beginning +at 7 p.m., is 301, 302, 303, 302, 303, then the night interval, +303, 308, 301, 302, 303, 302, 305, 302, 306, 302, 301, 302, 305, +and is different for the second and again for the third twenty-four +hours.</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Every dose is to be followed by a medium size glass of hot or cold +water (to be sipped), Vichy or soda with milk, or buttermilk. Take Nos. +303, 304, 306, 307, and 308 whole. Chew No. 301 before swallowing. +Dissolve Nos. 302 and 305 in a small glass of water.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Nos. 302, 303, 306, and 308, of which the supply was the +largest, were analysed as fully as possible; for the others, the +small quantity available did not permit of much more than a +qualitative analysis. The results obtained were as follows:</p> + +<p>No. 301 (to be chewed before swallowing).—The average +weight of one tablet after removal of the coating was 1.28 +grains; the principal ingredient was phenol-phthalein, and a +resin which appeared to be podophyllin; no other active substance +was found.</p> + +<p>According to the directions, three of these are to be taken +in the first twenty-four hours, two in the second, and four in +the third: this makes a total of nine, but only seven were sent.</p> + +<p>No. 302 (to be dissolved in water before taking).—The +average weight of one tablet was 1.28 grains. Analysis showed +the presence of sugar of milk 63 per cent., a brown dye, and a +very bitter non-alkaloidal extract resembling extract of quassia, +which it probably was. No other substance was found except +a little talc; it was not possible to determine the amount of the +bitter extract or of the dye.</p> + +<p>According to the directions, seven are taken during the daytime +in the first twenty-four hours, seven in the second, and +four in the third, and three during each night if awake. There +is, therefore, a large surplus of these in the supply sent.</p> + +<p>No. 303 (pills).—The average weight of one pill after removal +of the coating was 0.9 grain. Analysis showed the principal +constituent to be aloin, with a small proportion of strychnine. +According to the directions, four of these are to be taken in +the first twenty-four hours, three in the second, and one in the +third.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page145">[145]</span></p> + +<p>No. 304 (to be swallowed whole).—The average weight of one +after removal of the coating was 4.4 grains. Analysis showed +the principal constituent to be asafœtida; in addition, a minute +trace of an alkaloidal substance, which was far too small in +amount to be examined, but which was not strychnine, was +present, and no other medicinal substance was found.</p> + +<p>These are the tablets to be taken during the night, if necessary, +to induce sleep:—</p> + +<p>No. 305 (to be dissolved in water before taking).—The average +weight of one was 2.5 grains. Analysis showed that the +principal ingredient was reduced iron, with a trace of a bitter +alkaloid which appeared to be strychnine. The greater part +of the tablet being insoluble in water, the direction to “dissolve” +it before taking cannot well be carried out.</p> + +<p>According to the directions, two of these are to be taken in +the first twenty-four hours and one each in the second +and third.</p> + +<p>No. 306 (to be swallowed whole).—The average weight of one +was 3.7 grains; analysis showed the presence of ferrous carbonate, +potassium sulphate, strychnine, and brucine, with dextrin, +glucose, and starch; it was thus a form of Blaud’s pill with +extract of nux vomica. The alkaloids amounted to 0.16 per +cent., representing about 2 per cent. of extract of nux vomica, +or about ¹⁄₁₃ grain in one tablet; the iron was 9.7 per cent., +representing 20 per cent. of ferrous carbonate, or about ³⁄₄ grain +in one tablet.</p> + +<p>According to the directions, one of these is to be taken in the +first twenty-four hours, four in the second, and five in the +third.</p> + +<p>No. 307 (to be swallowed whole).—One tablet weighed 2 +grains, including the thin coating. Analysis showed the principal +constituent to be a blue dye which agreed in its general +characters with methylene blue. The only other substance +found was a little starch.</p> + +<p>According to the directions, one of these is to be taken +about the middle of the period of seventy-two hours and the +other just before its close.</p> + +<p>No. 308 (to be swallowed whole).—The average weight of +one, after removal of the coating, was 3.7 grains. Analysis +showed the tablets to contain chalk 36 per cent., charcoal 20 +per cent., sugar 26 per cent., and a trace of methyl salicylate +(oil of wintergreen); the only other constituents found were +small quantities of gum and talc, used, no doubt, as excipients.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page146">[146]</span></p> + +<p>According to the directions, one of these is to be taken +in the first twenty-four hours, none in the second, and three in +the third.</p> + +<p>It appears very evident that suggestion is intended to play +a considerable part in the treatment. The booklet is written +in such a way as to strike an impressionable reader with a +strong conviction of the terrible results to be expected if the +tobacco habit is continued, and the emphatic guaranteeing of a +cure in a very short time would, no doubt, assist the patient’s +determination to give it up. The medicines having to be taken +every hour, sometimes chewed, sometimes swallowed whole, and +sometimes dissolved, would ensure the mind being kept well +occupied with the cure; and the full directions include the use +of an enema daily, dieting, breathing exercises, bathing, etc. +The medicines themselves appear to be of three classes—aperients, +tonics, and those intended to produce a subjective +effect, like asafœtida and methylene blue, the colouring effect of +which on the urine might perhaps lead the patient to ask an +explanation or to guess for himself that the colour “shows +the nicotine being driven out of the system.”</p> + +<p>A further set of remedies, the “E set,” price £2 2s., is recommended +to be taken immediately after the C set, and is +“intended to assist the natural recuperative powers so that the +full benefit of having taken the other treatments shall be more +speedily manifested.”</p> + +<p>As the small amount of material available prevented the +analysis of some of the products being made quantitatively, it is +not possible to estimate exactly the cost price of the ingredients, +but it is evident that a few pence would fully cover it.</p> + +<p>Although three of the different kinds of products contained +strychnine, none of the packages bore any intimation of the fact, +or the word “Poison.”</p> + + +<hr class="chap"> + +<div class="chapter"> +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page147">[147]</span></p> +<h2 class="nobreak"><span class="chapno">CHAPTER IX.</span><br> +SOOTHING SYRUPS FOR INFANTS.</h2> +</div> + +<div class="largersize"> +<p>In the previous volume the results of the analysis of various +“soothing powders” for infants were given. “Soothing +syrups” also are very largely used, and are probably usually +purchased as “syrup of aniseed,” etc., or sometimes compounded +in accordance with some domestic recipe. There +are, however, a certain number of proprietary preparations +of this class which have a large sale, and in this chapter we +give the results of the analysis of some of the chief of these. +The principal constituent of three out of the four is shown +to be anethol or carvone, added in the form of one or more +of the oils of anise, dill, and caraway. Two of the three +syrups are alkaline, sodium bicarbonate being used in one +case, and a mixture of potassium bicarbonate and magnesium +carbonate in the other. The third contains potassium +bromide. The other syrup examined is directed to be rubbed +on the gums, after which it is of course swallowed gradually +by the child; this is a preparation of hydrochloric acid, common +salt, saffron, and honey. Perhaps the most noteworthy +point in connection with these preparations is that one of +them, claiming to have had a large sale for sixty years, is +not now of the same composition as formerly. At one time +this preparation contained morphine, as was proved in courts +of law on several occasions when proceedings under the +Pharmacy Acts were taken against unqualified persons for +selling it, and in fact the presence of morphine was admitted +by a statement on the package. Now, however, as our +analysis shows, it contains no morphine, but potassium +<span class="pagenum" id="Page148">[148]</span>bromide. Which of these two is the more unsuitable for +giving to infants of a few weeks old is, for the moment, not +the question; the alteration of the composition of a medicine +which continues to be sold under the old name and with statements +as to its having been made for sixty years, shows how +utterly the public is at the mercy of the proprietors of such +preparations, who are at liberty to omit or add ingredients, +or to alter the composition as they please.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<h3>MRS. WINSLOW’S SOOTHING SYRUP.</h3> + +<p>This much-advertised preparation is supplied by a firm having +addresses in New York and London, at 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. per bottle, containing +1¹⁄₂ fluid ounces.</p> + +<p>In a circular enclosed in the package it is stated that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Mrs. Winslow’s Soothing Syrup, for children teething, greatly facilitates +the process of teething, by softening the gums, reducing all inflammation—will +allay <span class="smcap">All Pain</span> and spasmodic action, and is <span class="smcap">Sure To Regulate +The Bowels</span>. Depend upon it, mothers, it will give rest to yourselves, +and <span class="smcap">Relief And Health to Your Infants</span>.</p> + +<p>We have put up and sold this article for over sixty years, and <i>can say +in confidence and truth</i>, of it, what we have never been able to say of any +other medicine—<span class="smcap">Never Has It Failed, In A Single Instance, To Effect +A Cure</span>, when timely used. Never did we know an instance of dissatisfaction +by anyone who used it. On the contrary, all are delighted with +its operations, and speak in terms of highest commendation of its magical +effects and medical virtues....</p> + +<p>This valuable preparation is the prescription of one of the <span class="smcap">Most +Experienced and Skilful Nurses</span> in America, and has been used with +<i>never failing success</i> in <span class="smcap">Thousands Of Cases</span>.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The following statement appears on the label:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>This Preparation contains no Poisonous Ingredient and may be used +with Perfect Safety.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>A few years ago, however, the package used to bear a statement +that “this preparation contains, among other valuable ingredients, +a small amount of morphine,” and the presence of +morphine to the extent of about 0.08 grain per bottle was +proved in court in cases where unqualified persons were prosecuted +for selling the syrup. The labels now in use do not contain +any such statement, and the analysis shows that morphine +is not now present. But the extracts quoted above, as to the +<span class="pagenum" id="Page149">[149]</span>article having been sold for sixty years, and to the prescription +of a nurse, are such as would lead any one to suppose that its +composition is now what it has always been.</p> + +<p>The directions on the label are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>For a child under one month old, 6 to 10 drops; three months old, +half a teaspoonful; six months old and upwards, a teaspoonful three or +four times a day. For Dysentery, repeat the above dose every two +hours, until the character of the discharges is changed for the better.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The syrup was of a straw colour, and flavoured with aniseed. +Analysis showed it to contain, in 100 parts by measure:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Potassium bromide</td> +<td class="number">2.0</td> +<td class="unit">parts</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Alcohol</td> +<td class="number">4.3</td> +<td class="unit">parts by measure</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Essential oil (anise), about</td> +<td class="number">0.1</td> +<td class="unit">part</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sugar</td> +<td class="number">56.5</td> +<td class="unit">parts</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Emodin was present in small quantity. This substance may +be derived from several drugs—for example, senna, rhubarb, +cascara sagrada, etc. The evidence which was obtainable +pointed to senna as the drug from which it was derived in the +present case. A syrup containing 1.2 per cent. (by measure) +of the syrup of senna of the <i>British Pharmacopœia</i> was of the +same depth of colour and showed about the same proportion of +emodin, and agreed in other respects also. No alkaloid was +present. The essential oil may have contained a little oil of +dill or caraway, the quantity being far too small to be +separated. There was some evidence of about 2 per cent. of +glycerine, but in presence of so much sugar this could not be +positively proved.</p> + +<h3>WOODWARD’S GRIPE WATER.</h3> + +<p>This preparation is supplied by a limited company in Nottingham, +at 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. per bottle, containing 5 fluid ounces. It +is thus described on the label:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Woodward’s Celebrated Gripe Water, or Infant’s Preservative, without +Laudanum, for all disorders of children, viz.: Convulsions, Gripes, +Acidity, Flatulency, Whooping-Cough, and the distressing complaints +incidental to Infants at the period of Cutting their Teeth, allaying the +pain, giving instant relief, and rendering this crisis perfectly mild and +free from danger.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The directions are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>For an infant, half a teaspoonful; two months old, one or two teaspoonfuls. +The dose may be gradually increased.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page150">[150]</span></p> + +<p>Analysis showed it to contain, in 100 parts by measure:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sodium bicarbonate</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.08</td> +<td colspan="2" class="unit">part</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text nopad"><span class="padr4">Essential oil</span> <span class="righttext">about</span></td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.03</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td> </td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Alcohol</td> +<td class="intpart">3</td> +<td class="fracpart">.8</td> +<td class="unit">parts</td> +<td class="unit">by measure</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sugar</td> +<td class="intpart">20</td> +<td class="fracpart">.5</td> +<td colspan="2" class="unit">parts</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>No alkaloid was present. The essential oil appeared to be +chiefly oil of caraway, with a little oil of dill, and possibly also +of anise.</p> + +<h3>ATKINSON AND BARKER’S ROYAL INFANTS’ +PRESERVATIVE.</h3> + +<p>This mixture is supplied by a Manchester firm, at 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. +per bottle, containing 1¹⁄₂ fluid ounces.</p> + +<p>In a circular wrapped round the bottle, this medicine</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p class="noindent">Is recommended to all Parents, Nurses, and others, who are entrusted with +the management of Children, as a Medicine of real and approved efficacy, +in preventing and removing those disorders to which Children in their +early infancy are most liable, principally proceeding from a redundancy of +acidity in the first passages, as Wind, the Watery and Dry Gripes, Convulsions, +the Frog, etc., to which so many children fall victims, but which +may in general be prevented by the use of this Medicine. It is also +happily calculated for allaying those excruciating pains which Children +suffer in Cutting their Teeth, and will, by being judiciously used, render +this operation of nature perfectly mild and free from danger. It is also +equally efficacious in many other disorders to which Children are liable, as +the Rickets, Whooping Cough, Measles, etc....</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The directions as to dose are:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<colgroup> +<col class="wauto"> +<col span="3" class="w01em"> +<col span="2" class="wauto"> +<col span="2" class="w01em"> +<col class="wauto"> +</colgroup> + +<tr> +<td class="left top">Children</td> +<td colspan="4" class="left top">up to a month</td> +<td class="number">5</td> +<td class="center">to</td> +<td class="number">10</td> +<td class="unit">drops in warm water</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="number">1</td> +<td class="center">to</td> +<td class="number">3</td> +<td class="left top">months</td> +<td class="number">10</td> +<td class="center">to</td> +<td class="number">20</td> +<td class="ditto spaced2">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="number">3</td> +<td class="center">to</td> +<td class="number">6</td> +<td class="left top">months</td> +<td class="number">20</td> +<td class="center">to</td> +<td class="number">30</td> +<td class="ditto spaced2">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="number">6</td> +<td class="center">to</td> +<td class="number">12</td> +<td class="left top">months</td> +<td class="number">60</td> +<td colspan="2" class="left bot">drops,</td> +<td class="left bot">or small teaspoonful</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="number">12</td> +<td colspan="3" class="left top"><span class="padr4">months to 3 years</span></td> +<td class="number">100</td> +<td colspan="2" class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="left bot">or moderate-sized teaspoonful</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Analysis showed it to contain, in 100 parts by measure:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Potassium bicarbonate</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.75</td> +<td class="unit">parts</td> +<td rowspan="3"> </td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Magnesium carbonate</td> +<td class="intpart">5</td> +<td class="fracpart">.45</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text nopad"><span class="padr4">Essential oil</span> <span class="righttext">about</span></td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.06</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Alcohol</td> +<td class="intpart">7</td> +<td class="fracpart">.0</td> +<td class="unit">parts</td> +<td class="unit">by measure</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sugar</td> +<td class="intpart">9</td> +<td class="fracpart">.9</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td> </td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Colouring matter</td> +<td colspan="4" class="unit">trace.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page151">[151]</span></p> + +<p>No alkaloid was present. The essential oil appeared to contain +oils of caraway, dill, anise, and almond. The colouring +matter did not appear to be of vegetable origin, but showed a +yellow colour in alkaline and a pinkish in acid solution, thus +agreeing with certain coal-tar dyes.</p> + +<h3>MRS. JOHNSON’S AMERICAN SOOTHING SYRUP.</h3> + +<p>This syrup is now supplied by a limited company of dealers +in proprietary medicines in London; according to statements in +a circular accompanying the bottle, it was formerly made by +a Mrs. Jane Johnson. A 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. bottle contained about 70 +minims.</p> + +<p>It is stated in the circular that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>This remedy has given relief to thousands of children when suffering +from the pains of teething. As soon as the Syrup is rubbed on the gums +the child will recover, being as innocent as efficacious, and so pleasant that +no child will refuse to let its gums be rubbed with it. When infants are at +the age of four months, though there is no appearance of teeth, one bottle +of the Syrup should be rubbed on the gums to open the pores. Parents +should never be without the Syrup in the nursery where there are young +children; for if a child wakes in the night with pain in the gums, the +Syrup immediately gives ease, by opening the pores and healing the gums, +thereby preventing Convulsions, Fevers, etc.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The directions on the label are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Rub the gums with the Syrup two or three times daily for several +minutes.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The syrup was of a deep reddish-yellow colour, and had a +strong flavour of saffron. Analysis showed it to contain in 100 +parts by measure:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sodium chloride</td> +<td class="intpart">5</td> +<td class="fracpart">.66</td> +<td class="unit">parts.</td> +<td> </td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Hydrochloric acid (<i>B.P.</i>)</td> +<td class="intpart">2</td> +<td class="fracpart">.33</td> +<td class="unit">parts</td> +<td class="left top">by measure.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Reducing sugars, calculated as glucose</td> +<td class="intpart">66</td> +<td class="fracpart">.6</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td rowspan="2"> </td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text nopad"><span class="padr4">Extractive, colouring, etc.</span> <span class="righttext">about</span></td> +<td class="intpart">5</td> +<td class="fracpart">.0</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>A little alcohol was present, but the amount was not determined. +The reducing sugars appeared to be present in the form +of honey, representing about 85 parts of this; the extractive was +partly derived from saffron, and would include the non-saccharine +constituents of the honey.</p> + + +<hr class="chap"> + +<div class="chapter"> +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page152">[152]</span></p> +<h2 class="nobreak"><span class="chapno">CHAPTER X.</span><br> +MEDICINES FOR EPILEPSY.</h2> +</div> + +<div class="largersize"> +<p>The present chapter gives the results of analyses of three +much-advertised medicines for the cure of epilepsy, which +show the principal ingredient in all of them, as in five out +of the six dealt with in the previous volume, to be bromide. +It is not uncommon to find that nostrums for any complaint +having well-marked symptoms, such as epilepsy, contain +the drugs most commonly used by the medical profession +in treating it; but this does not at all deter the proprietors +from making scornful references to the usual medical treatment, +and intimating that their own preparation owes its +marvellous virtues to some new or different substance. In +the present instances the usual claims are made of the cure +of “frightful cases of long standing, which had been pronounced +hopeless by eminent physicians and hospitals, and +after everything which had been tried had utterly failed,” +and so forth, but analysis does not show the presence of +anything but drugs in everyday use; two of the preparations +examined consisting of ammonium bromide and potassium +iodide, and the third of these substances and potassium +bromide, with, in all three, colouring and flavouring agents. +The first two bear on the label the words, “Guaranteed +free from Bromide of Potassium and Poison,” and a great +deal is made, in the pamphlets in which they are recommended, +of the absence of this salt, without, of course, any +hint that the very similar ammonium bromide is substituted +for it. In one of these pamphlets it is stated that “any +person who knows anything about epilepsy and fits knows +something of the harm done in many cases by Bromide of +<span class="pagenum" id="Page153">[153]</span>Potassium. Almost every patient I have had during a long +and extensive practice has taken this drug (and in some +cases it has been taken for many years), so that I find it +necessary to eliminate the ill effects of Bromide of Potassium +from the system.” In the case of the third, which is shown +to contain 15.6 grains of potassium bromide and 4.2 grains +of ammonium bromide in each fluid drachm, perhaps even +more effrontery is shown in the statement, “the treatment +of Epilepsy and Fits is carried on under some difficulty, as +nearly all the great Physicians prescribe the same remedy—Bromide—Bromide—nothing +much except Bromide, and +so the unhappy sufferer consults many doctors without +being cured.” The similarity in composition of the first +two of these preparations is not reflected in the prices, +4s. 6d. being charged in the first case for an 8 oz. bottle +(without a “patent medicine” stamp) and 2s. 9d. in the +second for the same sized bottle, stamped; even at the +lower price, as the figures show, the rate of profit is very +generous, and, as the article is sold direct to the consumer +through the post, there are no intermediate charges to be +deducted from what the maker actually receives, except the +cost of postage. These two medicines show not only a +great similarity of composition, but the pamphlet issued +to puff the one of them would seem to have been adapted +or paraphrased from that issued in support of the other. +A similarity among some of the published “testimonials” +is striking, and shows to what great length the arm of +coincidence may grow when circumstances are favourable.</p> +</div><!--largersize--> + +<h3>J. GILBERT DALE’S TREATMENT, “IMPERATINE.”</h3> + +<p>This preparation is supplied by J. Gilbert Dale from an +address in London. The price was formerly 4s. 6d. per bottle, +but it appears, as shown below, that the method of charging +for the medicine by the bottle has been abandoned in favour +of charging a monthly fee for the “treatment,” supplying the +<span class="pagenum" id="Page154">[154]</span>medicine “free.” Apparently the principal difference is that +in this way a higher price is obtained.</p> + +<p>This preparation is one of those that are not supplied through +retailers, but direct from the proprietor through the post. The +first three communications received in the case here dealt with +are dated 1908, and, like so many of such “letters,” are circulars +in imitation of typewriting, with the name and address, +the date, and “Dear Sir or Madam” typed in. In the first +letter it is stated that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>My remedy contains no Bromide of Potassium, and no Poison, and is +perfectly safe for both delicate adults and young children.</p> + +<p>It has cured completely and permanently, frightful cases of long standing, +which had been pronounced hopeless by eminent physicians and +hospitals, and after everything which had been tried had utterly failed.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="noindent">And in the third that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>If it is simply a case of mony (<i>sic</i>) which deters you, I am prepared to +send you the remedy at the following reduced price,</p> + +<p class="center highline15"><span class="smcap">Two</span> 4s. 6d. <span class="smcap">Bottles for the Price of One</span>.</p> + +<p>This will give you a month in which to demonstrate the merits of the +cure. Of course it must be understood that the subsequent supplies must +be paid for at the ordinary price....</p> + +<p>I will keep this offer open for one week from this date. Since you first +wrote me I have received several striking testimonials from people who +applied to me at the same time as yourself, and who commenced to take my +remedy at once.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>This last paragraph, in a circular, points to the remarkable +coincidence that whenever an inquiry about the medicine is not +followed up by purchase, several other people apply at the +same time, commence to take the remedy at once, and send +striking testimonials within a few weeks. An alternative +explanation, of course, is that the statement is simply not true.</p> + +<p>The notepaper used for these communications was headed +“Specialist in Epilepsy and Nervous Diseases. Dale’s Remedy +for Epilepsy. Trade-mark ‘Imperatine’ (Reg.),” and also +bore the words, “Advice by Post Free. Personal consultations +by appointment, One Guinea; including one month’s treatment +Free.”</p> + +<p>Various pamphlets were sent at one time or another. In one +of these, entitled “<i>Epilepsy and its Cure</i>. A few facts. J. +Gilbert Dale, Specialist in Epilepsy and Fits,” it is stated:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>I have no degree, having never sat for any medical examination. My +name does not, therefore, appear on the Medical Register, and I cannot +<span class="pagenum" id="Page155">[155]</span>legally call myself a Doctor; but my long and varied experience of this +dread disease qualifies me to treat Epilepsy and nervous diseases, of which +I have made a special study.... I always advise my patients to send +for their family doctor when they are suffering from any other ailments +than those I treat.... During the nine or ten years that I have been +treating cases in all parts of the United Kingdom and abroad, I have had +to deal with every form of this terrible disease. There is no form of the +complaint which I have not had the opportunity of studying very closely, +and my experience of these cases (particulars of which have been supplied +to me in detail) has been most valuable, and gives me qualifications for +treating Epilepsy that I could not have obtained in any other way.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The method appears to be: Do not sit for a medical examination +(requiring long and expensive training), but set up as a +Specialist in Something and advertise. You will then get cases +from all parts of the country, and particulars will be supplied. +From the experience obtained in treating them you will become +qualified to treat others. It certainly seems simple.</p> + +<p>Another of the pamphlets was entitled <i>Epilepsy and its Treatment</i>. +The similarity between this and the pamphlet sent out +by another firm and referred to below is remarkably close, as +a few extracts will show:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Of the very many diseases which afflict humanity, few, if any, are more +dreadful than Epilepsy, or Falling Fits. This disease has existed for +centuries, for we read in St. Matthew’s Gospel, chapter 17 (revised version), +verse 15, “Lord, have mercy on my son: for he is epileptic, and suffereth +grievously: for oft times he falleth into the fire, and oft times into the +water.” Also in St. Matthew’s Gospel, chapter 4, verse 24, we read, “And +they brought unto Him all that were sick, holden with divers diseases and +torments, possessed with devils, and epileptic, and palsied, and He healed +them.”</p> + +<p>Epilepsy has claimed for its subjects persons of the highest rank, as well +as of the lowest. Some of the greatest of the earth have been afflicted by +it. Cæsar, Henry IV. of England, Napoleon, Peter the Great, Mohammed, +Byron, Sheridan, the great Duke of Wellington, and others whose names +are written on the pages of the world’s history, are said to have been +afflicted by this terrible disease....</p> + +<p>I honestly believe it to be the finest treatment in the world for epilepsy. +It is not a Cure-all. It cures epilepsy and some kindred diseases, but this +is all I claim for it....</p> + +<p>“Imperatine” is a Nerve Food. It is as much a food and as necessary +to epileptics as ordinary food. Some medicines ARE foods, and are found +in the foods we eat.... As we do not get these nerve foods in correct +proportions in the food we eat, they have to be supplied in the form of +medicine....</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page156">[156]</span></p> + +<p>Other medicines recommended in this pamphlet are “Dale’s +Imperatone Pills” and “Dale’s Powerones.”</p> + +<p>A considerable interval elapsed between the receipt of these +pamphlets, etc., and the next step. When finally an order for +a bottle of “Imperatine” was sent, together with 4s. 6d., a +letter was received in reply, signed “W. Bunn, Secretary,” +stating that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>We do not, however, charge for medicine, but Mr. Gilbert Dale charges +a fee for treating the case, as each case is treated individually, and medicine +is prescribed separately for each patient.</p> + +<p>We shall be glad if you will fill in and return the enclosed form and your +case will then be carefully gone into, and a fee for treatment will be +quoted.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>In reply to this a leaf was sent from one of the pamphlets +quoting “Imperatine” at 4s. 6d. per bottle, three bottles 13s., +etc., with a letter pointing out the inconsistency, and demanding +a bottle of the medicine or the return of the money. The +following was then received:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="blankbefore75">Dear Sir,</p> + +<p><span class="padl2">Mr.</span> Gilbert Dale has requested me to acknowledge receipt of your +letter. As you can easily understand, epilepsy is a disease that is best +treated by specially varied medicines for each case, therefore it has been +found desirable, rather than to sell the bottle for each person, to take each +case under the Treatment at so much per month, all medicines being +supplied free. This is done so that the medicines may be prepared at our +own laboratory, and patients may not be tempted to make the medicine +last a longer period.</p> + +<p>Under the circumstances if you would send the enclosed form filled in so +that the medicine may be prepared we are willing to send a special bottle +at the 4s. 6d. I should strongly advise you to take the Treatment at say +10s. 6d. for a month, this would include all medicines required for Epilepsy.</p> + +<p class="right blankbefore75"><span class="padr10">Yours faithfully,</span><br> +<span class="padr2"><span class="smcap">W. Bunn</span>, Secretary.</span></p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="blankbefore75">According to an earlier letter, quoted above, two 4s. 6d. +bottles would last a month, therefore a monthly fee of 10s. 6d. +represents an increased charge. But the use of the expression, +“say 10s. 6d.,” and the general tone of the letter seem to +suggest that if it had not been for the dispute referred to a +higher fee might have been charged. Another reason for the +fiction that all medicine is supplied free may be a desire to +avoid paying stamp duty, which would amount to 6d. on each +bottle.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page157">[157]</span></p> + +<p>The “consultation form” was then filled up and sent; the +questions asked, with the replies given (in italics), were as +follows:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="center highline15"><span class="smcap">Consultation Form.</span></p> + +<p>The information supplied on this form will be treated as of a <i>strictly +private</i> character. It is generally better for a relative or friend of the +sufferer to fill up this form.</p> + +<p class="right highline15"><i>Date</i> ..............................<br> +<i>Name of patient (in full)</i> ...........................................<br> +<i>Address (in full)</i> ........................................................</p> + +<p> 1 Age?—<i>28.</i></p> + +<p> 2 Married or single?—<i>Single.</i></p> + +<p> 3 Occupation?—<i>Clerk.</i></p> + +<p> 4 Pale, ruddy, blotchy or sallow complexion?—<i>Pale.</i></p> + +<p> 5 Thin or stout?—<i>Medium.</i></p> + +<p> 6 Weak or strong?—<i>Fairly strong.</i></p> + +<p> 7 Height?—<i>5 ft. 8.</i></p> + +<p> 8 Weight?—<i>10 st. 7.</i></p> + +<p> 9 Is patient of weak intellect?—<i>No.</i></p> + +<p>10 How long suffered with fits?—<i>Occasionally for about 12 years: fits +have only been frequent for a year.</i></p> + +<p>11 Do you know the cause? If so, what was it?—<i>No.</i></p> + +<p>12 How often do attacks occur?—<i>From once a week to once in 4 or 5 +weeks.</i></p> + +<p>13 During night or day?—<i>Usually evening.</i></p> + +<p>14 Do the fits generally occur at a certain time? If so, about what +hour usually?—<i>Usually between 6 and 8 in the evening.</i></p> + +<p>15 How long unconscious in attacks?—<i>3 to 5 minutes.</i></p> + +<p>16 Is there any warning? If so, what?—<i>None, except often a severe +headache.</i></p> + +<p>17 Do the bowels act regularly without opening medicine?—<i>Yes.</i></p> + +<p>18 Is appetite normal?—<i>Yes.</i></p> + +<p>19 Is digestion good?—<i>Yes.</i></p> + +<p>20 Does the patient pass a normal quantity of urine?—<i>Yes.</i></p> + +<p>21 Is it natural in colour and free from sediment?—<i>Yes.</i></p> + +<p>22 Is monthly health normal (females)?</p> + +<p>23 Does the patient sleep well?—<i>Fairly.</i></p> + +<p>24 Is the patient languid during daytime?—<i>No.</i></p> + +<p>25 Is the patient nervous? If so, in what way?—<i>Not generally, but +rather apprehensive in regard to attacks.</i></p> + +<p>26 Has the patient any other disease?—<i>No.</i></p> + +<p>27 Does the patient suffer pain at times? If so, when and in what +part?—<i>No.</i></p> + +<p>28 Is the patient usually despondent or of a cheerful disposition?—<i>Fairly +cheerful.</i></p> + +<p>29 Does the patient worry?—<i>Not particularly.</i></p> + +<p>30 Has the patient had any other serious illness? If so, give particulars.—<i>No.</i></p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page158">[158]</span></p> + +<p>31 Does the patient take intoxicants? If so, to what extent? <i>One +glass of beer with mid-day meal.</i></p> + +<p>32 Does the patient smoke? If so, how much per week?—<i>Yes, about +1¹⁄₂ oz.</i></p> + +<p>33 Give date of last attack?—<i>April 26th.</i></p> + +<p>34 What doctors and remedies have been tried, and for how long?—<i>None.</i></p> + +<p>35 What results from them? Please answer fully.</p> + +<p>Give any further particulars which you think necessary. If you have +a recent photograph, please send it. I will return it with the medicine. +If you have not a photograph, it does not matter. Answer these questions +as well as you can, and describe as far as possible the character of the +patient’s fits, according to the statements of those who witnessed the +attacks. It will help me if you will also say what is the patient’s mode +of life; such as, what time meals are taken, and what they consist of; +what time the patient goes to bed, and the time of getting up; and so +forth:</p> + +<div class="padl4"> +<p><i>Rises 7.30. Breakfast, bacon or eggs, or fish, etc., bread and +butter, tea. 1.0: Dinner, meat, vegetables, cheese, ¹⁄₂ pint beer. +6.30: Plain tea. 9.30 to 10.30: Bread and cheese and (in winter +only) cocoa. Bed about 11 to 12.</i></p> +</div><!--padding--> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The medicine was then received, with a little book of +“<i>General instructions to patients, and diet tables</i>,” and two +copies of “<i>Report of Progress Form</i>,” with a request that one +of these should be filled up and sent in after 12 days. The +directions on the label were:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Two small teaspoonfuls (exactly two drachms) to a wineglassful of cold +water on rising each morning and on retiring each evening.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The bottle contained eight fluid ounces. Analysis showed the +presence of ammonium bromide, potassium iodide, a little sugar +and alcohol, and a small quantity of iron. After determining +the amounts of the various ingredients, about 1 per cent. of +matter was unaccounted for; the liquid was of a very dark brown +colour, and no active ingredient was found possessing such +colour; the appearance was best matched by means of burnt +sugar, and this would account for the additional solid matter, +but it is not possible to say positively that some “extractive” +other than caramel was not present, and a minute trace of basic +substance, possibly alkaloidal, was found. The alcohol may +have been due to some tincture having been added, or it +may have been employed to dissolve a little oil of sassafras, +the mixture having a sassafras-like aroma. Sulphate was present, +and the iron may have been added as ferrous sulphate, +<span class="pagenum" id="Page159">[159]</span>but there was no direct evidence as to the form in which it +was used. The formula arrived at was:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<th colspan="4"> </th> +<th colspan="3">In one dose<br>(2 drachms)</th> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Potassium iodide</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">·55</td> +<td class="unit">parts</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">·7</td> +<td class="unit">grains</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Ammonium bromide</td> +<td class="intpart">15</td> +<td class="fracpart">·78</td> +<td class="ditto spaced2">„</td> +<td class="intpart">17</td> +<td class="fracpart">·4</td> +<td class="unit">grains</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Iron, calculated as ferrous sulphate</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">·0</td> +<td class="unit">part</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">·1</td> +<td class="unit">grain</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Alcohol</td> +<td class="intpart">4</td> +<td class="fracpart">·15</td> +<td class="unit"><span class="padr4">parts by measure</span></td> +<td class="intpart">5</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="unit">minims</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sugars</td> +<td class="intpart">6</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="unit">parts</td> +<td rowspan="3" colspan="3"> </td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Burnt sugar</td> +<td colspan="3"> </td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of sassafras</td> +<td colspan="3" class="text nopad">trace</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Water to</td> +<td class="intpart">100</td> +<td> </td> +<td colspan="4" class="text nopad">parts by measure</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>The estimated cost of the ingredients for eight fluid ounces +of this mixture is 4d.</p> + +<h3>FITZKURE.</h3> + +<p>“Fitzkure” is supplied by “The London Medicine Co.”; +the price of a bottle containing eight fluid ounces was 2s. 9d.</p> + +<p>An undated circular sent out by this firm commences:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Believing you to be specially interested in the treatment and cure of +Epilepsy, Fits, etc., we have taken the liberty of sending you particulars +of “Fitzkure,” which cures Fits, Falling Sickness, Hysteria, and kindred +Nervous Diseases. May we request that you give the enclosed booklet your +careful consideration.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The reason for supposing the recipient of this circular to be +specially interested in the treatment of epilepsy is not at first +apparent; but the fact that the London Medicine Co.’s booklet +and the composition of their medicine are so similar to those +of J. Gilbert Dale, described above, and that this circular was +sent to a person who had previously written to Mr. Dale for +particulars of his “Imperatine,” suggest that the one business +may be the offspring (legitimate or otherwise) of the other. +There is also a curious resemblance between some of the “testimonials” +published; for example, in one of Dale’s pamphlets +there is one marked “Mrs. W.,” from which the following are +extracts:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>I am now in perfect health, and am only too pleased to speak for “Imperatine.”... +When I went to sleep I never expected to wake again. But +the <i>fits stopped with the first dose</i> of your medicine, and I was soon able to +get up, and am now able to go anywhere by myself with comfort.... +<span class="pagenum" id="Page160">[160]</span>Three weeks before I commenced your medicine, when I took to my bed, +I was in fits day and night, first screaming, and then laughing, and got so +strange that my friends dared not leave me a minute.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>And the London Medicine Co.’s circular gives one marked +“Mrs. F. W.,” from which the following are extracts:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>I am in perfect health, thanks to your wonderful cure.... When I +went to sleep I never expected to wake again.... I can go anywhere now +with comfort. About 3 weeks before I started with Fitzkure I had to take +to my bed, and was in fits day and night, first screaming and then laughing, +and I got so strange that my friends dared not leave me a minute. The +last I had was on the Friday morning that I got your medicine. I took a +dose straight away, and it seems too wonderful to be true that I have not +had one fit since.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Thus there are two women, both having surnames beginning +with W., one taking “Imperatine” and the other “Fitzkure,” +both taking to bed “in fits day and night, first screaming and +then laughing,” both taking the respective medicines just three +weeks after taking to bed, both cured by the first dose, and both +using the same phrases in writing about it. Is it merely an +extraordinary coincidence? or is one woman writing a testimonial +about the same case, with a few verbal alterations, on +behalf of two different medicines? or has the one advertiser +“lifted” the testimonial from the other, altering the name of +the medicine? or, finally, is the whole thing a fabrication and +imposture?</p> + +<p>The similarity in the pamphlets, already alluded to, will be +seen on comparing the following extracts from <i>Epilepsy and its +Cure</i> (The London Medicine Co.) with those given above from +Dale’s pamphlet:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Epilepsy is generally acknowledged to be one of the most dreadful diseases +which humanity suffers from. For centuries it has existed, and has +baffled the skill of the greatest physicians. The medical profession are +scarcely any nearer being able to cure it than in the time of our Lord, +when, as we read in the Gospel of S. Matthew, <i>Chap. IV. verse 24</i> (<i>revised +version</i>), they brought unto Jesus all that were sick, holden with +divers diseases and torments, possessed with devils, and epileptic and +palsied, and He healed them. No race is free from this appalling disease, +and it is no respector of persons, for many of the great of the earth have +suffered with fits among whom may be mentioned Cæsar, Napoleon, Peter +the Great, Mohammed, Byron, Henry IV. of England, the great Duke of +Wellington, all of whom, among others, are said to have been so +afflicted....</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page161">[161]</span></p> + +<p>Fitzkure is not a Cure-all for every disease, but it does and will cure +epilepsy, fits, falling sickness, if steadily persevered with from 18 months +to 2 years.... It is not so much a medicine as a Nerve Food, and is as +much a food and as necessary to epileptics as ordinary food. Some medicines +<i>are</i> foods and are found in the foods we eat ... when we do not get +the medicines that we need from the foods we eat, these have to be +supplied in the form of medicine....</p> + +<p>Fitzkure ... is guaranteed absolutely free from Bromide of Potassium +and Poison.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>There appears to be some humour in the next paragraph—</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>The history of the remarkable way in which Fitzkure was invented and +developed is indeed a romance which would take too long to describe in +these pages. The inventor is not a Doctor.... Our experience in treating +these cases has been most valuable, extending over many years.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Other medicines recommended are “Fitzkure Laxative Pills” +and “Fitzkure Tonic.”</p> + +<p>No “Consultation Form” was sent to be filled up, but in the +original circular certain particulars are asked for:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>When sending for “Fitzkure” please say what the patient has been +taking, and with what result.</p> + +<p>Be sure to give the full name and address, also state the age of the +patient.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>A 2s. 9d. bottle of the medicine was sent for, “for a young +woman of 24 years.” It was sent with a circular of directions +and diet table, extracts from which are as follows:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>The dose which is two small teaspoonfuls or two drachms, must be +... taken in a wine glass of water on waking in the morning, and retiring +at night. Persons over 65, and weak delicate persons will need to take a +smaller dose, from one to one-and-a-half teaspoonfuls for some weeks till +quite used to the medicine. There is a wide difference in the susceptibility +of patients to medicines, the ordinary dose being too small for some +patients, and too large for others. If therefore the above dose makes you +feel poorly or giddy, you must reduce it till these symptoms have passed +away. But, on the other hand, if you are feeling well in yourself, and the +fits have not ceased, you must increase the dose....</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Analysis showed the liquid to contain ammonium bromide, +potassium iodide, potassium citrate, a little alcohol and reducing +sugar, and a very small quantity of iron; it was flavoured with +aniseed, and coloured deep brown, approaching black. The +colour appeared to be given by burnt sugar, as in the previous +<span class="pagenum" id="Page162">[162]</span>case. The various ingredients were determined quantitatively, +and the formula indicated is:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<th colspan="4"> </th> +<th colspan="3">In one dose<br>(2 drachms).</th> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Potassium iodide</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.11</td> +<td class="unit">parts</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.22</td> +<td class="unit">grains</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Ammonium bromide</td> +<td class="intpart">26</td> +<td class="fracpart">.63</td> +<td class="ditto spaced2">„</td> +<td class="intpart">29</td> +<td class="fracpart">.3</td> +<td class="ditto spaced2">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Potassium citrate</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.0</td> +<td class="unit">part</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.1</td> +<td class="ditto spaced2">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Iron, calculated as ferrous sulphate</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.5</td> +<td class="ditto spaced1">„</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.55</td> +<td class="unit">grain</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Alcohol</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.7</td> +<td class="unit"><span class="padr4">parts by measure</span></td> +<td class="intpart">2</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="unit">minims</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of aniseed</td> +<td colspan="6" class="unit">trace</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="7" class="text">Burnt sugar</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Water to</td> +<td class="intpart">100</td> +<td> </td> +<td colspan="4" class="unit">parts by measure</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>The estimated cost of the ingredients for eight fluid ounces +is 4¹⁄₂d.</p> + +<h3>DR. NIBLETT’S VITAL RENEWER.</h3> + +<p>This is supplied by C. P. Niblett, London; a bottle, price +4s. 6d., was found to contain four fluid ounces.</p> + +<p>In a Press advertisement it is stated that</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Dr. Niblett’s Vital Renewer is the result of the most exhaustive research +by a London Physician, who for upwards of 35 years made epilepsy his +especial study. <i>Confidence</i> can be placed in this remedy, which for years +has been used with the <i>greatest success</i> in all parts of the world. The One +Remedy that cures.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>A pamphlet is also offered free, entitled <i>A Practical Treatise +on Epilepsy, its treatment and cure</i>, by S. B. Niblett, M.D., +L.R.C.P.Edi.⁠<a id="FNanchor1" href="#Footnote1" class="fnanchor">[1]</a>⁠</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<div class="footnote"><p><a id="Footnote1" href="#FNanchor1" class="label">[1]</a> The name does not occur in the <i>Medical Register</i> for 1912.</p></div> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>On the title page of the pamphlet, however, no “M.D.” +appears, but it is represented to be by “S. Berry Niblett, Licentiate +Royal College of Physicians, Ed., Licentiate Faculty of +Physicians and Surgeons, Glas., Licentiate Society of Apothecaries, +Lond.” The “practical” nature of the treatise is, to +say the least, rather diluted by such paragraphs as:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>This disease is called by the German physicians, Fallsucht; by the French, +l’Epilepsie; by the Italian professors, mal caduco, or falling sickness.</p> + +<p>Epilepsy was termed by the ancient Greeks “the sacred disease,” on +account of the magnitude of the evil, or because persons labouring under it +have been thought possessed by demons. It was said that Hercules was +<span class="pagenum" id="Page163">[163]</span>subject to it, therefore it was denominated the Herculean disease; but Galen +says it was on account of its form or magnitude.</p> + +<p>The Romans termed this affection “morbus comitialis,” because it frequently +occurred in crowded assemblies in which the passions of the people +were often much excited, and it was customary to dissolve the comitia if +during the sitting any person should be affected by it.</p> + +<p>Many sufferers from epilepsy are possessed of high intellectual power; +the classical cases of Julius Cæsar, Mahomet, and the first Napoleon, each of +whom suffered from the disease, may be cited as examples.... Epilepsy +is a disease which specially attracted the attention of the ancient physicians; +it was termed by the Greeks “the sacred disease.” Plato ascribes +the use of the term “sacred” to the circumstances of the head or brain +being the part of the body affected in epilepsy. Hippocrates pointed +out,....</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="noindent">And so on. The section on “Treatment and Cure of Epilepsy” +commences:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Few higher duties can devolve on the medical man than to make obscure +diseases his special study. It should always be the aim of the physician +to cure the disease as rapidly and effectually as possible.... The general +tendency of epilepsy, if left to Nature, is certainly to proceed from bad +to worse.... Efficient treatment is the very foundation of our art, the alpha +as well as the omega.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Suddenly we come to the “treatment”:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>My Vital Renewer is a real vital antidote, really stopping the development +of the attacks and absolutely curing the disease.... Under the +use of my Vital Renewer the fits will immediately become less severe and +less frequent.... Patients taking my Vital Renewer will receive explicit +directions as to the nature of the food desirable to be taken at each meal.... +I am prepared to prove, beyond all fear of contradiction, that my +Vital Renewer has cured the most inveterate cases of epilepsy.... The +success which has attended the administration of my Vital Renewer I +believe to be due not only to the peculiar form in which it is prepared, but +also to the unremitting care taken in the skilful manipulation which is +required.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>In a circular letter sent with the “<i>Practical Treatise</i>” it +is stated that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>The treatment of Epilepsy or Fits is carried on under some difficulty, as +nearly all the great Physicians prescribe the same remedy, Bromide—Bromide—nothing +much except Bromide, and so the unhappy sufferer +consults many doctors without being cured.</p> + +<p>After prolonged study and extensive experimental research, varying over +a considerable number of years, Dr. S. Berry Niblett, of London, discovered +a certain remedy for all forms of Epilepsy and Fits.... This medicine is +certainly the most valuable contribution that modern science has made to +the treatment of Epilepsy.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page164">[164]</span></p> + +<p>The directions on the label are as follows:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="center highline15">Shake the bottle previous to use.</p> + +<p>Adults: 1 teaspoonful in a wineglassful of water.</p> + +<p>Children: 6 to 10 years, 20 drops in 1¹⁄₂ teaspoonfuls of water.</p> + +<p>Children: 10 to 12 years, 30 drops in two teaspoonfuls of water.</p> + +<p>Children: 12 to 18 years, ¹⁄₂ teaspoonful in 3 teaspoonfuls of water.</p> + +<p>About the age of 18 the full dose should be taken.</p> + +<p>The medicine must be taken three times a day, two hours after meals +until a period of six months has elapsed since the last fit has occurred. At +the end of that time it may be taken twice a day only, at 11 in the +morning and again at bedtime, for another six months.</p> + +<p>If no further attack occurs during that time the medicine may then be +taken at bedtime only.</p> + +<p>N.B.—If the attacks occur at night, one dose of the medicine should be +taken at bedtime and twice during the day.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Analysis showed the liquid to contain potassium iodide, potassium +bromide, ammonium bromide, a little alcohol, and a very +little reducing sugar. It contained sufficient traces of oil of +aniseed and chloroform to be recognizable by their odour, and +was coloured a dark brown. After the ingredients named had +been determined quantitatively, 0.4 per cent. remained to be +accounted for by the colouring matter, which appeared to be +burnt sugar. A minute trace of a basic substance was present, +which might have been alkaloidal, but the quantity was +negligible. The alcohol may have been added as spirit of +aniseed or spirit of chloroform. The formula indicated by the +results is:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<th colspan="4"> </th> +<th colspan="3">In one dose<br>(1 drachm).</th> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Potassium iodide</td> +<td class="intpart">3</td> +<td class="fracpart">.75</td> +<td class="unit"><span class="padr4">parts</span></td> +<td class="intpart">2</td> +<td class="fracpart">.07</td> +<td class="unit">grains.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Potassium bromide</td> +<td class="intpart">30</td> +<td class="fracpart">.88</td> +<td class="ditto spaced2">„</td> +<td class="intpart">15</td> +<td class="fracpart">.6</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Ammonium bromide</td> +<td class="intpart">7</td> +<td class="fracpart">.66</td> +<td class="ditto spaced2">„</td> +<td class="intpart">4</td> +<td class="fracpart">.2</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Chloroform</td> +<td colspan="6" class="unit">trace</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of aniseed</td> +<td colspan="6" class="ditto spaced2">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Alcohol</td> +<td class="intpart">2</td> +<td class="fracpart">.6</td> +<td colspan="4" class="unit">parts by measure.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="7" class="text">Burnt Sugar</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Water to</td> +<td class="intpart">100</td> +<td> </td> +<td colspan="4" class="unit">parts by measure.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Estimated cost of ingredients for four fluid ounces, 3d.</p> + +<h3>BROMOCARPINE.</h3> + +<p>A French preparation called Bromocarpine is said to be fairly +extensively used in some districts as a remedy for nervous disorders, +more especially epilepsy. A circular accompanying the +<span class="pagenum" id="Page165">[165]</span>preparation has the title “The Treatment of Nervous Affections +by Bromocarpine”; and it is stated that “the attacks are +diminished in number to the extent of 80 per cent.,” and that +a “complete disappearance is extremely common. Petit Mal +(vertigo) is abolished, and there is a very marked improvement +in the mental state during the intervals.” It is further stated +that “The nervous system can be quieted by the methodical +use of Bromocarpine, continued for many months if necessary. +This preparation, of which Pilocarpine is one of the principal +factors, determines copious diuresis, free perspiration, and an +abundant secretion of saliva. In this form the intensive +bromide treatment is well borne.”</p> + +<p>The bottle (price 6 francs) contained 16.7 fluid ounces. The +liquid was found to contain:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Potassium bromide</td> +<td class="intpart">8</td> +<td class="fracpart">.9</td> +<td class="unit">per cent</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Alkaloid</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.0035</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sugar</td> +<td class="intpart">54</td> +<td class="fracpart">.0</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Glycerine</td> +<td class="intpart">10</td> +<td class="fracpart">.0</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>It was orange-flavoured, and contained a little alcohol, in all +probability added in the form of tincture of orange; a trace +of some other colouring matter was also present.</p> + +<p>The alkaloid agreed in some respects with pilocarpine, or the +mixed alkaloids of jaborandi; it did not give the characteristic +colour-test for pilocarpine, but this may have been due to some +decomposition during the treatment it had undergone, the +separation of such a small quantity of alkaloid from a large +quantity of sugar and glycerine being a rather troublesome +operation.</p> + +<p>If the alkaloid is calculated as pilocarpine, the quantity is +equivalent to 0.0049 per cent. of pilocarpine hydrobromide. +On a small label on the bottle the liquid is stated to contain +10 per cent. of potassium bromide and 0.005 per cent. of pilocarpine +“hydrodom,” presumably a mistake for “hydrobrom.” +In a circular wrapped round the bottle it is stated that each +teaspoonful contains nearly 10 grains of potassium bromide, and +a two-hundredth of a grain of pilocarpine; comparing this with +the formula on the label it appears that a teaspoonful is +reckoned as nearly 100 grains, and the same proportion is given +for pilocarpine in the one case and pilocarpine hydrobromide in +the other. Actually, 1 fluid drachm of the liquid is 76.9 grains.</p> + +<p>Various other substances were tested for, but nothing was +found besides those mentioned above, and water.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page166">[166]</span></p> + +<h3>A GERMAN NOSTRUM.</h3> + +<p>According to Dr. Zernik,</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p><i>Roller’s powder for epilepsy</i> is supposed to be a remedy for epilepsy, +chorea, hysterical attacks, cramp of the stomach, and of the chest, etc., +and is sold by the Dresden “Diakonissenanstalt” for M 3.40 the box. +The package contains three 5-grams powders wrapped up in sealed paper +capsules. The powder is black, and has the odour of a rancid animal +oil. Analysis proved that it consisted of partially carbonized animal +substance, which yielded 20 per cent. of brown substances soluble in ether. +The preparation is said to be made by burning magpies shot on twelve +nights following Christmas. This use of incompletely carbonized animal +substance for epilepsy is an ancient superstition.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<hr class="chap"> + +<div class="chapter"> +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page167">[167]</span></p> +<h2 class="nobreak"><span class="chapno">CHAPTER XI.</span><br> +THE “TREMOL TREATMENT” FOR BAD LEGS.</h2> +</div> + +<div class="largersize"> +<p>Under the general name of the “Tremol Treatment,” +medicines for the cure of “bad legs” are supplied by the +limited company trading as “The National College of +Health, Limited, Eye, Ear, Throat, and Skin Institute, +and Infirmary for Bad Legs” at an address in Manchester, +and an account is here given of the analysis of some of these. +We also give some account of the methods used to attract +patients, and if any further proof were needed of the necessity +for further legal control of medical companies, this alone +should furnish everything that could be required. The institution +has been in existence for several years, but has recently +become very active, and claims to have treated some +thousands of cases. The methods used to attract patients +are open to serious criticism. It is stated that every patient +is under the direct supervision of a “fully qualified medical +man.” Several attempts have been made to find out the +name and qualifications of any such medical man, but without +success, and it is to be noted that he is called “fully +qualified,” not “duly registered,” and at any rate no duly +registered practitioner is known to have anything to do +with the place. It would appear that comparatively few of +the patients receive any personal examination, and that the +great majority are never even seen by the “doctor” or by +any of the staff, and anything approaching diagnosis is made +simply from perusal of letters sent by patients. On turning +up the <i>Truth</i> Cautionary List the following note is +found:</p> +</div><!--largersize--> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>“National College of Health, Great Clowes Street, Higher +<span class="pagenum" id="Page168">[168]</span>Broughton, Manchester.—Proprietors of a cure for bad legs +called ‘Tremol.’ The first price for a course of treatment is +two guineas, which is reduced to one guinea if the bait is +not swallowed. Also endeavours to obtain advertisements on +the payment-by-results system, offering 5s. for every patient +caught through an advertisement.”</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<div class="largersize"> + +<p>We may add that if a patient once applies for information +he may expect to be dunned for months until he orders the +remedies. This is well shown in letters sent to a person +who, after receiving the budget of testimonials, had decided +not to order the remedies. The following are typical +extracts of the letters he received. “I am truly sorry and +much disappointed that you have not yet participated in the +benefits of the Tremol treatment. I am personally anxious +that you should become a patient of mine, as I know positively +that you would derive the greatest of benefits.... +Is it scepticism? Is it doubt? Is it your financial position +that stands in the way? Tell me plainly your reason for +not ordering the treatment and let me help you as it is my +earnest desire to do so. I am anxiously awaiting your +reply.” This letter of entreaty seems to have had no result, +and accordingly in a few weeks another was sent, saying: +“I am specially interested in your case and having brought +it to the notice of the Board of Directors I am instructed by +them to make the following concession to you.” The concession +was that the full two-guinea course of treatment +would be sent for 31s. 6d. on the condition that “when you +are cured you will tell all your friends and neighbours that it +was the Tremol treatment that cured you and that you do not +divulge that the Board has made this concession.” +One of the letters contains the words, “I am personally +anxious that you should become a patient of mine,” and it +might naturally be inferred that the signature was that of +the “fully qualified medical man,” but we cannot trace the +name in the <i>Medical Register</i> as that of a person residing in +or near Manchester. A further letter, imploring the recipient +<span class="pagenum" id="Page169">[169]</span>“as a friend” to continue the treatment, is printed +in <a href="#Page241">Chapter XVII</a>.</p> + +<p>Not long ago the periodical <i>John Bull</i> sent to the institute +a special investigator, who came away perfectly satisfied +“that the Tremol treatment is an honest one and ably applied,” +and that “it distinctly merits the praise of <i>John +Bull</i>.” The investigation seems to have consisted in “roaming +over the whole of the carefully kept records of the thousands +of cases treated” and apparently accepting everything +that was told—not a very scientific method of investigating +a treatment on which the health of thousands of +patients may depend. The investigator was told, among +other things, that the treatment is applied to five classes +of diseases of the leg—(1) ulcers of every description; (2) +eczema and skin diseases; (3) varicose veins; (4) tuberculous +disease (diseased bone); and (5) swollen and painful legs +(phlebitis, etc.); and we are told that “the treatment is able +to cure all the diseases included in the classes (1) and (2); +but of the classes (3), (4), (5), those only are selected which +the medical history and circumstances of the particular case +convince the doctor are at least curable.” Speaking of +the remedies used, <i>John Bull</i> says they are secret, but “the +composition was freely disclosed to us ... and the +ingredients are not of a harmful nature; indeed, some of the +most valuable and beneficial drugs known to the medical +faculty are included in them, but this particular combination +has never before been used in medicine, and some of them +are quite new.” One would like to know which of the ingredients +revealed by analysis <i>John Bull</i> considers quite +new; it cannot be the chloride of calcium or the chloride of +iron, or the infusion of rhubarb, or the prepared chalk, or the +zinc oxide, or the lead carbonate—perhaps it is the peppermint +water. As far as our analysis reveals, the combination +is a heterogeneous mixture of anything that might possibly +be of use, regardless of chemical combinations that may result, +<span class="pagenum" id="Page170">[170]</span>and we fail to detect any trace of any new drug. We +have only found the very commonest drugs in ordinary use. +There can be little doubt that in the interests of the public +health it is necessary that there should be a full investigation +of the National College of Health and Hospital for Bad +Legs. If there is a registered medical man connected with +the place, he is certainly acting in a way that makes him +liable to be arraigned before the General Medical Council; +and, if there is no registered practitioner, then the use of the +term “fully qualified medical man” is most misleading to +the public.</p> + +</div><!--largersize--> + +<p>An attempt to purchase the remedies through one of the +usual channels for proprietary medicines only elicited an intimation +that they were not sold in that way, but were supplied +in accordance with particulars to be furnished of the case for +which they were intended. An application to “The National +College of Health” brought a “Diagnosis Form” to be filled +up, with a letter stating that the fee for the full course of +Tremol treatment is £2 2s. A publication was also sent, entitled +<i>Good News about Bad Legs; or “Cures by the Cured,”</i> +consisting of twelve pages of the size of an ordinary newspaper +page, containing portraits of patients and letters, etc., about +cases, as well as much printed matter about Tremol treatment +and “Views of the National College of Health, Limited.” +Attached to the front page of this was a conspicuous separate +slip, worded thus:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Important. The Board of Directors wish it to be distinctly understood +that every Patient who undergoes the Tremol Treatment is under the +direct supervision of a fully qualified Medical Man.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>A few extracts from this publication will serve to indicate +the methods of the National College of Health, Limited. The +opening paragraphs have a curiously familiar ring, and might +be paraphrased from the pamphlets of almost any quack-medicine +maker; they are as follows:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>For centuries Bad Legs have ranked with Cancer and Consumption as +one of the diseases over which the power of man could not prevail. For +generations thousands of sufferers have lived lives of misery, become +thoroughly worn out, and have gone down to their graves before their time +through sheer exhaustion: all human skill being powerless to save. Their +resources exhausted, ignorant of any agent in Medicine or Nature competent +<span class="pagenum" id="Page171">[171]</span>to cure, it came to pass that the Medical Faculty were reduced to +the expedient of ordering sufferers long periods of rest in bed. This in +itself was a confession of failure and of no avail.</p> + +<p>It has been computed that Bad Legs have caused more misery and +suffering than all the wars ever undertaken by the world’s rulers. And +why? War is but an incident in a nation’s history, but the evil of Bad +Legs is ever present, ever constant, ever taking its toll of suffering +humanity. In the face of all this, Medical Science fell back, helpless, +baffled, and beaten.</p> + +<p>At last, after years of scientific research, after thousands of painstaking +experiments, the Tremol Method of Treatment was discovered, and the +cure of Bad Legs, once for all, established and placed on a sure and scientific +basis.</p> + +<p>What modern Astronomy is to the old discredited Astrology, what +Scientific Chemistry is to the Alchemy of olden times, even that and more +is Tremol System of Treatment to all other so called treatments for Bad +Legs. Other treatments are empirical, this Treatment is scientific; other +treatments end in failure, this System cures to stay cured. Once again +has Mother Nature yielded to patient scientific investigation one of her +greatest secrets, the secret of how, by means of the Tremol System, to cure +Bad Legs with certainty, with rapidity, scientifically, and with no possibility +of failure.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Other extracts are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Universally accepted as the one and only cure for Bad Legs, the Tremol +System stands to-day before the world unchallenged and unrivalled. Men +of science accept it. Medical men recommend it. The thinking public +endorse it, and the thousands of happy men and women cured by it hail +it with a delight words fail to express....</p> + +<p>As sure as day follows night, so certain is it that this new and great +discovery will cure every case of Bad Leg to which it is applied.</p> + +<p>Remember, in all our cases, this System of Treatment has had to begin +where others have left off. Sufferers who apply to us for relief and cure +are only those whom doctors have finished with, or on whom ointments +have proved useless, lotions abortive, pills impotent, and blood mixtures +futile.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>These last two extracts scarcely seem to be in harmony with +the announcement which is made rather conspicuously: “Incurable +cases not accepted.” On the back page appears in large +letters:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>There is no Guess-work. No Pain. No Experimenting. No Lying Up. +No Operation. No Relapse. NO FAILURE. No matter how Difficult +the Case may be. No matter what form it may have Assumed. No matter +how many Doctors, Specialists, or Hospitals may have failed to help you. +The Tremol Treatment, the New Therapeutic Discovery for Bad Legs, IS +CERTAIN TO CURE YOU, AND MAY SAVE YOUR LIFE. No +claim or statement is made that is not borne out by Facts and Living +Witnesses.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page172">[172]</span></p> + +<p>A document was sent with the medicines, marked “Legal +Guarantee to Cure.” It is worded as follows:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>We, the National College of Health, Limited, hereby Agree and Undertake +to refund on demand to you the whole of the money paid by you to us +for our Treatment, if we fail to cure you after we have applied the Tremol +Treatment for a reasonable length of time. This Guarantee is subject to +the Conditions set forth on the back hereof.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Then follows a facsimile of the signature of the Governing +Director; it is not decipherable with certainty, but might be +“E. F. Guest.”</p> + +<p>The conditions set forth—in quite small type—on the back +are as follows:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>The Tremol Treatment is only devised to cure bad legs—but if a case +is accepted by us for personal treatment, then unless otherwise agreed at +the time, this guarantee holds good. To ensure the bona-fides of the +patient it is necessary that within seven days of starting the Treatment +you give notice in writing to us that you accept the offer contained in this +guarantee, and in this respect time shall be of the essence of the contract. +This guarantee only applies where the Treatment is personally applied by +us. It will be readily understood that we cannot guarantee cures when we +have no guarantee that our Treatment is properly applied. We must be +the judges of what is a reasonable time. We give no warranties. Warranties +may mean anything or nothing. We simply return the money paid +to us while we are personally treating you as aforesaid, and this is the +limit of our liability. Any dispute between you and us as to any claim +under or upon this agreement or as to any question arising hereunder +shall be determined by arbitration in accordance with the Arbitration +Act, 1889.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Since this “Legal Guarantee to Cure” is sent with the medicines, +the person receiving it would naturally suppose that it +would apply to his case; and it is only on careful examination +that it is discovered that (1) it only applies to cases where the +treatment is “personally applied” by the company, and therefore +not to a case where the medicine is sent out; (2) even in +“personally” treated cases, it does not apply unless the patient +gives notice in writing within seven days of <i>beginning</i> the treatment +that he intends to insist on it; and (3) since the company +is the sole judge of what is a “reasonable time” within which +the cure is to be obtained they can insist on continuing the +treatment (as long as the patient will pay for it) in any case in +which a claim is made. Not even the most ignorant person +could regard such a “guarantee” as of the slightest value if he +understood the conditions. It would appear that it is not the +“bona fides of the <i>patient</i>” that needs to be ensured.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page173">[173]</span></p> + +<p>The “Diagnosis Form” sent was as follows; the words in +italics are the particulars of an imaginary case that were +supplied:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="noindent">   1. Date.</p> + +<p class="noindent">   2. Christian name.</p> + +<p class="noindent">   3. Surname.</p> + +<p class="noindent">   4. Male or Female. <i>F.</i></p> + +<p class="noindent">   5. Married or Single. <i>Widow.</i></p> + +<p class="noindent">   6. Full Address.</p> + +<p class="noindent">*  7. What is your age? 53.</p> + +<p class="noindent">   8. What is your weight? <i>About 12 stone.</i></p> + +<p class="noindent">   9. What is your Occupation? <i>Housekeeper.</i></p> + +<p class="noindent">* 10. Is it your right leg, your left leg, or both your legs that are affected? +<i>Right.</i></p> + +<p class="noindent">  11. How long has your Leg troubled you? <i>About a year.</i></p> + +<p class="noindent">  12. Does your Leg pain you? <i>Yes.</i></p> + +<p class="noindent">  13. Does the pain of your Leg keep you awake at night, or in any way +interfere with your comfort. If so, fully explain in what way. (Describe +the pain.) <i>There is a constant acute pain from the open wounds, and a +great deal of itching as well; the irritation, in addition to the pain, often +causes sleeplessness.</i></p> + +<p class="noindent">* 14. Is the portion of your Leg affected Itchy or Scaly? <i>Very itchy.</i></p> + +<p class="noindent">  15. Have you consulted any person? If so, who, how many, and what +did each tell you and what did they advise? <i>No.</i></p> + +<p class="noindent">  16. Have you attended any hospital? If so, state which. <i>No.</i></p> + +<p class="noindent">  17. Have you ever received an injury to your leg? <i>It was broken 20 +years ago.</i></p> + +<p class="noindent">  18. Is the pain worse when standing up or lying down? <i>Pain worse +when standing; itching worse when lying.</i></p> + +<p class="noindent">  19. How did you first hear of the Tremol Treatment? <i>Thro’ an +acquaintance in Yorkshire.</i></p> + +<p class="noindent">  20. Name the various remedies you have tried, and the methods you have +adopted to effect a cure and the effect each has had upon your leg? <i>At +first cold water bandaging; recently zinc ointment. Practically no effect.</i></p> + +<p class="noindent">* 21. Are there any ulcers, wounds, or holes in your Right Leg, or is it a +red, itchy or scaly patch only? <i>Three open wounds and a big, red itching +patch.</i></p> + +<p class="noindent">* 22. Are there any ulcers, wounds, or holes in your left leg, or is it a red +itchy, or scaly patch only? <i>No.</i></p> + +<p><span class="sidenote"> +Don’t fail<br> +to reply<br> +to this.</span> +* 23. If there are ulcers, wounds, or holes, state how many, +and the position and size of each, cut out on pieces of paper and +send to us the sizes of the wounds or ulcers on each leg (N.B.—Be +careful to distinguish the size of the wound or ulcer from +the size of the surrounding redness or inflammation.) <i>The three open +wounds are each about ³⁄₄ inch across; they are about 2¹⁄₂ inches apart in an +irregular triangle; they are in a red itching patch about 4 inches across, +on the outer side of the leg, about half-way down.</i></p> + +<p class="noindent">  24. Is there now, or has there ever been proud flesh in the wound? <i>No.</i></p> + +<p class="noindent">* 25. Are your bowels habitually costive or free? <i>Free.</i></p> + +<p class="noindent">  26. Have you ever suffered from a white leg? <i>No.</i></p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page174">[174]</span></p> + +<p class="noindent">  27. Did your Leg first begin to trouble you through a hurt, after confinement, +or how? <i>It came on gradually without apparent cause, at first as a +small itching red spot.</i></p> + +<p class="noindent">  28. Has your Doctor advised Rest? <i>Have not had a doctor.</i></p> + +<p class="noindent">  29. Have you rested, if so, has it done you any good? <i>Have rested a +good deal, but it doesn’t seem to make much difference.</i></p> + +<p class="noindent">  30. Have you spent much idle time trying to obtain a cure? <i>No.</i></p> + +<p class="noindent">  31. Has your leg ever been healed, if so, was it with Skin or with Scab? +<i>Not since the wounds became raw.</i></p> + +<p class="noindent">* 32. At what portion of the leg is the breaking out? <i>On the outer side, +about half-way down.</i></p> + +<p class="noindent">  33. Have you been growing worse lately? <i>Yes.</i></p> + +<p class="noindent">* 34. Is there much inflammation or fiery redness round the wound? <i>Yes.</i></p> + +<p class="noindent">  35. Have you Varicose Veins? If so, state extent, of how long standing, +and what caused them. <i>No.</i></p> + +<p class="noindent">* 36. Please to give the names and addresses of any persons in your +district or elsewhere, whom you may know to be suffering from Bad Leg. +This information will be treated as strictly confidential and exclusively +private.</p> + +<p>Remarks.—Write on a separate piece of paper any facts relating to your +case or conditions that have not been indicated by the above questions. +Describe your case fully in your own words and all you have suffered and +gone through; in short, give us a general history of your case.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>This was sent with two guineas to “The National College of +Health, Ltd.” The medicines sent in return consisted of a +bottle of “Tremol Blood Mixture,” a bottle of “Tremol +Lotion,” a box of “Tremol Ointment,” and a box of “Ointment +No. 2,” with two bandages. Two typed sheets of directions +accompanied these, headed “Instructions for applying +No. 14 course of Tremol Treatment.” Each of the four preparations +is priced separately at 11s., by post 11s. 4d.</p> + +<h3>TREMOL BLOOD MIXTURE.</h3> + +<p>The bottle contained 8 fl. oz. It bore a printed label, and +there was nothing on the label to suggest that it was in any way +modified for the particular case for which it was intended. The +directions on the label were the same as those given in the paragraph +on the typed sheet, which was as follows:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p><span class="smcap">How to Take Your Medicine.</span>—It is absolutely necessary for you to +take this Blood Mixture prescribed specially for your case, all the time +your leg is being dressed with the other preparations. To obtain permanent +results it is imperative to continue taking this medicine for your +blood, for some time after your leg is well.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page175">[175]</span></p> + +<p>Directions.—Take one drachm (one small teaspoonful) morning and +evening after your meals, in a wineglassful of water sweetened to taste +with one or two lumps of sugar. We strongly advise you to use a Medicine +measure instead of an ordinary teaspoon, so that the dose will accurately +measure one drachm.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Analysis showed the mixture to contain calcium chloride, +ferric chloride, small quantities of free hydrochloric acid and +alcohol, peppermint water, and a preparation of a vegetable +drug; the latter had a slight flavour of rhubarb, but showed no +definite active principle and no characters by which it could be +positively identified. The proportions of the definite ingredients +were determined, and found to be as given in the following +formula. A mixture prepared according to this formula +agreed very well in regard to the vegetable drug, and perfectly +in other respects.</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text"><span class="padl2">Calcium chloride</span></td> +<td class="number">224</td> +<td class="unit">grains</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text"><span class="padl2">Solution of ferric chloride</span></td> +<td class="number">300</td> +<td class="unit">minims</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text"><span class="padl2">Dilute hydrochloric acid</span></td> +<td class="number">200</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text"><span class="padl2">Concentrated infusion of rhubarb (¹⁄₇)</span></td> +<td class="number">100</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text"><span class="padl2">Peppermint water</span></td> +<td class="number">2</td> +<td class="unit">fl. oz.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text nopad"><span class="padl2">Water</span> <span class="righttext">to</span></td> +<td class="number">8</td> +<td class="ditto spaced2">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="3" class="text nopad">A deposit slowly falls, from which the clear liquid is decanted.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Estimated cost of the ingredients, 1¹⁄₄d.</p> + +<h4>TREMOL LOTION.</h4> + +<p>The bottle contained 8¹⁄₄ fl. oz.; it bore a printed label, and +there was nothing on the label to suggest that it was in any +way modified for the particular case for which it was intended. +The directions on the typed sheet were the same as those on the +label, as follows:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Dilute the Lotion with an equal quantity of water. Cut out a piece of +Lint slightly larger than your Ulcer, so that the Lint will cover the surface +of the Ulcer as completely as half-a-crown covers a shilling. After a +thorough cleansing (see directions for so doing) well soak the Lint in the +dilute Lotion for two or three minutes, and then apply to the Ulcer. You +are not to apply the Lint containing the Lotion too wet, that is dripping, +neither are you to squeeze it out too dry, just thoroughly moistened and +on the wet side.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Analysis showed the liquid to consist of solution of chlorinated +soda containing 2.9 per cent. of available chlorine +(which is slightly above the minimum strength of the official +solution) with the traces of impurities usually found in it.</p> + +<p>Estimated cost of the liquid, 2d.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page176">[176]</span></p> + +<h4>TREMOL OINTMENT.</h4> + +<p>This was in a wooden box containing 14¹⁄₂ oz.; it bore a typewritten +label: “The Tremol Ointment. To be used as directed.”</p> + +<p>The directions on the typed sheet were as follows:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p><span class="smcap">How You are to Apply Tremol Ointment.</span> Cut out a piece of soft lint +slightly larger in circumference (about ¹⁄₄ in. larger all round) than the +Lint on which the Tremol Lotion is applied. Spread the Ointment thickly +on the plain surface, then place it on top of the Lint on which No. 2 +Ointment is spread, but over the Ulcer, and therefore covering the Lint +which is soaked in the Lotion. You will therefore have over the Ulcer +three layers of Lint. <span class="smcap">First</span>, two layers of Lint containing Lotion. +<span class="smcap">Second</span>, the layer of Lint on which the Ointment No. 2 is spread, and +covering the red and inflamed part. <span class="smcap">Third</span>, the layer of Lint on which +Tremol Ointment is spread and covering the portion where the Ulcer is +situated. Therefore over the red inflamed part there is one layer only, +that on which No. 2 Ointment is spread, but over the Ulcer there are +three. When you are dressing your leg do not remove Ointment No. 2 that +adheres to the skin. Apply fresh dressing on the top of the adherent +ointment.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Analysis showed the ointment to contain:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Prepared chalk</td> +<td class="number">70.3</td> +<td class="unit">parts.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Soft paraffin</td> +<td class="number">29.0</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Yellowish-brown colouring matter</td> +<td colspan="2" class="unit">traces.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>The colouring matter appeared to be one of the coal-tar dyes, +but was not present in sufficient quantity for exact identification; +the chalk contained the small quantities of impurities +usually occurring in it. No other ingredient was found.</p> + +<p>Estimated cost of the ingredients, 2¹⁄₂d.</p> + +<h4>OINTMENT NO. 2.</h4> + +<p>This was in a wooden box containing 10¹⁄₂ oz.; it bore a typewritten +label, “Ointment No. 2. To be used as directed.” The +directions on the typed sheet were as follows:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p><span class="smcap">How You are to Apply Ointment No. 2.</span>—Cut out a piece of Lint large +enough to cover the red and inflamed portion of your leg. On this spread +pretty thickly the special Ointment labelled No. 2, and apply it; at the +same time covering the Lint which is soaked in the Lotion.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Analysis showed the ointment to contain zinc oxide, a lead +compound which appeared to be the carbonate, sodium benzoate, +sodium acetate, water, lard, and a pink colouring matter which +<span class="pagenum" id="Page177">[177]</span>was evidently a coal-tar dye. No other substance was found. +The quantities of the different ingredients were determined, and +the results agreed with the following formula:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Zinc oxide</td> +<td class="number">19.8</td> +<td class="unit">parts.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Lead carbonate</td> +<td class="number">3.5</td> +<td class="ditto spaced2">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sodium benzoate</td> +<td class="number">0.3</td> +<td class="ditto spaced2">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sodium acetate</td> +<td class="number">0.7</td> +<td class="ditto spaced2">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Water</td> +<td class="number">9.6</td> +<td class="ditto spaced2">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Colouring matter</td> +<td colspan="2" class="unit">traces.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Lard</td> +<td colspan="2" class="unit">to 100 parts.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Estimated cost of the ingredients, 7d.</p> + + +<hr class="chap"> + +<div class="chapter"> +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page178">[178]</span></p> +<h2 class="nobreak"><span class="chapno">CHAPTER XII.</span><br> +THE “CRIMSON CROSS REMEDIES.”</h2> +</div> + +<div class="largersize"> +<p>The series of preparations dealt with in this chapter +afford a good example of the way in which secret remedies, +even when composed of simple and harmless drugs, may be +a source of serious danger through the exaggerated claims +made for them. The emphatic assurances of curative power +given in most cases may easily lead people, even when not +unusually credulous, to take the medicine in question and +trust to it for a cure, and therefore omit to obtain proper +advice until the disease from which they are suffering may +have reached an advanced stage. In the present case, however, +the danger is not only to the person employing the +nostrums, but to others as well; for the claims advanced +are not merely that the articles offered will cure a number +of very serious diseases, but also that in small-pox, scarlet +fever, measles, etc., they <i>render the patient non-infectious</i>, +and anyone trusting to this preposterous assertion might +therefore easily become an active agent in spreading infectious +disease. Heart disease, cancer, typhoid, pneumonia, +diphtheria, and consumption are among the other trifles for +which the “Crimson Cross Remedies” are recommended. +It is hardly necessary to add that ludicrous ignorance is +shown in the assertions made; the ointment, which is one +of the principal articles of the series, is stated to have been +introduced fifty years ago for diseased bones, joints, and +abscesses, but “it now includes ‘Infectious’ as well as +most other diseases. There is no foothold for microbes +where the ointment is applied”—presumably the feet of +the microbes are not adapted to the greasy surface which +<span class="pagenum" id="Page179">[179]</span>it presents. In typhoid, “if the head is not well soaked +with the ointment, an abscess is liable to form on the +brain”! Analysis showed the principal ingredient of this +marvellous salve to be about 1 per cent. of copper oleate, +while the “special ointment” to be used for cancers, +chronic stiff joints, sprains, heart disease, etc., contained +between 4 and 5 per cent. of the same substance, with a +trace of acetic acid. It appears from the statements made +that the individual whose name is attached to these preparations +has also been in the habit of visiting patients in +their own homes.</p> +</div><!--largersize--> + +<p>An advertisement in the <i>Vaccination Inquirer</i>, headed “A +simple solution of the vaccination question,” states that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>The Crimson Cross Remedies for fevers, measles, small-pox, influenza, +pneumonia, pleurisy, etc., render the patient non-infectious.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The extracts which follow are from circulars sent out with +the remedies.</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>The first of the Crimson Cross Remedies used with unprecedented +success was our No. 1 Ointment. This was introduced fifty years ago +for Diseased Bones, Joints, and Abscesses. It cures without cutting, +scraping, bed, or splints. It has saved hundreds from being hopeless +cripples, and thousands of lives and limbs.</p> + +<p>As time went on this valuable remedy was found to be a POWERFUL +GERM KILLER, so that its usefulness as a household remedy has been +considerably extended, and it now includes “Infectious” as well as most +other diseases. There is no foothold for microbes where the Ointment is +applied.</p> + +<p>One of its best works is the</p> + +<p class="center highline15"><span class="smcap">Cure of Consumption</span>.</p> + +<p>This much dreaded “White Scourge” can be cured in its incipient or +first stage, and even when the mischief is deeper rooted it always gives +relief.</p> + +<p>It has been stated that Small-Pox is now extinct in England, but of +course may be imported at any time. However that may be, there need +be no fear of it if Crimson Cross Remedies are applied.</p> + +<p>The Remedies (No. 1 Ointment and Fever Powder) are equally +efficacious for Scarlet Fever, which is easily cured in from one to three +days, if applied as soon as the patient sickens. If peeling has commenced +before the Remedies are applied, it takes a fortnight to complete the +cure, but there is no fear of infection.</p> + +<p>Typhoid or Enteric Fever treated by the Crimson Cross Remedies in +the first stage is easily cured in a few days....</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page180">[180]</span></p> + +<p>Internal Diseases of Women can be cured without Operation or Examination +by our SPECIAL TREATMENT. Full particulars on application.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>In a “Brief Treatise on Diagnosis and Treatment” directions +are given for the employment of these remedies in a variety of +illnesses. The chief feature is a liberal application of the ointment, +accompanied by internal administration of one or more +of the other preparations. The following quotations will serve +as examples:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p><span class="smcap">Colds.</span> On the first appearance of a cold, rub the forehead, chest, +and back with Crimson Cross No. 1 Ointment contained in the Fever, etc., +packet; take the medicine made from the Powder according to directions.</p> + +<p><span class="smcap">For Pneumonia, Congestion, and Pleurisy.</span>—Poultice the chest, sides, +and back every two hours with hot linseed meal. Spread warm No. 1 +Ointment on the face of the poultice until the acute symptoms are gone, +then rub the chest, sides, and round the shoulders with the Ointment +once or twice a day until quite well. Take the medicine made from the +Fever Powder according to directions.</p> + +<p><span class="smcap">Typhoid or Enteric Fever....</span> Acute Bright’s disease of the +kidneys and inflammation of the lungs frequently accompany or follow +typhoid; for the former give <span class="smcap">Crimson Cross Kidney Cure</span>, and poultice +the lower part of the back with hot linseed meal and Ointment; for the +latter see directions given. If the head is not well soaked with Ointment, +an abscess is liable to form on the brain. <span class="smcap">The Fever Mixture</span> and +<span class="smcap">Kidney Cure</span> may both be taken alternately three times a day, if +necessary; let two hours elapse between each dose.</p> + +<p><span class="smcap">Diphtheria.</span> Spread No. 1 Ointment on hot linseed poultices, apply +one every hour. As Diphtheria patients are liable to unexpected syncope, +it is advisable to have a doctor.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>From the following paragraph in one of the circulars, it +would appear that “Captain Feilden” does not confine his +activities to the <i>selling</i> of these preparations:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Please note—All communications should be addressed</p> + +<p class="right padr20"> Crimson Cross Dispensary.</p> + +<p class="right padr10">——, ——.</p> + +<p class="noindent"><span class="padl4">Stamped</span> envelope enclosed for reply.</p> + +<p>Although we do not now treat cases personally at the Dispensary, we +continue to give advice “Free” by letter. Full particulars of the case +should be given, and, where possible, Captain Feilden will call and see +patients in their own homes.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>A list is given of ten preparations, varying in price from 7¹⁄₂d. +to 2s. 9d. The following were obtained for examination: Fever +and Influenza Powder, No. 1 Ointment, Special Ointment, and +Kidney Cure.</p> + +<p>The first two of these were supplied together for 1s. 3d., post +free.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page181">[181]</span></p> + +<h3>CRIMSON CROSS FEVER AND INFLUENZA POWDER.</h3> + +<p>This consisted of about 100 grains of a purplish-coloured +powder, and was contained in a “chip” ointment box. The +directions on the label were:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Add to one pint of cold water, and take—Adults, one tablespoonful +three times a day. Children, one to two teaspoonfuls, according to age.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The powder contained 99.4 per cent. of ammonium chloride, +and nothing else was found except the colouring matter, which +agreed with the reactions given by tincture of cochineal.</p> + +<p>Estimated cost, about ¹⁄₈d.</p> + +<h4>CRIMSON CROSS NO. 1 OINTMENT (CAPTAIN +FEILDEN’S).</h4> + +<p>This was also in a “chip” box, and the quantity was about +2¹⁄₄ oz.</p> + +<p>Analysis showed it to contain:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Copper oleate</td> +<td class="number">1.1</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Anhydrous sodium sulphate</td> +<td class="number">0.4</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Beeswax</td> +<td class="number">6.5</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Resin (colophony)</td> +<td class="number">29.6</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Linseed oil</td> +<td class="number">62.4</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>The sodium sulphate may be due to the copper oleate having +been made by double decomposition of copper sulphate and +soap, without washing away the sodium sulphate formed, +although the amount of the latter found is more than the equivalent +of the copper.</p> + +<p>Estimated cost of ingredients, ⁴⁄₅d.</p> + +<h4>CRIMSON CROSS SPECIAL OINTMENT.</h4> + +<p>The price of a jar, containing about 3¹⁄₂ oz., was 2s. 9d. A +special circular is devoted to this preparation, and the statements +made include the following:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>This Ointment is prepared from a Special Formula for the Treatment +of unbroken substances such as Cancers, Tumours, Bunyons, or Enlarged +Toe Joints, Chronic Stiff Joints, Sprains, Heart Disease, etc.</p> + +<p>By the blessing of God it has been successful in the treatment of many +such cases, and it is hoped that many more may benefit....</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page182">[182]</span></p> + +<p>An irritable rash may appear, and this is a good sign, though some +patients give up using the Ointment because of this irritation. This should +not be done—the irritation will die away, though the rash may remain. +To relieve the irritation discontinue the Special Ointment for a day or +two—bathe with warm water, and apply a little Olive Oil....</p> + +<p><span class="smcap">Cancers and Tumours.</span>—Steam the affected part once a day, gently +rub a little Special Ointment in, night and morning. Spread Ointment on +clean linen, and wear as a plaister during the night and day. If the +appetite is not good, take Crimson Cross Liver Mixture, and Crimson +Cross Kidney Cure occasionally, to keep the Kidneys in good order....</p> + +<p><span class="smcap">Heart Disease.</span>—Rub the Ointment gently in across the stomach, round +the Heart and Shoulder Blades, night and morning. Great care should +be taken to keep the Stomach and Kidneys in good order, and to be on +the safe side in this matter, we advise all those suffering from Heart +troubles to occasionally take a bottle or two of Crimson Cross Liver +Mixture, alternately with Crimson Cross Kidney Cure.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Analysis showed this to contain:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Copper oleate</td> +<td class="number">4.6</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Anhydrous sodium sulphate</td> +<td class="number">1.3</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Acetic acid (glacial strength)</td> +<td class="number">0.8</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Beeswax</td> +<td class="number">3.5</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Resin (colophony)</td> +<td class="number">46.8</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oily base, chiefly or entirely linseed oil</td> +<td class="number">43.0</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Estimated cost of ingredients 1¹⁄₂d.</p> + +<h4>CRIMSON CROSS KIDNEY CURE.</h4> + +<p>The price of a bottle, containing 6¹⁄₂ fluid ounces, was 1s. 1¹⁄₂d.</p> + +<p>It is stated on the package that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>This Mixture contains powerful Medicinal Properties for the cure of +Kidney, Bladder, Gravel, and all Urinary Disorders, Dropsy, etc.</p> + +<p>Dose. Adults.—One tablespoonful every four hours.</p> + +<p>Children.—One teaspoonful to one dessertspoonful, according to age, +every four hours.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>It is thus described in an accompanying circular:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>This is a remedy really worthy of the name. It is natural in its composition, +it is natural in its action, it does not coerce nature as in the +case of poisonous drugs and drastic metallic medicines. It assists and +stimulates the recuperative energies of nature in the system, thus enabling +her to throw off the effects of this insidious and alarming disease. Every +reader of these lines who is troubled with backache, nervousness, dimness +of sight, lassitude, or any symptoms of Kidney trouble, should immediately +take this remedy, and obtain that relief and cure which seems +possible by no other known means at the present time....</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page183">[183]</span></p> + +<p>The Crimson Cross Kidney Cure may be confidently taken by young +and old alike, in full assurance that whatever the trouble, a course of +the Crimson Cross Kidney Cure will gently but surely remedy the mischief, +and coax the organs back to a natural and healthy action.</p> + +<p><span class="smcap">Note</span>:—Whilst taking the Crimson Cross Kidney Cure it will greatly +facilitate the cure if the lower part of the back and bowels are gently +rubbed with Crimson Cross No. 1 Ointment once a day. The Ointment +should be well rubbed in for about five minutes, then wipe down with an +old rough dry towel, to prevent the linen from getting greasy.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Analysis showed that this fluid contained glycerine about 5 +per cent., alcohol 4 per cent. by volume, methyl salicylate (oil +of wintergreen) about 0.05 per cent., and a small proportion +of vegetable extractive giving a slight colour to the liquid, but +having no characteristic taste or any property by which it could +be identified; no alkaloid or other active principle was present, +and the ash (0.25 per cent.) contained only the constituents +usually found in any vegetable extract.</p> + +<hr class="chap"> + +<div class="chapter"> +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page184">[184]</span></p> +<h2 class="nobreak"><span class="chapno">CHAPTER XIII.</span><br> +MEDICINES FOR AMENORRHŒA, ETC.</h2> +</div> + + +<div class="largersize"> + +<p>One of the largest classes of proprietary nostrums, and +one in which most of the evils connected with secret medicines +may be seen at their worst, is that consisting of so-called +“female medicines.” The reasons for the abundance +of proprietary articles of this kind are not far to seek. In +the first place, the gross profit of the trade is very large; as +our analyses show, the prime cost of all these medicines is +very low, and the selling price of many of them is very +high. In the second place, the expenses are low; while +many other nostrums require large and expensive advertisements +in the newspapers, and on hoardings, etc., these +are almost without exception given small advertisements, +often of only a few lines, with perhaps some one word, such +as “Ladies,” in large type to catch the eye. A third attractive +feature is that, as a rule, the business is done directly +with the consumer through the post, and there are, therefore, +no intermediate profits to be deducted; payment is +made in advance, and only the postage has to be reckoned +off the full retail price. Fourthly, purchasers are in the +nature of the case often persons more than usually susceptible +to the plausible promises of cure that are sent out; +failure to effect what is promised, far from causing the +purchaser to stop wasting her money on the nostrum, is +turned to account by offering a “specially strong” variety +at a higher price, and behind this is usually a third, or +“extra special” at a still higher price, and sometimes even +a fourth. Finally, in a very large number of cases, the sale +<span class="pagenum" id="Page185">[185]</span>of a nostrum of this class provides an opening for a steady +business in other articles of a kind usually bought more or +less surreptitiously, and which bear a very high rate of +profit.</p> + +<p>So much for the gain to the vendor. The harm to the +purchaser is similarly of a manifold nature. Perhaps the +least important is that the price charged is in very many +cases quite exorbitant, pills or mixtures, etc., sold at from +ten shillings to a guinea costing only a few pence or less. +Much more serious is the fact that the purchaser is induced +to take medicines of little value, if any, for a functional +derangement which it is always dangerous to treat too +lightly. It cannot be too widely known that cessation of +the normal period may be a sign of phthisis or other serious +illness, and good medical advice ought to be obtained. +Further, a large number of these nostrums are the subject +of more or less thinly veiled recommendations that they +should be used for cutting short an unwelcome pregnancy, +and although some of them would be but little likely to be +efficacious for this purpose, some contain irritants which are +highly dangerous. When cessation of the menses is due to +pregnancy, there is no drug or medicine known which will +re-establish them and stop the pregnancy without putting +the woman’s life in grave danger.</p> + +<p>It would be tedious to give detailed extracts from the +advertisements of all the articles here described, as is done +in other chapters. A few of them are the products of old-established +businesses, and are sold through retailers like +other proprietary medicines; these are, as a rule, the ones +for which the least extravagant claims are made, and they +appear almost respectable by comparison with some of the +others. In the majority of cases, however, a usual plan is +to advertise a “certain cure” at a low price, sometimes +1s. 1¹⁄₂d., or to offer a “free sample” on application. When +the low-priced article or the free sample is sent for, the +<span class="pagenum" id="Page186">[186]</span>applicant is informed of a “special” kind which is strongly +recommended, and the price of which is higher; and this, +as already noted, usually leads on to another at a still higher +price.</p> + +<p>Since pills, such as many of these “remedies” consist of, +can be bought wholesale at very low rates, the capital outlay +which is necessary for engaging in this kind of business is +extremely small. An address is necessary to conduct operations +from, but it does not matter if it is that of a garret in +a slum—practically none of the purchasers will be any wiser. +There is nothing whatever to prevent any ignorant person +possessed of a few pounds from buying from a firm of pill-makers +at a few pence per gross “female pills” in bulk, +or ready boxed, with coatings of three different colours to +represent “ordinary,” “strong,” and “extra strong,” +putting small advertisements in a few weekly or other newspapers, +and after laying out some small further sum on +printed copies of fabricated testimonials and circular letters, +“signed” by Nurse So-and-So, at once establishing a +trade, the profits of which are many hundreds per cent. +There is good reason to believe that some of the articles +referred to below are the output of just such businesses.</p> + +<p>It will suffice to give a few extracts from some advertisements.</p> + +</div><!--largersize--> + +<p>Adeline Dumas’s pills are thus advertised:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="center">“To Married Ladies.</p> + +<p class="center">Try the French Remedy.</p> + +<p class="center">Not a Dangerous Drug, but a wonderful Secret Invention.</p> + +<p class="center">Never Fails. Particulars Free to all Applicants.</p> + +<p class="center">Address,</p> + +<p class="center">M.D., ——, ——, London, N.E.”</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="noindent">“M.D.” may, of course, stand for Madame Dumas, but it can +hardly be doubted that it is intended to suggest that the +“secret invention” is supplied by a Doctor of Medicine.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page187">[187]</span></p> + +<p>In a circular referring to the pills and giving testimonials, +etc., they are described as follows:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="center">“Dumas’ Paris Pills.</p> + +<p class="center">The Combination Remedy (Protected).</p> + +<p class="center"><span class="smcap">What is meant by a Combination Remedy?</span></p> + +<p>Dumas’s Combination Remedy, The Paris Pill (Pilule de Paris) is in +reality a carefully selected combination of the most powerful drugs +known to Medical and Botanical Sciences, whereby a maximum certainty +of producing the desired effect is absolutely assured, the explanation of +this remarkable result being as follows: If any specific drug contained in +the Paris Pill be not actively suitable for a particular female organization, +there are other active ingredients present, which, from their varied +and searching nature, are in every way calculated to at once grapple with +and overcome the most obstinate case. In the face, therefore, of such a +remedy as here described, it can be well understood that there need be no +fear of a failure of effect.</p> + +<p>Dumas’s Paris Pills, secret, and powerful ingredients (protected by +Government stamp) act with instant certainty, in all cases of Irregularities +and Suppression of the Menses, incidental to females.”</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The clause “protected by Government stamp” is to be +noted: the Government stamp is merely a means of collecting +the tax on proprietary nostrums, and has not the slightest +reference to the real value of their contents. The reference to +it here is obviously intended to suggest some sort of official +guarantee of value.</p> + +<p>“Nurse Powell’s Remedies” illustrate the ascending scale of +charges. They are thus advertised:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="center highline15"><span class="smcap">Free Offer to Ladies.</span></p> + +<p>Our recent offer of a Free Sample of Nurse Powell’s Popular Pellets met +with such striking success that we have decided to repeat the offer. Ladies +should write for free box, enclosing stamp for postage. Delay is dangerous; +write at once and obtain relief.—Nurse F. Powell Remedy Co., ——, +——, London.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>An application for a free box as advertised brought a small +box containing three white-coated pills, together with a letter, +from which the following extracts are taken:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Owing to their proved superiority they have now come to be looked +upon as <span class="smcap">The Leading Woman’s Medicine</span>—a proof of which is that in +thousands of homes to-day a box is <i>always</i> to be found, ready for any +emergency which may arise. They are composed of ingredients which are +<span class="smcap">Perfectly Harmless</span>, and will not injure the most delicate constitution, +nor disturb one’s usual occupations, yet they <span class="smcap">Fully Carry Out All</span> that +is claimed for them. We shall be glad if you will try this sample at once, +<span class="pagenum" id="Page188">[188]</span>and let us know the result. In many cases this small quantity has brought +about relief and health. We would ask you <span class="smcap">Not to Expect Too Much</span> +from it, however, but to obtain more and take them regularly <span class="smcap">Each Day</span> +until you obtain a beneficial result. They have cured thousands of suffering +women who have been on the verge of despair, and we are confident +that if you will only persevere with them, and give them a thorough trial, +<span class="smcap">They Will Relieve You</span>.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The pills were stated to be 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. per box, and this amount +was sent with a request for a box. This brought a box containing +twenty-four white-coated pills, bearing on the label the +words “Nurse Powell’s Popular Pellets cure Anæmia, Debility, +Constipation, Headache, and all Female Ailments”; the words +“Poplets, Registered,” were printed across the label in red +ink. A circular was enclosed on which it was stated—</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>It should be particularly noted that the pellets are prepared in Two +Forms to meet the requirements of the case. The Ordinary Pellets (Price +1s. 1¹⁄₂d. and 2s. 9d.) are prepared as a remedy for Nervousness, Headache, +Constipation, Anæmia, Debility, Sleeplessness, Hysteria, Lack of +Energy, Wind, Biliousness, Indigestion, Sick Headache, and a general +run-down state of the system, and Menstrual Troubles of a slight +nature. The Special Pellets (Price 4s. 6d. per box) are expressly compounded +for use in all Severe Menstrual Troubles, and should be ordered +for Suppression of the Menses, Irregular and Painful Menstruation, +Painful Urination, Change of Life, Dragging or Bearing Down Pains, +Leucorrhœa (whites), Excessive Flow of the Menses, and all kindred +ailments.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>A box of the “special pellets” was therefore obtained: these +were compressed tablets with a bright purple coating, and were +labelled “Nurse Powell’s Popular Pellets for all Female Ailments +(Special),” and also bore the words “Poplets, Registered,” +in red ink across the label.</p> + +<p class="noindent">Another circular was now enclosed, from which the following +extracts are taken:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="noindent"><span class="padl6">Special notice!</span></p> + +<p>There are many cases of female irregularities which require special +treatment, and which cannot be met by the remedies which cure more +ordinary ailments. This fact is well known to the Physician who has +made a special study of the female system, and has his own special prescriptions +which he applies to the various stages of the ailments as +occasion demands.</p> + +<p>Whilst it is quite true that Nurse Powell’s Popular Pellets cure all +but the more obstinate cases, we find it occasionally necessary that a +stronger treatment is required. For this purpose, we supply two preparations +prepared from the prescriptions of a celebrated physician, and which +he relied upon to cure where every other means had been unavailing.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page189">[189]</span></p> + +<p>These remedies are prepared in the form of a pill and a mixture, either +of which will be found effective, but in order to obtain the very best +results, by far the best method is to take the pills and mixture in alternate +doses.</p> + +<p>These exceedingly valuable preparations we recommend with the utmost +confidence. They are prepared by fully qualified chemists from the +purest ingredients obtainable, and most beneficial results are obtained +after a few doses.</p> + +<p>The price of these remedies is necessarily higher than the ordinary +preparations, but compared with the results the cost is small.</p> + +<p class="powellprice">Prices</p> + +<div class="centerblock"> +<p>Corrective Pills, 11s. per box;<br> +Corrective Mixture, 13s. per bot.;<br> +or the two preparations, 21s.</p> +</DIV> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Supplies of both these were obtained.</p> + +<p>In a little book sent with the earlier supply, entitled <i>Woman’s +Home Doctor</i>, appears the following:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="center highline15"><span class="smcap">Advice to Sufferers Free.</span></p> + +<p>Many women are in doubt as to the nature of their ailment and the +best means to obtain a cure. To all such, we offer our <span class="smcap">Experienced +Advice Free</span> if full particulars are given to us in a letter. If Nurse +Powell’s Popular Pellets will be of no use in your particular case you +will be at once told so. Address all letters asking for advice to the +Manageress, and mark them “Private” in the top left-hand corner. +They will then receive immediate attention and will be treated in the +strictest confidence.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>In sending for each of these preparations nothing was said +with regard to the case for which they were supposed to be +intended, but after a short interval a typed letter was received, +from which the following extracts are taken:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Dear Madam,—In reply to your communication of a few days ago, we +looked carefully into your case, and advised you to persevere with our +remedy. It seemed to us that your ailment was similar in almost all +respects to many other cases which we have had, and in practically <span class="allsmcap">ALL +OF THESE</span> the treatment we advise has been taken with <span class="allsmcap">ENTIRE SUCCESS</span>, +as the grateful letters we have received plainly show.... With all +good wishes, and again assuring you of our sympathy and aid, we remain, +dear Madam, yours faithfully, The Nurse Powell Remedy Co.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Another advertiser is very frank on the subject of quacks:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>“<span class="smcap">Irristum</span>” <i>never fails, that is the marvel of it</i>. On “Irristum” +is stamped the seal of unequivocal success. To it women may turn with +the <i>brightest confidence and hope</i>, assured of health and happiness, instead +of that wretched depression of animal spirits, and possibly <i>life-long +misery</i>, which accrue from a blind confidence in the <i>nostrums of unscrupulous +quacks</i>....</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page190">[190]</span></p> + +<p>Nothing conceivable can be worse or more contemptible than for confiding +and suffering women to be the dupes of plausible and unscrupulous +adventurers. Not merely is it the pocket, but the paramount question +of life-long health which may be imperilled; and here it is that the +<i>never-failing efficacy, the privacy, the simplicity, and the rapidity of +action characteristic of the “Irristum” medicine, come as a challenge to +the world in this most important branch of the healing art</i>....</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>It is modestly added that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>We do not profess to work wonderful miracles; we only state, with +<i>absolute confidence</i>, that if <i>you</i>, who read this, feel the need of such a +preparation, you will never do better than send to us <i>at once</i>. It would +of course be untrue to say a second bottle is <i>never</i> required. It sometimes +happens that a lady has to send for another supply, but in 19 cases +out of 20 the <i>whole</i> of the second one is not required....</p> + +<p>“<span class="smcap">Irristum</span>” <i>is unquestionably one of the most priceless blessings of +the nineteenth century</i>....</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="noindent">In the case of a medicine which is advertised as “A Woman’s +Cure for Women’s Ills,” an account is given of the evolution +of the remedy, in the course of which it is stated that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>It is seldom necessary for a woman, if she know where best she +may look for help from a sister woman, to consult medical men in these +troubles.... One woman, Mrs. Lydia E. Pinkham, was often +called to help her neighbours and friends who suffered from the diseases +and ailments of women....</p> + +<p>So, after a time, she learned to select the most potent roots and +herbs, and to steep and compound from them a simple medicine, but one +which almost always relieved and cured even when physicians failed....</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>It is rather surprising therefore to read that</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="noindent">in those rare cases involving some knotty point which she could not +answer as she wished, she consulted a good physician and kept notes of +what he said.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Surely if this lady could relieve and cure when physicians +failed, the consultation should have been the other way round!</p> + +<p>Sometimes a French or American origin is claimed, with a +suggestion that the preparation is therefore better, as in the +following:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="center highline15">“To Ladies.</p> + +<p>Do you want a guaranteed remedy for all irregularities?</p> + +<p>Do you want something far superior to steel and pennyroyal, bitter +apple and all English preparations?</p> + +<p>If you do, send for Nurse Grey’s Renowned American Compound +Tablets. A truly wonderful discovery, affording surprising results even +in the most obstinate cases.</p> + +<p>Prices 1s. 3d. and 2s. 9d. (treble quantity) in plain wrapper.”</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page191">[191]</span></p> + +<p>It is thus clearly conveyed that the marvellous superiority +to all English preparations is in the tablets; but in reality they +are made to open the way for a more expensive preparation not +mentioned in the advertisement. The tablets were sent with +a circular letter, from which the following are extracts:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>The tablets are certain to do good, and they frequently afford complete +relief, though this supply may be insufficient to test their real +worth....</p> + +<p>Mixtures are <span class="smcap">Much</span> more effective than pills, because they commence +to act upon the system <span class="smcap">Immediately</span>, whereas pills have to dissolve before +any benefit can be obtained. The Tablets, therefore, cannot <span class="smcap">Always</span> +be supposed to accomplish what a 4s. 9d. bottle of medicine will, and +who would regret so small an outlay, which may be the means of saving +pounds.... You are anxious for a certain cure, and this is <span class="smcap">Just</span> the +medicine you require. It has cured thousands and will cure you. There +are only the two prices, namely, 4s. 9d., and Special Compound 10s., post +free, securely packed from observation.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The way in which “guarantees” are given and then ignored +is shown by “Nurse Mann’s Remedy,” advertised thus:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="center highline15">Free to Ladies.</p> + +<p>A Sample of the Most Reliable Remedy ever discovered for irregularities +and suppressions can be had, post free. Thousands of letters +of thanks testifying to their speedy efficacy after all other things have +been tried in vain. Each purchaser sends back testimonials, as they +afford relief in every instance. Or write for our Extra Special Treatment +at 4s. 6d., which we guarantee to cure every case from any cause whatever +(genuine). Guaranteed effective in a few hours. Impossible to fail. +Delay is dangerous. Send at once.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Apparently this emphatic “guarantee” was intended to be +forgotten as soon as a first transaction had occurred, since, +on sending for a 4s. 6d. box of “Extra Special,” a box of pills +was sent accompanied by a hectographed letter as follows:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="noindent highline15"><span class="padl4">Dear Madam,</span></p> + +<p>If the pills should not prove strong enough to correct the irregularity +I should strongly advise you to send at once for my special No. 3 +treatment at 21s., which takes effect in a few hours and saves all further +worry and expense.</p> + +<p>It is perfectly harmless.</p> + +<p class="nursemann"><span class="padr10">Yours faithfully,</span><br> +<span class="smcap">Nurse Mann</span>.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>With regard to the analyses which follow, it is to be noted +that many of these preparations are pills, which always contain +some excipient, or binding material, and this is often of the +<span class="pagenum" id="Page192">[192]</span>nature of a vegetable extract or a mixture of sugar, gum, etc., +such as cannot be resolved exactly into its constituents when +dealing with only small quantities. Others, again, are mixtures +containing decoction of aloes with other vegetable drugs; many +also contain quite small quantities of volatile oils, usually oil +of pennyroyal, but sometimes with other oils also present. In +all such cases it is only possible to give an approximate formula; +in many cases some other constituent besides those named may +be present in small quantity, but if this is so, in any case it is +practically certain that such unnamed constituents are of an +ill-defined and usually inert character, since definite <i>active</i> +substances can almost always be detected.</p> + +<h3>DUMAS’S PARIS PILLS.</h3> + +<p>These are sold at 4s. 6d. per box.</p> + +<p>The box contained forty-six pills; these were coated with +French chalk, and after removal of the coating had an average +weight of 2.9 grains. Examination showed the presence of +sulphate of iron, aloes, canella, liquorice, jalap, ginger, wheat-flour, +and a trace of oil of pennyroyal. Estimation of the +amounts of these ingredients indicated the following formula:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Dried sulphate of iron</td> +<td class="number">38</td> +<td class="unit">grains</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered canella</td> +<td class="number">22</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered liquorice</td> +<td class="number">22</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered jalap</td> +<td class="number">12</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered ginger</td> +<td class="number">6</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Barbadoes aloes</td> +<td class="number">46</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Flour</td> +<td class="number">12</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of pennyroyal</td> +<td class="number">2</td> +<td class="unit">minims</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="3" class="text nopad">Excipient<br></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="3" class="bottomline">In 100 pills.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Estimated cost of ingredients for forty-six pills, ¹⁄₅d.</p> + +<h3>NURSE POWELL’S POPULAR PELLETS (SPECIAL).</h3> + +<p>These are sold at 4s. 6d. per box, containing forty-five tablets. +The tablets were coated with sugar, dyed externally to a bright +purple; the average weight after removing the coating was 2.8 +grains. Analysis showed the presence of sulphate of iron, aloes, +canella, ginger, oil of pennyroyal, with starch and kaolin. +<span class="pagenum" id="Page193">[193]</span>Estimation of the various ingredients indicated the following +formula:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Dried sulphate of iron</td> +<td class="number">40</td> +<td class="unit">grains</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Socotrine aloes</td> +<td class="number">67</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered canella</td> +<td class="number">56</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered ginger</td> +<td class="number">8</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of pennyroyal</td> +<td class="number">12</td> +<td class="unit">minims</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Maize starch</td> +<td class="number">16</td> +<td class="unit">grains</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Kaolin</td> +<td class="number">50</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="3" class="text nopad">Excipient</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="3" class="bottomline">In 100 tablets.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Estimated cost of ingredients for forty-five tablets, ¹⁄₂d.</p> + +<h3>NURSE POWELL’S CORRECTIVE PILLS.</h3> + +<p>These are sold at 11s. per box, containing forty-two pills.</p> + +<p>The pills were greyish-black, and proved to be coated with +French chalk and graphite; after removal of the coating the +average weight was 4.6 grains. Analysis showed the presence +of sulphate of iron, aloes, oil of pennyroyal, jalap, starch, and +powdered liquorice; another vegetable substance was present, +which agreed in its histological characters with powdered olive +stones, a material largely employed in adulterating the cheaper +grades of powdered liquorice. Estimation of the various ingredients +indicated the following formula:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Dried sulphate of iron</td> +<td class="number">100</td> +<td class="unit">grains</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Socotrine aloes</td> +<td class="number">140</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered jalap</td> +<td class="number">14</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered liquorice (adulterated)</td> +<td class="number">80</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of pennyroyal</td> +<td class="number">10</td> +<td class="unit">minims</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Starch</td> +<td class="number">10</td> +<td class="unit">grains</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="3" class="text nopad">Excipient</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="3" class="bottomline">In 100 pills.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Estimated cost of ingredients for forty-two pills, ¹⁄₃d.</p> + +<h3>NURSE POWELL’S CORRECTIVE MIXTURE.</h3> + +<p>The price of this is 13s. per bottle, containing eight fluid +ounces.</p> + +<p>Examination of the liquid showed it to be of the nature of +compound decoction of aloes, without saffron, with a trace of +<span class="pagenum" id="Page194">[194]</span>chloroform; it was, however, much darker than the official +decoction of corresponding strength; no additional drug, +however, could be detected, and by adding burnt sugar to the +decoction made without saffron a very similar liquid was +obtained. Only 4.7 per cent. (by volume) of alcohol was +present, instead of the 18 per cent. of the official decoction.</p> + +<p>Estimated cost of ingredients of eight fluid ounces, 3d.</p> + +<h3>IRRISTUM.</h3> + +<p>The “extra strong” preparation was obtained for analysis. +The 10s. bottle of medicine contained six and three-quarters +ounces.</p> + +<p>Analysis showed it to be an acid syrup of phosphate of iron +with quinine; it also contained 5 per cent. by volume of alcohol, +which may have been added in the form of a colouring tincture; +the colouring matter appeared to be cudbear. Determination +of the quantities of the various ingredients gave the following +formula:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Quinine sulphate</td> +<td class="intpart">9</td> +<td rowspan="5"> </td> +<td class="unit">grains</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Ferrous phosphate</td> +<td class="intpart">10</td> +<td class="ditto spaced3">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Dilute phosphoric acid</td> +<td class="intpart">6</td> +<td class="unit">fl. drachms</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sugar</td> +<td class="intpart">3</td> +<td class="unit">oz.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Rectified spirit</td> +<td class="intpart">220</td> +<td class="unit">minims.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="4" class="text nopad">Cudbear</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Water to</td> +<td class="intpart">6</td> +<td class="fracpart">.75</td> +<td class="unit">fl. oz.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Estimated cost of ingredients, 2d.</p> + +<h3>MRS. LYDIA E. PINKHAM’S VEGETABLE COMPOUND.</h3> + +<p>The price of this is 2s. 9d. and 4s. 6d. per bottle; the +package is marked, “Made in U.S.A.” A bottle was found to +contain nearly seven fluid ounces.</p> + +<p>Analysis showed it to contain 19.3 per cent. by volume of +alcohol, and only 0.6 per cent of solid substances; the ash was +0.06 per cent., and consisted of the constituents usual in +vegetable preparations; traces of tannin and ammonia were +present, and a small quantity of a reducing sugar; no alkaloid +was present, and no evidence was obtained of any active principle +except a trace of a bitter substance soluble in ether; the +remainder (0.3 or 0.4 per cent.) was vegetable extractive, possessing +no distinctive characters.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page195">[195]</span></p> + +<h3>NURSE GREY’S AMERICAN COMPOUND TABLETS.</h3> + +<p>These “tablets,” or more properly ovoid pills, are supplied +at 1s. 3d. and 2s. 9d. per box. A 1s. 3d. box contained twenty-six +ovoid pills.</p> + +<p>The pills were thinly coated with gelatine coloured black, +and had an average weight of 2.5 grains. Analysis showed the +principal constituent to be ferrous carbonate, of which they +contained 20 per cent. (like the official form of Blaud pill); +talc was present to the extent of 19 per cent., with glucose and +starch; all the constituents besides the carbonate of iron appeared +to be of the nature of excipient, and no other medicinal +substance could be detected.</p> + +<p>The wholesale price of 5-grain Blaud pills coated is about 3d. +per gross.</p> + +<h3>NURSE MANN’S REMEDY.</h3> + +<p>The price of this is 4s. 6d. per box for the “Extra Special”; +this contained 48 pills.</p> + +<p>The pills were coated with talc; after removal of the coating +they had an average weight of 3.2 grains. Analysis showed +them to contain sulphate of iron, Barbadoes aloes, soap, powdered +ginger, cardamom, and cinnamon. The amount of iron +in this case corresponded to 88 per cent. of the official aloes and +iron pill; there was some ground for suspecting traces of oil of +rue and apiol, but without positive evidence of either.</p> + +<h3>TOWLE’S PENNYROYAL AND STEEL PILLS.</h3> + +<p>The price of these is 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. per box, and upwards; a 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. +box was found to contain 26 pills.</p> + +<p>The pills were coated with French chalk and sugar; after +removal of the coating the average weight was slightly over +2 grains. Enough oil of pennyroyal was present to give a not +very marked odour of the drug, and estimation of the quantity +showed about 0.02 grain in each pill; iron sulphate was present, +in amount corresponding to 6.7 per cent. of the official exsiccated +salt. About 43 per cent. of the pill consisted of powdered +<span class="pagenum" id="Page196">[196]</span>capsicum, and no other active ingredient was found, the +remainder being excipient and moisture. The formula is thus, +approximately:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Dried sulphate of iron</td> +<td class="number">14</td> +<td class="unit">grains</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered capsicum</td> +<td class="number">86</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of pennyroyal</td> +<td class="number">3</td> +<td class="unit">minims</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="3" class="text nopad">Excipient</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="3" class="bottomline">In 100 pills.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Estimated cost of the drugs, for twenty-six pills, ¹⁄₈d.</p> + +<h3>DR. JOHN HOOPER’S FEMALE PILLS.</h3> + +<p>These pills are stated to be prepared under letters patent +granted to Dr. John Hooper in 1743.</p> + +<p>Examination of the letters patent granted in 1743 showed +that a patent for pills was taken out in that year by a Dr. +John Hooper; in those days, however, so-called “specifications” +appear to have been accepted which specified practically nothing, +and no hint is given as to the composition of the pills, except +that they are composed of “the best purging stomatick and +antihysterical ingredients.” The results of examination of the +pills showed them to have an average weight of 1.2 grains, and +to contain sulphate of iron (equivalent to 8.4 per cent. of the +exsiccated salt), aloes, powdered senna, jalap, and canella bark, +with a trace of oil of pennyroyal. A similar pill is given by the +following formula:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Dried sulphate of iron</td> +<td class="number">10</td> +<td class="unit">grains</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered senna</td> +<td class="number">48</td> +<td class="unit">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered canella</td> +<td class="number">27</td> +<td class="unit">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered jalap</td> +<td class="number">17</td> +<td class="unit">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Aloes</td> +<td class="number">13</td> +<td class="unit">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of pennyroyal</td> +<td class="number">2</td> +<td class="unit">drops</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="3" class="text nopad">Excipient</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="3" class="bottomline">In 100 pills.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Estimated cost of the drugs, for forty-one pills, ¹⁄₅d.</p> + +<h3>KEARSLEY’S ORIGINAL WIDOW WELCH’S +FEMALE PILLS.</h3> + +<p class="noindent">The price of these is 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. per box containing twenty pills.</p> + +<p class="noindent">The pills had an average weight of 3.8 grains, and were found +<span class="pagenum" id="Page197">[197]</span>to contain sulphate of iron (equal to 29 per cent. of the +exsiccated salt), sulphur (2.7 per cent.), with powdered +liquorice, powdered turmeric, maize starch, and excipient. The +vegetable powders were estimated to be present in the amounts +given in the following formula:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Dried sulphate of iron</td> +<td class="number">120</td> +<td class="unit">grains</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Precipitated sulphur</td> +<td class="number">12</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered liquorice</td> +<td class="number">65</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered turmeric</td> +<td class="number">34</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="3" class="text nopad">Excipient</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="3" class="bottomline">In 100 pills.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Estimated cost of drugs, for twenty pills, ¹⁄₂₀d.</p> + +<h3>DR. DAVIS’S FAMOUS FEMALE PILLS.</h3> + +<p>The price of these pills is 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. per box, containing twenty-three.</p> + +<p>The pills were found to be coated with French chalk; after +removal of the coating the average weight was 2.7 grains. +Examination showed the presence of sulphate of iron (equal to +16 per cent. of exsiccated salt), powdered savin (about 57 per +cent.), and a bitter substance; it was not possible to determine +whether a bitter extract, such as extract of gentian, had been +used as excipient, or whether a small quantity of extract of +colocynth was contained in the pill. If the latter, the formula +is approximately</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Dried sulphate of iron</td> +<td class="number">46</td> +<td class="unit">grains</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered savin</td> +<td class="number">154</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Extract of colocynth</td> +<td class="number">3</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="3" class="text nopad">Excipient</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="3" class="bottomline">In 100 pills.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Estimated cost of drugs, in twenty-three pills, ¹⁄₆d.</p> + +<h3>DR. DAVIS’S FAMOUS FEMALE MIXTURE.</h3> + +<p>The price of this is 2s. 9d. per bottle, containing two fluid +ounces.</p> + +<p>The principal ingredient found was oil of pennyroyal, of +which about 0.8 per cent. was present, with 9 per cent. of +alcohol (by volume), and about 4 per cent. of glycerine. The +mixture also contained 0.8 per cent. of undissolved substance; +<span class="pagenum" id="Page198">[198]</span>this contained a trace of magnesia (no doubt employed in mixing +in the oil of pennyroyal); the insoluble and dissolved substances +gave evidence of the presence of extract of gossypium, but as +this contains no definite active principle, and there is no +standard method for preparing it, the quantity could not be +determined. The whole of the drug extractive present did not +appear to be derived from gossypium, but the other ingredient +could not be identified with any ordinary drug, after comparison +with a considerable number. A trace of some alkaloidal +substance (under 0.01 per cent.) was also present.</p> + +<h3>JEFFERSON DODD’S CORRECTIVE.</h3> + +<p>This mixture is sold at 2s. 9d. per bottle, containing 4 fluid +ounces.</p> + +<p>Analysis showed the presence of the constituents of decoction +of aloes, except saffron, together with a small quantity of chloroform; +the alcohol, however, only amounted to 5.3 per cent. (by +volume). A “concentrated decoction of aloes, without saffron,” +is largely sold as a cheaper substitute for the official preparation; +the latter, however, whether with or without the saffron, cannot +properly be prepared of the concentration commonly employed +(1 = 4) on account of the amount of tincture of cardamoms, +and the alcohol is therefore diminished in the concentrated preparation, +and may consequently vary in the preparations of +different makers. The following formula:</p> + +<div class="smallersize centerblock"> +<p class="noindent">Concentrated decoction of aloes without saffron (1 to 3), 1 part<br> +Chloroform water, 2 parts<br> +Water to 8 parts (all by measure),</p> +</div> + +<p class="noindent">gave a mixture agreeing in all respects, except the amount of +alcohol present, with the one under examination.</p> + +<p>Estimated cost of ingredients of 4 ounces, ⁹⁄₁₀d.</p> + +<h3>JEFFERSON DODD’S FEMALE PILLS.</h3> + +<p>The price of these pills is 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. per box, containing thirty-six.</p> + +<p>The pills were found to be coated with French chalk, and +after removal of the coating had an average weight of 3.4 grains. +<span class="pagenum" id="Page199">[199]</span>Analysis showed sulphate of iron to be present (equal to 8.9 per +cent. of exsiccated salt), with aloes and powdered liquorice, the +remainder being excipient and moisture. The following formula +gave a similar pill:—</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Dried sulphate of iron</td> +<td class="number">34</td> +<td class="unit">grains</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered liquorice</td> +<td class="number">72</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Barbadoes aloes</td> +<td class="number">142</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="3" class="text nopad">Excipient</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="3" class="bottomline">In 100 pills.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Estimated cost of drugs for thirty-six pills, ¹⁄₆d.</p> + +<h3>MARTIN’S APIOL AND STEEL PILLS.</h3> + +<p>These are sold at 4s. 6d. per bottle, containing forty-nine +pills.</p> + +<p>The pills were coated with French chalk, coloured pink with +eosin; after removal of the coating the average weight was +3.8 grains. Iron was found to be present in the metallic state +to the extent of 2 per cent.; powdered cinnamon, powdered cardamom, +and aloes were also found, and about 3 per cent. of +apiol; estimation of the amounts of the drugs and comparison +with pill-masses prepared for the purpose indicated the following +formula:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Reduced iron</td> +<td class="number">10</td> +<td class="unit">grains</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Barbadoes aloes</td> +<td class="number">150</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Apiol</td> +<td class="number">12</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered cinnamon</td> +<td class="number">75</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered cardamom</td> +<td class="number">55</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="3" class="text nopad">Excipient</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="3" class="bottomline">In 100 pills.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Estimated cost of ingredients, for forty-nine pills, ³⁄₄d.</p> + +<h3>FOURNIER’S HYGENIQUE MIXTURE FOR FEMALES +(EXTRA STRONG).</h3> + +<p>The price of this is 11s. 0d. per bottle holding twenty fluid +ounces.</p> + +<p>Examination showed the mixture to consist of compound +decoction of aloes, with the addition of a very small quantity +<span class="pagenum" id="Page200">[200]</span>of iron; the amount of the latter corresponded to 0.45 per cent. +of the crystalline ferrous sulphate, or two grains in a dose. A +further difference between this mixture and the official decoction +of aloes was that this only contained 3.9 per cent. of alcohol, +against 18 per cent. in the preparation of the <i>British Pharmacopœia</i>.</p> + +<p>Estimated cost of ingredients for twenty fluid ounces, 1s. 1d.</p> + +<h3>MONAID TABLETS.</h3> + +<p>The price of these is 2s. 9d. per box containing fifty-nine +tablets.</p> + +<p>The tablets are described as “chocolate coated”; in reality +they were coated with sugar coloured to a chocolate-brown with +iron oxide. After removal of the coating, the average weight +of one was 2.2 grains. They contained neither iron, aloes, +pennyroyal, or any powdered vegetable drug, and no alkaloid. +Oleo-resin of capsicum was present to a rather considerable +extent, and almost the whole of the remaining material of the +tablets consisted of a substance agreeing in all respects with +caulophyllin; the two were compared by various tests, but as +there are no definite reactions for caulophyllin, and it possesses +no characteristic smell, taste, etc., it cannot be quite positively +asserted that this was the substance present. Enough oil of +caraway was present to give a slight odour, and small quantities +of flour and kaolin; there was some indication of another substance, +but nothing further could be identified.</p> + +<h3>SANOL CONES.</h3> + +<p>Two varieties of these were examined, viz.:</p> + +<p><span class="smcap">Sanol Cones (Ordinary).</span> Price 4s. 6d. per box, containing +sixteen cones. These “cones” were small suppositories rounded +at one end and tapering towards the other; they were of an +average weight of 13.2 grains. They contained sulphate of iron +corresponding to 1.5 per cent. of the exsiccated salt, quinine +corresponding to 6.6 per cent. of the ordinary sulphate, and +about 2 per cent. of a vegetable powder, which proved to be +<span class="pagenum" id="Page201">[201]</span>gentian root; the remainder consisted of oil of theobroma. The +formula is thus:—</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Dried sulphate of iron</td> +<td class="number">22</td> +<td class="unit">grains</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sulphate of quinine</td> +<td class="number">87</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered gentian</td> +<td class="number">26</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of theobroma</td> +<td class="number">1,200</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="3" class="bottomline">In 100 cones.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Estimated cost of ingredients of sixteen cones, under 1¹⁄₂d.</p> + +<p><span class="smcap">Sanol Cones (Special).</span> Price 11s. per box, containing +thirty-six cones. These were similar in size and shape to the +preceding, but differed in being of a green colour. Analysis +showed the presence of quinine sulphate, 5.5 per cent., and +powdered gentian about 4 per cent.; the base was oil of theobroma. +No other medicament could be detected; the green +colouring matter was small in quantity and dissolved in fat, a +similar product being obtained by colouring oil of theobroma +with commercial chlorophyll. The formula is thus:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sulphate of quinine</td> +<td class="number">72</td> +<td class="unit">grains</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered gentian</td> +<td class="number">52</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of theobroma (tinted green)</td> +<td class="number">1,200</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="3" class="bottomline">In 100 cones.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Estimated cost of ingredients in thirty-six cones, 3d.</p> + +<h3>I.R.S. COMPOUND GOLDEN TABLETS.</h3> + +<p>The price of these is 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. per box, containing twenty-four.</p> + +<p>The “tablets” were ovoid pills coated with French chalk, +“gilded” on the surface; the “gilding” showed the composition +of so-called gold paint, containing copper but no gold. +After removal of the coating the average weight of the pills was +2 grains; analysis showed them to contain sulphate of iron equivalent +to 48 per cent. of the exsiccated salt, and sodium carbonate, +producing ferrous carbonate on addition of water; the +other ingredients were starch, gum, and moisture. The amounts +of ferrous sulphate and sodium carbonate were not properly +adjusted for converting the whole of the former to ferrous carbonate, +but the composition was variable. One specimen +showed 48 per cent. of dried ferrous sulphate, one-fourth of +which was converted to ferrous carbonate on treatment with +water; another gave only 37 per cent. of dried ferrous sulphate, +<span class="pagenum" id="Page202">[202]</span>two fifths of which formed ferrous carbonate. The formula is +thus approximately:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Dried sulphate of iron</td> +<td class="number">86</td> +<td class="unit">grains</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Dried sodium carbonate</td> +<td class="number">25</td> +<td class="unit">grains</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="3" class="text nopad">Excipient</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="3" class="bottomline">In 100 pills.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Estimated cost of ingredients of twenty-four pills, ¹⁄₁₅d.</p> + +<h3>MRS. SHAFFER-BENNYON’S REMEDY.</h3> + +<p>This is supplied at 4s. 8d. per box, containing fourteen +suppositories for rectal use.</p> + +<p>On the wrapper of the box it was stated that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>These cones are composed of Theobroma, Cerum, Fer Lac. Sol. Quinæ, +Sulph, Ol, Rutae, Crab, Etc.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="noindent">(the stops being as here given).</p> + +<p>The fourteen suppositories had an average weight of 14.2 +grains each. Analysis showed them to contain</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Quinine sulphate</td> +<td class="intpart">5</td> +<td class="fracpart">.1</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Boric acid</td> +<td class="intpart">4</td> +<td class="fracpart">.9</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of theobroma</td> +<td class="intpart">2</td> +<td class="fracpart">.75</td> +<td class="unit">fl. oz.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>They had a slight green tint, and a faint odour which may have +been due to a trace of oil of rue. No iron was present (Fer Lac. +being presumably some form of iron), and no “crab” was +found. Each suppository thus contains quinine sulphate 0.73 +grain, boric acid 0.70 grain. The estimated cost of the +materials for fourteen suppositories is 1d.</p> + +<h3>MRS. STAFFORD-BROOKES’ PELLOIDS.</h3> + +<p>These are supplied at 4s. 6d. per box, containing sixteen pessaries.</p> + +<p>The resemblances between this preparation and the former +one are far too numerous to be accidental. The name of the proprietor, +the nature of the claims made, the wording of the +advertisements, the general appearance of the package supplied, +and the style and wording of all the circulars, are very similar +in the two cases. The chief difference is that the cones are +placed in the rectum in the one case and in the vagina in the +other, but it can make no practical difference where the ones +about to be described are placed.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page203">[203]</span></p> + +<p>On the package appears the statement:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>These Pelloids are Guaranteed Harmless, and contain Sulph. Quinae., +Ol. Theobroma, Rad. Anchusae, Myrrh, A. Bor, etc., etc.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The “Pelloids” consisted of suppositories, or pessaries, of an +average weight of 14.2 grains, coloured pink with a preparation +of alkanet (Rad. Anchusae); analysis showed them to contain +2.3 per cent. of boric acid, with oil of theobroma, and a minute +trace of quinine, not sufficient to give the slightest perceptible +bitter taste; no myrrh or any other ingredient could be +detected.</p> + +<p>Each “Pelloid” thus contains: Boric acid, 0.37 grain.</p> + +<p>The estimated cost of the materials for the sixteen pessaries +is 1d.</p> + +<h3>NURSE HAMMOND’S IMPROVED REMEDIES.</h3> + +<p>These are supplied in three forms, known as “Treatment +No. 1,” price 5s. 6d.; “Treatment No. 2,” price 10s. 6d.; and +“Treatment No. 3,” price 21s.</p> + +<p>“Treatment No. 2” was selected; this consisted of an 8-oz. +bottle of liquid, 16 tablets, and 16 pills.</p> + +<p><i>The Mixture.</i>—The bottle contained 8 fluid ozs. Analysis +showed the liquid to contain 2.8 per cent. by volume of alcohol, +between 2 and 3 per cent. of glycerine, and a very little extractive; +the latter possessed no characters by which it could be +identified, but its vinous smell and taste, slight acidity, and alkaline +ash, and the presence of a reducing sugar in moderate +amount, all suggested the presence of a small quantity of wine. +No active principle of any sort could be detected beyond a minute +trace of an alkaloid, and there was no evidence of any other +medicinal substance.</p> + +<p><i>The Pills.</i>—Sixteen pills were sent. They were coated with +talc, and after removal of the coating had an average weight of +2.9 grains. Analysis showed the principal ingredient to be +ferrous carbonate, which formed 17 per cent. of the pill; other +ingredients were soap (1 per cent.), powdered liquorice root, +wheat starch, sodium sulphate (formed in the production of the +ferrous carbonate), and excipients. No alkaloid or other active +principle was found. The pills were thus a form of Blaud’s +pill, somewhat weaker than the official iron pill.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page204">[204]</span></p> + +<p><i>The Tablets.</i>—Sixteen tablets were sent. They were coated +with a mixture of talc, carbonate of magnesia, sugar and starch, +and coloured pink externally. After removal of the coating +they had an average weight of 4.1 grains. Analysis showed the +presence of aloin, powdered tansy herb, powdered liquorice in +considerable quantity, and talc. No alkaloid was present, and +no other constituent was detected.</p> + +<h3>GAUTIEUR’S FEMALE PILLS.</h3> + +<p>The price of these is 7¹⁄₂d. and 2s. 3d. per box; a 7¹⁄₂d. box +contained twelve pills.</p> + +<p>The pills were ovoid in shape, coated with talc coloured pink; +after removal of the coating they had an average weight of +3.8 grains. Analysis showed the presence of a very small quantity +of an aromatic essential oil, which appeared to consist of +oils of pennyroyal and rue, and possibly tansy; the quantity was +far too small for its components to be separated and identified +positively. A small quantity of apiol appeared to be present, +but this substance possesses no characters by which it can be +positively identified in such a mixture; the principal constituents +were exsiccated sulphate of iron—forming 10 per cent. +of the pill—and soap—present to the extent of 11 per cent., +and probably added to assist in incorporating the apiol and +essential oils; powdered liquorice was present to the extent of +about 30 per cent., and a little powdered ginger; traces of other +vegetable tissue were to be seen, but in such small quantity +that it was probably only accidental; a bitter substance was +present in small quantity, which was apparently (but not quite +certainly) Socotrine aloes.</p> + +<h3>DR. PATTERSON’S FEMALE PILLS.</h3> + +<p>These are supplied in boxes at 2s. 9d.; “special extra strong,” +4s. 6d. A 2s. 9d. box contained twenty-seven pills.</p> + +<p>The pills were coated with talc, and coloured pink. After +removal of the coating, they had an average weight of 3.2 +grains. Analysis showed them to contain sulphate of iron, +Barbadoes aloes, soap, powdered ginger, cardamom, and cinnamon. +All these ingredients except the soap occur in the official +aloes and iron pill; the amount of iron found corresponded to +about 70 per cent. of the latter mass in the pills under examination. +<span class="pagenum" id="Page205">[205]</span>A slight aroma other than that from the constituents +named may have been due to a trace of oil of rue, and a small +quantity of apiol may have been present, but no positive +evidence of its presence was obtained.</p> + +<h3>HORTON’S BENEDICT PILLS.</h3> + +<p>The price of these is 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. and 2s. 9d. per box. A 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. +box contained forty-nine pills.</p> + +<p>The pills had an average weight of 4 grains; analysis showed +them to contain sulphate of iron, Socotrine aloes, powdered +ginger in considerable quantity, and a small amount of another +vegetable powder which appeared to be gentian. The amount +of iron corresponded to 10 per cent. of the exsiccated sulphate.</p> + +<h3>BLANCHARD’S APIOL AND STEEL PILLS.</h3> + +<p>Blanchard’s Pills are supplied at 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. per box, containing +twenty-four.</p> + +<p>The pills were coated with talc, and after removal of the +coating had an average weight of 1.9 grains. Analysis showed +the presence of sulphate of iron, soap, Barbadoes aloes, powdered +ginger, cardamom, and cinnamon; evidence was also +obtained of the presence of a little apiol, but the characters of +this substance are not sufficiently well defined for the amount +to be determined quantitatively. The soap was 3 per cent. +of the pill, and was no doubt added to assist in incorporating +the apiol; the other ingredients represent the official aloes and +iron pill, present to the extent of about 80 per cent.</p> + +<h3>NURSE LILLY’S FEMALE PILLS.</h3> + +<p>These pills are supplied at 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. and 2s. 9d. per box; a +1s. 1¹⁄₂d. box contained thirty-three pills.</p> + +<p>The pills were coated with talc, and after removal of the +coating had an average weight of 1.9 grains. Analysis showed +the presence of sulphate of iron (12 per cent. of the exsiccated +salt), Socotrine aloes, cinchonine sulphate (3.3 per cent.), powdered +capsicum (about 30 per cent.), and a little powdered +ginger and oil of pennyroyal; a small quantity of a powdered +beetle was also present, probably due to the capsicum having +been beetle-infested (so-called “worm-eaten”).</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page206">[206]</span></p> + +<h3>BLAK THYROL FEMALE PILLS.</h3> + +<p>These pills are supplied at the following prices: No. 2, 2s. 6d.; +No. 3x (strong), 3s. 6d.; No. 4 (extra), 5s.; No. 5x (special), +7s. 6d. per box. The variety analysed was No. 3x, a 3s. 6d. box +of which contained 48 pills.</p> + +<p>The pills are advertised in the following terms:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Blak Thyrol is a moon plant originally discovered in South Virginia, +and its compound was found to have the most specific control over all +the Blood Vessels of the body. By building up the system to its utmost +capacity, it cannot fail to remove all obstructions and irregularities, +which chiefly lie between the Fallopian Tubes, Broad Ligaments, and the +Overies (<i>sic</i>)—these organs always needing assistance and are entirely +under the influence of the moon. Blak Thyrol being a moon plant, is in +complete sympathy with all the affected organs, and puts them in an +excellent condition to do their work, provided they are taken exactly as +directed. Send for a box at once; time is precious.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The pills were coated with talc, coloured black. After +removal of the coating they had an average weight of 5.1 +grains. They contained sufficient oil of pennyroyal to give them +a fairly strong odour of the drug. Analysis showed them to +contain reduced iron, arsenic in small quantity, a trace of +alkaloid, powdered ginger, a little powdered liquorice, and +another vegetable powder. The reduced iron amounted to 14 +per cent. of the pill, or 0.7 grain in each; the arsenic, calculated +as arsenious acid, was 0.06 per cent., or about ¹⁄₃₀₀ grain in +each; this proportion of arsenic might be present as an impurity +in a bad sample of reduced iron. The trace of alkaloid which +was present was neither strychnine nor a solanaceous alkaloid, +showing the absence of extracts of nux vomica, belladonna, and +henbane, and it was probably derived from the unnamed vegetable +powder. The microscopical characters of the latter did +not agree with those of any drug usually employed as an +emmenagogue or a purgative, and after careful comparisons it +could not be identified; presumably it is the “moon plant +originally discovered in South Virginia.” No aloes, soap, or +powdered colocynth was present. The extractive and resinous +matter present possessed no distinctive characters, and probably +represented only the constituents of the powdered drugs dissolved +by the solvents employed in the analysis, together with the +excipient used for making up the pill.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page207">[207]</span></p> + +<h3>A MEDICINE FOR ENSURING EASY CONFINEMENTS.</h3> + +<p>The remaining nostrum here described is for a different purpose +from the preceding, as the extracts from advertisements +given below show.</p> + +<h4>MATROZONE.</h4> + +<p>This is a preparation supplied by a firm in a northern seaport +at 5s. 6d. per package containing two bottles marked A +and B, each holding one fluid ounce.</p> + +<p>The purpose for which it is intended is indicated by the statement +on the first page of the booklet which is sent with it:—</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Matrozone Promotes Natural, Rapid, and Easy Confinement. Ensures +Healthy, Beautiful, and Bright Children</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The booklet proceeds to give an account of the origin of the +medicine. In a copy of the pamphlet sent out in 1908 it is +stated that:—</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>This treatment is the result of the patient investigation of a Minister +of Religion.... When a young man pursuing his studies with a view +to qualifying for the Medical Profession he was profoundly impressed by +the death of a young wife, closely associated with his family, in her first +confinement.</p> + +<p>Realising vividly both the pain and peril involved in child-bearing he +turned to see if any possible help could be given to the mother by appropriate +drugs—if her system could be gently and scientifically prepared +for the great strain to be brought upon it. While turning from the +medical profession to enter the Christian Ministry, he did not for a +moment relinquish his scientific and medical studies, or abandon his quest.</p> + +<p>Through one pastorate extending over thirty-three years, he kept his +purpose in view.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>But in a copy of the booklet sent out in 1911 the statement +appears thus—</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Matrozone (pronounced “Maytrozone”) is the result of the prolonged +and patient investigation of a Scientist. When a young man, pursuing +his studies with a view to qualifying for the Medical Profession, he was +profoundly impressed by the death of a young wife, closely associated with +his family, in her first confinement, etc.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="noindent">And the references to his “turning from the medical profession,” +and to the pastorate of thirty-three years are omitted. In the +following extracts there is no difference of importance between +the two pamphlets:—</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Drug after drug was examined, studied, and carefully experimented +with, until several gave proof, when accurately and proportionately combined, +of their power to render incalculable help in every case experimented +upon.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page208">[208]</span></p> + +<p>His first impulse was to make widely public the result of his observations +and experiments, but riper consideration showed him that this was +quite impracticable. Such a publicity could not possibly be obtained. +The great majority of the people would certainly never hear of it.</p> + +<p>Then the preparations were most delicate. They had to be made not +only with skill, but with extreme conscientiousness, and they had to be +administered in a carefully ascertained order. Only trained pharmacists +could prepare them, and without oversight or check, they might be prepared +carelessly, and so rendered abortive....</p> + +<p>The first great function of “Matrozone” in its two forms is to facilitate +parturition; or, in other words, to ensure natural, speedy, and easy childbirth.... +In all the cases in which it has already been tried, and +of which notes have been carefully kept, it has proved itself of inestimable +service. In many cases the child has been healthily born Before the +Doctor Has Arrived, the mother has made a quick and spontaneous +recovery, and the babe has proved sound, bright, and thriving.... +It powerfully but naturally regulates the health of the mother during +the later months of gestation. It corrects the tendency to hysteria, and +to hysteric headaches. It has a specific and remarkable power to obviate +false presentations.... A second great function of “Matrozone” is +to induce vigour, buoyancy, physical beauty, and intellectual brightness +in the child. This is one of its most remarkable and beneficent achievements....</p> + +<p class="center highline15">Length of Treatment.</p> + +<p>To obtain its best effects in the hour of labour it should be used daily +for at least a month before the accouchement is expected. It would be +much safer, however, to commence its use six weeks before, especially +where difficulties are anticipated, and in first confinements.</p> + +<p class="center highline15">Dose.</p> + +<p>“Matrozone” may be better described as an elegant and scientific +treatment than as a single preparation. Its ingredients are so subtle, +and have such a distinct and delicate action, that it is prepared in two +forms—A and B. Ten drops of the preparation A should be taken in a +little tepid water every morning, half an hour before breakfast, and ten +drops of the preparation B should be taken in a little tepid water every +evening half-an-hour before food.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Analysis of the liquid in the bottle marked A showed it to +contain 68.9 per cent. (by volume) of alcohol, and water. The +total solid matter was too small in amount to be weighed (unless +by working on a large amount of the liquid), and might easily be +accounted for by tap water having been used to dilute the +alcohol. No trace of alkaloid was shown by the most delicate +test. The residue showed a minute trace of organic matter, but +it was, of course, impossible to say whether this was due to an +infinitesimal quantity of some plant extract, etc., or to dust and +other chance contamination of the liquid.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page209">[209]</span></p> + +<p>The liquid in the bottle marked B contained only 60.3 per +cent. by volume of alcohol, but in other respects resembled that +in the other bottle.</p> + +<p>The cost of the alcohol in the two bottles together would be +about 3¹⁄₂d.</p> + +<h3>A GERMAN NOSTRUM.</h3> + +<p>Dr Zernik states that:—</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p><i>Dr. med. R. Kleinertz’s Quidestin</i> is advertised in a most catchy +manner. The advertisement includes the following passages: “What +is it? It is a comfort to those about to become mothers.” The +directions for use are as follows: A tablespoonful of the extract is +to be placed in a thick walled small cup or other similar vessel, and +this is placed in a pail. The fluid is then lighted, and the patient +is to allow the fumes to play around her abdomen and legs, until they +are thoroughly warmed. This is to be repeated twice a day for the last +six weeks of pregnancy. The composition is given as blackthorn, +camomile, eucalyptus, hoarhound, shepherd’s pouch, and cheese rennet +extracted in alcohol. The analysis showed that quidestin is a weak +extract of various indifferent vegetables, including eucalyptus and camomile +in 90 per cent. spirit. Apart from the impossibility of the fumes being +of therapeutic value, Zernik points out the highness of the price, 5s. per +litre bottle, sufficient for three weeks.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + + +<hr class="chap"> + +<div class="chapter"> +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page210">[210]</span></p> +<h2 class="nobreak"><span class="chapno">CHAPTER XIV.</span><br> +WALLACE’S SPECIFIC REMEDIES—“AN +ABSOLUTE SYSTEM OF MEDICINE.”</h2> +</div> + +<div class="largersize"> +<p>A study of the advertising matter, pamphlets, “treatises,” +etc., published by the makers of proprietary medicines, +even if not supplemented by analytical investigation of the +medicines themselves, might well induce the belief that +human gullibility is unlimited. So many of such publications +reveal at once to an intelligent reader the ignorance, +and often also the knavishness, of the persons making the +statements contained in them that it seems almost incredible +that moderately educated people can be duped by them; +but it seems quite clear that they are so duped. Probably +most people, by a few judicious inquiries among their +friends, will come across cases of individuals of fair education +and acumen in other matters accepting unquestioningly +quite absurd statements widely advertised about some +nostrum, or the diseases which it is asserted to cure. The +particulars given in this chapter of a set of so-called +“specifics for the eradication of all organic and functional +diseases incidental to the present generation during infant +and adult life” well illustrate the power of nonsense to get +itself believed and accepted. These medicines appear to be +put forward by two persons of the name of Wallace, one of +whom professes to be their “discoverer,” and the discoverer +of the “Origin and Unity of Disease in Man and Animals.” +Such statements as that the white corpuscles of the blood +are yeast cells, and that phlegm consists simply of masses +of them, or that acetic acid is an absolute poison, surely +<span class="pagenum" id="Page211">[211]</span>cannot impress many readers with respect for the knowledge +of the author; while the grouping together as diseases +for which one and the same preparation—an aconite tincture +containing no alkaloid—is an “absolute specific,” of +dropsy, insanity, consumption, mumps, vermin under the +skin, pleurisy, and many others, shows a degree of ignorance +that a cheap-jack pill-vendor in a country market-place +might hesitate to display. The results of analysis complete +the exposure of the worthlessness of the statements made; +thus, it is professed that all alkaloidal substances are absent +from all the preparations, but three out of the six tested +were found to contain one or more of the alkaloids caffeine, +hydrastine, and berberine, while one of those not examined +is stated by the “discoverer” himself to be tincture of +hydrastis, which, of course, contains the two alkaloids last +named. Another of the preparations, which is a tincture +of the same drug, is put forward as an “absolute specific” +for cancer of all kinds, for syphilis, and all venereal diseases, +and a host of other disorders. Two others were found to +be tinctures of coffee, one was a tincture of nutmegs, and +another showed no active constituent of any character by +which it could be recognized as a medicinal substance. +Possibly if these facts come to the knowledge of some of +the adherents of this “absolute system of medicine” they +may be more inclined to give it the slightly altered name of +“an absolute system of quackery.”</p> +</div><!--largersize--> + +<p>The modest claim advanced for “Wallace’s Twelve Specific +Remedies,” which form the subject of the present chapter, is +that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>These Specifics are for the Eradication of all Organic and Functional +Diseases incidental to the present generation during infant and adult life,</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="noindent">and the prescribing of the “specifics” is regarded as a complete +system of medicine. These preparations are supplied from +the offices of <i>The Herald of Health</i>, London; their authors +appear to be Mr. Joseph Wallace and Mrs. C. Leigh Hunt +Wallace. The medicines are supplied at the uniform price of +<span class="pagenum" id="Page212">[212]</span>2s. 9d. per bottle, containing one fluid ounce, but it appears +that the proprietors do not confine themselves to merely selling +these preparations. In a list of “Terms for Medical and +Hygienic Consultation with Mrs. C. Leigh Hunt Wallace (The +Wallace Specifics only prescribed)” fees are named ranging +from half a guinea as “reduced terms for domestic, railway, and +other servants,” to two guineas for ordinary “consultation by +appointment”; and from the same list it appears that Mr. +Wallace’s terms are three guineas for a consultation and five +guineas for “visits to patients’ own residences, within three +miles of Russell Square.” It is not necessary to express any +opinion as to whether the “system” is one of deliberate and +conscious fraud and imposture, or whether the persons concerned +are protected by the completeness of their ignorance from +full realisation of the true nature of their practices. The +extracts given below from their publications are sufficient +evidence of that ignorance.</p> + +<p>The principal account of the “system” is given in a book of +about 170 pages, entitled “<i>Physianthropy, or, The Home Cure +and Eradication of Disease</i>. By Joseph Wallace (Lex et Lux) +and C. Leigh Hunt Wallace,” which is sold at 6d. and 1s. The +date of the eighth edition of this, now being sold, appears to be +1901 or 1902; this is supplemented by a pamphlet dealing only +with the specifics, dated 1906, and described as</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p><span class="smcap">Second Edition.</span> By which “Physianthropy” may be corrected and +revised up-to-date.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="noindent">The book is divided into several parts, all characterised by a +display of great ignorance and great assurance; the part with +which we are now concerned is entitled,</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p><span class="smcap">An Absolute Science of Medicine, in opposition to State-Protected +Experimental Quackery</span>,</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="noindent">its claim to being “absolute” apparently depending on its being +unrelated to facts, at least in any such way as the sort of science +which is stigmatised as “experimental.” In the introduction to +this part an account is given of how Mrs. Wallace first became +acquainted with these remedies from their “discoverer,” Mr. +Wallace; but it is not stated whether he discovered them in a +dream, or in some other manner equally free from the charge +of being experimental. But we are told that</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>This invaluable system he has only divulged to clergymen and doctors, +who each gladly paid him a hundred guineas, and bound themselves, +legally, not to reveal the names or the method of preparation of his +<span class="pagenum" id="Page213">[213]</span>medicines, till after he had published his complete medical work, which +would give to the world the free and full benefits of his discoveries.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Certain possible criticism is thus dealt with in advance:—</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>It is evident that those who say this book is written for the purpose of +advertising the sale of <i>quack</i> medicines utter a false and slanderous assertion +upon one whose desires and works are ever devoted to the best +interests of humanity.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The “Specifics” are thus referred to collectively:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>The Medicines, here introduced to the public for home use and private +purchase for the first time, consist of</p> + +<p class="center highline15">Twelve Absolute Specifics.</p> + +<p><i>They are scientifically curative of the various diseases and conditions +of the body, which are here carefully enumerated, as indicating their +requirement.</i></p> + +<p class="center blankbefore75 blankafter75"><i>At present these Medicines are merely distinguished by numbers, as +“No. I.,” “No. II.,” “No. III.,” etc.</i></p> + +<p><i>It must be explained that they are prepared in an alcohol denuded of +fusel oil, and are treble the concentration of those of a similar kind +prepared by the usual homœopathic or allopathic mode, but, as explained +elsewhere, the whole of what may be called the accumulative, alkaloidal, +or poisonous principles of the plants have been removed, and thus their +curative powers, when combined with a truly curative regimen, are +enhanced in a marvellous degree.</i></p> + +<p><i>Although it may be considered almost hopeless to expect any of these +Specifics to be improved upon, or superseded, yet should others be subsequently +discovered which are more prompt in palliative action under any +conditions, non-cumulative in the human system, and permanently curative, +they will be described in a future edition of this work.</i></p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>A footnote states that this was written in 1883; since only +twelve specifics are still described, it appears that the faint hope +suggested of anything else being discovered worthy to rank with +them has not been fulfilled in the twenty-nine years that have +since elapsed, in spite of the many advances and new discoveries +in that time in mere ordinary “experimental” medicine; but +progress is, of course, incompatible with “an absolute system” +of anything.</p> + +<p>No. I.—This is stated to be made from <i>Aconitum napellus</i>, +but to be non-poisonous. It is stated in the preface that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>This was the subject, in 1891, of a prosecution, as Mr. Wallace desired +to send it out without the label “<span class="smcap">Poison</span>” being put upon the bottle +containing it. But it is, <i>technically</i>, a poison, because it is prepared from +the poisonous plant <i>Aconitum napellus</i>. Mr. Wallace has taken a patent +out for his method of producing from it a non-poisonous tincture.... +When the law was made that all preparations of that plant were to be +<span class="pagenum" id="Page214">[214]</span>labelled “Poison,” it was not contemplated that a non-poisonous preparation +could be made. The law is behind the times, and needs repealing.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>In regard to its mode of action, we are informed that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>The chief action of “No. I.” is over the whole circulatory and nervous +systems, controlling them when diseased, in a most marvellous manner, +without causing any unnatural suppression of the vitality. It has a +wonderful power of paralysing the white, or yeast corpuscles in the +blood, and thus staying their power of reproduction, or growth, and +multiplication; reducing the fermentative abnormal heat of the blood +in a corresponding degree, thus relieving congested and inflammatory +states, and so causing the skin pores to become more elastic, open, and +free, as the capillaries get rid of their congestive blockings. The mucous +membranes are also enabled to allow free exit to the phlegm, or yeasty +excretions from the blood, which the microscope reveals to be one mass +of white corpuscles. It is by virtue of this wonderful power of clearing +out this effete matter that the normal circulation becomes rapidly established, +and the yeasty impurities of the blood, or death force, which was +locked up in the brain, or upper parts of the body, has to descend +<i>outwards</i>, and <i>downwards</i> (according to Nature’s law of cure), thus +cooling the head, and, by balancing the circulation, warming the feet at +the same time. “No. I.” also possesses the curative property of +encouraging and assisting Nature in her expulsion of iron and other +mineral drugs, hence its wonderful control over neuralgia and lung bleedings, +which are drug (<i>iron</i>) created diseases, or conditions. Thus it is +that all abnormal hæmorrhages, and discharges are specially benefited by +it, diseased matter rapidly expelled, and healthy fluids conserved, while +the healthy normal action of the organism is restored in the least possible +time.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>A pretty specimen of “absolute” nonsense!</p> + +<p>The names of diseases for which this “non-poisonous +tincture” of aconite is to be taken, and the list of their symptoms, +occupy several pages. A few specimens will show the +catholic nature of this “specific”:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Dropsy. Insanity. Tubercular diseases. Consumption. Bronchitis. +Asthma. Heart, stomach, and liver diseases. Inflammatory and painful +diseases of the spleen, pancreas, womb, kidneys, bladder, and bowels. +Mumps. Abscesses. Scrofula.... Hydrocephalus.... Measles.... +Small-pox. Fevers of all kinds.... Organic debility. +Angina pectoris.... Diphtheria.... Whooping cough.... +Bleeding of the nose, eyes, or ears.... Polypus of the nose, etc.... +Vermin under the skin.... Poisoning by bad or putrid +fish.... Erysipelas.... Boils.... Piles. Hysteria. Tooth, +jaw, and face-ache. Sciatica. Neuralgia. Lumbago.... Pleurisy.... +Epilepsy.... Painful, prolonged, and difficult parturition.... +Difficult, deficient, painful, or suppressed menstruation.... +Leucorrhoea.... Squinting. Sunstroke.... Sore throat. Cold in +the head.... Bright’s disease. Diabetes.... Cataract. Amaurosis. +Short-sightedness.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page215">[215]</span></p> + +<p>Can anything be left for the other eleven specifics to do?</p> + +<p>With regard to the non-poisonous nature of this tincture, it +is explained that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>The plant from which “No. I.” is made is a poisonous one; but this +tincture is not prepared from, and does not contain, that portion of the +plant known to be poisonous and consequently cumulative in the human +organism. The alkaloid of the plant has to be almost, if not wholly, +eliminated by the peculiar mode of preparation and preservation in a non-poisonous +alcohol, which has been previously deprived of its fusel oil and +other poisonous properties. So much so is this the case, that this preparation +of “No. I.” has been taken by mistake by several patients with +delicate organisms, and by people who mistook it for brandy, <i>in quantities</i> +equal to <i>two large wineglassfuls or more at one time</i>, without the least +permanent injurious after-effects, beyond being very much frightened by +the peculiar electrical effects produced on the nervous system.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>“Two large wineglassfuls” would be from 4 oz. to 10 oz. +or more, according to the meaning of “large.” The draught +would therefore cost from 11s. to 27s. or so, enough to make +the patients “very much frightened.”</p> + +<p>The dose for adults is stated to be “20 drops to 40 drops, +according to temperament.”</p> + +<p>It is somewhat surprising, in view of its non-poisonous nature, +to read that the antidote to overdoses of “No. I.” for adults +is “No. III.” in 30-drop doses. It is added that “the poisonous +aconite sold at the chemist’s needs port wine as an antidote.”</p> + +<p>It did not appear to be worth while to analyse every one of +the twelve “specifics,” and “No. I.” was not examined.</p> + +<p>No. II.—The action of this is described as follows:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>The great power of “No. II.” consists in antidoting, or neutralizing, the +virulence of the corrosive action of the matter of bad, offensive, painful, +burning or eating ulcers, whereby all pain is allayed and completely +averted, when it can be applied as directed. Coming directly in contact +with the excreted and excreting yeast corpuscles, it at once so neutralizes +their ammoniacal and putrefactive surroundings, however degraded their +source, that nature can immediately set up, and keep healthy, granulations +of the part, until all offending matter which nature has to expel by that +outlet, has oozed out, or been discharged, and thus if “No. II.” is taken +at the beginning, it is able to avert skin scars where they would unavoidably +be produced without it. Hence it is specially curative for all broken, +open, raw, or ulcerated surfaces, either internally or externally.</p> + +<p>It has another wonderful power, as an extension of the above, in rooting +out hereditary and acquired diseases from inoculation, and subsequent +allopathic or other unscientific treatment. It will root out these old +diseases, and mineral drugs, even when lodged in the bones, throwing to +<span class="pagenum" id="Page216">[216]</span>the surface the rotten bone with other offending matter; thus enabling +nature to recuperate, and restore the lost parts. With seemingly latent, or +internal abnormal growths, or growing ulcers, such as cancer and ovarian +dropsy, when taken internally, “No. II.” not only stops their slow +growth, but, by neutralizing the virulence of the corrosive or putrefactive +ichor excreted from the degraded yeast or other germs in the affected parts, +enables nature to disperse gradually and surely, as a foreign but inoffensive +substance, the effete matter without injury to the vitality, and with but +comparatively little general disturbance.</p> + +<p>In burns, scalds, and corrosions from cauteries, and corrosive minerals, +and mineral acids, externally applied, it is all powerful in allaying the pain, +preventing suppuration, and healing the part.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The list of diseases “<i>for which it is the absolute specific for +all or some of their phases</i>” includes such trifles as:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Syphilis, and every form of venereal disease. Cancer in every form, +whether situated in the stomach, womb, bowels, kidneys, liver, lungs, +breast, brain, throat, tongue, mouth, nose, or any other part of the body. +Ovarian dropsy. Whitlow. Fistula.... Diphtheria.... Itching, soreness, +or eruption of the reproductive organs, from whatever cause in male +or female.... Deafness, with suppuration of the ears.... Necrosis, or +rotting of bones. Hernia.... Varicose veins. Aneurisms.... Confluent +small-pox. Itch. Psoriasis. Eczema.... Tendency to miscarriage.... +Diabetes.... Cystitis and Bright’s diseases in syphilitized persons. +Effects of poisoning by corrosive minerals and mineral acids.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Under “administration” it is stated that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>This specific can be taken in almost any quantity, without organic or +functional disturbance being created, but when large doses are persisted in +for a considerable length of time, its power and purpose, as already +described, become <i>too</i> evident, by the general disturbance created in the +digestive organs, owing to the <i>extra</i> wave of pent-up latent matter being +poured into the stomach, through the uprooting power of the medicine, +creating for the time acidity, heartburn, and other fermentations in the +stomach and bowels, but which symptoms cease if the medicine is discontinued +or lessened in quantity for a few days.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The adult dose is given as “from <i>seven</i> to <i>ten</i> drops three +times daily”; it is also to be used externally as a lotion—“<i>twenty +drops</i> to one half-pint of water (preferably hot),” and +a medicated oil—“<i>twenty</i> to <i>fifty</i> drops of the tincture to each +fluid ounce of pure Lucca oil.”</p> + +<p>The statement already quoted, that “the whole of what may +be called the accumulative, alkaloidal, or poisonous principles +of the plants have been removed,” applies to this as to the +others. Nevertheless, analysis of “No. II.” showed the presence +<span class="pagenum" id="Page217">[217]</span>of the alkaloids berberine and hydrastine, the proportions +being</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Berberine</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.05</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +<td rowspan="2"> </td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Hydrastine</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.11</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Alcohol</td> +<td class="intpart">32</td> +<td class="fracpart">.3</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +<td class="unit">by volume</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Extractive</td> +<td class="intpart">2</td> +<td class="fracpart">.7</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td rowspan="2"> </td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Ash</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.3</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>The ash showed the usual composition of the ash of vegetable +extracts. The extractive agreed in its properties with the +extractive of tincture of hydrastis (which also contains hydrastine +and berberine); this, however, is usually made of about +twice or four times (<i>U.S.P.</i>) the strength of “No. II” in +regard to hydrastine. Careful search gave no indication of any +other ingredient.</p> + +<p>Tincture of hydrastis, <i>B.P.</i>, is not standardised, but an +average sample with an equal quantity of water would contain +about the same proportions of hydrastine and alcohol as the +liquid under consideration. This gives about 2¹⁄₂d. as the cost +of the contents of a 2s. 9d. bottle.</p> + +<p>No. III.—It would scarcely be of interest to quote what is +said about each of the “specifics” as freely as in the preceding +cases, and a few extracts will serve. No. III is introduced with +much verbosity, in which “the yeast animalculae, or white +corpuscles,” again figure; alcohol is referred to as “this singular +product ... (which no chemist that we are aware of has +been able to <i>absolutely</i> analyse)”; a “Wallace improved distilling +apparatus” is referred to, which separates alcohol and +oenanthic ether from</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p class="noindent">their poisonous associates, acetic acid and fusel oil, which from their being +absolutely poisonous, less volatile, and therefore cumulative, as this apparatus +demonstrates, they form the chief factor in producing those evils +commonly attributed to alcohol alone.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The diseases for which No. III is to be taken include</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Seasickness, biliousness, and bilious vomiting, morning vomiting of +drunkards, morning sickness during pregnancy, asthmatic breathing from +alcoholic indulgence.... Fatty degeneration of the heart. Acne. +Diabetes. Diarrhoea.... Megrim. Short-sightedness.... Dipsomania.... +Delirium tremens.... Poisoning by deleterious chemical products +and herbs.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Among the symptoms “<i>which indicate the requirement of</i> +No. III.” are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Excessive selfishness.... Kleptomania. Excessive meanness.... +Intense pain, as if a nail were driven into the brain.... Parched tongue.... +Weak action of heart.... Rumbling in stomach and bowels, with +sickening pain....</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page218">[218]</span></p> + +<p>The dose for adults is stated to be <i>ten</i> drops three times daily +in chronic cases, and in acute cases every five or ten minutes +till all painful or acute symptoms are dispelled; but in the +more recent pamphlet the dose is stated to be twenty drops in +both kinds of cases.</p> + +<p>Analysis showed it to contain</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Caffeine</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.25</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +<td rowspan="4"> </td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Cane sugar</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.7</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Glucose or invert sugar</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.6</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Ash</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.52</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Alcohol</td> +<td class="intpart">47</td> +<td class="fracpart">.25</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +<td class="unit">by volume</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Extractive</td> +<td class="intpart">3</td> +<td class="fracpart">.12</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td> </td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>The ash had the composition common to the ash of plant +extracts; the extractive showed the peculiar character of the +extractive of coffee. Unroasted coffee contains cane sugar, +which is mostly changed to invert sugar and caramel in roasted +coffee; both contain caffeine. Tinctures of raw and roasted +coffee were prepared, and it was found that a mixture of the +two agreed almost perfectly with “No. III.” in its characters +and behaviour to tests; a tincture of a pale-roasted coffee would +have the same composition as the mixture of tinctures of raw +and roasted, and it is probable that that is what was actually +employed. The proportion of caffeine indicates about 1 part of +coffee to produce 5 parts of the tincture. The cost of the contents +of a 2s. 9d. bottle would be about 1¹⁄₂d.</p> + +<p>No. IV is stated to be a specific for warts, to be applied +by touching the parts affected several times daily. Very little +is said about it, and it was not analysed.</p> + +<p>No. V and No. VI are stated to be worm specifics, No. V +being for small threadworms and long round worms, and No. VI +for tapeworms. No. V alone was examined. The dose is stated +to be seven to ten drops in a wineglass of water three times +daily. Analysis showed it to contain:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Alcohol</td> +<td class="number">30.5</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +<td class="unit">by volume</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Ash</td> +<td class="number">0.2</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td rowspan="3"> </td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Reducing sugars</td> +<td class="number">2.9</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Extractive</td> +<td class="number">1.7</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>The tincture was slightly acid. No active principle of any +sort could be detected, and the extractive and ash showed no +distinctive characters by which the plant from which they are +<span class="pagenum" id="Page219">[219]</span>derived could be identified. The liquid was compared with +tinctures of drugs that are or have been used for worms, but +with only negative results.</p> + +<p>No. VII.—It is stated in the book that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>“No. VII.” is the Specific for gout (<i>and is a tincture of Nux Moschata +[Nutmegs], prepared according to a special formula and from specially +selected fruits</i>).</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="noindent">In the more recent pamphlet no information is given as to what +it is prepared from. The dose is given as twenty to thirty +drops in water, three times daily.</p> + +<p>Analysis showed it to contain:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Alcohol</td> +<td class="intpart">51</td> +<td class="fracpart">.05</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +<td class="unit">by volume</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Ash</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.22</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td rowspan="3"> </td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Reducing sugar</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.0</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Fat and extractive</td> +<td class="intpart">2</td> +<td class="fracpart">.1</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p class="noindent">A tincture of nutmeg was prepared (not, however, “according +to a special formula”) and compared with it, and the two were +found to agree in all respects. No indication was obtained of +any other ingredient; the proportion of nutmegs appeared to +be about 1 part to make 5 parts of the tincture.</p> + +<p>The cost of the contents of a 2s. 9d. bottle would be about 2d.</p> + +<p>No. VIII is for whooping-cough; but little is said about it +in the book, and it was not examined.</p> + +<p>No. IX is described as:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>The specific for mechanical hæmorrhages (<i>and is aloes, prepared according +to a special formula</i>).</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="noindent">It was not analysed.</p> + +<p>No. X is described as the specific for bruises, to which is +added in the book (“<i>and is ‘Wallace’s Formula’ of Arnica +Montana</i>”), but in the later pamphlet nothing is said about +the drug from which it is made. It is stated that</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p class="noindent">it does not produce the slightest erysipelatous swelling or other irritation +of the skin, which is so frequently experienced with the ordinary homœopathic +mother tincture of <i>arnica</i>. For this reason the curative action or +healing power can be pushed to such a demonstration as to surpass +ordinary credibility.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The “diseases, symptoms, conditions, and mechanical injuries +for which ‘No. X.’ is the specific remedy” include</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p class="noindent">bruises, strains, sprains, shocks (electric or otherwise).... Effects of +tight-lacing.... Corns resulting from mechanical pressure. Painful +effects of straining with constipated movements of the bowels.... Effects +of violent fits; of miscarriages,</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="noindent">etc.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page220">[220]</span></p> + +<p>The dose for adults in chronic cases is <i>seven</i> to <i>ten</i> drops three +times daily in a wineglass of water, and in acute cases the same +every three hours. It is also to be applied externally.</p> + +<p>Analysis showed it to contain:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Alcohol</td> +<td class="intpart">26</td> +<td class="fracpart">.6</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +<td class="unit">by volume</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Ash</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.38</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td rowspan="3"> </td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Reducing sugars</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.55</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Extractive</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.27</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>It did not possess the characteristic odour of arnica, but had +a vinous odour resembling that of sherry; in other respects it +agreed with a weak tincture of arnica in characters and +behaviour to tests. The official tincture of arnica contains +nearly three times as much alcohol as this; the cost of a weak +tincture, which would be scarcely affected by adding enough +sherry to give the vinous odour, would be about 1¹⁄₂d. for the +quantity in a 2s. 9d. bottle.</p> + +<p>No. XI. is described as the specific for cholera, and a long +extract is given in the book from “a Pamphlet, entitled +‘Cholera, its Cause and Cure,’ by Joseph Wallace.” In this +it is stated that the specific remedy is “<i>Coffœa Cruda</i>, or Tincture +of Raw Mocha Coffee,” the adult dose being <i>three</i> to <i>ten</i> +drops in a teaspoonful to a tablespoonful of water every five +minutes, prolonging the intervals gradually as amelioration sets +in.</p> + +<p>It is stated that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>In the early stages of Cholera, when purging, or purging and vomiting +has commenced for a short time, three or four doses at five-minute intervals +I have always found sufficient to restore the bowels and stomach to as +perfectly natural a state as if there had not been the slightest derangement. +Such cases with me have never exceeded twenty minutes....</p> + +<p>If the patient has been allowed to pass into the state of collapse, and +when every energy of the body and mind has been prostrated, the same +course of treatment will produce a like result, but I would advise the dose +of <i>ten</i> drops to be repeated every five minutes till amelioration takes place, +<i>three</i> to <i>five</i> drops after. I would add hot applications to extremities and +sides, hand-rubbing as before, and in addition, where practicable, +<i>prolonged breathing through a handkerchief over the region of the heart</i>; +this last will restore the vital spark when apparently fled.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The formula is given as follows:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Steep one pound weight (avoirdupois) of well-dried and pulverised raw +<span class="smcap">Mocha</span> coffee in three and one-third pints (imperial measure) of strong +alcohol for two weeks. Shake it well occasionally: filter through blotting +paper, and it is ready for use.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page221">[221]</span></p> + +<p>Analysis of “No. XI.” showed it to contain:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Caffeine</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.1</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +<td rowspan="3"> </td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sugars (chiefly cane sugar)</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.7</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Ash</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.26</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Alcohol</td> +<td class="intpart">51</td> +<td class="fracpart">.05</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +<td class="unit">by volume</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Extractive</td> +<td class="intpart">2</td> +<td class="fracpart">.1</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td> </td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>The tincture was darker in colour than a tincture of raw +coffee, and appeared rather to be made like “No. III.,” from +pale roasted coffee, the proportion of the latter in this case being +only about one part for twelve parts of tincture. No indication +was obtained of any other ingredient. The cost would be about +1¹⁄₂d. for the quantity in a 2s. 9d. bottle.</p> + +<p>No. XII. is described as the specific for ringworm, for which +it is to be taken internally, in the dose (for adults) of twenty +drops in a little water every eight hours, and also applied +externally, though nothing is said about external application in +the book, where the dose is said to be one to three minims in a +little water every three to eight hours. This “specific” is +stated in the book to be a tincture of Hydrastis Canadensis; it +was not analysed.</p> + +<hr class="chap"> + +<div class="chapter"> +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page222">[222]</span></p> +<h2 class="nobreak"><span class="chapno">CHAPTER XV.</span><br> +PREPARATIONS FOR THE HAIR.</h2> +</div> + +<div class="largersize"> +<p>The number of proprietary preparations for the hair which +are advertised widely is very considerable. They include +preparations for increasing the growth of the hair or curing +baldness, and preparations for altering the colouring of the +hair. The line of division, however, is not a sharp one; +of the articles sold for altering the colour of the hair some +are plainly called dyes, but others are stated to restore the +colour of hair that is turning grey without dyeing it, and +for some of these it is also claimed that they increase the +growth of the hair. It is, therefore, more convenient to +arrange hair preparations in three groups—namely, hair +growers, hair “restorers,” and hair dyes. In this chapter +the results obtained by analysing a small number of preparations +selected from each of these groups are given, together +with some extracts from the statements made in regard to +them by the proprietors, either on the labels or in circulars, +letters, or newspaper advertisements.</p> +</div><!--largersize--> + +<h3>A.—HAIR GROWERS.</h3> + +<h4>TATCHO.<br> +(THE “GEORGE R. SIMS” HAIR RESTORER.)</h4> + +<p>It appears from the label that there are three varieties of this +much-advertised preparation, known as “Tatcho” oily, +“Tatcho” non-oily, and “Tatcho” (concentrated). The non-oily, +described as “A brilliant spirituous tonic, free from all +<span class="pagenum" id="Page223">[223]</span>grease,” was taken for analysis. A bottle of this, containing +5¹⁄₄ fluid ounces, was priced 2s. 9d. It is thus described:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>The certain, trusty, genuine, right, honest Hair-Grower. There is no +other.</p> + +<p>Without “Tatcho” loss of hair is inevitable, but Mr. Geo. R. Sims has +altered all that.</p> + +<p>If your hair has become scanty or grey, get “Tatcho” to-day. It will +bring back the hair of your youth, make a new being of you, and give +you a new grip upon life.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The label and wrapper bear the following:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="center highline15">Certificate.</p> + +<p>I guarantee that this Preparation is made according to the Formulæ +recommended by me.</p> + +<p class="right padr4 highline15">Geo. R. Sims.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The directions are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Sprinkle a few drops on the head each morning, and brush the hair +thoroughly after application.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Analysis showed the composition to be:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Borax</td> +<td class="intpart">2</td> +<td class="fracpart">.7</td> +<td class="unit">parts</td> +<td rowspan="5"> </td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Glycerine</td> +<td class="intpart">2</td> +<td class="fracpart">.5</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Quinine</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.006</td> +<td class="unit">part</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Formaldehyde solution (40 per cent.)</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.38</td> +<td class="unit">part</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Colouring matter (brownish-yellow), and perfume</td> +<td colspan="3" class="unit">traces</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Alcohol</td> +<td class="intpart">2</td> +<td class="fracpart">.4</td> +<td class="unit">parts</td> +<td class="unit">by measure</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="5" class="text nopad">Water, sufficient to produce 100 parts by measure.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>The estimated cost of the ingredients for 5¹⁄₄ fluid ounces is ¹⁄₂d.</p> + +<h4>EDWARDS’ HARLENE.</h4> + +<p>Some of the most conspicuous and recent advertisements of +this have been largely devoted to a method of treating the hair +called “Harlene Hair-drill.” The preparation is supplied by +a firm in London.</p> + +<p>The package contained a booklet on “Harlene Hair Drill,” +from which the following extracts are taken:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Among all the scores of preparations for the Hair which are offered +to the public (and it may be taken for granted that the proprietors of +“Harlene” have analysed them all very carefully) many prove to be +so wide of the mark as to be actually injurious in a very high degree, +while a few may do no particular harm, but certainly no good; for, as +we have said, Nature’s requirements must be met in the precise measure—neither +in a greater nor a less....</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page224">[224]</span></p> + +<p>“Harlene” alone answers all requirements; it has the property of +penetrating direct to the roots of the hair, stimulating them to renewed +vigour, cleansing the cells which line the way; and, above all, it conveys to +the hair-bulbs the peculiar food which they require—the only food Nature +has ordained can act as nourishment for them, the food they otherwise +obtain from the blood. No other preparation contains this ingredient, +and therefore no other preparation can be successful....</p> + +<p>The proprietors of “Harlene” recognising that users of their specific +have an undoubted right to look to them for the best information obtainable +on this subject have, over a considerable period, conducted experiments +to test thoroughly every method of “drill” not requiring the use of +instruments.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Elaborate details follow of the method of carrying out the +“drill,” of which a sample may suffice:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>The manner in which a cat moves among shrubbery is a good illustration +as to the way the fingers should be moved through the hair; the manner +in which a cat kneads its bed before laying on it, placing its paws on the +material on which it will sleep, and pressing it down in a kneading manner +until suitable, the paws never being lifted and brought down, but only +relaxed before the pressure is applied, is exactly how this movement in +the “drill” should be carried out.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Analysis showed the liquid to contain:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Borax</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.5</td> +<td class="unit">part</td> +<td rowspan="5"> </td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Additional alkali, equivalent to anhydrous sodium carbonate</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.04</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Solution of ammonia (10 per cent.)</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.12</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Glycerine</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.4</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Brown colouring matter and perfume</td> +<td colspan="3" class="unit">traces</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Alcohol</td> +<td class="intpart">5</td> +<td class="fracpart">.7</td> +<td class="unit">parts</td> +<td class="unit">by measure</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="5" class="text nopad">Water, sufficient to produce 100 parts by measure.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>The small quantity of alkali, in excess of what was present as borax, +may have been in combination with the colouring matter.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The estimated cost of ingredients for 6 fluid ounces is 1d.</p> + +<h4>KOKO.</h4> + +<p>This preparation is sold by a limited company in London. A +4s. 6d. bottle contained 12¹⁄₄ fluid ounces.</p> + +<p>The following extracts are from a circular accompanying the +bottle:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Eradicates Scurf. Promotes Growth. Prevents Hair Falling. Contains +No Dye. Will positively Stop Hair from Falling Out, and prevent +it turning Prematurely Grey. Will certainly Increase the Growth of the +Hair, and if consistently used will make it Bright, Soft, and Wavy.... +The strong assertions of interested sellers of preparations cannot be relied +<span class="pagenum" id="Page225">[225]</span>on, and testimonials, as a rule, cannot be safely taken as genuine unless +the position of the writer places him or her above suspicion. We often +think that the public must be sick of seeing the eternal “This is the best” +attached to every conceivable article which is offered for sale; and for +this reason we usually refrain from saying much about Koko, leaving it to +our illustrious patrons to speak of its good qualities.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The directions for use are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>The best plan is to apply Koko freely, and brush the scalp until a warm +glow is produced. This treatment should be practised once or twice a +day, or at intervals of a few days, according to the state of the scalp.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Analysis showed it to contain:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Borax</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.4</td> +<td class="unit">parts.</td> +<td rowspan="4"> </td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Glycerine</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.7</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Formaldehyde solution (40 per cent.)</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.1</td> +<td class="unit">part.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Perfume</td> +<td colspan="3" class="unit">a trace.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Alcohol</td> +<td class="intpart">3</td> +<td> </td> +<td class="unit">parts</td> +<td class="unit">by measure.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="5" class="text nopad">Water, sufficient to produce 100 parts by measure.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>The estimated cost of the ingredients for 12¹⁄₄ fluid ounces +is 1d.</p> + +<h3>B.—HAIR RESTORERS.</h3> + +<h4>LOCKYER’S SULPHUR HAIR RESTORER.</h4> + +<p>This article is supplied by a limited company in London, who +also sell other proprietary articles. The price of a bottle containing +12 fluid ounces is 1s. 6d. It is described as:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>The Best. The Safest. The Cheapest.</p> + +<p>Restores the colour to Grey Hair. Instantly stops the Hair from +fading. Occasionally used, Greyness is impossible. If the Hair is actually +Grey the Sulphur Restorer in six or seven days effects a great +alteration. By a gradual action, scarcely perceptible even to watchful +observers, several darker shades will be attained. In a period of three +weeks a complete change occurs, and a colour exactly resembling that +lost will became manifest.</p> + +<p>Where the Sulphur Restorer is applied scurf cannot exist, and a sense +of cleanliness, coolness, etc., prevails.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Directions:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Well shake the bottle, and immediately apply the Restorer to the roots +of the hair. A very small sponge is convenient for this purpose. At +first it should be used daily, but when the required shade is obtained, +two or three times a week will suffice.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page226">[226]</span></p> + +<p>Analysis showed it to contain:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Precipitated sulphur</td> +<td class="number">1.3</td> +<td class="unit">parts</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Lead acetate</td> +<td class="number">1.6</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Lead sulphate</td> +<td class="number">0.4</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Glycerine</td> +<td class="number">9.6</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="3" class="text nopad">Rose water sufficient to produce 100 parts by measure.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>The lead sulphate was probably due to some reaction having occurred +between the lead acetate and sulphur, with oxidation; assuming this to +be so, the amount of lead acetate originally present would be 2.1 parts.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The estimated cost of ingredients for 12 fluid ounces is 2d.</p> + +<h4>MEXICAN HAIR RENEWER.</h4> + +<p>A bottle of this preparation, which is sold by another limited +company, contained 7³⁄₄ fluid ounces; the price was 3s. 6d.</p> + +<p>It is described as:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>For restoring grey hair to its original colour without dyeing it.</p> + +<p>For renewing or causing hair to grow on bald spots.</p> + +<p>For preventing dandriff and the hair from falling out.</p> + +<p>For making the hair soft, glossy, pliant, and luxuriant.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Daily application of this preparation for a week or two will surely +restore Faded, Grey, or White Hair to its natural colour and richness. +If properly applied, it never fails; but it should be well shaken before +using. It is not a dye, nor does it contain any colouring matter or offensive +substance whatever. Hence it does not soil the hands, the scalp, or +even white linen, but produces the colour within the substance of the +hair. In many cases it has been successful in causing new hair to grow +on bald spots, and it can be confidently recommended in all cases, unless +the hair-glands are decayed; for if the glands are decayed and gone, no +stimulant can restore them; but if, as is often the case, the glands are +only torpid, “The Mexican Hair Renewer” will renew their vitality, and +a new growth of hair will follow.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Directions for use:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>First.—Turn the bottle cork downwards and shake it thoroughly. Turn +a little into a saucer, apply it briskly to the bald spots, and thoroughly +wet all the grey hair every morning for a few weeks, and, unless the hair +glands are decayed, new hair will grow, and the grey hair turn to its +original colour, then an occasional use is sufficient.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Analysis showed it to contain:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Precipitated sulphur</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.4</td> +<td class="unit">parts</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Lead acetate</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.13</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Glycerine</td> +<td class="intpart">19</td> +<td class="fracpart">.0</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="4" class="text nopad">Rose water sufficient to produce 100 parts by measure.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p class="noindent">A second bottle, however, contained 0.97 part of lead acetate in 100 +parts by measure, or about eight times as much as the first bottle.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The estimated cost of the ingredients for 7³⁄₄ fluid ounces is 2d.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page227">[227]</span></p> + +<h4>VILIXIR.</h4> + +<p>A preparation called “Vilixir” is sold by a limited company +whose address is given as a “Hydro” in Kent. A 12s. 6d. +bottle contained 5¹⁄₂ fluid ounces. This preparation has been +largely advertised of late, the advertisement in some cases taking +the form of a half-page display in a newspaper so worded as to +convey the impression that it was published as news. The +following extracts are from such an advertisement:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Great interest has been aroused by the recent announcement in this +paper of a unique and useful discovery made at the ... Hydro, near +London, of a method of actually restoring the natural colour to faded, +grey, or white hair.</p> + +<p>So much curiosity has been aroused, indeed, that the authorities have +been compelled to publish in pamphlet form the full particulars of this +discovery (a copy of this interesting publication may be obtained on +application to the person and address given later in this second review of +the discovery and its possibilities of usefulness to the Public)....</p> + +<p>No actual colouring agent is employed in the new dye-less and stainless +method. Instead, the hair’s sleeping pigmentary process is +reawakened....</p> + +<p>The new way of making people’s hair show true colours is, happily, an +inexpensive one.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The following extracts are from letters received from the +Vilixir Company, after application for the pamphlet mentioned +above:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>The “Vilixir” Treatment differs from all other ways and means of +colouring the hair. It does not put on an artificial colour—it will bring +out the natural colour of your hair....</p> + +<p>At this Hydro we have assistants who have become expert in the +obtaining of the best possible results from the Treatment, and if you +would like to have us do all that is necessary for you, I shall be happy +to quote you terms to include a short stay at this Hydro.... It is +not necessary to the success of the Treatment, however, that you carry +it out at this address. I can send the “Vilixir” and full directions to +enable you to restore the natural colour of your hair in the privacy of +your own home.</p> + +<p>... the “Vilixir” Treatment is absolutely non-injurious either +to the skin or to the hair; its action is wholly beneficial in every way. +It promotes growth on the bald patches (unless the roots are absolutely +perished); it thickens and lengthens the growth over the whole of the +head; it stops falling out, and, most important of all, its effects are comparatively +permanent.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The directions on the label are:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Shake the bottle and apply the liquid night and morning to the scalp +with a small brush, rubbing in for two or three minutes, and finally +brush the hair for a few seconds with the brush moistened with +“Vilixir.”</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page228">[228]</span></p> + +<p>The bottle of liquid that was sent in return for 12s. 6d. was +accompanied by about ¹⁄₄ ounce of shampoo powder, for shampooing +the head before the first use of “Vilixir.” This powder +was found to consist of</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Borax</td> +<td class="number">4.6</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered soap</td> +<td class="number">24.4</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Partly exsiccated sodium carbonate</td> +<td class="number">71.0</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Analysis showed the liquid to contain:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Precipitated Sulphur</td> +<td class="number">3.2</td> +<td class="unit">parts.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Lead acetate</td> +<td class="number">1.8</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Glycerine</td> +<td class="number">5.7</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="3" class="text nopad">Rose water, sufficient to produce 100 parts by measure.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p class="noindent">The estimated cost of the ingredients for 5¹⁄₂ fluid ounces of the +liquid and ¹⁄₄ ounce of the powder is 1d.</p> + +<h3>C.—HAIR DYES.</h3> + +<h4>W. SEEGER’S HAIR DYE.</h4> + +<p>This preparation bears a copy of signature “W. Seeger,” and +the words “made in Germany” on the package, but no +address.</p> + +<p>A bottle, price 2s., contained 1¹⁄₃ fluid ounces.</p> + +<p>Directions for use:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Before applying Seeger’s, wash the hair in lukewarm water in which +you have melted a piece of ordinary household soda of the size of a +walnut to each quart of water you use. Then, when the hair is perfectly +dry, pour a little of the dye into a clean saucer, dip the teeth of a +perfectly clean fine tooth comb into the dye in the saucer, and pass the +comb several times through the hair where it is required to be dyed. +Now allow the dye to dry on the hair. While the hair is drying, comb it +now and then, so that the dye, which does not become visible for some +hours, may come in contact with the air and an equal shade be obtained. +The day following, the dye which has not dried in can be washed out with +clean water without soda.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The dye is prepared in three shades, for blonde, brown, and +black; the “brown” was taken for examination.</p> + +<p class="noindent">Analysis showed it to contain, in 100 parts by measure:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Pyrogallic acid</td> +<td class="intpart">3</td> +<td class="fracpart">.8</td> +<td class="unit">parts.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Cupric chloride (anhydrous)</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.8</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Hydrochloric acid (<i>B.P.</i> strength)</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.75</td> +<td class="unit">part</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sulphuric acid</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.07</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>The liquid was much darker than a solution freshly prepared +according to this formula; but the dyeing effect of the two was +<span class="pagenum" id="Page229">[229]</span>practically identical, and the difference in appearance appeared +to be due to decomposition of a part of the pyrogallic acid having +taken place in the original.</p> + +<p>The estimated cost of the ingredients for 1¹⁄₃ fluid ounces is ¹⁄₂d.</p> + +<h4>SHADEINE.</h4> + +<p>This preparation, sold from an address in London, was in a +bottle which contained 3¹⁄₂ fluid ounces, and was priced 3s. 6d.</p> + +<p>It is thus described:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Shadeine is a new and important chemical discovery which regenerates +and develops the original colour of grey and faded hair, at the same +time tinting it a perfectly natural colour.... It contains neither +lead, silver, mercury, sulphur, nor any objectionable stain.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Directions for use:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Wash the hair, if in the least greasy, with soda and warm water. When +dry, pour a little Shadeine into a saucer, and with a small brush apply +evenly over the parts to be coloured, then allow it to dry. A small +quantity only should be used at a time, and the colour allowed to develop +during the day. As soon as the shade is satisfactory, wash or brush off +superfluous stain.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>This preparation is made in seven colours. The one that was +taken for examination was labelled “Brown.”</p> + +<p>Analysis showed it to contain in 100 parts by measure:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Pyrogallic acid</td> +<td class="number">2.1</td> +<td class="unit">parts.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Cupric chloride (anhydrous)</td> +<td class="number">1.3</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Hydrochloric acid (<i>B.P.</i> strength)</td> +<td class="number">0.3</td> +<td class="unit">part.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>The estimated cost of the ingredients for 3¹⁄₂ fluid ounces is ³⁄₄d.</p> + +<h4>JUVENIA.</h4> + +<p>The hair dye called “Juvenia” is made in Paris, and supplied +by a firm having addresses in London and Birmingham. A +package, price 4s., contained two bottles, Nos. 1 and 2, each containing +about 2¹⁄₃ fluid ounces; the liquids to be mixed at the +time of using.</p> + +<p>It is thus described:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>This marvellous dye is guaranteed not to contain mercurial salts, it is +altogether of a vegetable nature and harmless.</p> + +<p>“Juvenia” instantly restores white hair and grey beard to their +original colour, from auburn to the most jet black tints.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page230">[230]</span></p> + +<p>We specially recommend persons who wish to dye their hair or beard +to follow our advice word for word.</p> + +<p>It is well known that subjects suffering from arthritis, herpes, or +eczema ought to abstain from eating sea-fish, shell-fish, sorrel, strawberries, +etc., under penalty of provoking eruptions or eczema spots. +Accordingly, generally speaking, such persons ought to entirely give up +the use of all instantaneous dye, and make use of nothing else than our +progressive regenerators alone, the use of which we advise for them, in +preference to any other.</p> + +<p>If, in spite of our advice, those persons subject to the above-mentioned +affections persist in dyeing their hair, they ought at any rate to consult +their doctor.</p> + +<p>It is necessary, in fact, to have oneself thoroughly examined as far as +the scalp is concerned before the application of a dye, and this recommendation +may especially be given to ladies. At times they may prick +themselves with their combs, their hat or hair-pins, the result being small +sores which ought not to be irritated or skinned. The scalp ought to be +absolutely intact, and if need be, one must wait till all flaying is well +healed.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Analysis showed the “liquid No. 1” to be a solution of +hydrogen peroxide containing 2 per cent. of real peroxide, or +two-thirds the strength of the ordinary “10 volume” solution. +Liquid No. 2, or “Juvenia” itself, was found to contain:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Paraphenylene-diamine</td> +<td class="number">0.9</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Solution of ammonia</td> +<td class="number">0.6</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="3" class="text nopad">with a trace of fixed alkali, probably<br>dissolved out of the glass of the bottle.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>A solution prepared in accordance with this formula gave an +exactly similar result in dyeing hair. The estimated cost of the +ingredients for the contents of the two bottles is 1¹⁄₂d.</p> + +<p>The danger of using paraphenylene-diamine as a hair-dye has +often been pointed out, and is well known. When used in this +way symptoms of poisoning are sometimes quickly produced, +but in other cases they do not occur until after it has been used +for weeks or even months. In addition to urticaria and eczema +produced locally, general symptoms of poisoning may result, +and in some cases deaths have occurred from this cause.</p> + +<hr class="chap"> + +<div class="chapter"> +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page231">[231]</span></p> +<h2 class="nobreak"><span class="chapno">CHAPTER XVI.</span><br> +SOME MISCELLANEOUS MEDICINES.</h2> +</div> + +<h3>TWO PREPARATIONS FOR SEA-SICKNESS.</h3> + +<div class="largersize"> +<p>Many proprietary and other medicines for sea-sickness +have been put forward from time to time, both as preventives +and cures, but usually without attaining to any very +wide adoption. The first of the two preparations here +described has been very widely advertised in the last few +years; the second one, which is shown by analysis to be +very similar in composition, appears to be of Canadian +origin.</p> +</div><!--largersize--> + +<h4>ZOTOS.</h4> + +<p>This is supplied by Zotos, Limited, London; the price is +2s. 9d. per box containing twelve capsules.</p> + +<p>It is described on the outside of the package as “the infallible +remedy against sea sickness”; on the inner package it is stated +that</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Zotos is an infallible remedy against sea sickness, train sickness, etc.</p> + +<p>Zotos not only prevents sickness but stimulates the appetite.</p> + +<p>Zotos contains no injurious drug and produces no bad after-effects.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>A circular contained in the package gives a so-called +“analytical report” on the preparation, in which it is stated +that the capsules are “free from any noxious ingredient,” and +that the contents “consist of compounds of high therapeutic +activity.”</p> + +<p>Somewhat lengthy directions are given, the principal part +being as follows:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>The capsules to be swallowed whole and to be taken before, not after, a +meal.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page232">[232]</span></p> + +<p>Take a capsule half an hour before the steamer sails, another just as the +steamer leaves, and a third (though this is rarely required) half an hour +later. Afterwards, if any uneasiness be caused by the movement of the +vessel, capsules may be taken from time to time up to 6 per day. If +travelling by night, take a capsule on going to bed and another half an +hour before getting up.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The capsules were found to contain a pink powder, the +average weight of the contents of one being 6.3 grains. Analysis +showed the powder to consist of a mixture of sugar of milk and +chlorbutol, with traces of colouring and flavouring matters. +Chlorbutol, or trichlor-tertiary butyl alcohol, is better known +under the trade name, Chloretone. It is described in the <i>British +Pharmaceutical Codex</i> as “a local anæsthetic, analgesic, and +antiseptic.” “Its anæsthetic properties are specially exerted +upon the stomach, small repeated doses being used to allay post-operative +vomiting and sea sickness.”</p> + +<p>The proportions of the ingredients were found to be:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Chlorbutol</td> +<td class="number">76.9</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Lactose</td> +<td class="number">23.0</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p class="noindent">No other substance was found, except the traces of colouring +and flavouring matters already mentioned.</p> + +<p>The estimated cost of the ingredients for twelve capsules is 5d.</p> + +<h4>MOTHERSILL’S SEASICK REMEDY.</h4> + +<p>This preparation is supplied by a limited company giving +addresses in London and Montreal. The package bears the +words “Made in Canada.”</p> + +<p>It is stated on the label that it—</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Stops and Prevents any case of Seasickness, Trainsickness, and all +nausea caused by motion, climbing, etc. Guaranteed not to contain +cocaine, opium, morphine, or chloral. It does not affect the heart or liver, +or cause unpleasant symptoms.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>A 2s. 3d. package contained six capsules, three containing +pink powder and three brown. The dose is given as one of each +kind, taken together, so that the package contained three doses.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page233">[233]</span></p> + +<p>The average weight of the contents of the three capsules was +11¹⁄₄ grains. Analysis showed the powders to have the following +composition:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td colspan="3" class="topline"><i>Pink Powder.</i></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sugar of milk</td> +<td class="number">33.3</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Caffeine</td> +<td class="number">8.2</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Stearic acid</td> +<td class="number">18.0</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Chlorbutol</td> +<td class="number">40.1</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Colouring matter</td> +<td colspan="2" class="text nopad">a trace.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="3" class="topline"><i>Brown Powder.</i></td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered cinnamon</td> +<td class="number">29.4</td> +<td class="unit">per cent.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Caffeine</td> +<td class="number">8.4</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Stearic acid</td> +<td class="number">17.4</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Chlorbutol</td> +<td class="number">44.5</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>The stearic acid is probably added as a lubricant, to facilitate +the filling of the powder into the capsules, although the amount +is large for the purpose.</p> + +<p>The estimated cost of the ingredients for the six capsules +is 2¹⁄₂d.</p> + +<h3>A CURE-ALL.—KORPUSDOON.</h3> + +<p>In addition to the many proprietary medicines which are +widely and generally advertised, a very large number are advertised +only or principally in some particular locality, and such +preparations sometimes attain a very considerable local sale. +The claims made for these medicines do not show any more +modest pretensions than those more widely advertised, while the +ignorance of the makers is sometimes even more evident.</p> + +<p>A medicine of this class, made in a Lancashire town, is called +“Korpusdoon.” It is stated on the label to be “Prepared only +by Mrs. Ann Briggs, Health Specialist (for the Korpusdoon +Medicine and Health Food Co.).” The price is 2s. 3d. per +bottle, and the bottle bought for examination contained +25¹⁄₂ fl. oz. The dose is given as, for an adult one teacupful +every other morning; for children, half dose every other +morning.</p> + +<p>The nature of the claims made for it is shown by the following +extracts, the first of which is from a newspaper advertisement, +and the second from the label on the bottle:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Why suffer from Influenza when Korpusdoon puts a check on all poisonous +acid from which all diseases originate, and cleanses from the system +all bad germs.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page234">[234]</span></p> + +<p>The Virtues of this Famous Medicine “Korpusdoon.”</p> + +<p>It kills and clears away from the Stomach and Nasal Passages all the +accumulation of poisonous acids—which, after 20 years of keen and careful +observation, I find to be the cause of all the ailments the body is liable +to, such as Catarrh of the Stomach, Nasal Catarrh, Fermentation of the +Stomach, Influenza, Hay Fever, Eczema, Gall Stones, Gout, Goitre, Rheumatism, +Lumbago, Neuralgia, Appendicitis, Consumption, Irregularities +of the Heart, Loss of Memory and Nerve trouble, Paralysis, Bright’s +Disease, Whooping Cough, Measles, Scarlet Fever, Typhoid, Diphtheria, +and Small-pox. A sure preventative of Tumour and Cancer.</p> + +<p>It is a great beautifier of the Skin and Hair.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>In the newspaper advertisement the maker’s name and +address are followed by the words “At Home Mondays and +Saturdays,” which is presumably an intimation that she can +be consulted professionally at those times.</p> + +<p>Analysis showed the mixture to contain magnesium sulphate +and an extract of liquorice, flavoured with aniseed and sassafras, +and further sweetened with a little chloroform. Careful +search did not afford any indication of any other constituent. +The colour was much darker than the colour which results if +the ordinary liquid extract of liquorice is employed, and the +latter contains alcohol, which was absent from the mixture; but +it was found that by taking ordinary “stick liquorice,” and boiling +it with the Epsom salts, a dark liquor was obtained agreeing +closely with the original. Possibly the flavour of aniseed and +sassafras is got by boiling these drugs with the Epsom salts and +liquorice, but a mixture in which they were added respectively +as the water and the essential oil was practically indistinguishable +from “Korpusdoon.” The quantities of the different ingredients +found were as follows:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Magnesium sulphate</td> +<td class="number">624</td> +<td class="unit">grains.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Extract of liquorice (from “stick liquorice”)</td> +<td class="number">550</td> +<td class="ditto spaced2">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Chloroform (= chloroform water 4 fl. oz.)</td> +<td class="number">5</td> +<td class="unit">minims.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Oil of sassafras</td> +<td class="number">3</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Aniseed water</td> +<td class="number">5</td> +<td class="unit">fl. oz.</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text nopad">Water <span class="righttext padr1">to</span></td> +<td class="number">25</td> +<td class="ditto spaced2">„</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Estimated cost of ingredients, 2¹⁄₄d.</p> + +<h3>A RADIUM SALVE.</h3> + +<p>Long advertisements have appeared recently in the daily +papers of a radium salve stated to have been discovered by Dr. +S. Saubermann, who gives an address in Berlin. The salve is +sold in this country by a company which describes itself as +<span class="pagenum" id="Page235">[235]</span>“manufacturing chemists to the medical profession.” We are +told in a pamphlet issued by this company that Dr. Saubermann’s +formula has been embodied and improved upon in the radium +salve they sell. It is stated further that the salve is impregnated +with the “radium salt in the proportion of 1 in 500,000,” a +quantity which “must not be exceeded, as otherwise the absorption +by the skin and the well-known action of the strong and +penetrating rays will do more harm than good.” It is described +as a remedy for lupus, cancer, and all diseases of the skin, with a +bountiful “etc.”</p> + +<p>The company also sells various other preparations: A medical +soap, a blood purifier, and an elixir of life. A certificate purporting +to have been given by Dr. Saubermann in December, 1907, +states that the ore which the company has acquired was +“uranium refuse concentrated from the mines at Joachimsthal.” +In the advertisement a list is given of “leading scientists on +radium,” but the advertisers do not go so far as to say that any +of them have anything to do with the radium salve. There is also +a quotation from <i>The British Medical Journal</i>, which we need +hardly say had no reference whatever to the salve or its manufacturers.</p> + +<p>The salve is “sold at 2s. 9d., 5s., 10s., 20s., and 30s., according +to radioactivity.” Mr. Frederick Soddy, M.A., Lecturer +on Physical Chemistry and Radioactivity in the University of +Glasgow, has been good enough to examine the salve for us, and +the following is his report:—</p> + +<p>“I received the two pots of radium salve you sent me, and +have examined the radioactivity of the stronger preparation—namely, +that marked ‘Strong, 5s.’ The alpha radioactivity of +the preparation is just detectable, and is about one-hundredth +part of that of uranium. The beta radiation is too feeble to be +detected by a sensitive electroscope. For comparison I might +mention that the residues from the uranium ore of Joachimsthal, +which forms the initial raw material from which radium is +extracted, have an alpha radioactivity about four times that of +uranium.”</p> + +<h3>A RINGWORM CURE.—“DETHBLO.”</h3> + +<p>“Dethblo,” or Wilson’s Patent Ringworm Cure, is supplied +by an individual in a small town in the home counties, a 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. +package contained a bottle holding rather less than 2 fluid +drachms of the preparation, and a brush for applying it.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page236">[236]</span></p> + +<p>It is advertised in the following terms:—</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p><span class="smcap">This Preparation</span> has been used by the Proprietor for many years in +the treatment of Hundreds of Cases, and has never once failed to +Cure....</p> + +<p>An improvement is visible after one application. Two or three dressings +in any but exceptionally severe cases are sufficient to effect a Cure.</p> + +<p>No necessity for Cutting the Hair or Shaving the Head.</p> + +<p>It Cures when all other remedies have been tried and failed. Obstinate +cases, after eighteen months of other treatment, have yielded to a few +applications of “Dethblo.”</p> + +<p>It is Harmless to Hair or Scalp of even the youngest children; infants +in arms have been successfully treated on many occasions.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The directions on the label are:—</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Apply with brush enclosed, well penetrating the infected parts with +“<span class="smcap">Dethblo</span>.” Treatment should be given every other day, for a few +days, and the infected part should not be washed until satisfactory improvement +is noticed.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Analysis showed the liquid to contain ferrous sulphate and +acetic acid; a trace of coloured organic matter was also present, +such as would be due to a small portion of the acetic acid having +been added in the form of vinegar, and the odour of the liquid +resembled that of vinegar rather than that of acetic acid only. +The quantities found were, in 100 parts by measure:—</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Ferrous sulphate</td> +<td class="number">33.7</td> +<td class="unit">parts</td> +<td> </td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Acetic acid (calculated as glacial)</td> +<td class="number">11.9</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +<td class="unit">by measure</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>Careful search did not reveal the presence of any other ingredient.</p> + +<p>Estimated cost of ingredients of 2 fluid drachms, ¹⁄₅₀d.</p> + +<h3>MISCELLANEOUS GERMAN NOSTRUMS.</h3> + +<p>Reports published by Dr. F. Zernik on various proprietary +medicines sold in Germany include the following:—</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p><i>Sprengel’s herbal juice</i>, is a preparation which Bernhard Sprengel of +Hanover claims to be harmless, and as it consists of blood purifying +herbs and roots, and not a secret remedy, he recommends it for all sorts +of diseases, especially for diphtheria, trichinosis, whooping-cough, etc. +The bottle (which costs M.1.25, about 1s. 3d.) contains about 30 c.cm. of +a turbid brown fluid of acid reaction. It contains powdered jalap bulbs, +suspended in a watery extract of frangula (or some similar drug), to which +alcohol and liquorice have been added. Its jalap content renders the +free sale of this preparation unlawful in Germany.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page237">[237]</span></p> + +<p><i>Dealin Powder</i>, a Berlin preparation, is described as an antiseptic medicament +for wounds containing “a highly active oxygen combined with +a dry fatty substance.” On examination no dry fatty substance was +found, and the “highly active oxygen” was represented by sodium perborate. +The chief constituents of this preparation were: 20 parts of +sodium perborate, 10 parts of boric acid, 10 parts of zinc oxide, and 60 +parts of a mixture of talc with traces of starch and magnesium carbonate.</p> + +<p><i>Hochfelder Pitch Plaster</i> is advertised by the manufacturers as a porous +plaster prepared with gum elastic, and as the best external medicament +for the treatment of painful affections which follow cold, blows, over-exertion +or other disturbances of the nervous or muscular activity. +The examination showed that the preparation did not contain any +pitch at all, and that its composition was similar to that of +“<i>Collemplastrum capsicum</i>,” a plaster, which according to an Imperial +Order dated November 22nd, 1901, must not be offered for sale in drug +shops. As pitch plaster is not included in this Order, the manufacturers +considered that they would be safe in applying this description +to the plaster.</p> + +<p><i>Franz Lammersdorf’s universal chilblain cream</i>, a Hanover preparation, +to be applied thinly on the chilblain and covered with wool and a bandage, +and renewed every twenty-four hours, was found to consist of about +25 grams of extract of malt. Dr. Zernik points out that this is a curiously +original medicament for chilblains.</p> + +<p><i>Jehnol</i> is advertised as differing from all other preparations in its power +of allaying all forms of toothache, including the most severe. It is a fluid, +and three or four drops are to be applied on a piece of cotton-wool to +the cavity of the tooth. A small bottle containing about 3 c.cm. of an +alcoholic solution of oil of cloves and other ethereal oils, and possibly +also cajeput and camphor, and coloured green with chlorophyll, costs +30 pfennigs, that is, about 3³⁄₄d.</p> + +<p><i>Epocol</i> is advertised by a Vienna firm, as a “new, absolutely non-poisonous +cresote preparation, possessing extraordinary disinfecting properties.” +The dose mentioned is from 1 to 10 grams a day, according +to the age of the patient. No details are given with regard to the composition +of the preparation, and Zernik concludes from the results of his +analysis that this “new” preparation is a mixture of 45 per cent. +sodium benzoate, 30 per cent. ammonium sulpho-guaiacolate, and 25 per +cent. potassium sulpho-guaiacolate. The ammonium salt of sulpho-guaiacolic +acid is not used in medicine, the potassium salt is used under +the name of <i>thiocol</i>, while the calcium salt and the sodium salt are also +used. The action of the sulpho-guaiacolates is sufficiently well known, +and the claim of novelty cannot, therefore, be sustained. Zernik does not +consider the preparation worth further criticism.</p> + +<p><i>Bauch’s Busennährcreme</i> (bosom nutrient cream) is sold at 4s. 6d. for +two boxes, which are said to be necessary for the production of full +breasts. The actual value of the boxes and their contents is between +4d. and 5d., the cream consisting of mineral fat perfumed with oil of +rose. The Karlsruhe authority has issued a warning on the ground that +the substance cannot possibly produce the effect claimed in view of its +composition.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page238">[238]</span></p> + +<p><i>Ninetta</i> is a similar preparation. It is described as an Oriental +strengthening and nutrient powder. It consists of a powdered leguminous +flour with sugar and lecithin.</p> + +<p><i>Büsteria</i> (made by D. F. Steiner, of Berlin) is another “Oriental +strength-giving powder,” which is sold at an absurdly high price. The +Berlin police have issued a public warning against it. It consists of +bean and pea flour.</p> + +<p><i>Oxygar</i> is supposed to be a vegetable preparation saturated with +hydrogen peroxide. The vegetable substance is agar-agar. It is supposed +to contain about 10 per cent. H₂O₂, but the manufacturers call +attention to the fact that the preparation loses in strength after a time. +Frerichs found that fresh oxygar contained hydrogen peroxide varying +in amount from 0.6 to 14.4 per cent., that the amount decreased within +a short time, and after a few weeks even sank to <i>nil</i>. In cold water +all the hydrogen peroxide was liberated within a few minutes. It thus +appears very doubtful whether the peroxide would not be liberated in +the stomach, in spite of the fact that the manufacturers claim as an +advantage of the preparation that the H₂O₂ is not liberated until the +intestine is reached, and then only slowly.</p> + +<p><i>Spiritol</i> is supposed to be an ideal substitute for spirit and to have +nearly all the physical qualities of spirit, to be free from acid and alkali, +to be miscible in all proportions with water or spirit, and to volatilize +without residue. It is introduced for the preparation of cosmetic and +pharmaceutic preparations, etc. The analysis revealed that it consisted +chiefly of methyl alcohol, which was not even pure.</p> + +<p><i>Verophen mouth water</i> is advertised as a protective against all infectious +diseases. It consists of a 0.2 per cent. solution of chinosol in water. A +bottle containing 100 c.cm. of the fluid costs 1s. 6d. “Verophen” for +mouth washes is also sold at 1s. 6d., while Verophen for the telephone +costs 3s.</p> + +<p>According to the law in Germany, chemical combinations of antipyrin +may be sold to the public, but simple mixtures of antipyrin and other +known substances may not be sold, save on a medical practitioner’s +prescription. <i>Sulfopyrin</i> is one of these mixtures which was offered +for sale as a sulphanilate of antipyrin. Another is <i>Meligrin</i>, which is +described as a condensation of dimethyloxychinicin and methylacetamide. +These terms are technical but rarely used names for antipyrin and exalgin. +The analysis revealed that the preparation was a mixture of 86 parts of +the former and 14 parts of the latter. Exalgin has been practically withdrawn +from the market in favour of the more active and better acetanilide.</p> + +<p>A chemist named Taubert produces a “pleasant tasting headache +powder (ammon. spiric. puriss.),” which is supposed to act rapidly in +migraine, influenza, neuralgia, rheumatism, colds, etc. It appears that +ammonium salicylate has an obscure synonym, “ammonium spiricum.” +Since the ammonium salt is scarcely ever used in medicine, the law does +not mention it as well as the sodium salt among those medicaments which +may not be sold without medical prescription. The chemist therefore +sells it without fear. The weight of the single powders varied between +0.39 and 0.6 gram.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page239">[239]</span></p> + +<p>In dealing with false description, Zernik mentions <i>Mergandol</i>, which +is recommended by its producers as an antisyphilitic remedy for intramuscular +injection and for external application. It is described as a +solution of sodium mercury glycerate in glycerine; 1 c.cm. of the solution +is said to contain 0.0035 gram of mercury. Sodium glycerate is recognised +as an unstable compound, but neither a mercury glycerate nor a +sodium mercury glycerate is known. The analysis showed that mergandol +is a mixture of perchloride of mercury and sodium chloride (0.5 of the +former and 0.1 of the latter) dissolved in 100 parts of diluted glycerine. +Each cubic centimetre would therefore contain 0.0044 gram of Hg. The +bottle, containing 50 c.cm., costs 2s. 2¹⁄₂d., which is at least twice as much +as any chemist is allowed to charge for making up a similar prescription.</p> + +<p><i>Eulatin</i> is a white, almost odourless, mildly acid-tasting powder. It +is supposed to be an amido-bromine-benzoate of dimethyl-phenyl-pyrazolon. +Dr. Friedmann has described this preparation as a useful remedy for +whooping-cough when given in doses of 0.1 to 0.5 gram every three or +four hours. Dimethyl-phenyl-pyrazolon or antipyrin was found to be +present, but the analysis failed to reveal a trace of amido-bromine benzoic +acid, a compound which has definite chemical characteristics. The rest of +the substance was found to consist of parabromine benzoic acid and +orthoamido-benzoic acid; two parts of the former with antipyrin in molecular +proportions were present to each one part of the latter, also with +antipyrin in molecular proportions. The mixture thus differs very +materially from the supposititious chemical compound described by the +manufacturers. Dr. Zernik considers that Dr. Friedmann should have +been more careful in expressing himself with regard to the composition. +The value of antipyrin in pertussis is well recognised.</p> + +<p>Barkowski’s <i>Irrigal</i> tablets are advertised as containing all the active +components of wood vinegar in dry form, delicately perfumed and being +easily soluble in water. One or two tablets are supposed to be dissolved +in a glass or cup of hot water, and added to warm water in an irrigator. +A glass containing 40 1-gram tablets costs 3s. The solid form of wood +vinegar possesses an alkaline reaction! On analysis it was found to consist +mainly of dehydrated sodium acetate with traces of tar and creosote. +This is very different from wood vinegar, which contains tarry substances, +free acetic acid, and some empyreumatic substances.</p> + +<p><i>Vilja cream</i> is now described correctly. Its constituents are diluted +aqueous extracts of indifferent vegetable substances, wool fat, ceresin, and +vaselin, and some ethereal oils, which smell like the oil of rosemary.</p> + +<p><i>Automors</i> is a widely advertised disinfectant, prepared by Heyl Brothers +and Co., Charlottenburg. The advertisements claim that it is a new, +strong, and harmless disinfectant, acting five times as strongly as carbolic +acid. The analysis showed it to consist of about 3 per cent. phenols and +carbohydrates, about 16 per cent. phenol sulphate, with 15 per cent. of +free sulphuric acid. It would appear that this is an old preparation under +a new name; formerly it was known as sanatol. The free sulphuric acid +content renders it not harmless but actually highly poisonous. Its disinfecting +power is far weaker than that of carbolic acid, save in a very +exceptional circumstance, while its claims to act against flies are also false.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page240">[240]</span></p> + +<h3><span class="smcap">John P. Haig’s “Cure” for Goitre.</span></h3> + +<p>Some information with regard to Haig’s goître cure is given in a paper +by J. Kochs in the <i>Apotheker-Zeitung</i>, abstracted in the <i>Pharmaceutical +Journal</i> for April 14th, 1906, p. 447. According to this the “cure” comprises: +Powders, consisting of sodium bicarbonate, coloured pale red; +ointment, consisting of a sodium soap with yellow soft paraffin; pastilles, +consisting of sodium bicarbonate, aloes, and a little oil of caraway; +pastilles, consisting of extract of hydrastis.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<hr class="chap"> + +<div class="chapter"> +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page241">[241]</span></p> +<h2 class="nobreak"><span class="chapno">CHAPTER XVII.</span><br> +UNQUALIFIED PRACTICE THROUGH THE POST.</h2> +</div> + +<div class="largersize"> + +<p>It will have been observed that the various articles +described in the preceding chapters and in the earlier volume +show considerable variations in regard to the procedure by +which they are placed in the hands of the public. They may +be roughly divided into three classes; the first, and probably +largest class, consists of those which are supplied to the +public through the ordinary retail channels, such as +chemists, stores, etc. The second class consists of similar +articles, also sold under the proprietary medicine stamp, but +supplied only, or chiefly, direct from the maker or proprietor +to the consumer through the post, and not through +retailers; in this case the proprietor reaps the full retail +price, and having the names and addresses of consumers, is +able to plant advertising matter or letters where they are +most likely to take effect, and to apply later for “unsolicited” +testimonials. In the third class also the +medicine is supplied direct to the consumer, but before +it is sent, a list of questions, or “symptom form,” +is submitted for answers to the questions to be filled +in by the patient, on the pretext that the medicines +will be “modified” or “selected,” according to the +nature of the case; here, again, the full retail price +goes to the proprietor, and with the particulars supplied +by the patient, future letters—urging continuance +of the “treatment,” or the taking of some stronger or +additional article—can be made more effective; no doubt, +<span class="pagenum" id="Page242">[242]</span>also, such particulars are of use in working up an account +of the case which shall be of the nature of a testimonial, +when the purchaser has been persuaded that he is cured, or +has really been cured by or in spite of the medicine.</p> + +<p>In some advertisements the departure from the mere +recommendation of a particular nostrum goes further, and +the advertiser claims to be a “specialist” in some particular +kind of disease, and to treat each case individually, according +to the particulars furnished by post, or sometimes to +treat any and every disease on the information supplied in +the same way. The border line between these and the +preceding class is very indistinct. In this chapter some +further particulars are given of advertisers of these two +classes.</p> + +<p>The nostrums already reported on have included one or +more in which a “symptom form” has figured in each of +the following groups: “female medicines,” medicines for +obesity, sexual weakness, skin affections, “bad legs,” +alcoholism, rheumatism, and deafness. In most cases the +first supply of medicine was followed up by letters insisting +on the great importance of taking it uninterruptedly, or +asking for particulars of the results attained. In the case of +medicines for amenorrhœa, in every instance the article first +supplied was accompanied or followed by recommendations +of a stronger one, said to be certain to succeed if the first +failed, and, of course, sold at a higher price. In many cases +where the original communication was not an order for +medicine but merely an inquiry, the letter sent in reply was +followed at intervals by a number of others, emphasising in +a sensational manner the terrible seriousness of delay in +obtaining the “cure,” and frequently offering the latter at a +gradually diminishing price, as at a cheap-jack’s “Dutch +auction.” This offer of reduced price is sometimes made +conditionally on the purchaser supplying six names of other +persons known by him to be suffering from the complaint in +<span class="pagenum" id="Page243">[243]</span>question; so that if the terms were accepted the vendor +would be kept supplied with a list of names and addresses, +ever increasing on the “snowball” principle, of persons +likely to be susceptible to his letters. The letters sent +usually appear on casual inspection to be type-written communications +written to the individual, who is frequently +addressed by name as “Dear Mr. (or Mrs.) ——,” or as +“Dear Friend”; but closer examination has almost always +shown that they are really circulars produced by one of the +multiple copy processes with a typewriter, the individual’s +name being inserted afterwards. These circulars usually +contain expressions of strong or special interest in “your +case,” even when no case has been mentioned and the +“symptom form” has not been filled up. In fact, there is +every reason to suppose, in regard to most nostrums sold in +this way, that the composition of the medicine sent is in no +way modified in consequence of the details supplied.</p> + +<p>Extracts from one or two typical letters may be given as +examples.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<h3><span class="smcap">The National College of Health, Ltd.</span></h3> + +<p>In <a href="#Page167">Chapter XI.</a> we gave some account of certain medicines +supplied by the “National College of Health, Ltd.” +After an interval the person who had ordered the medicines +analysed received the following:—</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Dear Mrs ——,</p> + +<p class="noindent"><span class="padl6">We</span> are extremely sorry that you have not allowed us to see your +case through to a successful termination. We are taking a special interest +in your case, and as you have gone to some expense, and as we want to +be of real help to you, it is a pity for you to throw away this opportunity +of being permanently cured.</p> + +<p>Let us implore you as a friend not to neglect the advice we gave you +in our last letter, for if you do we fear you will not get well, or if so will +not remain permanently cured. If you neglect the simple precaution of +purifying your blood and keeping it pure for a reasonable period, it will +be your own fault if you do not get well and remain so, which is what +we earnestly desire.</p> + +<p>To effect a permanent and lasting cure, it is absolutely necessary that +you should take the Blood mixture for a reasonable period. Neglecting +this is not fair either to yourself or to the Tremol Treatment, which has +done so much good for those who carry it out conscientiously.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page244">[244]</span></p> + +<p>The date, name and address, and the words “Dear +Mrs. ——” are seen on careful examination to have been added +with a typewriter to a circular letter. From this it would +appear that the number of those who purchase the “Tremol +Treatment” but do not feel sufficiently encouraged by the +results to “carry it out conscientiously” is large enough to +make it worth while to have a circular ready to send to them; +also that it is a routine matter to assure them that “we are +taking a special interest in your case.” It appears impossible +to doubt that large numbers of people are lured by such assurances +into sending their money for such “treatment.” But +there are two considerations affecting this kind of practice +which are so obvious that it might have been supposed that they +would occur to anyone. The first is that the absentee prescriber +is an anonymous and unknown person—for example, the +letter quoted above is signed (with a stamp) “J. S. Chatterton, +Doctor’s Secretary”; the “doctor” does not appear. In +other cases it is “our consulting physician,” our “specialist,” +or “our medical staff,” etc., never anyone whose qualifications +and experience can be ascertained. In the second place, it can +hardly be supposed that writing down a few answers to questions +can supply a prescriber with an adequate knowledge of a +given case such as can be obtained by personal consultation and +examination. The meagreness of the information which will +satisfy these anonymous prescribers is remarkable.</p> + +<h3>THE SUTTON MEDICAL COMPANY.</h3> + +<p>Another circular in imitation of typewriting which is before +us, headed “The Sutton Medical Co.,” looks like an attempt to +imitate the Kidd Company’s methods, though on a more restricted +scale. It is dated from Clerkenwell, London, and commences:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>Dear Friend,</p> + +<p class="noindent"><span class="padl6">Do</span> you or any of your friends stand in need of medical treatment? +We make a speciality of kidney and bladder trouble and rheumatism, in +fact all complaints arising from uric acid poisoning....</p> + +<p>To introduce these remedies we are going to give away 10,000 Proof +Sample Treatments. They will be sent post-paid and absolutely free. +You are one of the ten thousand selected to receive a Proof Sample Treatment, +because we believe that if they cure you your influence in your +neighbourhood will secure other patients.... We will also send you +entirely free a copy of “Sutton’s Talk on the Kidneys.” ... Answer +the questions on the printed form and post it to-day.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page245">[245]</span></p> + +<p>The printed form was filled up with the details of an imaginary +case; but whether, in the interval that had elapsed +between receiving the circular and sending for the medicine, the +Sutton Medical Company had concluded that they were mistaken +in the belief that “your influence in your neighbourhood +will secure other patients,” or whether the giving away “10,000 +treatments” had caused them to collapse, or from some other +reason, no medicine or answer of any sort was received.</p> + +<h3>THE J. W. KIDD COMPANY.</h3> + +<p>One of the most extensive businesses of the kind we are considering +is that run by the J. W. Kidd Company, of Fort +Wayne, U.S.A., some particulars of which have previously +been given (<i>Secret Remedies</i>, Vol. I., p. 177). Although the +letters are ostensibly signed “Dr. James W. Kidd,” the remarks +made above as to the real anonymity of the prescriber +apply no less, as the business is run by a company and, on the +evidence submitted, is far too large for any one individual to +attend to the cases. The letters contain the usual sort of +references, such as “With my staff of skilled specialists, I have +successfully treated more serious chronic cases than any other +doctor.” This company, although established in America, +sedulously cultivates business in this country. Besides newspaper +advertising, it appears to obtain the names and +addresses of persons to whom it seems worth while to write. +It has been asserted, and so far as we know without any contradiction, +that in America, at least, there is a regular trade in +old letters, orders, etc., from purchasers of nostrums, and that +a firm desiring to push a preparation for any particular disease +can purchase from a broker thousands of letters from people +who have bought some other preparation for that ailment, in +order to bombard them with letters recommending the new nostrum. +Perhaps that is how the Kidd Company gets names and +addresses; one of the letters sent by the company states that +“I have decided to favour you because I am informed that +you need expert medical attention, and because I believe you +will tell your friends about my successful treatment after I have +cured you.” Of course, modesty in advancing the company’s +claims would be absurd, as diffidence in disparaging legitimate +practitioners would be out of place. A single extract may serve +as a specimen:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>My Treatment: Do not waste your time and money on worthless patent +medicines, on incompetent doctors, or on One remedy—no one remedy +<span class="pagenum" id="Page246">[246]</span>can possibly cure all cases or all diseases. The free treatment I will +send you will consist of as many kinds of medicine as I have found +advisable in cases like yours—remedies pure, effective, and successful—the +kind I have used in curing thousands of others. The fact that my +patients receive treatments especially prepared to suit their individual +cases is also largely responsible for my great success. Simply mail me +the enclosed Symptom Blank soon, and with your free remedies I will +send you one of my Books—not an advertising pamphlet, but a valuable +medical book entitled “The Ills of Humanity.”</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The “symptom blank” contains only a few questions, including, +“If other doctors have tried to cure you, what did they +call your disease or diseases?” and a general invitation to +“write me freely, in your own words, about your diseases, +symptoms, or pains”; and the following aid to diagnosis is +added:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>I am specially successful with the following diseases—simply make a +mark (X) side of any one of them you have:—</p> + +<table class="splittext"> + +<colgroup> +<col span="4" class="w25pc"> +</colgroup> + +<tr> +<td class="txt">Rheumatism</td> +<td class="txt">Piles</td> +<td class="txt">Lumbago</td> +<td class="txt">Lung Trouble</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="txt">Constipation</td> +<td class="txt">Dropsy</td> +<td class="txt">Neuralgia</td> +<td class="txt">Chronic Cough</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="txt">Diarrhœa</td> +<td class="txt">Pimples</td> +<td class="txt">Headache</td> +<td class="txt">Heart Disease</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="txt">Indigestion</td> +<td class="txt">Malaria</td> +<td class="txt">Dizziness</td> +<td class="txt">Female Trouble</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="txt">Nervousness</td> +<td class="txt">Eczema</td> +<td class="txt">Epilepsy</td> +<td class="txt">Kidney Trouble</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="txt">Torpid Liver</td> +<td class="txt">Asthma</td> +<td class="txt">Scrofula</td> +<td class="txt">Bladder Trouble</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="txt">Impure Blood</td> +<td class="txt">Catarrh</td> +<td class="txt">Prostatitis</td> +<td class="txt">Partial Paralysis</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The “diagnosis” and medicine sent in a given case are +described in Vol. I of <i>Secret Remedies</i>. In <i>Truth Cautionary +List</i>, under “Kidd, ‘Dr.’ James William,” appears the +following:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Advertises profusely all over the world, offering to cure all diseases, +and to send a sample of his treatment “free.” The remedies appear to +be absolute humbug, and are supplied in quantities at extravagant prices, +as much as £4 having been obtained from victims in some cases.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>These exposures, however, have not yet sufficed to drive the +company out of the field, as shown by the recent receipt of its +circulars.</p> + +<h3>AN “EYE AND EAR SPECIALIST.”</h3> + +<p>An advertisement which is to be found in very many newspapers +is that of “Mr. Thomas Ison, oculist and aurist, Ison’s +Eye and Ear Dispensary, Limited,” inviting consultations by +post for all diseases of eye and ear, which are stated to be cured +without operation. From one of the circulars sent it appears +that the advertiser also attends at certain times at given hotels +<span class="pagenum" id="Page247">[247]</span>in many of the northern towns, twenty of which are named, to +be consulted. An application for advice in a case of failing +sight brought a printed circular enclosing</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Printed form of questions to be answered appertaining to your case, +which please fill up and return to me by early post, together with cheque +or postal order for my fee, when suitable remedies will be at once forwarded +to you with full directions for their use.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>A written postscript stated:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>The charge is 10s. 6d. for special remedies and advice. My treatment +is very successful and there is no pain and no inconvenience attending +the use of the remedies.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The promise of no pain and no inconvenience, before any +information has been sent as to the nature of the trouble, seems +to imply an intention not to undertake any very serious treatment, +whatever the case might prove to be. The printed form +was as follows, the answers that were given being here printed in +italics:—</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="center blankbefore75 blankafter75"> +Established 1871.<br> +Ison’s<br> +Eye and Ear Dispensary, Limited,<br> +——————,<br> +Mr. Thomas Ison,<br> +Oculist and Aurist.<br> +A new method of treatment for the<br> +Rapid Cure of Diseases of the Eye and Ear<br> +without Operation.<br> +Attendance at Leeds every<br> +Tuesday and alternate Saturdays.<br> +Hours: 10 to 7<br> +Other days by appointment only.</p> + +<p>By this new system of treatment nine cases out of ten can be cured +without a personal interview or the patient leaving home or business, +thus saving time and expense. The postal arrangements are now such +that persons may be treated in the most distant parts without delay.</p> + +<p>The special remedies applicable to each case are forwarded in a portable +compass to any part of the world, with full directions.</p> + +<p>Each patient is requested to fill in, as correctly as possible, answers +to the following questions, and return the same by post:—</p> + +<p>1. State name, age, and full postal address.— —— ——, <i>34</i>, —— ——.</p> + +<p>2. State profession, business, or occupation.—<i>Clerk.</i></p> + +<p>3. Is the constitution strong or weak?—<i>Strong.</i></p> + +<p>4. How is the general health? Are the functions of the body performed +regularly? If not, state particulars.—<i>Good. Yes.</i></p> + +<p>5. State whether the right or left eye, or both, are affected.—<i>Right eye +only.</i></p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page248">[248]</span></p> + +<p>6. How long have the eyes or eye been affected?—<i>It has been steadily +coming on for about 3 months.</i></p> + +<p>7. Do you feel any pain? If so, where? At the back of the eyes, +across the forehead, in the temples, or over the eyebrows?—<i>Yes, at the +back of the eye.</i></p> + +<p>8. Do the pains occur in the daytime, or in the night?—<i>All the time, +but worse at night.</i></p> + +<p>9. Are the eyelids affected? If so, describe the symptoms.—<i>No.</i></p> + +<p>10. What part of the eye is affected? Is the white of the eye bloodshot +wholly or in part, greyish, or of any other unnatural colour? Are there +any spots on the eye, or discharge? If so, state particulars.—<i>The white +of the eye is greyish. No spots or discharge.</i></p> + +<p>11. Is the iris (the coloured ring which surrounds the pupil of the +eye), light or dark, or has its natural colour otherwise changed? If so, +state particulars.—<i>Light naturally, unchanged.</i></p> + +<p>12. Has the pupil of either eye increased or diminished in size, and +has it changed from its natural round form? If so, state particulars.—<i>No.</i></p> + +<p>13. Are you naturally near sighted or far sighted, or do you squint? +Do you use spectacles? If so, state whether with flat glasses, and of +what colour, and of what number, if you know.—<i>No.</i></p> + +<p>14. What treatment (if any) has been employed up to the present time, +and with what result? State, as near as possible, what has been done +or used. Send any prescription that may have been given or used; it +will be returned.—<i>None.</i></p> + +<p>15. Is your mother or father subject to any affection of the eyes?—<i>No.</i></p> + +<p>Any other observations which may suggest themselves, please write on +the other side.</p> + +<p>Note: It being our desire to bring each case to a successful issue as +early as possible, it is highly important that we should have the co-operation +of our patients in every particular, in order to assist us to this end.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>This was sent with the 10s. 6d. required, and the package +received in return contained a 2-drachm bottle of “Drops” and +a 1-ounce bottle of “Lotion,” and a dropping-tube of the kind +supplied wholesale at about 1s. 9d. per dozen, accompanied by +a letter which stated:—</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>I send herewith remedies to be used according to the printed instructions. +Please persevere and you will do well. Write me a day or two +before the remedies are finished, and I hope to have a good report.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>A printed sheet of instructions for use was sent, giving directions +for “The Drops,” “The Lotion,” “The Embrocation” +(for forehead and temples), and “The Ointment” (for edges of +eyelids). The two latter were crossed out; the others were:—</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>The Drops.—Two Drops to be dropped in the inner corner of the +affected eye (the eye to be well open) by the aid of the Drop Tube two +or three times a day.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page249">[249]</span></p> + +<p>The Lotion.—Linen cloths wet with the Lotion to be applied to the +Eyelids for a few minutes night and morning.</p> + +<p>Note.—Add the contents of the bottle to a bottle containing a half-pint +of cold water before use.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>Analysis showed the drops to consist of:—</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Boric acid</td> +<td class="intpart">2</td> +<td class="fracpart">¹⁄₂</td> +<td class="unit">grains</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Glycerine</td> +<td class="intpart">2</td> +<td rowspan="2"> </td> +<td class="ditto spaced2">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Water, to</td> +<td class="intpart">2</td> +<td class="unit">fluid drachms</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p>The lotion was found to consist of the Liquor Hamamelidis of +the <i>British Pharmacopœia</i>. In both cases careful search was +made for small quantities of other substances, but nothing else +was found. The cost of both together would be about one penny; +the bottles, dropper, and postage would amount to a few pence +more. It is not necessary to comment on the value of such +“treatment”; it is sufficient to contrast it with such statements +from the circulars sent as:—</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Many hopeless cases, given up by the medical profession as incurable, +have been brought under his special treatment, and, to the surprise of +their friends, they have recovered their sense of hearing or seeing after +having been deaf or blind for many years.... This is not accomplished +by means of painful operations, poisonous drugs, or compounds, but by +means of a special treatment he has introduced, as the result of thirty +years’ practice and the experience of his fore-elders.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<h3>A “HERBAL SPECIALIST.”</h3> + +<p>An advertisement which may be met with in many papers is +that of a Mr. J. George, medical herbalist, usually beginning +with a reference to “Lost strength restored,” offering a free +book which should be read by all men suffering from loss of +nerve power, etc., and concluding: “No Drugs or Minerals +used. Nature’s Remedies only. 30 years’ success. The Treatment +that Cures.” Application to the address given brought a +circular resembling a typewritten letter with the name and date +typed in, a “consultation form,” and two pamphlets. These +were both entitled <i>The Treatment that Cures Lost Health and +Strength</i>, one being marked “18th edition” and the other +“26th edition.” Both contain a number of testimonials, and +the one marked “18th edition” contains several dated 1911, +including one of March 2nd, 1911. As the pamphlets were +obtained in April, 1911, the interval between the 18th and 26th +editions would appear to have been a short one, but it seems to +have sufficed for a marvellous extension of the powers of the +Herbal Remedy. In the “18th edition” the following appears:</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page250">[250]</span></p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="center highline15">Special Notice.</p> + +<p>In asking you to read carefully the following testimonials (which are +taken from some hundreds that I have received during the last five years) +I am convinced that no greater proof can be produced of the Wonder-working +qualities of the Herbal Remedy in all cases of Lost Manhood and +Vitality, Nervous Debility, Spermatorrhœa, Premature Decay, all disorders +of the Nervous System, Urinary Organs, etc., etc. It is an undeniable +fact that the Herbal Remedy has given health and strength to +large numbers of men and women who have become old and debilitated +long before their time. If space would permit, I could print such statements +from men that have suffered (but whom I have cured), that would +convince the greatest doubter. Therefore, I ask you to read these testimonials +which are from living persons, daily in communication with me, +and think, if you are a sufferer from any of the symptoms mentioned give +the Herbal Remedy a trial, and avail yourself of a Safe, Sure, and Speedy +Cure.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>In the “26th edition” appears a similar paragraph, but the +list of disorders following the words “in all cases of” has been +changed to</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Asthma, Bronchitis, or any Chest or Lung Disease, Indigestion, Loss of +Appetite, Liver Trouble, Kidney or Water Complaint, Backache, Weakness, +Lassitude, Piles, Costiveness, Impurities of the Blood, Eruptions, +Blotches or Itching of the Skin, Anæmia, Dyspepsia, Female +Irregularities, or any complaint incidental to the Human System.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="noindent">It then continues: “It is an undeniable,” etc., as above.</p> + +<p>In the “18th edition” it is stated that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>In placing your case under the treatment of Mr. J. George, the Herbal +Expert, you are placing yourself into the care of a Practitioner that has +had upwards of 40 years’ experience in diseases of the urinary and generative +organs.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>In the 26th, however, we read that</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>In placing your case under the treatment of Mr. J. George, the Herbal +Expert, you are placing yourself into the care of a Practitioner that has +had upwards of 40 years’ experience in all diseases and ailments incidental +to the human system.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>As the advertisement referred to above, which appeared this +year, speaks of “30 years’ success,” it would appear that the +first ten out of the forty years were given to failure. But a +further inconsistency is supplied by the letter, in which it is +said that</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>The Remedy is one that I have used with the greatest success during the +past 20 years, previous to which it was used by a near relative (a well-known +Herbalist in the South of England with over 50 years’ extensive +practice).</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page251">[251]</span></p> + +<p>The price of the Herbal Remedy is, one month’s treatment, +8s. 6d.; two months’, 15s. 6d.; three months’, 21s.</p> + +<p>The “consultation form” was filled up with particulars of an +imaginary case, and sent with 8s. 6d. A box of 29 powders +was received in return; these had an average weight of 57 grains, +but single powders varied from 47 to 69 grains. The material +had a bitter taste; it contained about 25 per cent. of maize +flour, and the remainder consisted of vegetable tissue which +appeared to be derived from a bark, but did not agree in characters +with any drug in ordinary use. It showed no alkaloidal or +other principles by which it could be identified, and no other +substance was found to be present.</p> + +<hr class="chap"> + +<div class="chapter"> +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page252">[252]</span></p> +<h2 class="nobreak"><span class="chapno">CHAPTER XVIII.</span><br> +THE ADVERTISING OF PROPRIETARY MEDICINES.</h2> +</div> + +<div class="largersize"> + +<p>The methods of advertising adopted by the proprietors of +secret medicines are many and various. Some employ +big posters on hoardings, others—an increasing number—have +fringed the chief railway lines of the country with +great boards bearing the names of their nostrums; almost +all agree in making large use of newspapers, magazines, +and other periodicals, and of copious distribution, through +various agencies, of circulars and pamphlets. It is impossible +to read any of the popular newspapers or magazines +without seeing that the extent of such advertising is very +great. As a particular example, there lies before us a letter +recently sent to retailers by the makers of certain proprietary +medicines, in which it is stated that</p> +</div><!--largersize--> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>We have already largely increased our advertising, and over 800 newspapers +and magazines, embracing the whole of Great Britain, are regularly +carrying very effective advts.</p> + +<p>Ten million leaflets have been ordered to be insetted in all the principal +periodicals and magazines during the next three months.</p> + +<p>Booklets will be distributed from house to house throughout the Country +during the whole summer.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<div class="largersize"> + +<p>In the case of another nostrum, a single article, which +was before the courts a few years ago, it was proved in +evidence that in five years 83 million pamphlets had been +issued, and that, in the words of the judge, “they had +flooded the English-speaking world with their advertisements.”</p> + +<p>While the undifferentiated “man (and woman) in the +street” represents the millions of potential customers to +whom the nostrum maker wishes to appeal, both the number +<span class="pagenum" id="Page253">[253]</span>and nature of the advertisements of proprietary medicines +in any given periodical do not by any means depend only +on its circulation, and the operation of certain general rules +may easily be traced. There is an obvious relation between +the intelligence and education of the readers on the one +hand, and the extent to which they can be appealed to by +such advertisements as we are considering on the other, +these varying in inverse ratio. A striking illustration of +this may be seen by comparing the established reviews and +the monthly magazines, or the <i>Times</i> and some of the halfpenny +dailies. A reference to the current issues of the +<i>Fortnightly Review</i>, the <i>Quarterly Review</i>, and <i>Blackwood’s +Magazine</i> shows one advertisement of a proprietary +medicine in each of the first two, and none in the last; +while a single one of the illustrated magazines—the <i>Strand +Magazine</i>—provides twenty-six, and a Christmas number +of the same contained sixty-three. Similarly, on an +arbitrarily chosen day, the <i>Times</i> contained one such advertisement +occupying one column, while the <i>Daily News</i> contained +eight occupying four columns, the <i>Daily Mail</i> four +occupying three columns, the <i>Daily Express</i> eleven occupying +three and a-quarter columns, the <i>Evening News</i> four +occupying two-thirds of a column, and the <i>Star</i> five occupying +two columns. A close connection may easily be traced, +also, between the number of advertisements of patent +medicines and the character of the other advertisements, +the fact that a large amount of credulity on the part of the +readers can be counted on being as evident from the one +as the other. For example, advertisements of clairvoyants, +palmists, “astrologers” who offer to foretell a person’s +future from the date and hour of his birth, preparations for +removing superfluous hair, preventing blushing, or developing +the bust are frequent in those publications most +favoured by the proprietary medicine maker.</p> + +<p>Some of the Sunday papers which have very large circulations +show a very full share of advertisements of nostrums; +<span class="pagenum" id="Page254">[254]</span>an unselected copy of one of these which is before us contains +no less than forty-one such advertisements, occupying +nearly seven columns. Some of these papers have +gained a good deal of notoriety for the large amount of space +which they devote to reports of divorce suits and sensational +crimes, and it is not surprising therefore to find the majority +of proprietary nostrums advertised in them belonging to the +most undesirable classes. For example, out of the forty-one +just referred to, seventeen are of medicines for “female complaints,” +five for “lost manhood,” and two for diseases of +the urinary organs. Such advertisements are also abundant +in the low-class “comics”; one of these taken at hazard +contained eleven of female remedies, along with advertisements +of “rubber preventives,” “chic female pictures,” +and the like.</p> + +<p>“Religious” papers appear to be a fairly good hunting-ground +for the advertisers of nostrums. In one of these—a +weekly—we find eighteen advertisements of such preparations, +along with “galvanic rings for rheumatism,” “1s. for +£1,” “£2 weekly made by selling remnants,” “blushing +cured,” “superfluous hair removed,” etc.; and on another +page the announcement, “The prayers of the readers of this +journal are requested for the blessing of God upon those who +conduct it, and also upon the sermons and narratives which +are printed in it.” The smaller provincial papers are in a +good deal of favour for advertisements of secret medicines; +as a rule a few local products of this kind are advertised as +well as those of wider sale. A feature which is often to be +noticed in such papers is that advertisements are accepted +which from their headings and general appearance look like +news paragraphs, and they are sometimes so worded that an +ordinary reader might never suspect their real significance, +and no warning “[Advt.]” or other indication appears at +the end.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page255">[255]</span></p> + +<p>The feelings of disgust and annoyance which are aroused +when advertisements of this kind are met with in such +abundance in newspapers are of very little importance in +comparison with the far greater evil of the power over the +press which thus passes into the hands of the owners of the +various quack medicines. Certainly one of the most effective +ways of preventing people being imposed on by such +articles is to publish as widely as possible authentic information +as to their composition and real value; but in this task +little assistance is to be obtained from the lay press, on +account of the large pecuniary interest which such advertisements +give it in supporting the trade. The great concentration +of the ownership of newspapers, magazines, etc., +in the hands of a comparatively small number of companies, +is not without influence in the matter; for a newspaper +which does not obtain enough advertisements of medical +nostrums to give it an interest in supporting them is effectually +prevented from printing anything adverse to their +interests if it is the property of a firm or company owning +other papers which do receive such advertisements largely. +The importance of this consideration can be at once seen in +connexion with any proposals for legislation; if there should +appear any likelihood of an Act of Parliament being passed +which would interfere with the liberty to fleece the public +by means of secret remedies, the proprietors of such things +can practically order the greater part of the press of the +country to misrepresent what is proposed, and in every way +to stir up hostility to such a measure. This consideration +should not be lost sight of in judging of the proceedings or the +findings of the Parliamentary Committee of Inquiry into +the subject of “patent” medicines.</p> + +</div><!--largersize--> + +<hr class="chap"> + +<div class="chapter"> +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page256">[256]</span></p> +<h2 class="nobreak"><span class="chapno">CHAPTER XIX.</span><br> +THE “EXPERT” BEHIND THE PROPRIETARY +MEDICINE.</h2> +</div> + +<div class="largersize"> + +<p>The reports which appear in the preceding pages and the +first volume of this book, contrasting the composition of +various proprietary medicines with the claims made for +them, show that a favourite feature in the advertising of +many of those of most recent origin is a pretence of personal +attention to the details of each case by an expert. It is +sometimes professed that this attention is given by a qualified +medical practitioner, but whether alleged to be qualified +or not, the “expert” is usually said to have made a life-long +study of the particular complaint to be treated, and to +know far more about it than any doctor practising his +profession in the ordinary way. We have shown in many +cases the hollowness of the pretence of personal attention to +individual cases, and some of the evidence given at a recent +inquest at the Hammersmith Coroner’s Court throws light +on the kind of “expert” knowledge placed at the disposal +of those deluded by such advertisements. The case was one +in which the deceased had been taking the “Nelson Lloyd +Obesity Cure,” the results of the analysis of which were +published in <i>Secret Remedies</i>, Vol. I., p. 100. As will be +seen from the extracts from advertisements which are there +given, the appeal to sufferers from obesity is in the form of +a promise of personal treatment by “J. Nelson Lloyd,” +who says, “I am myself a member of a family many of +whom died prematurely after much mental and physical +suffering, arising from corpulence”; and “not only do I +<span class="pagenum" id="Page257">[257]</span>offer every client the full benefit of practically a life study +of the whole subject of corpulence, but that I <i>guarantee</i> to +effect a cure of every case I take up.” The value of this +“guarantee,” and the real facts as to the proprietor’s knowledge +of the disease he guarantees to cure, are shown by his +own evidence at the inquest referred to. The following is +from a report of the proceedings in the <i>West London +Observer</i>:—“Mr. Frank Derry, the proprietor of Nelson +Lloyd’s Obesity Cure, recalled by the coroner, said his +medical knowledge was confined to what he had learnt +twenty years ago as secretary to a medical man. He had +not been in the present business very long. The Coroner: +Since the last hearing I have had the advantage of reading +your book. Did you write it? It is signed ‘Nelson Lloyd.’—Witness: +Of course, Nelson Lloyd is an imaginary +person. The book was written for me. In your book you +say, ‘While studying for my degree?’—That represents the +man who wrote the prescription. He assisted in the business. +But you are said to be Nelson Lloyd?—Yes, it is a +joint effort. When was the book first published?—In the +spring of last year. In the book you say, ‘After I had +succeeded in curing myself I decided to take up the cure +of obesity instead of that of medical practitioner’?—That +represents the medical man who assisted me. Obesity, you +say, should only be treated by a specialist?—Yes. You also +say that you have made a life-study of it. Is that correct?—As +for me, no, but as for the medical man, yes. Do you +undertake the diagnosis of a case?—With the assistance of +a medical man. John Holmes, of Herne Hill, said he was +a qualified medical man in America, but not in this country. +As an employee of Mr. Derry he went over the consultation +forms and ordered the treatment.” The statement of the +proprietor, who is responsible for the letters and pamphlets +sent out concluding, “I am, yours truly, J. Nelson Lloyd” +(the signature being a facsimile of writing), and for the +personal form of the advertisements, that “<i>of course</i>, +<span class="pagenum" id="Page258">[258]</span>Nelson Lloyd is an imaginary person,” appears to show a +correct appreciation of the degree of truthfulness usually +pervading such a business.</p> + +<p>In connection with the above and with another nostrum +for obesity—A. Gordon Wallace’s “Treatment”—dealt +with in Chapter VII. of this volume, the following extract +from “‘Truth’ Cautionary List for 1912” is of interest:—</p> + +<p>“Wallace, A. Gordon.—A mythical ‘specialist’ in fat-producing +and fat-removing, originally the joint creation of +a Mr. Alfred John Warner and a Dr. J. H. Hart. Warner +was a medical student and chemist’s assistant, employed +by Nelson Lloyd. Dr. Hart, who was struck off the +register in 1898, was in the same employment. They +produced Wallace as a fat-remover, and transferred him +to the Rational Remedies Co., Limited. The company +went into liquidation, and the ‘specialist’ passed into +possession of the International Remedies Co., Limited, +which also went into liquidation. Warner became bankrupt, +and Gordon Wallace then became a fat-dispeller.”</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<hr class="chap"> + +<div class="chapter"> +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page259">[259]</span></p> +<h2 class="nobreak"><span class="chapno">CHAPTER XX.</span><br> +SOME ECHOES OF VOLUME I.</h2> +</div> + +<div class="largersize"> +<p>The first volume of this book, published in 1908, aroused +a very large amount of public interest. Its reception by +those primarily concerned was of varying character; two or +three incidents in this connection appear worth recording +here.</p> +</div><!--largersize--> + +<h3>SEIGEL’S SYRUP AND “SECRET REMEDIES.”</h3> + +<p>We have received from a correspondent particulars of letters +which have passed between the proprietors of Seigel’s Syrup +and himself. They are characterised by a direct terseness on +his side, and the opposite qualities on the other, that make them +somewhat entertaining reading. The correspondence opens with +a letter from the makers of this nostrum, which is self-explanatory:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p class="highline15">Dear Sir,</p> + +<p>We received to-day by post a wrapper which had enclosed one of our +Mother Seigel pamphlets addressed to you, and on which the sender had +copied the stupid so-called analysis of our Syrup from the publication +of the British Medical Association. You also copy the still more silly +averment, “cost of 3 fluid ounces ¹⁄₃ of 1d.,” and your own comment on +the whole is, “Nice profit at 2/6! What humbug”!!</p> + +<p>As you seem to be inclined to believe whatever you read, we desire to +say: That the pretended analysis is positively absurd; That it does not +remotely resemble the actual formula of our medicine, which really contains +over a dozen vegetable or herbal extracts; That it costs much more +than ¹⁄₃ of 1d. for 3 fluid ounces; That it is actually worth more than +it sells for as an effective curative remedy; That it is not a “humbug”; +That humbugs do not last forty years and still continue as business successes +in all parts of the world as our preparation does.</p> + +<p>From your penmanship we think it not unlikely that you are a medical +practitioner, in which event your animus becomes quite intelligible. If +<span class="pagenum" id="Page260">[260]</span>you are a layman, please consider fairly our assurance that the published +analysis (?) is merely an effort of the “Doctors’ Trust,” or “Medical +Practitioners’ Trade Union,” to injure successful rivals. Don’t let them +humbug <span class="smcap">You</span>!</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>It is of course quite possible that the preparation in question +“really contains over a dozen vegetable or herbal extracts,” +even though the statement follows the phrase “as you seem to +be inclined to believe whatever you read.” There is nothing +in the report of the analysis, as set forth in <i>Secret Remedies</i>, to +the contrary; but in that case the dozen extracts must have +been present in too small quantity to be recognizable by chemical +or physical tests, which reveal most active drugs even in traces. +In the introduction to that volume it is pointed out that vegetable +extracts which contain no active principle cannot always be +recognized by analysis, and a similar caution is repeated several +times; but to any one acquainted with the nature of drugs it is +obvious that such limitation of the powers of analysis is of little +moment, since active drugs can almost always be recognized with +certainty.</p> + +<p>The reply to the above letter was the remark that:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>The sole question is whether the public is more likely to be humbugged +by the British Medical Association, which is certainly a responsible body +of experts, or by the unknown vendors of a quack medicine;</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="noindent">And the writer adds:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>Most of these abominations hail from America. Did yours originate +there?</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The makers reply to this in a long letter containing various +assertions about their article in nine numbered paragraphs, +although they commence by saying:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>We have no desire to continue a correspondence which would probably +not be accepted in a fair and reasonable spirit on your side.</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p class="noindent">And they omit to answer the one question that was asked as +to the country of origin of the syrup. In acknowledging this +letter, the recipient says:</p> + +<div class="smallersize"> + +<p>As regards your letter generally, if the British Medical Association +have issued false statements damaging to you and to your concoction, +your remedy is patent.</p> + +<p>If you, and all the other quack medicine dealers, specified in the 184 +pages of <i>Secret Remedies</i>, and in the pages of <i>Truth Cautionary List</i>, +choose to “take it lying down,” the fair presumption is that the statements +are true.</p> + +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The makers do not appear to have found a further reply, and +so the correspondence closes.</p> + +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page261">[261]</span></p> + +<h3>THE VARIABLE COMPOSITION OF SECRET +REMEDIES.</h3> + +<p>A correspondent of the <i>Pharmaceutical Journal</i>, in a letter +in the issue of January 8th, 1910, draws attention to the differences +between the formulae of certain proprietary medicines +published in <i>Secret Remedies</i>, Vol. I., as the results of analysis, +and those printed on the labels of the medicines when these are +imported into France or Italy. The first instance taken is “Dr. +Williams’s Pink Pills”; the formula for these given in <i>Secret +Remedies</i> is:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Exsiccated sulphate of iron</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.75</td> +<td class="unit">grain</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Potassium carbonate, anhydrous</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.66</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Magnesia</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.09</td> +<td class="ditto">„</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Powdered liquorice</td> +<td class="intpart">1</td> +<td class="fracpart">.4</td> +<td class="unit">grains</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sugar</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.2</td> +<td class="unit">grain</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td colspan="4" class="bottomline">In one pill.</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<p class="noindent">while according to the writer of the letter it is given on the +label as:</p> + +<table class="analysis"> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Pot. carb.</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.07</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Ferri sulph.</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.80</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Mangan. oxid. puriss.</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.02</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Nuraemin</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.05</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Sacchar</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.03</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Ext. gentian</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.025</td> +</tr> + +<tr> +<td class="text">Aloes</td> +<td class="intpart">0</td> +<td class="fracpart">.009</td> +</tr> + +</table> + +<div class="smallersize"> +<p>[The quantities apparently do not indicate grains, but the fractional +parts of the various ingredients in 1 part of the pill.]</p> +</div><!--smallersize--> + +<p>The <i>Pharmaceutical Journal’s</i> correspondent proceeds to +assume, without further evidence, that the formula published +in <i>Secret Remedies</i> is wrong. A little familiarity with the composition +of proprietary remedies and the ways of their makers +would, however, have taught him that a particular composition +in one country or at one time gives not the slightest guarantee +of the same composition at another time or in another country. +When the two formulae above are compared, it is at once clear +that no competent analyst could have obtained from pills having +the composition of the second formula results pointing to the +first. To begin with, the potassium carbonate of the second is +only a fraction of what was found by our analyst, who converted +it into sulphate in the usual way, after removal of all other +ingredients, and weighed the pure potassium sulphate; there +is no loophole for error here. Again, powdered liquorice was +<span class="pagenum" id="Page262">[262]</span>found to constitute nearly half the pill, but none is shown +in the other formula; it can hardly have been omitted as being +unimportant excipient, since it is thought worth while to +mention sugar present in only one-thirtieth of the quantity; +the fibre of liquorice makes it one of the easiest drugs to recognise +with certainty, and none of the ingredients mentioned +in the other formula contains any fibre or vegetable tissue at all. +These two instances suffice to show that the formulae refer to +pills having very different composition, and the other differences +are equally incapable of explanation in any other way. The +comparison serves to emphasise the obvious fact that the only +formula that is of value for showing what is being sold under +a given name in a particular country is that obtained by expert +examination of the article purchased there in the ordinary way. +The second instance which is referred to in the letter in question +is that of Laville’s Antigout Remedies. In <i>Secret Remedies</i>, Vol. +I., the results of qualitative analyses of these by Dr. Zernik are +quoted, and the composition thus given is now shown to differ +from what is printed on the label. The statement in <i>Secret +Remedies</i> is given on the authority of Dr. Zernik, and we are, +of course, unable to answer for his methods of work; but it +appears almost certain that remarks similar to the above would +apply here also. Thus, Zernik found the pilules to contain +guaiacum resin, whereas this is not one of the admitted constituents; +it is well known that guaiacum resin can be identified +with much greater certainty than most resins, and it is extremely +unlikely that any mistake was made about it by so experienced +an analyst as Dr. Zernik. The correspondent of the <i>Pharmaceutical +Journal</i> adds that “the natural conclusion is a strong +doubt as to the accuracy of the other formulae given in the +book. Its pages form very interesting reading, but with errors +such as these, which could easily have been avoided, the book +hardly reflects credit on its authors or any pharmacist who +uses it as a book of reference.” If pharmacists are as little +able to criticise the claims of the makers of proprietary +articles as the writer of this letter appears to be, it is perhaps +not surprising that they are often willing to play the part they +do in distributing them. Fortunately, evidence is not lacking +that many of them regard the quack medicine evil in a very +different manner, and welcome such exposures as we have given +of many of these preparations. The facts adduced in the letter +show very plainly how desirable it is that in this country, as +in France and Italy, the law should require the composition +<span class="pagenum" id="Page263">[263]</span>of such medicines to be stated on the label. The public could +then judge to some extent whether they were receiving fair value +for money, and the proprietors could be brought to book if +analysis proved that they had departed from the declared +formula.</p> + +<h3>THE VARIABLE DOSAGE OF SECRET REMEDIES.</h3> + +<p>Among the proprietary medicines the composition of which, +as revealed by analysis, has been published in the first volume +are various powders, cachets, pills, and tablets, and in these +cases the individual weights of different doses have usually been +recorded; great variation in the quantity to be taken in one dose +has sometimes been shown. Thus in the case of powders sold for +the cure of drunkenness powders having an average weight of +1¹⁄₂ grains varied individually from ¹⁄₃ grain to 3 grains, and in +another inebriety “cure,” variations from 2.9 to 6 grains were +found among ten powders of average weight 4.2 grains. It +would appear from such cases that the quantity put into each +was merely “a little,” and could not have been either weighed +or measured. One of these powders contained acetanilide and +bromide, and such variations might be far from negligible in +their consequences. In the case of headache powders, most of +which consisted chiefly of acetanilide, some of the variations +were very serious, the heaviest and lightest powders in a packet +of ten differing in one preparation by as much as 6 grains; the +average weight of these was 10¹⁄₂ grains, and acetanilide formed +50 per cent. of the constituents. Some ingenuity is shown by +one of the makers of headache powders whose article was among +those examined, in an advertisement which has appeared rather +prominently in some of the pharmaceutical papers. In this +advertisement attention is drawn to the “fact” that our +analyses showed smaller variations in the weights of the powders +in question than in any other; since, however, the lightest and +heaviest powders in a packet of ten of average weight 6 grains +differed by 0.7 grain (practically 12 per cent.) there seems to be +no very good grounds for this self-congratulation on accuracy. +And the “fact” itself belongs to the class described by Josh +Billings as “facts which are not so,” as in one of the powders +analysed—the only other one which consisted of acetanilide only—the +extreme variation found was only 0.2 grain; this appears +to be referred to in the advertisement as a variation of 2.0 grains. +<span class="pagenum" id="Page264">[264]</span>The advertisement states “it is not possible in the ordinary +course of dispensing business to weigh powders more accurately +than ‘Daisy’ powders are dispensed,” and, as to this, a pharmaceutical +correspondent remarks that the statement “is an insult +to the pharmacists to whom it is addressed. A dispenser who +could not weigh to within 0.7 grain would not remain long in +any good pharmacy.” It is not unimportant to recollect, +moreover, that it was shown in evidence at an inquest some years +ago that extremely wide variations existed in the weights of +specimens taken from one and the same packet of the very +powders in question, and whatever greater accuracy may exist +in the weighing of these powders to-day would seem therefore +only to have been secured after attention had been drawn in this +forcible way to the dangerous manner in which variable quantities +of acetanilide were being distributed as doses.</p> + +<hr class="chap"> + +<div class="chapter"> +<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page265">[265]</span></p> +<h2 class="nobreak"><span class="gesp2">INDEX</span><br> +<span class="smcap ws1">To First and Second Series.</span></h2> +</div> + +<p>The contents of both Volumes I. and II. are here indexed together. +The Roman numerals denote the volume, and the figures denote the +page.</p> + +<ul class="index"> + +<li><span class="righttext">PAGE</span></li> + +<li>Absolute System of Medicine, An, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page210">210</a></span></li> + +<li>Absorbit Reducing Paste, <span class="righttext">i. 87</span></li> + +<li>Absorptive Pile Treatment, Van Vleck’s, <span class="righttext">i. 154</span></li> + +<li id="Ind2">Acetanilid (antifebrin), <span class="righttext">i. 2, 5, 6, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 58, 165; ii. <a href="#Page263">263</a>, <a href="#Page264">264</a></span></li> + +<li>Acetic acid, <span class="righttext">i. 16, 78; ii. <a href="#Page7">7</a>, <a href="#Page23">23</a>, <a href="#Page182">182</a>, <a href="#Page236">236</a></span></li> + +<li>Acetic ether, <span class="righttext">i. 16; ii. <a href="#Page86">86</a></span></li> + +<li>Acetosalic acid (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind1">Acetyl-salicylic acid</a>).</li> + +<li id="Ind1">Acetyl-salicylic acid, <span class="righttext">i. 56, 59, 60, 64, 77, 81; ii. <a href="#Page4">4</a>, <a href="#Page19">19</a></span></li> + +<li>Aconite, Tincture of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page214">214</a></span></li> + +<li><i>Aconitum napellus</i>, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page213">213</a></span></li> + +<li>Act, Stamp, <span class="righttext">i. 182</span></li> + +<li>Advertising of Proprietary Medicines, The, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page252">252</a></span></li> + +<li>Aethylenimin, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page28">28</a></span></li> + +<li>Agar-agar, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page238">238</a></span></li> + +<li>Albumen, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page65">65</a>, <a href="#Page127">127</a></span></li> + +<li>Alcohol, <span class="righttext">i. 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; ii. <a href="#Page7">7</a>, <a href="#Page10">10</a>, <a href="#Page11">11</a>, <a href="#Page23">23</a>, <a href="#Page33">33</a>, <a href="#Page46">46</a>, <a href="#Page47">47</a>, <a href="#Page63">63</a>, <a href="#Page76">76</a>, <a href="#Page80">80</a>, <a href="#Page110">110</a>, <a href="#Page111">111</a>, <a href="#Page141">141</a>, <a href="#Page149">149</a>, <a href="#Page150">150</a>, <a href="#Page159">159</a>, <a href="#Page162">162</a>, <a href="#Page164">164</a>, <a href="#Page183">183</a>, <a href="#Page194">194</a>, <a href="#Page197">197</a>, <a href="#Page198">198</a>, <a href="#Page200">200</a>, <a href="#Page203">203</a>, <a href="#Page208">208</a>, <a href="#Page217">217</a>, <a href="#Page218">218</a>, <a href="#Page220">220</a>, <a href="#Page223">223</a>, <a href="#Page224">224</a>, <a href="#Page225">225</a></span></li> + +<li id="Ind14">Alcoholism, Medicines for, <span class="righttext">i. 162; ii. <a href="#Page128">128</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Alcola, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page137">137</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Antidipso, <span class="righttext">i. 165</span></li> +<li class="level1">Coza Powder, <span class="righttext">i. 162</span></li> +<li class="level1">Dipsocure, <span class="righttext">i. 164</span></li> +<li class="level1">Drug Cures, some other, <span class="righttext">i. 168</span></li> +<li class="level1">Normyl Cure, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page140">140</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Teetolia Treatment, <span class="righttext">i. 166</span></li> +<li class="level1">Temperancia Treatment, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page130">130</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Woods’ Treatment, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page133">133</a></span></li> + +<li>Alcola, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page137">137</a></span></li> + +<li>Allan’s Anti-fat, <span class="righttext">i. 92</span></li> + +<li>Allspice, Oil of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page10">10</a>, <a href="#Page12">12</a></span></li> + +<li>Almond, essential oil of, <span class="righttext">i. 35; ii. <a href="#Page151">151</a></span></li> + +<li>Almond, extract of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page28">28</a></span></li> + +<li>Almond oil, <span class="righttext">i. 135, 138</span></li> + +<li>Aloes, <span class="righttext">i. 48, 49, 55, 104, 175, 176, 177, 180; ii. <a href="#Page5">5</a>, <a href="#Page23">23</a>, <a href="#Page95">95</a>, <a href="#Page96">96</a>, <a href="#Page97">97</a>, <a href="#Page98">98</a>, <a href="#Page99">99</a>, <a href="#Page100">100</a>, <a href="#Page101">101</a>, <a href="#Page117">117</a>, <a href="#Page192">192</a>, <a href="#Page195">195</a>, <a href="#Page196">196</a>, <a href="#Page199">199</a>, <a href="#Page204">204</a>, <a href="#Page205">205</a>, <a href="#Page240">240</a></span></li> + +<li>Aloes and iron pill, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page195">195</a>, <a href="#Page204">204</a>, <a href="#Page205">205</a></span></li> + +<li>Aloes, decoction of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page193">193</a>, <a href="#Page198">198</a>, <a href="#Page199">199</a></span></li> + +<li>Aloin, <span class="righttext">i. 69, 109, 110, 161; ii. <a href="#Page85">85</a>, <a href="#Page96">96</a>, <a href="#Page101">101</a>, <a href="#Page144">144</a>, <a href="#Page204">204</a></span></li> + +<li>Alum, <span class="righttext">i. 51, 120</span></li> + +<li>Aluminium oleate, <span class="righttext">i. 120</span></li> + +<li>Aluminium sulphate, <span class="righttext">i. 145</span></li> + +<li>Amber, oil of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page6">6</a>, <a href="#Page23">23</a></span></li> + +<li id="Ind10">Amenorrhœa, Medicines for, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page184">184</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Blak Thyrol Female Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page206">206</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Blanchard’s Apiol and Steel Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page205">205</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Davis’s Female Mixture, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page197">197</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Davis’s Female Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page197">197</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Dodd’s Corrective<span class="pagenum" id="Page266">[266]</span>, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page198">198</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Dodd’s Female Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page198">198</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Dumas’s Paris Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page186">186</a>, <a href="#Page192">192</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Fournier’s Hygenique Mixture, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page199">199</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Gautieur’s Female Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page204">204</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Grey’s (Nurse) Tablets, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page190">190</a>, <a href="#Page195">195</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Hammond’s (Nurse) Remedies, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page203">203</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Hooper’s Female Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page196">196</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Horton’s Benedict Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page205">205</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Irristum, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page189">189</a>, <a href="#Page194">194</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">I.R.S. Tablets, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page201">201</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Jefferson Dodd’s Corrective, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page198">198</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Jefferson Dodd’s Female Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page198">198</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Kearsley’s Welch’s Female Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page196">196</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Lilly’s (Nurse) Female Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page206">206</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Mann’s (Nurse) Remedy, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page191">191</a>, <a href="#Page195">195</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Martin’s Apiol and Steel Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page199">199</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Monaid Tablets, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page200">200</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Patterson’s Female Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page204">204</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Pinkham’s (Mrs.) Vegetable Compound, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page190">190</a>, <a href="#Page194">194</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Powell’s (Nurse) Corrective Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page193">193</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Powell’s (Nurse) Mixture, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page193">193</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Powell’s (Nurse) Popular Pellets, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page192">192</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Powell’s (Nurse) Remedies, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page187">187</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Sanol Cones, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page200">200</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Shaffer-Bennyon’s (Mrs.) Remedy, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page202">202</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Stafford-Brookes’ (Mrs.) Pelloids, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page202">202</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Towle’s Pennyroyal and Steel Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page195">195</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Welch’s (Widow) Female Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page196">196</a></span></li> + +<li>American Soothing Syrup, Johnson’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page151">151</a></span></li> + +<li>Ammonia, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page7">7</a>, <a href="#Page8">8</a>, <a href="#Page25">25</a>, <a href="#Page35">35</a>, <a href="#Page63">63</a>, <a href="#Page194">194</a>, <a href="#Page224">224</a></span></li> + +<li>Ammoniacum, <span class="righttext">i. 18; ii. <a href="#Page106">106</a></span></li> + +<li>Ammoniated mercury, <span class="righttext">i. 113, 143, 144</span></li> + +<li>Ammonium bromide, <span class="righttext">i. 126, 128, 129; ii. <a href="#Page159">159</a>, <a href="#Page162">162</a>, <a href="#Page164">164</a></span></li> + +<li>Ammonium carbonate, <span class="righttext">i. 125</span></li> + +<li>Ammonium chloride, <span class="righttext">i. 19; ii. <a href="#Page181">181</a></span></li> + +<li>Ammonium citrate, <span class="righttext">i. 87</span></li> + +<li>Ammonium iodatum salicyl. solubl., <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page28">28</a></span></li> + +<li>Ammonium iodide, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page28">28</a></span></li> + +<li>Ammonium salicylate, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page28">28</a>, <a href="#Page238">238</a></span></li> + +<li>Ammonium spiric. puriss, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page238">238</a></span></li> + +<li>Ammonium sulpho-guaiacolate, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page237">237</a></span></li> + +<li>Animal extract, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page63">63</a>, <a href="#Page65">65</a></span></li> + +<li>Aniseed, oil of, <span class="righttext">i. 12, 14; ii. <a href="#Page74">74</a>, <a href="#Page105">105</a>, <a href="#Page149">149</a>, <a href="#Page150">150</a>, <a href="#Page151">151</a>, <a href="#Page162">162</a>, <a href="#Page164">164</a></span></li> + +<li>Aniseed, powdered, <span class="righttext">i. 18</span></li> + +<li>Aniseed, Powell’s Balsam of, <span class="righttext">i. 14</span></li> + +<li>Aniseed water, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page234">234</a></span></li> + +<li>Annatto, <span class="righttext">ii. 25</span></li> + +<li>Antexema, <span class="righttext">i. 105</span></li> + +<li>Anthylla, <span class="righttext">i. 104</span></li> + +<li>Anti-cataract Mixture, Pomies’, <span class="righttext">i. 146</span></li> + +<li>Anti-catarrh, Birley’s, <span class="righttext">i. 7</span></li> + +<li>Anticelta Tablets, <span class="righttext">i. 163</span></li> + +<li>Anti-corpulent Preparation, Russell’s, <span class="righttext">i. 87</span></li> + +<li>Antidipso, <span class="righttext">i. 165</span></li> + +<li>Anti-epileptic Medicine, Taylor’s, <span class="righttext">i. 126</span></li> + +<li>Anti-épileptique (Uten), <span class="righttext">i. 129</span></li> + +<li>Anti-fat, Allan’s, <span class="righttext">i. 92</span></li> + +<li>Antifebrin (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind2">Acetanilid</a>)</li> + +<li>Antigout soap, <span class="righttext">i. 64</span></li> + +<li>Antimony oxide, <span class="righttext">i. 132</span></li> + +<li>Antineurasthin, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page68">68</a></span></li> + +<li>Antipon, <span class="righttext">i. 86</span></li> + +<li>Antipyrin, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page238">238</a>, <a href="#Page239">239</a></span></li> + +<li>Anti-rheumatic Pearls, Baring-Gould’s, <span class="righttext">i. 55</span></li> + +<li>Anti-stout Pills, Vincent’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page116">116</a></span></li> + +<li>Anturic Bath Salts, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page26">26</a></span></li> + +<li>Apiol, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page195">195</a>, <a href="#Page199">199</a>, <a href="#Page204">204</a>, <a href="#Page205">205</a></span></li> + +<li>Apiol and Steel Pills, Blanchard’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page205">205</a></span></li> + +<li>Apiol and Steel Pills, Martin’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page199">199</a></span></li> + +<li>Appendix, <span class="righttext">i. 182</span></li> + +<li><i>Arnica montana</i>, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page219">219</a></span></li> + +<li>Arnica, Tincture of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page220">220</a></span></li> + +<li>Asafœtida, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page52">52</a>, <a href="#Page145">145</a></span></li> + +<li>Aspirin (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind1">acetyl-salicylic acid</a>).</li> + +<li>Assmann’s Whooping Cough Remedy, <span class="righttext">i. 19</span></li> + +<li>Atkinson and Barker’s Infants’ Preservative, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page150">150</a></span></li> + +<li>Atomising Fluid, Colman’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page84">84</a></span></li> + +<li>Atropine, <span class="righttext">i. 168</span></li> + +<li>Augenwol, <span class="righttext">i. 146</span></li> + +<li>Automors, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page239">239</a></span></li> + +<li class="newletter">“Bacillentod” (Pohl’s Family Tea)<span class="pagenum" id="Page267">[267]</span>, <span class="righttext">i. 36</span></li> + +<li>Baldness, Medicines for (internal), <span class="righttext">i. 114</span></li> +<li class="level1">Capsulated Hæmoglobin Ovals, <span class="righttext">i. 115</span></li> +<li class="level1">Capsuloids, <span class="righttext">i. 114</span></li> +<li class="level1">Hæmoglobin Capsules, <span class="righttext">i. 116</span></li> + +<li>Balm, Bowden’s Indian, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page23">23</a></span></li> + +<li>Balsam, Bengué’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page19">19</a></span></li> + +<li>Balsam of Peru, <span class="righttext">i. 27, 113, 115; ii. <a href="#Page25">25</a></span></li> + +<li>Balsam of tolu, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page9">9</a></span></li> + +<li>Balsamic Cough Mixture, Crosby’s, <span class="righttext">i. 15</span></li> + +<li>Balsamic Elixir, Congreve’s, <span class="righttext">i. 26</span></li> + +<li>Baring-Gould’s Anti-rheumatic Pearls, <span class="righttext">i. 55</span></li> + +<li>Barium Sulphate, <span class="righttext">i. 122</span></li> + +<li>Barkowski’s Irrigal Tablets, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page239">239</a></span></li> + +<li>Barley, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page23">23</a></span></li> + +<li>Bath Salts, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page25">25</a></span></li> + +<li>Bauch’s Busennährcreme, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page237">237</a></span></li> + +<li>Beans, Bile, <span class="righttext">i. 77; ii. <a href="#Page96">96</a></span></li> + +<li>Bearberry, <span class="righttext">i. 104</span></li> + +<li>Beecham’s Cough Pills, <span class="righttext">i. 18</span></li> + +<li>Beecham’s Pills, <span class="righttext">i. 175</span></li> + +<li>Beeswax, <span class="righttext">i. 58, 88, 120, 140, 143, 149, 151, 181; ii. <a href="#Page35">35</a>, <a href="#Page181">181</a>, <a href="#Page182">182</a></span></li> + +<li>Bell’s Fairy Cure, <span class="righttext">i. 39</span></li> + +<li>Benedict Pills, Horton’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page205">205</a></span></li> + +<li>Bengué’s Balsam, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page19">19</a></span></li> + +<li>Benzoate, Sodium, <span class="righttext">i. 180; ii. <a href="#Page177">177</a>, <a href="#Page237">237</a></span></li> + +<li>Benzoin, compound tincture of, <span class="righttext">i. 15, 27</span></li> + +<li>Berberine, <span class="righttext">i. 80; ii. <a href="#Page217">217</a></span></li> + +<li>Berendorf’s Powder for Epilepsy, <span class="righttext">i. 129</span></li> + +<li>Betony, <span class="righttext">i. 63</span></li> + +<li>Bile Beans, <span class="righttext">i. 77; ii. <a href="#Page96">96</a></span></li> + +<li>Birch tar, oil of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page43">43</a></span></li> + +<li>Birley’s Anti-catarrh, <span class="righttext">i. 7</span></li> + +<li>Bishop’s Gout Varalettes, <span class="righttext">i. 62</span></li> + +<li><i>Blackwood’s Magazine</i>, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page253">253</a></span></li> + +<li id="Ind11">Bladderwrack, <span class="righttext">i. 83, 84, 89, 91, 92, 93, 94, 100, 102, 103, 104; ii. <a href="#Page112">112</a>, <a href="#Page116">116</a>, <a href="#Page117">117</a>, <a href="#Page119">119</a>, <a href="#Page121">121</a>, <a href="#Page122">122</a>, <a href="#Page123">123</a>, <a href="#Page125">125</a></span></li> + +<li>Blair’s Gout and Rheumatic Pills, <span class="righttext">i. 50</span></li> + +<li>Blak Thyrol Female Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page206">206</a></span></li> + +<li>Blanchard’s Apiol and Steel Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page205">205</a></span></li> + +<li>Blaud’s Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page145">145</a>, <a href="#Page195">195</a>, <a href="#Page203">203</a></span></li> + +<li>Blood Cure, Munyon’s, <span class="righttext">i. 44</span></li> + +<li>Blood Mixture, Clarke’s, <span class="righttext">i. 42</span></li> + +<li>Blood Pills, Harvey’s, <span class="righttext">i. 44</span></li> + +<li>Blood Pills, Hughes’s, <span class="righttext">i. 48</span></li> + +<li>Blood Purifiers, <span class="righttext">i. 42</span></li> +<li class="level1">Clarke’s Blood Mixture, <span class="righttext">i. 42</span></li> +<li class="level1">Harvey’s Pills, <span class="righttext">i. 44</span></li> +<li class="level1">Hood’s Compound Extract of Sarsaparilla, <span class="righttext">i. 46</span></li> +<li class="level1">Hughes’s Pills, <span class="righttext">i. 48</span></li> +<li class="level1">Munyon’s Cure, <span class="righttext">i. 44</span></li> +<li class="level1">Phelps Brown’s Purifier, <span class="righttext">i. 46</span></li> +<li class="level1">Stevens’s Consumption Cure, <span class="righttext">i. 31</span></li> +<li class="level1">Townsend’s American Sarsaparilla, <span class="righttext">i. 43</span></li> + +<li>Blue dye, <span class="righttext">i. 118, 119; ii. <a href="#Page145">145</a></span></li> + +<li>Borax, <span class="righttext">i. 7, 129, 138; ii. <a href="#Page40">40</a>, <a href="#Page85">85</a>, <a href="#Page223">223</a>, <a href="#Page224">224</a>, <a href="#Page225">225</a></span></li> + +<li>Boric acid, <span class="righttext">i. 106, 109, 113; ii. <a href="#Page39">39</a>, <a href="#Page40">40</a>, <a href="#Page42">42</a>, <a href="#Page125">125</a>, <a href="#Page136">136</a>, <a href="#Page139">139</a>, <a href="#Page202">202</a>, <a href="#Page203">203</a>, <a href="#Page237">237</a>, <a href="#Page249">249</a></span></li> + +<li>Bostock’s Eye Ointment, <span class="righttext">i. 143</span></li> + +<li>Bowden’s Indian Balm, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page23">23</a></span></li> + +<li>Box’s Golden Fire, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page20">20</a></span></li> + +<li>Box’s Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page20">20</a></span></li> + +<li>Brandy, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page28">28</a></span></li> + +<li>Brixa Tablets, <span class="righttext">i. 163</span></li> + +<li>Bromocarpine, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page164">164</a></span></li> + +<li>Brompton Consumption and Cough Specific, <span class="righttext">i. 27</span></li> + +<li>Brown’s Bronchial Troches, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page74">74</a></span></li> + +<li>Brown-Séquard, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page62">62</a>, <a href="#Page63">63</a>, <a href="#Page66">66</a></span></li> + +<li>Brown’s Vervain Restorative Assimilant, O. Phelps, <span class="righttext">i. 127</span></li> + +<li>Brucine, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page145">145</a></span></li> + +<li>Bryony, <span class="righttext">i. 63</span></li> + +<li>Buckthorn, <span class="righttext">i. 104</span></li> + +<li>Buer’s Mul’la, <span class="righttext">i. 149</span></li> + +<li>Buer’s Piles Cure, <span class="righttext">i. 149</span></li> + +<li>Burdock, <span class="righttext">i. 45</span></li> + +<li>Burgess’s Lion Ointment, <span class="righttext">i. 180</span></li> + +<li>Burgess’s Lion Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page101">101</a></span></li> + +<li>Busennährcreme, Bauch’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page237">237</a></span></li> + +<li>Büsteria, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page238">238</a></span></li> + +<li class="newletter">Cade, oil of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page42">42</a>, <a href="#Page43">43</a></span></li> + +<li>Cadum, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page41">41</a></span></li> + +<li>Caffeine, <span class="righttext">i. 38, 39; ii. <a href="#Page4">4</a>, <a href="#Page139">139</a>, <a href="#Page218">218</a>, <a href="#Page221">221</a>, <a href="#Page233">233</a></span></li> + +<li>Calcium carbonate, <span class="righttext">i. 6, 109; ii. <a href="#Page39">39</a>, <a href="#Page145">145</a>, <a href="#Page176">176</a></span></li> + +<li>Calcium chloride, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page175">175</a></span></li> + +<li>Calcium glycerophosphate, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page70">70</a></span></li> + +<li>Calcium hypophosphite, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page55">55</a>, <a href="#Page58">58</a>, <a href="#Page61">61</a>, <a href="#Page127">127</a></span></li> + +<li>Calcium phosphate<span class="pagenum" id="Page268">[268]</span>, <span class="righttext">i. 132</span></li> + +<li>Calcium sulphate, <span class="righttext">i. 28, 109; ii. <a href="#Page39">39</a>, <a href="#Page41">41</a>, <a href="#Page139">139</a></span></li> + +<li>Calomel, <span class="righttext">i. 113, 131, 132, 148, 151</span></li> + +<li>Camomile, <span class="righttext">i. 63; ii. <a href="#Page100">100</a></span></li> + +<li>Camphor, <span class="righttext">i. 2, 5, 65, 135, 173; ii. <a href="#Page11">11</a></span></li> + +<li>Camphor, oil of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page10">10</a>, <a href="#Page23">23</a>, <a href="#Page25">25</a>, <a href="#Page82">82</a></span></li> + +<li>Cancer Remedies, <span class="righttext">i. 117</span></li> +<li class="level1">Cardigan Cancer Curers, <span class="righttext">i. 121</span></li> +<li class="level1">Caustics and Cancer, <span class="righttext">i. 122</span></li> +<li class="level1">Crimson Cross Special Ointment, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page181">181</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Wallace’s Specific No. II., <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page215">215</a></span></li> + +<li>Canella, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page192">192</a>, <a href="#Page193">193</a>, <a href="#Page196">196</a></span></li> + +<li>Canexia preparations, <span class="righttext">i. 163</span></li> + +<li>Capsicum, <span class="righttext">i. 14, 35, 69, 156, 160, 176, 177; ii. <a href="#Page11">11</a>, <a href="#Page19">19</a>, <a href="#Page23">23</a>, <a href="#Page76">76</a>, <a href="#Page94">94</a>, <a href="#Page98">98</a>, <a href="#Page100">100</a>, <a href="#Page101">101</a>, <a href="#Page108">108</a>, <a href="#Page196">196</a>, <a href="#Page200">200</a>, <a href="#Page205">205</a></span></li> + +<li>Capsulated Hæmoglobin Ovals, <span class="righttext">i. 115</span></li> + +<li>Capsuloids, <span class="righttext">i. 114</span></li> + +<li>Caraway, oil of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page149">149</a>, <a href="#Page150">150</a>, <a href="#Page151">151</a>, <a href="#Page240">240</a></span></li> + +<li>Carbolic acid (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind3">Phenol</a>)</li> + +<li>Cardamom, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page96">96</a>, <a href="#Page195">195</a>, <a href="#Page198">198</a>, <a href="#Page199">199</a>, <a href="#Page204">204</a>, <a href="#Page205">205</a></span></li> + +<li>Cardigan Cancer Curers, <span class="righttext">i. 121</span></li> + +<li>Carmine, <span class="righttext">i. 88</span></li> + +<li>Carter’s Little Liver Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page96">96</a></span></li> + +<li>Carvone, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page147">147</a></span></li> + +<li>Cascara sagrada, <span class="righttext">i. 2, 6, 55, 74, 104, 156, 161; ii. <a href="#Page28">28</a>, <a href="#Page36">36</a>, <a href="#Page94">94</a>, <a href="#Page110">110</a>, <a href="#Page123">123</a>, <a href="#Page149">149</a></span></li> + +<li>Cascarilla, <span class="righttext">i. 70</span></li> + +<li>Cassell’s Medicines, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page36">36</a></span></li> + +<li>Cassell’s Dusting Powder, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page39">39</a></span></li> + +<li>Cassell’s Blood Cleansing Tablets, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page39">39</a></span></li> + +<li>Cassell’s Ointment, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page40">40</a></span></li> + +<li>Cassia, oil of, <span class="righttext">i. 35; ii. <a href="#Page10">10</a>, <a href="#Page76">76</a></span></li> + +<li>Catarrh Balm, Van Vleck’s, <span class="righttext">i. 3</span></li> + +<li>Catarrh Cures, <span class="righttext">i. 1; ii. <a href="#Page71">71</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Birley’s, <span class="righttext">i. 7</span></li> +<li class="level1">Colman Method, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page83">83</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Hyomei, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page78">78</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Lane’s, <span class="righttext">i. 2</span></li> +<li class="level1">Munyon’s, <span class="righttext">i. 6</span></li> +<li class="level1">Rhycol Treatment, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page80">80</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Van Vleck’s, <span class="righttext">i. 3</span></li> + +<li>Caulophyllin, <span class="righttext">i. 80; ii. <a href="#Page200">200</a></span></li> + +<li>Caustics and cancer, <span class="righttext">i. 122</span></li> + +<li>C.B.Q. Tablets, Post’s, <span class="righttext">i. 61</span></li> + +<li>Celmo, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page17">17</a></span></li> + +<li>Celmo No. 2, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page94">94</a></span></li> + +<li>Century Thermal Bath Cabinet, <span class="righttext">i. 99</span></li> + +<li>Chalk, <span class="righttext">i. 6, 109; ii. <a href="#Page39">39</a>, <a href="#Page145">145</a>, <a href="#Page176">176</a></span></li> + +<li>Chameleon Oil, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page7">7</a></span></li> + +<li>Charcoal, <span class="righttext">i. 172; ii. <a href="#Page19">19</a>, <a href="#Page145">145</a></span></li> + +<li>Chas. Forde’s Bile Beans, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page96">96</a></span></li> + +<li>Chijitse, <span class="righttext">i. 22, 32</span></li> + +<li>Children’s Cooling Powders, Fenning’s, <span class="righttext">i. 133</span></li> + +<li>Chinosol, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page238">238</a></span></li> + +<li>Chiretta, <span class="righttext">i. 168</span></li> + +<li>Chlorbutol, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page232">232</a>, <a href="#Page233">233</a></span></li> + +<li>Chloretone, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page232">232</a></span></li> + +<li>Chlorinated soda, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page175">175</a></span></li> + +<li>Chlorine, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page175">175</a></span></li> + +<li>Chloroform, <span class="righttext">i. 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 74, 125; ii. <a href="#Page13">13</a>, <a href="#Page47">47</a>, <a href="#Page164">164</a>, <a href="#Page194">194</a>, <a href="#Page198">198</a>, <a href="#Page234">234</a></span></li> + +<li>Chloroform, Spirit of, <span class="righttext">i. 43; ii. <a href="#Page67">67</a></span></li> + +<li>Chlorophyll, <span class="righttext">i. 111, 112</span></li> + +<li>Cicfa, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page93">93</a></span></li> + +<li>Cimicifuga, <span class="righttext">i. 57</span></li> + +<li>Cinchona, <span class="righttext">i. 167; ii. <a href="#Page58">58</a>, <a href="#Page61">61</a>, <a href="#Page133">133</a></span></li> + +<li>Cinchonidine sulphate, <span class="righttext">i. 5</span></li> + +<li>Cinchonine sulphate, <span class="righttext">i. 2, 6; ii. <a href="#Page205">205</a></span></li> + +<li>Cinnamon, <span class="righttext">i. 164; ii. <a href="#Page195">195</a>, <a href="#Page199">199</a>, <a href="#Page204">204</a>, <a href="#Page205">205</a>, <a href="#Page233">233</a></span></li> + +<li>Cinnamon, decoction of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page76">76</a></span></li> + +<li>Cinnamon, oil of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page76">76</a>, <a href="#Page98">98</a></span></li> + +<li>Citric acid, <span class="righttext">i. 64, 81, 84, 86, 87; ii. <a href="#Page28">28</a>, <a href="#Page55">55</a></span></li> + +<li>Clarke’s Blood Mixture, <span class="righttext">i. 42</span></li> + +<li>Clifton’s Treatment for Deafness, <span class="righttext">i. 136</span></li> + +<li>Cloves, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page117">117</a></span></li> + +<li class="level1">Cloves, decoction of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page76">76</a></span></li> + +<li class="level1">Cloves, oil of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page65">65</a>, <a href="#Page76">76</a>, <a href="#Page237">237</a></span></li> + +<li>Cocaphos, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page49">49</a></span></li> + +<li>Cochineal, <span class="righttext">i. 27, 35, 86, 120; ii. <a href="#Page47">47</a>, <a href="#Page181">181</a></span></li> + +<li>Cockle’s Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page100">100</a></span></li> + +<li>Cocoa, <span class="righttext">i. 41</span></li> + +<li>Cocoa-butter (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind4">Theobroma, oil of</a>)</li> + +<li>Cocoanut oil, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page25">25</a></span></li> + +<li>Cod-liver Oil, Pastor Felke’s Honey, <span class="righttext">i. 36</span></li> + +<li>Coffee, tincture of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page218">218</a>, <a href="#Page220">220</a>, <a href="#Page221">221</a></span></li> + +<li><i>Coffœa cruda</i>, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page220">220</a></span></li> + +<li>Colchicine, <span class="righttext">i. 61, 64</span></li> + +<li>Colchicum, <span class="righttext">i. 51, 63; ii. <a href="#Page5">5</a></span></li> + +<li>Cold Cures, <span class="righttext">i. 1</span></li> +<li class="level1">Keene’s “One Night”, <span class="righttext">i. 5</span></li> +<li class="level1">Mackenzie’s “One Day”, <span class="righttext">i. 4</span></li> + +<li>Coleman’s Nervlettes<span class="pagenum" id="Page269">[269]</span>, <span class="righttext">i. 175</span></li> + +<li>Collemplastrum Capsicum, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page237">237</a></span></li> + +<li>Collie’s Ointment, <span class="righttext">i. 57</span></li> + +<li>Colman Method, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page83">83</a></span></li> + +<li>Colocynth, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page95">95</a>, <a href="#Page100">100</a>, <a href="#Page101">101</a>, <a href="#Page117">117</a></span></li> + +<li>Colocynth, extract of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page96">96</a>, <a href="#Page197">197</a></span></li> + +<li>Colophony, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page181">181</a>, <a href="#Page182">182</a></span></li> + +<li>Colza oil, <span class="righttext">i. 88, 135; ii. <a href="#Page25">25</a></span></li> + +<li>Confinements, Medicine for securing easy, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page207">207</a></span></li> + +<li>Congreve’s Balsamic Elixir, <span class="righttext">i. 26</span></li> + +<li>Constipation (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind5">Indigestion, Constipation, etc., Medicines for</a>).</li> + +<li>Consultation Blanks (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind6">Symptom Forms</a>).</li> + +<li>Consultation Forms (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind6">Symptom Forms</a>).</li> + +<li>Consumption Cures, <span class="righttext">i. 20; ii. <a href="#Page71">71</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Bacillentod, <span class="righttext">i. 36</span></li> +<li class="level1">Brompton specific, <span class="righttext">i. 27</span></li> +<li class="level1">Congreve’s Balsamic Elixir, <span class="righttext">i. 26</span></li> +<li class="level1">Felke’s Honey Cod-liver Oil, <span class="righttext">i. 36</span></li> +<li class="level1">Kefyr Ferment, <span class="righttext">i. 24</span></li> +<li class="level1">Körber’s, <span class="righttext">i. 36</span></li> +<li class="level1">Lieber’s Tea, <span class="righttext">i. 36</span></li> +<li class="level1">Liqufruta Medica, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page77">77</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Pohl’s Family Tea, <span class="righttext">i. 36</span></li> +<li class="level1">Star Tonic, <span class="righttext">i. 23</span></li> +<li class="level1">Stevens’s (Sacco, Lungsava), <span class="righttext">i. 21, 28</span></li> +<li class="level1">Tuberculozyne, <span class="righttext">i. 21, 32</span></li> +<li class="level1">Weidhaas Hygienic Institute, <span class="righttext">i. 23</span></li> + +<li>Cooling Powders for Infants, <span class="righttext">i. 130</span></li> +<li class="level1">Fenning’s Children’s Powders, <span class="righttext">i. 133</span></li> +<li class="level1">Pritchard’s Teething and Fever Powders, <span class="righttext">i. 132</span></li> + +<li>Copaiba, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page107">107</a></span></li> + +<li>Copper in Tuberculozyne, <span class="righttext">i. 35</span></li> + +<li>Copper oleate, <span class="righttext">i. 120; ii. <a href="#Page181">181</a>, <a href="#Page182">182</a></span></li> + +<li>Corpulence (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind7">Obesity, Medicines for</a>).</li> + +<li>Corpulin, <span class="righttext">i. 104</span></li> + +<li>Corrective, Jefferson Dodd’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page198">198</a></span></li> + +<li>Corrective Pills. Powell’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page193">193</a></span></li> + +<li>Cottonseed oil, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page12">12</a></span></li> + +<li>Cotton Wool, Völlner’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page28">28</a></span></li> + +<li>Cough Cure, Kilmer’s Indian, <span class="righttext">i. 15</span></li> + +<li>Cough Cure, Veno’s Lightning, <span class="righttext">i. 16</span></li> + +<li>Cough Drops, Lauser’s, <span class="righttext">i. 19</span></li> + +<li>Cough Drops, Reichel’s, <span class="righttext">i. 19</span></li> + +<li>Cough Lozenges, Keating’s, <span class="righttext">i. 17</span></li> + +<li>Cough, Medicines for, <span class="righttext">i. 9; ii. <a href="#Page71">71</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Assmann’s Whooping Cough Remedy, <span class="righttext">i. 19</span></li> +<li class="level1">Beecham’s Cough Pills, <span class="righttext">i. 18</span></li> +<li class="level1">Brown’s Bronchial Troches, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page74">74</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Crosby’s Balsamic Elixir, <span class="righttext">i. 15</span></li> +<li class="level1">Fenning’s Lung Healers, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page72">72</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Glykaline, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page76">76</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Kay’s Linseed Compound, <span class="righttext">i. 12</span></li> +<li class="level1">Keating’s Lozenges, <span class="righttext">i. 17</span></li> +<li class="level1">Kilmer’s Indian Cure, <span class="righttext">i. 15</span></li> +<li class="level1">Lauser’s Drops, <span class="righttext">i. 19</span></li> +<li class="level1">Owbridge’s Lung Tonic, <span class="righttext">i. 13</span></li> +<li class="level1">Peps, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page73">73</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Powell’s Balsam of Aniseed, <span class="righttext">i. 14</span></li> +<li class="level1">Reichel’s Drops, <span class="righttext">i. 19</span></li> +<li class="level1">Tussothym, <span class="righttext">i. 19</span></li> +<li class="level1">Veno’s Lightning Cure, <span class="righttext">i. 16</span></li> +<li class="level1">White’s Kompo, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page75">75</a></span></li> + +<li>Cough Medicines, Morphine in, <span class="righttext">i. 9, 13, 15, 18, 28</span></li> + +<li>Cough Medicines, Opium in, <span class="righttext">i. 10, 11, 28</span></li> + +<li>Cough Pills, Beecham’s, <span class="righttext">i. 18</span></li> + +<li>Cough Specific, Brompton, <span class="righttext">i. 27</span></li> + +<li>Coza Powder, <span class="righttext">i. 162</span></li> + +<li>Creosote, <span class="righttext">i. 113, 152; ii. <a href="#Page80">80</a></span></li> + +<li>Crimson Cross Remedies, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page178">178</a></span></li> + +<li>Crimson Cross Fever and Influenza Powder, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page181">181</a></span></li> + +<li>Crimson Cross No. 1 Ointment, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page181">181</a></span></li> + +<li>Crimson Cross Special Ointment, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page181">181</a></span></li> + +<li>Crimson Cross Kidney Cure, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page182">182</a></span></li> + +<li>Crompton’s Specific for Deafness, <span class="righttext">i. 135</span></li> + +<li>Crosby’s Balsamic Cough Elixir, <span class="righttext">i. 15</span></li> + +<li>Cubeb, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page75">75</a></span></li> + +<li>Cummin, <span class="righttext">i. 164</span></li> + +<li>Curative Syrup, Mother Seigel’s, <span class="righttext">i. 176</span></li> + +<li>Cure-alls, <span class="righttext">i. 170; ii. <a href="#Page233">233</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Beecham’s Pills, <span class="righttext">i. 175</span></li> +<li class="level1">Korpusdoon, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page233">233</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Martin’s Miracletts, <span class="righttext">i. 163</span></li> +<li class="level1">Nervlettes, <span class="righttext">i. 175</span></li> +<li class="level1">Seigel’s Syrup, <span class="righttext">i. 176</span></li> +<li class="level1">Therapion, <span class="righttext">i. 172</span></li> +<li class="level1">Williams’s Pink Pills, <span class="righttext">i. 170, 174</span></li> + +<li>Curic Wafers, <span class="righttext">i. 38</span></li> + +<li>Cuticura remedies<span class="pagenum" id="Page270">[270]</span>, <span class="righttext">i. 110</span></li> + +<li>Cystamin (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind8">Formamine</a>).</li> + +<li>Cystogen (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind8">Formamine</a>).</li> + +<li class="newletter"><i>Daily Express, The</i>, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page253">253</a></span></li> + +<li><i>Daily Mail, The</i>, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page253">253</a></span></li> + +<li><i>Daily News, The</i>, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page253">253</a></span></li> + +<li>Daisy Powders, <span class="righttext">i. 38; ii. <a href="#Page264">264</a></span></li> + +<li>Dale’s Treatment for Epilepsy, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page153">153</a></span></li> + +<li>Dalloff’s Tea, <span class="righttext">i. 104</span></li> + +<li>Damaroids, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page50">50</a></span></li> + +<li>Damiana, extract of, <span class="righttext">i. 173; ii. <a href="#Page50">50</a>, <a href="#Page51">51</a>, <a href="#Page61">61</a></span></li> + +<li>Daturine, <span class="righttext">i. 168</span></li> + +<li>Davis’s Female Mixture, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page197">197</a></span></li> + +<li>Davis’s Female Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page197">197</a></span></li> + +<li>D.D.D., <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page32">32</a></span></li> + +<li id="Ind8">Deafness, Remedies for, <span class="righttext">i. 134</span></li> +<li class="level1">Clifton’s Treatment, <span class="righttext">i. 136</span></li> +<li class="level1">Crompton’s Specific, <span class="righttext">i. 135</span></li> +<li class="level1">Dellar’s Essence, <span class="righttext">i. 135</span></li> +<li class="level1">Nazaseptic, <span class="righttext">i. 139</span></li> +<li class="level1">Ohraseptic, <span class="righttext">i. 139</span></li> +<li class="level1">Ohrsorb Compound, <span class="righttext">i. 138</span></li> + +<li>Dealin Powder, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page237">237</a></span></li> + +<li>Dellar’s Essence for Deafness, <span class="righttext">i. 135</span></li> + +<li>De Roos’ Compound Renal Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page105">105</a></span></li> + +<li>Dethblo, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page235">235</a></span></li> + +<li>Diabetes, Medicines for, <span class="righttext">i. 76</span></li> +<li class="level1">A Lancashire nostrum, <span class="righttext">i. 80</span></li> +<li class="level1">Dill’s Mixture, <span class="righttext">i. 76, 77, 79</span></li> +<li class="level1">Pesqui’s Uranium Wine, <span class="righttext">i. 76, 77</span></li> + +<li>Diabetic Foods, <span class="righttext">i. 81</span></li> + +<li>Diabetic Mixture, Dill’s, <span class="righttext">i. 76, 77, 79</span></li> + +<li>Diaethylen-diamin, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page28">28</a></span></li> + +<li>Diagnosis Forms (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind6">Symptom Forms</a>)</li> + +<li>Diastase, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page94">94</a>, <a href="#Page95">95</a></span></li> + +<li>Dill, oil of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page149">149</a>, <a href="#Page150">150</a>, <a href="#Page151">151</a></span></li> + +<li>Dill’s Diabetic Mixture, <span class="righttext">i. 76, 77, 79</span></li> + +<li>Dipsocure, <span class="righttext">i. 164</span></li> + +<li>Doan’s Kidney Pills, <span class="righttext">i. 69</span></li> + +<li>Doan’s Pile Ointment, <span class="righttext">i. 151</span></li> + +<li>Dodd’s Corrective, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page198">198</a></span></li> + +<li>Dodd’s Female Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page198">198</a></span></li> + +<li>Dodd’s Kidney Pills, <span class="righttext">i. 69</span></li> + +<li>Drug Addictions, Normyl Cure for Alcohol and, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page140">140</a></span></li> + +<li>Drug Cures for Inebriety, <span class="righttext">i. 168</span></li> + +<li>Duboisine, <span class="righttext">i. 168</span></li> + +<li>Dumas’s Paris Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page186">186</a>, <a href="#Page192">192</a></span></li> + +<li>Duty on Secret Remedies, Stamp, <span class="righttext">i. 182</span></li> + +<li>Dyes, Hair, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page222">222</a>, <a href="#Page228">228</a></span></li> + +<li>Dyxol, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page11">11</a></span></li> + +<li class="newletter">Eade’s Gout and Rheumatic Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page4">4</a></span></li> + +<li>Ear disease (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind8">Deafness, Remedies for</a>).</li> + +<li id="Ind18">Eczema and other skin affections, Preparations for, <span class="righttext">i. 105; ii. <a href="#Page30">30</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Antexema, <span class="righttext">i. 105</span></li> +<li class="level1">Cadum, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page41">41</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Cassell’s Medicines, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page36">36</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Cassell’s Dusting Powder, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page39">39</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Cassell’s Tablets, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page39">39</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Cassell’s Ointment, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page40">40</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Cuticura remedies, <span class="righttext">i. 110</span></li> +<li class="level1">D.D.D, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page32">32</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Eczoline Treatment, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page35">35</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Ekzemin Cream, <span class="righttext">i. 113</span></li> +<li class="level1">Homocea, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page34">34</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Juniper preparations, <span class="righttext">i. 113</span></li> +<li class="level1">Paciderma preparations, <span class="righttext">i. 106</span></li> +<li class="level1">Pheun Skin Paste, <span class="righttext">i. 113</span></li> +<li class="level1">Poslam, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page42">42</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Rino Ointment, <span class="righttext">i. 113</span></li> +<li class="level1">Sulpholine Lotion, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page40">40</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Zam-Buk, <span class="righttext">i. 110</span></li> +<li class="level1">Zip Ointment, <span class="righttext">i. 112</span></li> + +<li>Eczoline Treatment, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page35">35</a></span></li> + +<li>Edwards’ Harlene, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page223">223</a></span></li> + +<li>Egg-substance, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page7">7</a>, <a href="#Page69">69</a></span></li> + +<li>Ekzemin Cream, <span class="righttext">i. 113</span></li> + +<li>Electricum, <span class="righttext">i. 64</span></li> + +<li>Elixirs of Life (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind9">Nerve Tonics</a>).</li> + +<li>Elm, slippery, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page39">39</a></span></li> + +<li>Eosin, <span class="righttext">i. 91</span></li> + +<li>Epilepsy, Medicines for, <span class="righttext">i. 124; ii. <a href="#Page152">152</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Antiépileptique (Uten), <span class="righttext">i. 129</span></li> +<li class="level1">Berendorf’s Powder, <span class="righttext">i. 129</span></li> +<li class="level1">Bromocarpine, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page164">164</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Dales’s Treatment, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page157">157</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Fitzkure, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page159">159</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Imperatine, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page153">153</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Lamma Powder, <span class="righttext">i. 129</span></li> +<li class="level1">Niblett’s Vital Renewer, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page162">162</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Osborne’s Mixture, <span class="righttext">i. 126</span></li> +<li class="level1">Ozerine, <span class="righttext">i. 125</span></li> +<li class="level1">Phelps Brown’s Vervain Restorative Assimilant, <span class="righttext">i. 127</span></li> +<li class="level1">Roller’s Powder<span class="pagenum" id="Page271">[271]</span>, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page166">166</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Taylor’s Anti-epileptic Medicine, <span class="righttext">i. 126</span></li> +<li class="level1">Trench’s Remedy, <span class="righttext">i. 127</span></li> + +<li>Epocol, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page237">237</a></span></li> + +<li>Essence for Deafness, Dellar’s, <span class="righttext">i. 135</span></li> + +<li>Eucalyptus gum, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page76">76</a></span></li> + +<li>Eucalyptus, oil of, <span class="righttext">i. 4, 112; ii. <a href="#Page23">23</a>, <a href="#Page25">25</a>, <a href="#Page35">35</a>, <a href="#Page40">40</a>, <a href="#Page80">80</a>, <a href="#Page82">82</a></span></li> + +<li>Eulatin, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page239">239</a></span></li> + +<li><i>Evening News, The</i>, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page253">253</a></span></li> + +<li>Exalgin, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page238">238</a></span></li> + +<li>“Expert” behind the Proprietary Medicine, The, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page256">256</a></span></li> + +<li>“Eye and Ear Specialist,” An, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page246">246</a></span></li> + +<li>Eye diseases, Medicines for, <span class="righttext">i. 142; ii. <a href="#Page246">246</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Augenwol, <span class="righttext">i. 146</span></li> +<li class="level1">Bostock’s Ointment, <span class="righttext">i. 143</span></li> +<li class="level1">Ison’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page246">246</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">“New and Marvellous Remedy”, <span class="righttext">i. 144</span></li> +<li class="level1">Okterin, <span class="righttext">i. 146</span></li> +<li class="level1">Opthalmol, <span class="righttext">i. 146</span></li> +<li class="level1">Pomies’ Anti-cataract Mixture, <span class="righttext">i. 146</span></li> +<li class="level1">Singleton’s Ointment, <span class="righttext">i. 142</span></li> +<li class="level1">Wisbech Remedy, <span class="righttext">i. 144</span></li> + +<li>Eye Ointment, Bostock’s, <span class="righttext">i. 143</span></li> + +<li>Eye Ointment, Singleton’s, <span class="righttext">i. 142</span></li> + +<li class="newletter">Fairy Cure, Bell’s, <span class="righttext">i. 39</span></li> + +<li>Feilden, Captain, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page180">180</a></span></li> + +<li>Felke’s Honey Cod Liver Oil, Pastor, <span class="righttext">i. 36</span></li> + +<li>Fell Reducing Treatment, <span class="righttext">i. 97</span></li> + +<li>Female Mixtures and Pills (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind10">Amenorrhœa, Medicines for</a>).</li> + +<li>Fenning’s Children’s Cooling Powders, <span class="righttext">i. 133</span></li> + +<li>Fenning’s Lung Healers, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page72">72</a></span></li> + +<li>Fenugreek, <span class="righttext">i. 68</span></li> + +<li>Ferric chloride, <span class="righttext">i. 121; ii. <a href="#Page175">175</a></span></li> + +<li>Ferric oxide, <span class="righttext">i. 5, 40, 54, 172</span></li> + +<li>Ferric oxysulphate, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page49">49</a></span></li> + +<li>Ferrous carbonate, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page145">145</a>, <a href="#Page195">195</a>, <a href="#Page203">203</a></span></li> + +<li>Ferrous phosphate, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page61">61</a>, <a href="#Page67">67</a>, <a href="#Page194">194</a></span></li> + +<li>Ferrous sulphate, <span class="righttext">i. 174; ii. <a href="#Page36">36</a>, <a href="#Page159">159</a>, <a href="#Page162">162</a>, <a href="#Page192">192</a>, <a href="#Page193">193</a>, <a href="#Page195">195</a>, <a href="#Page196">196</a>, <a href="#Page197">197</a>, <a href="#Page199">199</a>, <a href="#Page200">200</a>, <a href="#Page201">201</a>, <a href="#Page202">202</a>, <a href="#Page204">204</a>, <a href="#Page205">205</a>, <a href="#Page236">236</a></span></li> + +<li>Fever Powders, Pritchard’s Teething and, <span class="righttext">i. 132</span></li> + +<li>Figuroids, <span class="righttext">i. 94</span></li> + +<li>Fitch’s Kidney and Liver Cooler, <span class="righttext">i. 71</span></li> + +<li>Fits, Trench’s Remedy for Epilepsy and, <span class="righttext">i. 127</span></li> + +<li>Fitzkure, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page159">159</a></span></li> + +<li>Flesh producer, A, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page125">125</a></span></li> + +<li>Flour, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page23">23</a>, <a href="#Page121">121</a>, <a href="#Page192">192</a>, <a href="#Page251">251</a></span></li> + +<li>Fluorescein, <span class="righttext">i. 70</span></li> + +<li>Forde’s Bile Beans, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page96">96</a></span></li> + +<li>Formaldehyde, <span class="righttext">i. 129; ii. <a href="#Page111">111</a>, <a href="#Page223">223</a>, <a href="#Page225">225</a></span></li> + +<li id="Ind13">Formamine, <span class="righttext">i. 85, 96</span></li> + +<li><i>Fortnightly Review, The</i>, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page253">253</a></span></li> + +<li>Fournier’s Hygenique Mixture, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page199">199</a></span></li> + +<li>Frangula, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page28">28</a>, <a href="#Page236">236</a></span></li> + +<li><i>Fucus vesiculosus</i> (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind11">Bladder-wrack</a>).</li> + +<li class="newletter">Galeopsidis, <span class="righttext">i. 36</span></li> + +<li>Gall stones, <span class="righttext">i. 79</span></li> + +<li>Galls, powdered, <span class="righttext">i. 156</span></li> + +<li>Gargle Tablets, Colman’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page84">84</a></span></li> + +<li>Gaultheria, oil of, <span class="righttext">i. 73, 180; ii. <a href="#Page20">20</a>, <a href="#Page33">33</a>, <a href="#Page40">40</a>, <a href="#Page82">82</a>, <a href="#Page85">85</a>, <a href="#Page110">110</a>, <a href="#Page145">145</a>, <a href="#Page183">183</a></span></li> + +<li>Gautieur’s Female Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page204">204</a></span></li> + +<li>Gelsemium, <span class="righttext">i. 60</span></li> + +<li>Genoform Tablets, <span class="righttext">i. 60</span></li> + +<li>Gentian, <span class="righttext">i. 62, 63, 161, 173, 179; ii. <a href="#Page23">23</a>, <a href="#Page58">58</a>, <a href="#Page61">61</a>, <a href="#Page95">95</a>, <a href="#Page201">201</a>, <a href="#Page205">205</a></span></li> + +<li>Gentian, infusion of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page47">47</a></span></li> + +<li>George’s Herbal Remedy, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page251">251</a></span></li> + +<li>Germicides, <span class="righttext">i. 31</span></li> + +<li>Ginger, <span class="righttext">i. 49, 88, 89, 109, 110, 175, 180; ii. <a href="#Page95">95</a>, <a href="#Page97">97</a>, <a href="#Page98">98</a>, <a href="#Page99">99</a>, <a href="#Page192">192</a>, <a href="#Page193">193</a>, <a href="#Page195">195</a>, <a href="#Page204">204</a>, <a href="#Page205">205</a>, <a href="#Page206">206</a></span></li> + +<li>Gloria Tonic, <span class="righttext">i. 53</span></li> + +<li>Gloria Treatment for Rheumatism, <span class="righttext">i. 52</span></li> + +<li>Gluten Flour, <span class="righttext">i. 81, 82</span></li> + +<li>Glycerin, <span class="righttext">i. 17, 30, 32, 35, 73, 74, 78, 89, 90, 92, 93, 103, 113, 120, 135, 138, 142, 143, 144, 146, 173; ii. <a href="#Page13">13</a>, <a href="#Page33">33</a>, <a href="#Page35">35</a>, <a href="#Page41">41</a>, <a href="#Page55">55</a>, <a href="#Page65">65</a>, <a href="#Page67">67</a>, <a href="#Page165">165</a>, <a href="#Page183">183</a>, <a href="#Page197">197</a>, <a href="#Page203">203</a>, <a href="#Page223">223</a>, <a href="#Page224">224</a>, <a href="#Page225">225</a>, <a href="#Page226">226</a>, <a href="#Page228">228</a>, <a href="#Page249">249</a></span></li> + +<li>Glykaline, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page76">76</a></span></li> + +<li>Goitre, Haig’s Cure for, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page240">240</a></span></li> + +<li>Golden Fire, Box’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page20">20</a></span></li> + +<li>Gordon’s Vital Sexualine Restorative<span class="pagenum" id="Page272">[272]</span>, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page54">54</a></span></li> + +<li>Gordon Wallace, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page258">258</a></span></li> + +<li>Gordon Wallace’s Treatment for Obesity, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page114">114</a></span></li> + +<li>Gossypium, extract of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page198">198</a></span></li> + +<li id="Ind17">Gout, Rheumatism, and Neuralgia, Medicines for, <span class="righttext">i. 50; ii. <a href="#Page1">1</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Anturic Bath Salts, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page26">26</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Baring Gould’s Pearls, <span class="righttext">i. 55</span></li> +<li class="level1">Bath Salts, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page25">25</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Bengué’s Balsam, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page19">19</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Bishop’s Varalettes, <span class="righttext">i. 62</span></li> +<li class="level1">Blair’s Pills, <span class="righttext">i. 50</span></li> +<li class="level1">Box’s Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page20">20</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Box’s Golden Fire, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page20">20</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Bowden’s Indian Balm, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page23">23</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Celmo, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page17">17</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Chameleon Oil, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page7">7</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Collie’s Ointment, <span class="righttext">i. 57</span></li> +<li class="level1">Dyxol, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page11">11</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Eade’s Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page4">4</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Electricum, <span class="righttext">i. 64</span></li> +<li class="level1">Genoform Tablets, <span class="righttext">i. 60</span></li> +<li class="level1">Gloria Treatment, <span class="righttext">i. 52</span></li> +<li class="level1">Gower’s Green Pills, <span class="righttext">i. 56</span></li> +<li class="level1">Hamm’s Cure, <span class="righttext">i. 51</span></li> +<li class="level1">Hoffmann’s Powders, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page3">3</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Laville’s Remedies, <span class="righttext">i. 64</span></li> +<li class="level1">Lazarus Soap, <span class="righttext">i. 64</span></li> +<li class="level1">Levasco, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page10">10</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Limosan, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page28">28</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Magic Foot Drafts, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page14">14</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Oquit, <span class="righttext">i. 59</span></li> +<li class="level1">Orudon Essence, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page27">27</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Orudon Salt, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page28">28</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Ozonia, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page25">25</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Pistoia Powders, <span class="righttext">i. 62</span></li> +<li class="level1">Pond’s Arthriticus, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page12">12</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Portland Powder, <span class="righttext">i. 62</span></li> +<li class="level1">Post’s C.B.Q. Tablets, <span class="righttext">i. 61</span></li> +<li class="level1">Rheumacid, <span class="righttext">i. 64</span></li> +<li class="level1">Rheuma Tabakolin, <span class="righttext">i. 65</span></li> +<li class="level1">Rheumsol Bath Salts, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page27">27</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Tissander’s Cure, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page29">29</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Uricedin, <span class="righttext">i. 64</span></li> +<li class="level1">Uricura Drops, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page6">6</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Uricura Liniment, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page7">7</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Völlner’s Cotton Wool, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page28">28</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Weigand’s Spirit, <span class="righttext">i. 65</span></li> +<li class="level1">Zox, <span class="righttext">i. 58</span></li> + +<li>Gout and Rheumatic Pills, Blair’s, <span class="righttext">i. 50</span></li> + +<li>Gout and Sciatica Cure, Hamm’s Rheumatic, <span class="righttext">i. 51</span></li> + +<li>Gout Powders, Pistoia, <span class="righttext">i. 62</span></li> + +<li>Gout Powders, Portland, <span class="righttext">i. 62</span></li> + +<li>Gout Varalettes, Bishop’s, <span class="righttext">i. 62</span></li> + +<li>Gower’s Green Pills, <span class="righttext">i. 56</span></li> + +<li>Graziana Reducing Treatment, <span class="righttext">i. 103</span></li> + +<li>Green Pills, Gower’s, <span class="righttext">i. 56</span></li> + +<li>Grey’s (Nurse) American Compound Tablets, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page190">190</a>, <a href="#Page195">195</a></span></li> + +<li><i>Grindelia robusta</i>, <span class="righttext">i. 17</span></li> + +<li>Gripe Water, Woodward’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page149">149</a></span></li> + +<li>Guaiacum, <span class="righttext">i. 44, 54, 62, 64</span></li> + +<li>Guarantee Bonds, <span class="righttext">i. 30</span></li> + +<li>Guarantee, <span class="righttext">i. 97, 99, 107, 155; ii. <a href="#Page172">172</a></span></li> + +<li>Guy’s Tonic, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page46">46</a></span></li> + +<li class="newletter">Hæmoglobin, <span class="righttext">i. 114, 115, 116</span></li> + +<li>Hæmoglobin Capsules, <span class="righttext">i. 116</span></li> + +<li>Hæmoglobin Ovals, Capsulated, <span class="righttext">i. 115</span></li> + +<li>Hæmorrhoids (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind12">Piles, Medicines for</a>).</li> + +<li>Haig’s Cure for Goitre, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page240">240</a></span></li> + +<li>Hair Dyes, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page222">222</a>, <a href="#Page228">228</a></span></li> + +<li>Hair, Preparations for the, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page222">222</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Edwards’ Harlene, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page223">223</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Juvenia, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page229">229</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Koko, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page224">224</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Lockyer’s Sulphur Hair Restorer, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page225">225</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Mexican Hair Renewer, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page226">226</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Seeger’s Hair Dye, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page228">228</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Shadeine, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page229">229</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Tatcho, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page222">222</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Vilixir, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page227">227</a></span></li> + +<li>Hair Restorer, The Geo. R. Sims, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page222">222</a></span></li> + +<li>Hair Restorer, Lockyer’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page225">225</a></span></li> + +<li>Hair Renewer, Mexican, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page226">226</a></span></li> + +<li>Hamamelidis, Liquor, <span class="righttext">i. 150; ii. <a href="#Page249">249</a></span></li> + +<li>Hamamelin, <span class="righttext">i. 152</span></li> + +<li id="Ind19">Hamamelis, <span class="righttext">i. 148, 149, 152</span></li> + +<li>Hamm’s Rheumatic, Gout, and Sciatica Cure, <span class="righttext">i. 51</span></li> + +<li>Hammond’s (Nurse) Remedies, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page203">203</a></span></li> + +<li>Hammond’s Specifics, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page6">6</a>, <a href="#Page7">7</a></span></li> + +<li>Hargreave’s Reducing Wafers, <span class="righttext">i. 91</span></li> + +<li>Harlene, Edwards’, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page223">223</a></span></li> + +<li>Harmless Headache Powders, Hoffman’s, <span class="righttext">i. 41</span></li> + +<li>Harvey’s Blood Pills<span class="pagenum" id="Page273">[273]</span>, <span class="righttext">i. 44</span></li> + +<li>Headache, <span class="righttext">i. 37</span></li> + +<li>Headache Cure, Stearns’s, <span class="righttext">i. 39</span></li> + +<li>Headache Powders, <span class="righttext">i. 37</span></li> +<li class="level1">Bell’s Fairy Cure, <span class="righttext">i. 39</span></li> +<li class="level1">Curic Wafers, <span class="righttext">i. 38</span></li> +<li class="level1">Daisy, <span class="righttext">i. 38</span></li> +<li class="level1">“Good as Gold”, <span class="righttext">i. 41</span></li> +<li class="level1">Hoffman’s Harmless, <span class="righttext">i. 41</span></li> +<li class="level1">Kaputine, <span class="righttext">i. 40</span></li> +<li class="level1">Retailers Supplying, <span class="righttext">i. 41</span></li> +<li class="level1">Stearns’s Cure, <span class="righttext">i. 39</span></li> + +<li>Healine Treatment for Rupture, <span class="righttext">i. 160</span></li> + +<li>Hellebore, white, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page17">17</a></span></li> + +<li>Hemlock Pitch, <span class="righttext">i. 68</span></li> + +<li>Hemotora, <span class="righttext">i. 153</span></li> + +<li>Henbane, <span class="righttext">i. 69, 71</span></li> + +<li>Herbal Remedy, George’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page251">251</a></span></li> + +<li>Herbal Specialist, A, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page249">249</a></span></li> + +<li>Hexamethylene-tetramine (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind13">Formamine</a>).</li> + +<li>Hochfelder Pitch Plaster, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page237">237</a></span></li> + +<li>Hoffman’s Harmless Headache Powders, <span class="righttext">i. 41</span></li> + +<li>Hoffmann’s Rheumatic Powders, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page3">3</a></span></li> + +<li>Holdroyd’s Gravel Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page104">104</a></span></li> + +<li>Holloway’s Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page96">96</a></span></li> + +<li id="Ind16">Homatropine, <span class="righttext">i. 168, 169</span></li> + +<li>“Home Doctor” Backache and Kidney Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page107">107</a></span></li> + +<li>“Home Doctor” Remedies, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page103">103</a>, <a href="#Page107">107</a></span></li> + +<li>Homocea, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page34">34</a></span></li> + +<li>Honey, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page151">151</a></span></li> + +<li>Hood’s Compound Extract of Sarsaparilla, <span class="righttext">i. 46</span></li> + +<li>Hood’s Vegetable Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page101">101</a></span></li> + +<li>Hooper’s Female Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page196">196</a></span></li> + +<li>Horton’s Benedict Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page205">205</a></span></li> + +<li>Hughes’s Blood Pills, <span class="righttext">i. 48</span></li> + +<li>Hydrastine, <span class="righttext">i. 80; ii. <a href="#Page217">217</a></span></li> + +<li>Hydrastis, <span class="righttext">i. 77, 80; ii. <a href="#Page85">85</a>, <a href="#Page240">240</a></span></li> + +<li>Hydrastis, tincture of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page217">217</a>, <a href="#Page221">221</a></span></li> + +<li>Hydrochloric acid, <span class="righttext">i. 121, 169, 176, 177; ii. <a href="#Page47">47</a>, <a href="#Page151">151</a>, <a href="#Page175">175</a>, <a href="#Page228">228</a>, <a href="#Page229">229</a></span></li> + +<li>Hydrogen peroxide, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page230">230</a>, <a href="#Page238">238</a></span></li> + +<li>Hygenique Mixture, Fournier’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page199">199</a></span></li> + +<li>Hyomei, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page78">78</a></span></li> + +<li>Hyoscine, <span class="righttext">i. 168, 169</span></li> + +<li>Hyoscyamine, <span class="righttext">i. 168, 169</span></li> + +<li class="newletter">Ichthyol, <span class="righttext">i. 140, 115</span></li> + +<li>Ills of Humanity, <span class="righttext">i. 177</span></li> + +<li>Imperatine, Dale’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page153">153</a></span></li> + +<li>Indian Balm, Bowden’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page23">23</a></span></li> + +<li id="Ind5">Indigestion, Constipation, etc., Medicines for, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page87">87</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Burgess’s Lion Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page101">101</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Carter’s Little Liver Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page96">96</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Celmo No. 2, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page94">94</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Cicfa, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page93">93</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Cockle’s Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page100">100</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Forde’s Bile Beans, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page96">96</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Holloway’s Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page97">97</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Hood’s Vegetable Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page101">101</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Ker-Nak, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page99">99</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Mer-Syren, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page89">89</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Scott’s Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page98">98</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Whelpton’s Purifying Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page95">95</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Woodcock’s Wind Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page95">95</a></span></li> + +<li>Inebriety (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind14">Alcoholism, Medicines for</a>)</li> + +<li>Inebriety, Drug Cures for, <span class="righttext">i. 168</span></li> + +<li>Infants, Powders for, <span class="righttext">i. 130</span></li> + +<li>Infants’ Preservative, Atkinson and Barker’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page150">150</a></span></li> + +<li>Infants, Soothing Syrups for, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page147">147</a></span></li> + +<li>Information Forms (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind6">Symptom Forms</a>)</li> + +<li>Inspirators, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page81">81</a></span></li> + +<li>Invigoroids, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page51">51</a></span></li> + +<li>Iodine, <span class="righttext">i. 84, 94, 102, 103, 126</span></li> + +<li>Iodine, tincture of, <span class="righttext">i. 126</span></li> + +<li>Ipecacuanha, <span class="righttext">i. 2, 11, 12, 13, 14, 18, 28; ii. <a href="#Page73">73</a>, <a href="#Page101">101</a></span></li> + +<li>Iridin, <span class="righttext">i. 157</span></li> + +<li>Iron, <span class="righttext">i. 71, 87, 89, 121, 162</span></li> + +<li>Iron carbonate, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page145">145</a>, <a href="#Page203">203</a></span></li> + +<li>Iron chloride, <span class="righttext">i. 121; ii. <a href="#Page175">175</a></span></li> + +<li>Iron glycerophosphate, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page67">67</a></span></li> + +<li>Iron hypophosphite, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page50">50</a>, <a href="#Page51">51</a>, <a href="#Page55">55</a></span></li> + +<li>Iron oxide, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page200">200</a></span></li> + +<li>Iron oxysulphate, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page49">49</a></span></li> + +<li>Iron phosphate, <span class="righttext">i. 89; ii. <a href="#Page61">61</a>, <a href="#Page67">67</a>, <a href="#Page194">194</a></span></li> + +<li>Iron, reduced, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page53">53</a>, <a href="#Page145">145</a>, <a href="#Page199">199</a>, <a href="#Page206">206</a></span></li> + +<li>Iron, saccharated carbonate, <span class="righttext">i. 40; ii. <a href="#Page52">52</a></span></li> + +<li>Iron sulphate, <span class="righttext">i. 175; ii. <a href="#Page36">36</a>, <a href="#Page159">159</a>, <a href="#Page162">162</a>, <a href="#Page192">192</a>, <a href="#Page193">193</a>, <a href="#Page195">195</a>, <a href="#Page196">196</a>, <a href="#Page197">197</a>, <a href="#Page199">199</a>, <a href="#Page200">200</a>, <a href="#Page201">201</a>, <a href="#Page202">202</a>, <a href="#Page204">204</a>, <a href="#Page205">205</a>, <a href="#Page236">236</a></span></li> + +<li>Irrigal Tablets, Barkowski’s<span class="pagenum" id="Page274">[274]</span>, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page239">239</a></span></li> + +<li>Irristum, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page189">189</a>, <a href="#Page194">194</a></span></li> + +<li>I.R.S. Compound Golden Tablets, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page201">201</a></span></li> + +<li>Ison’s Eye and Ear Dispensary, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page246">246</a></span></li> + +<li>Ison’s Preparations for the Eyes, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page248">248</a></span></li> + +<li class="newletter">Jalap, <span class="righttext">i. 48, 49, 55, 57, 69, 70, 180; ii. <a href="#Page100">100</a>, <a href="#Page101">101</a>, <a href="#Page117">117</a>, <a href="#Page192">192</a>, <a href="#Page193">193</a>, <a href="#Page196">196</a>, <a href="#Page236">236</a></span></li> + +<li>Jalap resin, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page85">85</a></span></li> + +<li>Jaundice, <span class="righttext">i. 72, 79</span></li> + +<li>Jefferson Dodd’s Corrective, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page198">198</a></span></li> + +<li>Jefferson Dodd’s Female Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page198">198</a></span></li> + +<li>Jehnol, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page237">237</a></span></li> + +<li><i>John Bull</i> investigation, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page169">169</a></span></li> + +<li>Johnson’s (Mrs.) American Soothing Syrup, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page151">151</a></span></li> + +<li>Juniper, oil of, <span class="righttext">i. 68, 71; ii. <a href="#Page19">19</a>, <a href="#Page108">108</a></span></li> + +<li>Juniper preparations, <span class="righttext">i. 113</span></li> + +<li>Juvenia Hair Dye, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page229">229</a></span></li> + +<li>J.Z. Obesity Tablets, <span class="righttext">i. 87</span></li> + +<li class="newletter">Kaolin, <span class="righttext">i. 54, 109, 172</span></li> + +<li>Kaputine, <span class="righttext">i. 40</span></li> + +<li>Karox Compound, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page110">110</a></span></li> + +<li>Kay’s Linseed Compound, <span class="righttext">i. 12</span></li> + +<li>Kay’s Linum Catharticum Pills, <span class="righttext">i. 12</span></li> + +<li>Kearsley’s Welch’s Female Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page198">198</a></span></li> + +<li>Keating’s Cough Lozenges, <span class="righttext">i. 17</span></li> + +<li>Keene’s “One Night” Cold Cure, <span class="righttext">i. 5</span></li> + +<li>Kefyr, <span class="righttext">i. 23</span></li> + +<li>Kellogg’s Safe Fat Reducer, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page119">119</a></span></li> + +<li>Ker-Nak, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page99">99</a></span></li> + +<li>Kerosene, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page12">12</a></span></li> + +<li>Kidd Co., The J. W., <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page244">244</a></span></li> + +<li>Kidd’s Treatment, James W., <span class="righttext">i. 178</span></li> + +<li>Kidney medicines, <span class="righttext">i. 66; ii. <a href="#Page102">102</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">De Roos’-Renal Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page105">105</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Doan’s Pills, <span class="righttext">i. 67</span></li> +<li class="level1">Dodd’s Pills, <span class="righttext">i. 69</span></li> +<li class="level1">Fitch’s Kidney and Liver Cooler, <span class="righttext">i. 71</span></li> +<li class="level1">Holdroyd’s Gravel Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page104">104</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">“Home Doctor” Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page107">107</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Karox Compound, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page110">110</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Kilmer’s Swamp Root, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page108">108</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Munyon’s Cure, <span class="righttext">i. 75</span></li> +<li class="level1">Red Cross Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page106">106</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Var’s American Pills, <span class="righttext">i. 70</span></li> +<li class="level1">Veno’s Seaweed Tonic, <span class="righttext">i. 74</span></li> +<li class="level1">Warner’s Cure, <span class="righttext">i. 72</span></li> + +<li>Kilmer’s Indian Cough Cure, <span class="righttext">i. 15</span></li> + +<li>Kilmer’s Swamp Root, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page108">108</a></span></li> + +<li>Kino, <span class="righttext">i. 32</span></li> + +<li>Kleinertz’s Quidestin, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page209">209</a></span></li> + +<li>Koko, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page224">224</a></span></li> + +<li>Kompo, White’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page75">75</a></span></li> + +<li>Körber’s Cure for Consumption, <span class="righttext">i. 36</span></li> + +<li>Korpusdoon, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page233">233</a></span></li> + +<li>Krameria, <span class="righttext">i. 32; ii. <a href="#Page40">40</a></span></li> + +<li>Kupfinn, “Dr.”, <span class="righttext">i. 139</span></li> + +<li class="newletter">Lamma Powder, <span class="righttext">i. 129</span></li> + +<li>Lammersdorf’s Chilblain Cream, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page237">237</a></span></li> + +<li>Lancashire nostrum, A, <span class="righttext">i. 80</span></li> + +<li>Lane’s Catarrh Cure, <span class="righttext">i. 2</span></li> + +<li>Lanoline, <span class="righttext">i. 149, 154; ii. <a href="#Page20">20</a>, <a href="#Page25">25</a>, <a href="#Page40">40</a>, <a href="#Page43">43</a></span></li> + +<li>Lard, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page20">20</a>, <a href="#Page25">25</a>, <a href="#Page35">35</a>, <a href="#Page177">177</a></span></li> + +<li>Lauser’s Cough Drops, <span class="righttext">i. 19</span></li> + +<li>Lavender, <span class="righttext">i. 104</span></li> + +<li>Lavender, oil of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page11">11</a></span></li> + +<li>Laville’s Antigout remedies, <span class="righttext">i. 64</span></li> + +<li>Laxatol (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind15">Phenolphthalein</a>)</li> + +<li>Laxen (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind15">Phenolphthalein</a>)</li> + +<li>Laxoin (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind15">Phenolphthalein</a>)</li> + +<li>Lazarus Gout and Rheumatic Soap, <span class="righttext">i. 64</span></li> + +<li>Lead, <span class="righttext">i. 122</span></li> + +<li>Lead acetate, <span class="righttext">i. 113, 127, 148, 152; ii. <a href="#Page226">226</a>, <a href="#Page228">228</a></span></li> + +<li>Lead carbonate, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page177">177</a></span></li> + +<li>Lead oleate, <span class="righttext">i. 113, 119, 181</span></li> + +<li>Lead oxide, <span class="righttext">i. 143, 144</span></li> + +<li>Lead plaster, <span class="righttext">i. 181</span></li> + +<li>Lead sulphate, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page226">226</a></span></li> + +<li>Lead subacetate, <span class="righttext">i. 127</span></li> + +<li>Lecithin, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page69">69</a>, <a href="#Page127">127</a>, <a href="#Page238">238</a></span></li> + +<li>Lemon, <span class="righttext">i. 84</span></li> + +<li>Lemon grass, <span class="righttext">i. 113</span></li> + +<li>Lemon, oil of, <span class="righttext">i. 65; ii. <a href="#Page25">25</a>, <a href="#Page35">35</a></span></li> + +<li>Leptandrin, <span class="righttext">i. 74</span></li> + +<li>Levasco, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page10">10</a></span></li> + +<li>Lieber’s Tea for Consumption, <span class="righttext">i. 36</span></li> + +<li>Lilly’s (Nurse) Female Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page206">206</a></span></li> + +<li>Lime Juice, <span class="righttext">i. 77, 81</span></li> + +<li>Limosan<span class="pagenum" id="Page275">[275]</span>, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page28">28</a></span></li> + +<li>Linseed Compound, Kay’s, <span class="righttext">i. 12</span></li> + +<li>Linseed oil, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page181">181</a>, <a href="#Page182">182</a></span></li> + +<li>Lion Pills, Burgess’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page101">101</a></span></li> + +<li>Lion Ointment, Burgess’s, <span class="righttext">i. 180</span></li> + +<li>Liqufruta Medina, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page77">77</a></span></li> + +<li>Liquor ammonii anisat., <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page86">86</a></span></li> + +<li>Liquorice, <span class="righttext">i. 11, 14, 18, 19, 45, 54, 55, 61, 69, 89, 91, 102, 103, 133, 156, 173, 174, 175, 176; ii. <a href="#Page28">28</a>, <a href="#Page97">97</a>, <a href="#Page116">116</a>, <a href="#Page119">119</a>, <a href="#Page122">122</a>, <a href="#Page192">192</a>, <a href="#Page193">193</a>, <a href="#Page197">197</a>, <a href="#Page199">199</a>, <a href="#Page203">203</a>, <a href="#Page204">204</a>, <a href="#Page206">206</a></span></li> + +<li>Liquorice, extract of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page74">74</a>, <a href="#Page234">234</a></span></li> + +<li>Lithium carbonate, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page28">28</a></span></li> + +<li>Lithium citrate, <span class="righttext">i. 62; ii. <a href="#Page13">13</a>, <a href="#Page28">28</a></span></li> + +<li>Liver Cooler, Fitch’s Kidney and, <span class="righttext">i. 71</span></li> + +<li>Lloyd, J. Nelson, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page256">256</a>, <a href="#Page257">257</a>, <a href="#Page258">258</a></span></li> + +<li>Lloyd Reducing Treatment, Nelson, <span class="righttext">i. 100</span></li> + +<li>Lobelia, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page23">23</a></span></li> + +<li>Lobelia, tincture of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page86">86</a></span></li> + +<li>Lockyer’s Sulphur Hair Restorer, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page225">225</a></span></li> + +<li>London Medicine Co.’s Fitzkure, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page159">159</a></span></li> + +<li>Lotion, X.L. Reducing Pills and, <span class="righttext">i. 89</span></li> + +<li>Lungsava, <span class="righttext">i. 28</span></li> + +<li>Lung Tonic, Owbridge’s, <span class="righttext">i. 13</span></li> + +<li>Lycopodium, <span class="righttext">i. 71</span></li> + +<li>Lymphol, Rice’s, <span class="righttext">i. 158</span></li> + +<li class="newletter">Mackenzie’s “One Day” Cold Cure, <span class="righttext">i. 4</span></li> + +<li>Magic Foot Drafts, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page14">14</a></span></li> + +<li>Magnesia, calcined, <span class="righttext">i. 150</span></li> + +<li>Magnesia citrate, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page28">28</a></span></li> + +<li>Magnesia glycerophosphate, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page67">67</a></span></li> + +<li>Magnesia silicate, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page19">19</a></span></li> + +<li>Magnesia sulphate, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page49">49</a>, <a href="#Page111">111</a>, <a href="#Page234">234</a></span></li> + +<li>Magnesium carbonate, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page133">133</a>, <a href="#Page150">150</a></span></li> + +<li>Magpies, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page166">166</a></span></li> + +<li>Malachite green, <span class="righttext">i. 111</span></li> + +<li>Malt extract, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page19">19</a>, <a href="#Page95">95</a>, <a href="#Page121">121</a>, <a href="#Page237">237</a></span></li> + +<li>Mandelyl-tropeine (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind16">Homatropine</a>).</li> + +<li>Mann’s (Nurse) Remedy, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page191">191</a>, <a href="#Page195">195</a></span></li> + +<li>Marigold, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page28">28</a></span></li> + +<li>Marmola, <span class="righttext">i. 85, 93</span></li> + +<li>Marshmallow, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page100">100</a></span></li> + +<li>Marston Treatment, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page55">55</a></span></li> + +<li>Martin’s Apiol and Steel Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page199">199</a></span></li> + +<li>Martin’s Miracletts, <span class="righttext">i. 171</span></li> + +<li>Matrozone, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page207">207</a></span></li> + +<li>Medicine Stamp Act, <span class="righttext">i. 182</span></li> + +<li>Medi-cone Pile Treatment, Oxien, <span class="righttext">i. 151</span></li> + +<li>Meligrin, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page238">238</a></span></li> + +<li>Menthol, <span class="righttext">i. 156, 172; ii. <a href="#Page20">20</a></span></li> + +<li>Mercuric oxide, <span class="righttext">i. 143</span></li> + +<li>Mercury, ammoniated, <span class="righttext">i. 113, 143, 144</span></li> + +<li>Mercury perchloride, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page239">239</a></span></li> + +<li>Mergandol, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page239">239</a></span></li> + +<li>Mer-Syren, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page89">89</a></span></li> + +<li>Methyl alcohol, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page238">238</a></span></li> + +<li>Methyl orange, <span class="righttext">i. 86</span></li> + +<li>Methyl salicylate, <span class="righttext">i. 73, 180; ii. <a href="#Page20">20</a>, <a href="#Page33">33</a>, <a href="#Page40">40</a>, <a href="#Page82">82</a>, <a href="#Page85">85</a>, <a href="#Page110">110</a>, <a href="#Page145">145</a>, <a href="#Page183">183</a></span></li> + +<li>Methylene blue, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page145">145</a></span></li> + +<li>Metramine (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind13">Formamine</a>).</li> + +<li>Mexican Hair Renewer, <span class="righttext">i. 226</span></li> + +<li>Milk, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page69">69</a></span></li> + +<li>Miracletts, Martin’s, <span class="righttext">i. 171</span></li> + +<li>Mixture for Epilepsy, Osborne’s, <span class="righttext">i. 126</span></li> + +<li>Monaid Tablets, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page200">200</a></span></li> + +<li>Morgan’s Radio Vimettes, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page52">52</a></span></li> + +<li>Morphine, <span class="righttext">i. 13, 15, 18; ii. <a href="#Page148">148</a></span></li> + +<li>Mother’s Advice, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page93">93</a></span></li> + +<li>Mother Seigel’s Curative Syrup, <span class="righttext">i. 176</span></li> + +<li>Mothersill’s Seasick Remedy, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page232">232</a></span></li> + +<li>Muco-Food Cones, Van Vleck’s, <span class="righttext">i. 148, 155</span></li> + +<li>Mul’la, Buer’s, <span class="righttext">i. 149</span></li> + +<li>Munyon’s Catarrh Cure, <span class="righttext">i. 6</span></li> + +<li>Munyon’s Catarrh Tablets, <span class="righttext">i. 6</span></li> + +<li>Munyon’s Blood Cure, <span class="righttext">i. 44</span></li> + +<li>Munyon’s Kidney Cure, <span class="righttext">i. 75</span></li> + +<li>Munyon’s Pile Ointment, <span class="righttext">i. 150</span></li> + +<li>Murray’s Combined Treatment, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page58">58</a></span></li> + +<li>Mustard, essential oil of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page10">10</a>, <a href="#Page12">12</a></span></li> + +<li class="newletter">National College of Health, Limited, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page166">166</a>, <a href="#Page243">243</a></span></li> + +<li>Nazaseptic, <span class="righttext">i. 139</span></li> + +<li>Nebular Tablets, Colman’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page84">84</a></span></li> + +<li>Nelson Lloyd, J., <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page256">256</a>, <a href="#Page257">257</a>, <a href="#Page258">258</a></span></li> + +<li>Nelson Lloyd Reducing Treatment, <span class="righttext">i. 100</span></li> + +<li>Nerve Stimulators, <span class="righttext">i. 31</span></li> + +<li id="Ind9">Nerve Tonics and “Elixirs of Life”<span class="pagenum" id="Page276">[276]</span>, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page44">44</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Antineurasthin, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page68">68</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Cocaphos, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page49">49</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Damaroids, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page50">50</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Gordon’s Vital Sexualine Restorative, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page54">54</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Guy’s Tonic, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page46">46</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Invigoroids, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page51">51</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Marston Treatment, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page55">55</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Morgan’s Radio-Vimettes, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page52">52</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Murray’s Combined Treatment, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page58">58</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Neurovril, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page63">63</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Osogen, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page66">66</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Phosferine, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page45">45</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Schäfert’s Nerve Salts, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page70">70</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Sequarine, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page62">62</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Vitæ Ore, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page48">48</a></span></li> + +<li>Nervlettes, Coleman’s, <span class="righttext">i. 175</span></li> + +<li>Nettle, <span class="righttext">i. 36</span></li> + +<li>Neuralgia (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind17">Gout, Rheumatism, and Neuralgia, Medicines for</a>)</li> + +<li>Neurovril, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page63">63</a></span></li> + +<li>“New and Marvellous Remedy for the Eyes”, <span class="righttext">i. 144</span></li> + +<li>Niblett’s Vital Renewer, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page162">162</a></span></li> + +<li>Ninetta, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page238">238</a></span></li> + +<li>Nitrous Ether, Spirit of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page111">111</a></span></li> + +<li>“No Cure No Pay”, <span class="righttext">i. 5, 29, 95</span></li> + +<li>“Normal” Pills for Obesity, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page122">122</a></span></li> + +<li>Normyl Treatment for Alcohol and Drug addictions, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page140">140</a></span></li> + +<li>Nostrum, A Lancashire, <span class="righttext">i. 80</span></li> + +<li>Nurse Grey’s American Compound Tablets, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page190">190</a>, <a href="#Page195">195</a></span></li> + +<li>Nurse Hammond’s Remedies, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page203">203</a></span></li> + +<li>Nurse Lilly’s Female Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page206">206</a></span></li> + +<li>Nurse Mann’s Remedy, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page191">191</a>, <a href="#Page195">195</a></span></li> + +<li>Nurse Powell’s Corrective Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page193">193</a></span></li> + +<li>Nurse Powell’s Mixture, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page193">193</a></span></li> + +<li>Nurse Powell’s Popular Pellets, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page192">192</a></span></li> + +<li>Nurse Powell’s Remedies, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page187">187</a></span></li> + +<li>Nutmeg, oil of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page12">12</a></span></li> + +<li>Nutmeg, tincture of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page219">219</a></span></li> + +<li>Nux Vomica, extract of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page52">52</a>, <a href="#Page145">145</a></span></li> + +<li>Nux Vomica, tincture of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page141">141</a></span></li> + +<li class="newletter" id="Ind7">Obesity, Medicines for, <span class="righttext">i. 83; ii. <a href="#Page112">112</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Absorbit Paste, <span class="righttext">i. 87</span></li> +<li class="level1">Allan’s Anti-Fat, <span class="righttext">i. 92</span></li> +<li class="level1">Anticelta Tablets, <span class="righttext">i. 163</span></li> +<li class="level1">Antipon, <span class="righttext">i. 86</span></li> +<li class="level1">Corpulin, <span class="righttext">i. 104</span></li> +<li class="level1">Dalloff’s Tea, <span class="righttext">i. 104</span></li> +<li class="level1">Fell Treatment, <span class="righttext">i. 97</span></li> +<li class="level1">Figuroids, <span class="righttext">i. 94</span></li> +<li class="level1">Gordon Wallace’s Treatment, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page114">114</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Graziana Treatment, <span class="righttext">i. 103</span></li> +<li class="level1">Hargreave’s Wafers, <span class="righttext">i. 91</span></li> +<li class="level1">J. Z. Tablets, <span class="righttext">i. 87</span></li> +<li class="level1">Kellogg’s Safe Fat Reducer, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page119">119</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Marmola, <span class="righttext">i. 85, 93</span></li> +<li class="level1">Nelson Lloyd Treatment, <span class="righttext">i. 100</span></li> +<li class="level1">“Normal” Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page122">122</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Phatolene Tablets, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page117">117</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Russell’s Anti-Corpulent Preparation, <span class="righttext">i. 87</span></li> +<li class="level1">Seymour’s (Mrs.) Treatment, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page123">123</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Trilene Tablets, <span class="righttext">i. 90</span></li> +<li class="level1">Vincent’s Anti-Stout Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page116">116</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">X.L. Pills and Lotion, <span class="righttext">i. 89</span></li> +<li class="level1">Zehrkur, <span class="righttext">i. 103</span></li> +<li class="level1">Zobiede, <span class="righttext">i. 87</span></li> + +<li>Ohraseptic, <span class="righttext">i. 139</span></li> + +<li>Ohrsorb Compound, <span class="righttext">i. 138</span></li> + +<li>Oil of allspice, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page10">10</a>, <a href="#Page12">12</a></span></li> + +<li>Oil of almond, <span class="righttext">i. 135, 138</span></li> + +<li>Oil of almond, essential, <span class="righttext">i. 35; ii. <a href="#Page151">151</a></span></li> + +<li>Oil of amber, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page6">6</a>, <a href="#Page23">23</a></span></li> + +<li>Oil of anise, <span class="righttext">i. 12, 14; ii. <a href="#Page74">74</a>, <a href="#Page105">105</a>, <a href="#Page149">149</a>, <a href="#Page150">150</a>, <a href="#Page151">151</a>, <a href="#Page162">162</a>, <a href="#Page164">164</a></span></li> + +<li>Oil of birch tar, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page43">43</a></span></li> + +<li>Oil of cade, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page42">42</a>, <a href="#Page43">43</a></span></li> + +<li>Oil of camphor, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page10">10</a>, <a href="#Page23">23</a>, <a href="#Page25">25</a>, <a href="#Page82">82</a></span></li> + +<li>Oil of caraway, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page149">149</a>, <a href="#Page150">150</a>, <a href="#Page151">151</a>, <a href="#Page240">240</a></span></li> + +<li>Oil of cassia, <span class="righttext">i. 35; ii. <a href="#Page10">10</a></span></li> + +<li>Oil of cinnamon, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page76">76</a>, <a href="#Page98">98</a></span></li> + +<li>Oil of cloves, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page63">63</a>, <a href="#Page76">76</a>, <a href="#Page237">237</a></span></li> + +<li>Oil of cocoanut, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page25">25</a></span></li> + +<li>Oil of cottonseed, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page12">12</a></span></li> + +<li>Oil of dill, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page149">149</a>, <a href="#Page150">150</a>, <a href="#Page151">151</a></span></li> + +<li>Oil of eucalyptus, <span class="righttext">i. 4, 112; ii. <a href="#Page23">23</a>, <a href="#Page25">25</a>, <a href="#Page35">35</a>, <a href="#Page40">40</a>, <a href="#Page80">80</a>, <a href="#Page82">82</a></span></li> + +<li>Oil of juniper, <span class="righttext">i. 68, 71; ii. <a href="#Page19">19</a>, <a href="#Page108">108</a></span></li> + +<li>Oil of lavender, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page11">11</a></span></li> + +<li>Oil of lemon, <span class="righttext">i. 65; ii. <a href="#Page25">25</a>, <a href="#Page35">35</a></span></li> + +<li>Oil of linseed, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page181">181</a>, <a href="#Page182">182</a></span></li> + +<li>Oil of mustard, essential, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page10">10</a>, <a href="#Page12">12</a></span></li> + +<li>Oil of nutmeg, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page12">12</a></span></li> + +<li>Oil, olive, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page40">40</a></span></li> + +<li>Oil of onion<span class="pagenum" id="Page277">[277]</span>, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page78">78</a></span></li> + +<li>Oil of origanum, <span class="righttext">i. 160</span></li> + +<li>Oil of pennyroyal, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page192">192</a>, <a href="#Page193">193</a>, <a href="#Page196">196</a>, <a href="#Page197">197</a>, <a href="#Page204">204</a>, <a href="#Page205">205</a>, <a href="#Page206">206</a></span></li> + +<li>Oil of peppermint, <span class="righttext">i. 14, 36, 69, 71, 81, 94, 160; ii. <a href="#Page63">63</a>, <a href="#Page74">74</a>, <a href="#Page78">78</a>, <a href="#Page96">96</a>, <a href="#Page98">98</a>, <a href="#Page101">101</a></span></li> + +<li>Oil of pimento, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page10">10</a>, <a href="#Page12">12</a></span></li> + +<li>Oil of pine, <span class="righttext">i. 4</span></li> + +<li>Oil, rape, <span class="righttext">i. 88, 135; ii. <a href="#Page25">25</a></span></li> + +<li>Oil of rosemary, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page11">11</a>, <a href="#Page23">23</a></span></li> + +<li>Oil of rue, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page195">195</a>, <a href="#Page204">204</a>, <a href="#Page205">205</a></span></li> + +<li>Oil of sassafras, <span class="righttext">i. 44; ii. <a href="#Page159">159</a>, <a href="#Page234">234</a></span></li> + +<li>Oil of spearmint, <span class="righttext">i. 160; ii. <a href="#Page10">10</a></span></li> + +<li>Oil of theobroma, <span class="righttext">i. 148, 152, 154, 156; ii. <a href="#Page58">58</a>, <a href="#Page61">61</a>, <a href="#Page201">201</a>, <a href="#Page202">202</a>, <a href="#Page203">203</a></span></li> + +<li>Oil of turpentine, <span class="righttext">i. 65, 113, 122, 136; ii. <a href="#Page7">7</a>, <a href="#Page10">10</a></span></li> + +<li>Oil of wintergreen, <span class="righttext">i. 73, 180; ii. <a href="#Page20">20</a>, <a href="#Page33">33</a>, <a href="#Page40">40</a>, <a href="#Page82">82</a>, <a href="#Page85">85</a>, <a href="#Page110">110</a>, <a href="#Page145">145</a>, <a href="#Page183">183</a></span></li> + +<li>Ointment, Cassell’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page40">40</a></span></li> + +<li>Ointment, Collie’s, <span class="righttext">i. 57</span></li> + +<li>Ointment, Crimson Cross, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page181">181</a></span></li> + +<li>Ointment, Tremol, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page176">176</a></span></li> + +<li>Okterin, <span class="righttext">i. 146</span></li> + +<li>Oleic acid, <span class="righttext">i. 115, 161</span></li> + +<li>Oleo-resin of Capsicum, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page11">11</a>, <a href="#Page19">19</a></span></li> + +<li>Opthalmol, <span class="righttext">i. 146</span></li> + +<li>Oquit, <span class="righttext">i. 59</span></li> + +<li>Opium, tincture of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page6">6</a></span></li> + +<li>Orchitic fluid, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page62">62</a>, <a href="#Page67">67</a></span></li> + +<li>Origanum, oil of, <span class="righttext">i. 160</span></li> + +<li>Orudon Essence, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page27">27</a></span></li> + +<li>Orudon Salt, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page28">28</a></span></li> + +<li>Osborne’s Mixture for Epilepsy, <span class="righttext">i. 126</span></li> + +<li>Osogen, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page66">66</a></span></li> + +<li>Owbridge’s Lung Tonic, <span class="righttext">i. 13</span></li> + +<li>Ox-bile, <span class="righttext">i. 88</span></li> + +<li>Oxien Pile Treatment, <span class="righttext">i. 151</span></li> + +<li>Ozerine, <span class="righttext">i. 125</span></li> + +<li>Oxygar, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page238">238</a></span></li> + +<li>Ozonia, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page25">25</a></span></li> + +<li class="newletter">Pale People, Dr. Williams’ Pink Pills for, <span class="righttext">i. 170, 174</span></li> + +<li>Paraffin, <span class="righttext">i. 4, 70, 100, 106, 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, 120, 140, 143, 144, 146, 151, 152, 156; ii. <a href="#Page12">12</a>, <a href="#Page40">40</a>, <a href="#Page42">42</a>, <a href="#Page43">43</a>, <a href="#Page80">80</a>, <a href="#Page176">176</a>, <a href="#Page240">240</a></span></li> + +<li>Paraphenylene-diamine, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page230">230</a></span></li> + +<li>Paris Pills, Dumas’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page186">186</a>, <a href="#Page192">192</a></span></li> + +<li>Patients’ names, obtaining, <span class="righttext">i. 25; ii. <a href="#Page245">245</a></span></li> + +<li>Patterson’s Female Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page204">204</a></span></li> + +<li>Pellets, Powell’s Popular, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page192">192</a></span></li> + +<li>Pelloids, Mrs. Stafford-Brookes’, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page202">202</a></span></li> + +<li>Pennyroyal and Steel Pills, Towle’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page195">195</a></span></li> + +<li>Pennyroyal oil of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page192">192</a>, <a href="#Page193">193</a>, <a href="#Page196">196</a>, <a href="#Page197">197</a>, <a href="#Page204">204</a>, <a href="#Page205">205</a>, <a href="#Page206">206</a></span></li> + +<li>Peppermint, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page28">28</a></span></li> + +<li>Peppermint, oil of, <span class="righttext">i. 14, 36, 69, 71, 81, 94, 160; ii. <a href="#Page63">63</a>, <a href="#Page74">74</a>, <a href="#Page78">78</a>, <a href="#Page96">96</a>, <a href="#Page98">98</a>, <a href="#Page101">101</a></span></li> + +<li>Peppermint water, <span class="righttext">i. 127; ii. <a href="#Page175">175</a></span></li> + +<li>Peps, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page73">73</a></span></li> + +<li>Pepsin, <span class="righttext">i. 76; ii. <a href="#Page94">94</a></span></li> + +<li>Peru, balsam of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page25">25</a></span></li> + +<li>Pesqui’s Uranium Wine, <span class="righttext">i. 76, 77</span></li> + +<li>Petroleum jelly, <span class="righttext">i. 58, 156</span></li> + +<li>Phatolene Tablets, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page117">117</a></span></li> + +<li>Phelps Brown’s Blood Purifier, <span class="righttext">i. 46</span></li> + +<li>Phelps Brown’s Vervain Restorative Assimilant, <span class="righttext">i. 127</span></li> + +<li>Phenacetin, <span class="righttext">i. 38, 39; ii. <a href="#Page4">4</a></span></li> + +<li>Phenocoll, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page28">28</a></span></li> + +<li id="Ind3">Phenol, <span class="righttext">i. 1, 3, 4, 7, 120, 151; ii. <a href="#Page33">33</a>, <a href="#Page239">239</a></span></li> + +<li>Phenol sulphate, <span class="righttext">i. 239</span></li> + +<li id="Ind15">Phenolphthalein, <span class="righttext">i. 77, 81, 85, 94, 96, 97; ii. <a href="#Page39">39</a>, <a href="#Page144">144</a></span></li> + +<li>Pheun Skin Paste, <span class="righttext">i. 113</span></li> + +<li>Phosferine, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page45">45</a></span></li> + +<li>Phosphoric acid, <span class="righttext">i. 8; ii. <a href="#Page46">46</a>, <a href="#Page47">47</a>, <a href="#Page194">194</a></span></li> + +<li>Phosphorus, <span class="righttext">i. 176; ii. <a href="#Page56">56</a></span></li> + +<li>Phytolaccin, <span class="righttext">i. 54</span></li> + +<li>Picrotoxin, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page141">141</a></span></li> + +<li>Pile Ointment, Doan’s, <span class="righttext">i. 151</span></li> + +<li>Pile Ointment, Munyon’s, <span class="righttext">i. 150</span></li> + +<li id="Ind12">Piles, Medicines for, <span class="righttext">i. 147</span></li> +<li class="level1">Buer’s Mul’la, <span class="righttext">i. 149</span></li> +<li class="level1">Doan’s Ointment, <span class="righttext">i. 151</span></li> +<li class="level1">Hemotora, <span class="righttext">i. 153</span></li> +<li class="level1">Muco-food Cones, Van Vleck’s, <span class="righttext">i. 148</span></li> +<li class="level1">Munyon’s Ointment, <span class="righttext">i. 150</span></li> +<li class="level1">Oxien Medi-cone Treatment, <span class="righttext">i. 151</span></li> +<li class="level1">Rollo’s Remedy, <span class="righttext">i. 153</span></li> +<li class="level1">Van Vleck’s Absorptive Treatment, <span class="righttext">i. 154</span></li> + +<li>Pilocarpine, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page165">165</a></span></li> + +<li>Pimento, oil of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page10">10</a>, <a href="#Page12">12</a></span></li> + +<li>Pine balsams<span class="pagenum" id="Page278">[278]</span>, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page73">73</a></span></li> + +<li>Pinkham’s (Mrs.) Vegetable Compound, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page190">190</a>, <a href="#Page194">194</a></span></li> + +<li>Pink Pills, Williams’, <span class="righttext">i. 170, 174</span></li> + +<li>Piperazine, <span class="righttext">i. 62; ii. <a href="#Page28">28</a></span></li> + +<li>Pistoia Gout Powders, <span class="righttext">i. 62</span></li> + +<li>Pitch Plaster, Hochfelder, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page237">237</a></span></li> + +<li>Plasma, Van Vleck’s, <span class="righttext">i. 155</span></li> + +<li>Podophyllin, <span class="righttext">i. 69; ii. <a href="#Page85">85</a>, <a href="#Page97">97</a>, <a href="#Page144">144</a></span></li> + +<li>Pohl’s Family Tea, <span class="righttext">i. 36</span></li> + +<li>Pomies’ Anticataract Mixture, <span class="righttext">i. 146</span></li> + +<li>Pond’s Arthriticus, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page12">12</a></span></li> + +<li>Poplar tree leaf, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page28">28</a></span></li> + +<li>Popular Pellets, Powell’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page192">192</a></span></li> + +<li>Portland Gout Powder, <span class="righttext">i. 62</span></li> + +<li>Poslam, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page42">42</a></span></li> + +<li>Post’s C.B.Q. Tablets, <span class="righttext">i. 61</span></li> + +<li>Potassium bicarbonate, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page13">13</a>, <a href="#Page150">150</a></span></li> + +<li>Potassium bitartrate, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page78">78</a></span></li> + +<li>Potassium bromide, <span class="righttext">i. 89, 90, 125, 126, 127, 128, 129, 165, 166; ii, 149, 164, 165</span></li> + +<li>Potassium carbonate, <span class="righttext">i. 174, 175</span></li> + +<li>Potassium chlorate, <span class="righttext">i. 133</span></li> + +<li>Potassium chloride, <span class="righttext">i. 89, 90, 125</span></li> + +<li>Potassium citrate, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page13">13</a>, <a href="#Page111">111</a>, <a href="#Page162">162</a></span></li> + +<li>Potassium hypophosphite, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page55">55</a>, <a href="#Page127">127</a></span></li> + +<li>Potassium iodate, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page86">86</a></span></li> + +<li>Potassium iodide, <span class="righttext">i. 43, 45, 47, 52, 54, 61, 89, 90, 92, 93, 111, 126, 142, 146; ii. <a href="#Page39">39</a>, <a href="#Page76">76</a>, <a href="#Page159">159</a>, <a href="#Page162">162</a>, <a href="#Page164">164</a></span></li> + +<li>Potassium nitrate, <span class="righttext">i. 66, 68, 70, 71, 72, 73; ii. <a href="#Page108">108</a></span></li> + +<li>Potassium phosphate, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page63">63</a></span></li> + +<li>Potassium sulphate, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page145">145</a></span></li> + +<li>Potassium sulpho-guaiacolate, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page237">237</a></span></li> + +<li>Potato Flour, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page92">92</a></span></li> + +<li>Powders, Headache, <span class="righttext">i. 37</span></li> +<li class="level1">Daisy, <span class="righttext">i. 38</span></li> +<li class="level1">“Good as Gold”, <span class="righttext">i. 41</span></li> +<li class="level1">Hoffmann’s Harmless, <span class="righttext">i. 41</span></li> + +<li>Powders for Infants, Soothing, Teething, and Cooling, <span class="righttext">i. 130</span></li> +<li class="level1">Fenning’s Children’s Cooling, <span class="righttext">i. 133</span></li> +<li class="level1">Pritchard’s Teething and Fever, <span class="righttext">i. 132</span></li> +<li class="level1">Stedman’s Teething, <span class="righttext">i. 130</span></li> +<li class="level1">Steedman’s Soothing, <span class="righttext">i. 131</span></li> + +<li>Powell’s Balsam of Aniseed, <span class="righttext">i. 14</span></li> + +<li>Powell’s (Nurse) Corrective Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page193">193</a></span></li> + +<li>Powell’s (Nurse) Mixture, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page193">193</a></span></li> + +<li>Powell’s (Nurse) Popular Pellets, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page192">192</a></span></li> + +<li>Powell’s (Nurse) Remedies, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page187">187</a></span></li> + +<li>Preservative, Atkinson and Barker’s Infants’, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page150">150</a></span></li> + +<li>Pritchard’s Teething and Fever Powders, <span class="righttext">i. 132</span></li> + +<li>Protein, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page69">69</a></span></li> + +<li>Purgen (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind15">Phenolphthalein</a>)</li> + +<li>Pyrogallic acid, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page228">228</a>, <a href="#Page229">229</a></span></li> + +<li class="newletter"><i>Quarterly Review, The</i>, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page253">253</a></span></li> + +<li>Quassia, extract of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page144">144</a></span></li> + +<li>Quidestin, Kleinertz, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page209">209</a></span></li> + +<li>Quinine, <span class="righttext">i. 2, 45, 61, 64, 167; ii. <a href="#Page67">67</a>, <a href="#Page203">203</a>, <a href="#Page223">223</a></span></li> + +<li>Quinine glycerophosphate, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page67">67</a></span></li> + +<li>Quinine phosphate, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page61">61</a></span></li> + +<li>Quinine sulphate, <span class="righttext">i. 176; ii. <a href="#Page46">46</a>, <a href="#Page50">50</a>, <a href="#Page51">51</a>, <a href="#Page53">53</a>, <a href="#Page55">55</a>, <a href="#Page61">61</a>, <a href="#Page194">194</a>, <a href="#Page201">201</a>, <a href="#Page202">202</a></span></li> + +<li>Quinine valerianate, <span class="righttext">i. 172</span></li> + +<li class="newletter">Radio-vimettes, Morgan’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page52">52</a></span></li> + +<li>Radium Salve, A, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page234">234</a></span></li> + +<li>Rape oil, <span class="righttext">i. 88, 135; ii. <a href="#Page25">25</a></span></li> + +<li>Red Cross Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page106">106</a></span></li> + +<li>Red Gum, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page76">76</a></span></li> + +<li>Reducing Paste, Absorbit, <span class="righttext">i. 87</span></li> + +<li>Reducing Pills and Lotion, X.L., <span class="righttext">i. 89</span></li> + +<li>Reducing Treatment, Fell, <span class="righttext">i. 97</span></li> + +<li>Reducing Treatment, Graziana, <span class="righttext">i. 103</span></li> + +<li>Reducing Treatment, Nelson Lloyd, <span class="righttext">i. 100</span></li> + +<li>Reducing Wafers, Hargreave’s, <span class="righttext">i. 91</span></li> + +<li>Reichel’s Cough Drops, <span class="righttext">i. 19</span></li> + +<li>Religious Papers, advertisements in, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page254">254</a></span></li> + +<li>Report Forms (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind6">Symptom Forms</a>)</li> + +<li>Resin (colophony), <span class="righttext">i. 58, 112; ii. <a href="#Page181">181</a>, <a href="#Page182">182</a></span></li> + +<li>Resin plaster, <span class="righttext">i. 119</span></li> + +<li>Retailers, Headache powders supplied by, <span class="righttext">i. 41</span></li> + +<li><i>Rhamnus frangula</i>, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page28">28</a></span></li> + +<li><i>Rhamnus purshianus</i>, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page28">28</a></span></li> + +<li>Rheuma Tabakolin, <span class="righttext">i. 65</span></li> + +<li>Rheumacid, <span class="righttext">i. 64</span></li> + +<li>Rheumatic, Gout, and Sciatica Cure, Hamm’s, <span class="righttext">i. 51</span></li> + +<li>Rheumatic and Gout Spirit, Weigand’s, <span class="righttext">i. 65</span></li> + +<li>Rheumatic Pills, Blair’s Gout and<span class="pagenum" id="Page279">[279]</span>, <span class="righttext">i. 50</span></li> + +<li>Rheumatism (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind17">Gout, Rheumatism, and Neuralgia, Medicines for</a>)</li> + +<li>Rheumatism, Gloria Treatment for, <span class="righttext">i. 52</span></li> + +<li>Rheumsol Bath Salts, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page27">27</a></span></li> + +<li>Rhizoma root, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page29">29</a></span></li> + +<li>Rhubarb, <span class="righttext">i. 45, 55, 74, 104, 111; ii. <a href="#Page99">99</a>, <a href="#Page101">101</a>, <a href="#Page105">105</a>, <a href="#Page149">149</a></span></li> + +<li>Rhubarb, infusion of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page175">175</a></span></li> + +<li>Rhycol, Antiseptic, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page82">82</a></span></li> + +<li>Rhycol Lubricant, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page82">82</a></span></li> + +<li>Rhycol Tampons, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page82">82</a></span></li> + +<li>Rhycol Treatment, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page80">80</a></span></li> + +<li>Rice’s Lymphol, <span class="righttext">i. 158</span></li> + +<li>Rice’s Treatment for Rupture, <span class="righttext">i. 158</span></li> + +<li>Ringworm Cure, Wilson’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page235">235</a></span></li> + +<li>Rino Ointment, <span class="righttext">i. 113</span></li> + +<li>Rock Rose, <span class="righttext">i. 46</span></li> + +<li>Roller’s Powder for epilepsy, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page166">166</a></span></li> + +<li>Rollo’s Remedy for Piles, <span class="righttext">i. 153</span></li> + +<li>Rosemary, oil of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page11">11</a>, <a href="#Page23">23</a></span></li> + +<li>Rose water, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page41">41</a>, <a href="#Page226">226</a>, <a href="#Page228">228</a></span></li> + +<li>Rue, oil of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page195">195</a>, <a href="#Page204">204</a>, <a href="#Page205">205</a></span></li> + +<li>Rupture, Preparations for, <span class="righttext">i. 158</span></li> +<li class="level1">Healine Treatment, <span class="righttext">i. 160</span></li> +<li class="level1">Rice’s Treatment, <span class="righttext">i. 158</span></li> + +<li>Russell’s Anti-Corpulent Preparation, <span class="righttext">i. 87</span></li> + +<li class="newletter">Saccharin, <span class="righttext">i. 11, 172</span></li> + +<li>Sacco, <span class="righttext">i. 28</span></li> + +<li>Saffron, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page151">151</a></span></li> + +<li>Salicylic acid, <span class="righttext">i. 92, 93, 113; ii. <a href="#Page33">33</a>, <a href="#Page42">42</a>, <a href="#Page43">43</a>, <a href="#Page76">76</a></span></li> + +<li>Salicylic methylene-glycol ester, <span class="righttext">i. 61</span></li> + +<li>Salocoll, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page28">28</a></span></li> + +<li>Sal volatile, <span class="righttext">i. 43</span></li> + +<li>Sanol Cones, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page200">200</a></span></li> + +<li>Sargol, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page125">125</a></span></li> + +<li>Sarsaparilla, compound solution of, <span class="righttext">i. 44</span></li> + +<li>Sarsaparilla, Hood’s Extract of, <span class="righttext">i. 46</span></li> + +<li>Sarsaparilla, Townsend’s American, <span class="righttext">i. 43</span></li> + +<li>Sassafras, oil of, <span class="righttext">i. 44; ii. <a href="#Page159">159</a>, <a href="#Page234">234</a></span></li> + +<li>Savin, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page197">197</a></span></li> + +<li>Scammony, <span class="righttext">i. 80, 180</span></li> + +<li>Schäfert’s Nerve Salts, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page70">70</a></span></li> + +<li>Sciatica Cure, Hamm’s Rheumatic, Gout, and, <span class="righttext">i. 51</span></li> + +<li>Scopolamine, <span class="righttext">i. 168</span></li> + +<li>Scott’s Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page98">98</a></span></li> + +<li>Seasickness, Preparations for, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page231">231</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Mothersill’s Remedy, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page232">232</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Zotos, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page231">231</a></span></li> + +<li>Seaweed Tonic, Veno’s, <span class="righttext">i. 74</span></li> + +<li>Seeger’s Hair-Dye, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page228">228</a></span></li> + +<li>Seigel’s Curative Syrup, Mother, <span class="righttext">i. 176</span></li> + +<li>Seigel’s Syrup and <i>Secret Remedies</i>, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page259">259</a></span></li> + +<li>Self-examination Form (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind6">Symptom Form</a>)</li> + +<li>Senna, <span class="righttext">i. 19, 74, 104; ii. <a href="#Page28">28</a>, <a href="#Page149">149</a>, <a href="#Page196">196</a></span></li> + +<li>Senna, syrup of, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page149">149</a></span></li> + +<li>Sequarine, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page62">62</a></span></li> + +<li>Seymour’s (Mrs.) Treatment for Obesity, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page123">123</a></span></li> + +<li>Shadeine, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page229">229</a></span></li> + +<li>Shaffer-Bennyon’s (Mrs.) Remedy, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page203">203</a></span></li> + +<li>Singleton’s Eye Ointment, <span class="righttext">i. 142</span></li> + +<li>Skin Diseases (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind18">Eczema and other skin affections, Preparations for</a>)</li> + +<li>Skin Paste, Pheun, <span class="righttext">i. 113</span></li> + +<li>Slippery elm bark, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page39">39</a></span></li> + +<li>Soap, <span class="righttext">i. 57, 64, 65, 70, 113, 119, 135, 140, 175; ii. <a href="#Page11">11</a>, <a href="#Page23">23</a>, <a href="#Page97">97</a>, <a href="#Page98">98</a>, <a href="#Page99">99</a>, <a href="#Page100">100</a>, <a href="#Page101">101</a>, <a href="#Page105">105</a>, <a href="#Page108">108</a>, <a href="#Page195">195</a>, <a href="#Page204">204</a>, <a href="#Page205">205</a>, <a href="#Page228">228</a>, <a href="#Page240">240</a></span></li> + +<li>Soap, Antigout, <span class="righttext">i. 64</span></li> + +<li>Soap, Lazarus Gout and Rheumatic, <span class="righttext">i. 64</span></li> + +<li>Soda alum, <span class="righttext">i. 142, 145</span></li> + +<li>Soda, chlorinated, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page175">175</a></span></li> + +<li>Sodium acetate, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page177">177</a>, <a href="#Page239">239</a></span></li> + +<li>Sodium benzoate, <span class="righttext">i. 180; ii. <a href="#Page177">177</a>, <a href="#Page237">237</a></span></li> + +<li>Sodium bicarbonate, <span class="righttext">i. 7, 41, 62, 70, 80, 96, 97, 107, 164, 179; ii. <a href="#Page85">85</a>, <a href="#Page150">150</a>, <a href="#Page240">240</a></span></li> + +<li>Sodium bromide, <span class="righttext">i. 129</span></li> + +<li>Sodium carbonate, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page26">26</a>, <a href="#Page27">27</a>, <a href="#Page105">105</a>, <a href="#Page202">202</a>, <a href="#Page228">228</a></span></li> + +<li>Sodium chloride, <span class="righttext">i. 1, 3, 7, 94, 96, 97, 146; ii. <a href="#Page23">23</a>, <a href="#Page70">70</a>, <a href="#Page85">85</a>, <a href="#Page151">151</a>, <a href="#Page239">239</a></span></li> + +<li>Sodium citrate, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page13">13</a>, <a href="#Page28">28</a></span></li> + +<li>Sodium glycerophosphate, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page67">67</a>, <a href="#Page70">70</a></span></li> + +<li>Sodium hypophosphite<span class="pagenum" id="Page280">[280]</span>, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page55">55</a>, <a href="#Page127">127</a></span></li> + +<li>Sodium perborate, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page237">237</a></span></li> + +<li>Sodium phosphate, <span class="righttext">i. 74; ii. <a href="#Page63">63</a></span></li> + +<li>Sodium salicylate, <span class="righttext">i. 52; ii. <a href="#Page13">13</a></span></li> + +<li>Sodium sulphate, <span class="righttext">i. 77, 81, 120, 145; ii. <a href="#Page28">28</a>, <a href="#Page181">181</a>, <a href="#Page182">182</a>, <a href="#Page203">203</a></span></li> + +<li>Soothing, teething, and cooling powders for infants, <span class="righttext">i. 130</span></li> +<li class="level1">Fenning’s Children’s Powders, <span class="righttext">i. 133</span></li> +<li class="level1">Pritchard’s Powders, <span class="righttext">i. 132</span></li> +<li class="level1">Stedman’s Powders, <span class="righttext">i. 130</span></li> +<li class="level1">Steedman’s Powders, <span class="righttext">i. 131</span></li> + +<li>Soothing Syrups, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page147">147</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Atkinson and Barker’s Preservative, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page150">150</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Johnson’s (Mrs.) American, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page151">151</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Winslow’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page148">148</a></span></li> +<li class="level1">Woodward’s Gripe Water, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page149">149</a></span></li> + +<li>Spearmint, oil of, <span class="righttext">i. 160; ii. <a href="#Page10">10</a></span></li> + +<li>Specific for Deafness, Crompton’s, <span class="righttext">i. 135</span></li> + +<li>Spiritol, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page238">238</a></span></li> + +<li>Sprengel’s herbal spice, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page236">236</a></span></li> + +<li>Stafford-Brookes’ (Mrs.) Pelloids, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page202">202</a></span></li> + +<li>Stamp Act, <span class="righttext">i. 182</span></li> + +<li>Stamp on secret remedies, <span class="righttext">i. 182</span></li> + +<li><i>Star, The</i>, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page253">253</a></span></li> + +<li>Starch, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page36">36</a>, <a href="#Page39">39</a>, <a href="#Page43">43</a>, <a href="#Page69">69</a>, <a href="#Page92">92</a>, <a href="#Page193">193</a></span></li> + +<li>Star Tonic, <span class="righttext">i. 23</span></li> + +<li>Stearns’s Headache Cure, <span class="righttext">i. 39</span></li> + +<li>Stedman’s Teething Powders, <span class="righttext">i. 130</span></li> + +<li>Steedman’s Soothing Powders, <span class="righttext">i. 131</span></li> + +<li>Stevens’s Consumption Cure, <span class="righttext">i. 21, 28</span></li> + +<li>Stillingia, <span class="righttext">i. 46</span></li> + +<li>Stockholm Tar, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page17">17</a></span></li> + +<li>Storax, <span class="righttext">i. 27, 115; ii. <a href="#Page9">9</a></span></li> + +<li>“Stramonine”, <span class="righttext">i. 168</span></li> + +<li><i>Strand Magazine, The</i>, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page253">253</a></span></li> + +<li>Strychnine, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page61">61</a>, <a href="#Page67">67</a>, <a href="#Page139">139</a>, <a href="#Page141">141</a>, <a href="#Page144">144</a>, <a href="#Page145">145</a></span></li> + +<li>Sulfopyrin, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page238">238</a></span></li> + +<li>Sulpholine Lotion, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page40">40</a></span></li> + +<li>Sulphur, <span class="righttext">i. 88, 109, 113, 140, 150; ii. <a href="#Page29">29</a>, <a href="#Page35">35</a>, <a href="#Page36">36</a>, <a href="#Page41">41</a>, <a href="#Page42">42</a>, <a href="#Page43">43</a>, <a href="#Page197">197</a>, <a href="#Page226">226</a>, <a href="#Page228">228</a></span></li> + +<li>Sulphur Hair Restorer, Lockyer’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page225">225</a></span></li> + +<li>Sulphuric acid, <span class="righttext">i. 16; ii. <a href="#Page46">46</a>, <a href="#Page238">238</a>, <a href="#Page239">239</a></span></li> + +<li>Sutton Medical Co., <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page244">244</a></span></li> + +<li id="Ind6">Symptom Forms, <span class="righttext">i. 101, 107, 138, 139, 167, 178; ii. <a href="#Page37">37</a>, <a href="#Page57">57</a>, <a href="#Page60">60</a>, <a href="#Page84">84</a>, <a href="#Page124">124</a>, <a href="#Page132">132</a>, <a href="#Page135">135</a>, <a href="#Page138">138</a>, <a href="#Page157">157</a>, <a href="#Page158">158</a>, <a href="#Page173">173</a>, <a href="#Page242">242</a>, <a href="#Page247">247</a>, <a href="#Page251">251</a></span></li> + +<li>Syrup, Seigel’s, <span class="righttext">i. 176</span></li> + +<li>Syrup, Simple, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page65">65</a></span></li> + +<li class="newletter">Tabakolin, Rheuma, <span class="righttext">i. 65</span></li> + +<li>Tablenes, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page93">93</a></span></li> + +<li>Talc, <span class="righttext">i. 109; ii. <a href="#Page39">39</a></span></li> + +<li>Tallow, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page25">25</a></span></li> + +<li>Tannin, <span class="righttext">i. 27, 32, 73, 152, 153, 161; ii. <a href="#Page78">78</a>, <a href="#Page194">194</a></span></li> + +<li>Tansy, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page204">204</a></span></li> + +<li>Tar, <span class="righttext">i. 119; ii. <a href="#Page17">17</a></span></li> + +<li>Taraxacum, <span class="righttext">i. 45, 66, 71, 73</span></li> + +<li>Tartar emetic, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page136">136</a>, <a href="#Page139">139</a></span></li> + +<li>Tartaric acid, <span class="righttext">i. 8, 62, 78, 96, 97; ii. <a href="#Page13">13</a></span></li> + +<li>Tatcho, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page222">222</a></span></li> + +<li>Taylor’s Anti-Epileptic Medicine, <span class="righttext">i. 126</span></li> + +<li>Tea, Dalloff’s, <span class="righttext">i. 104</span></li> + +<li>Tea, Lieber’s, <span class="righttext">i. 36</span></li> + +<li>Tea, Pohl’s, <span class="righttext">i. 36</span></li> + +<li>Teething and Fever Powders, Pritchard’s, <span class="righttext">i. 132</span></li> + +<li>Teething Powders, Stedman’s, <span class="righttext">i. 130</span></li> + +<li>Teetolia Treatment, <span class="righttext">i. 166</span></li> + +<li>Temperancia Treatment, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page130">130</a></span></li> + +<li>Terebene, <span class="righttext">i. 118, 119; ii. <a href="#Page6">6</a>, <a href="#Page25">25</a>, <a href="#Page82">82</a></span></li> + +<li>Testimonials, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page15">15</a>, <a href="#Page16">16</a>, <a href="#Page159">159</a>, <a href="#Page160">160</a></span></li> + +<li id="Ind4">Theobroma, oil of, <span class="righttext">i. 148, 152, 154, 156; ii. <a href="#Page58">58</a>, <a href="#Page61">61</a>, <a href="#Page201">201</a>, <a href="#Page202">202</a>, <a href="#Page203">203</a></span></li> + +<li>Theobromine sodio-salicylate, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page28">28</a></span></li> + +<li>Therapion, <span class="righttext">i. 172</span></li> + +<li>Thermal Bath Cabinet, “Century”, <span class="righttext">i. 99</span></li> + +<li>Thiocol, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page237">237</a></span></li> + +<li>Thyme, <span class="righttext">i. 19</span></li> + +<li>Thyroid, <span class="righttext">i. 84, 94, 102, 103; ii. <a href="#Page113">113</a>, <a href="#Page121">121</a>, <a href="#Page125">125</a></span></li> + +<li><i>Times, The</i>, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page253">253</a></span></li> + +<li>Tissander’s Cure, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page29">29</a></span></li> + +<li>Tobacco Habit, Medicines for, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page128">128</a>, <a href="#Page141">141</a></span></li> + +<li>Tolu, <span class="righttext">i. 13, 16, 18, 27; ii. <a href="#Page9">9</a></span></li> + +<li>Tonic, Gloria, <span class="righttext">i. 52</span></li> + +<li>Tonic, Owbridge’s Lung, <span class="righttext">i. 13</span></li> + +<li>Tonic, Star, <span class="righttext">i. 23</span></li> + +<li>Tonic, Veno’s Seaweed, <span class="righttext">i. 74</span></li> + +<li>Towle’s Pennyroyal and Steel Pills<span class="pagenum" id="Page281">[281]</span>, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page195">195</a></span></li> + +<li>Townsend’s American Sarsaparilla, <span class="righttext">i. 43</span></li> + +<li>Tragacanth, <span class="righttext">i. 106</span></li> + +<li>Treatment Forms (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind6">Symptom Forms</a>)</li> + +<li>Tremol Blood Mixture, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page174">174</a></span></li> + +<li>Tremol Lotion, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page175">175</a></span></li> + +<li>Tremol Ointment, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page176">176</a></span></li> + +<li>Tremol Treatment, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page167">167</a></span></li> + +<li>Trench’s Remedy for Epilepsy and Fits, <span class="righttext">i. 127</span></li> + +<li>Trilene Tablets, <span class="righttext">i. 90</span></li> + +<li><i>Truth</i> Cautionary List, <span class="righttext">i. 28; ii. <a href="#Page86">86</a>, <a href="#Page167">167</a>, <a href="#Page246">246</a>, <a href="#Page258">258</a>, <a href="#Page260">260</a></span></li> + +<li>Tuberculozyne, <span class="righttext">i. 21, 32</span></li> + +<li>Tumenol, <span class="righttext">i. 140</span></li> + +<li>Turmeric, <span class="righttext">i. 70; ii. <a href="#Page197">197</a></span></li> + +<li>Turpentine, oil of, <span class="righttext">i. 65, 113, 122, 136; ii. <a href="#Page6">6</a>, <a href="#Page7">7</a></span></li> + +<li>Turpentine, Venice, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page17">17</a></span></li> + +<li>Tussothym, <span class="righttext">i. 19</span></li> + +<li class="newletter">“Umckaloabo”, <span class="righttext">i. 22, 32</span></li> + +<li>Unqualified practice through the post, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page241">241</a></span></li> + +<li>Uranium nitrate, <span class="righttext">i. 76, 78, 79</span></li> + +<li>Uranium wine, Pesqui’s, <span class="righttext">i. 76, 77</span></li> + +<li>Urea, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page28">28</a></span></li> + +<li>Uricedin, <span class="righttext">i. 64</span></li> + +<li>Uricura Drops, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page6">6</a></span></li> + +<li>Uricura Liniment, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page7">7</a></span></li> + +<li>Urisol (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind13">Formamine</a>).</li> + +<li>Urotropine (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind13">Formamine</a>).</li> + +<li class="newletter">Valerianates, <span class="righttext">i. 172</span></li> + +<li>Van Vleck’s Absorptive Pile Treatment, <span class="righttext">i. 154</span></li> + +<li>Van Vleck’s Catarrh Balm, <span class="righttext">i. 3</span></li> + +<li>Van Vleck’s Muco-food Cones, <span class="righttext">i. 148</span></li> + +<li>Van Vleck’s Pile Pills, <span class="righttext">i. 155</span></li> + +<li>Van Vleck’s Plasma, <span class="righttext">i. 155</span></li> + +<li>Var’s American Kidney Pills, <span class="righttext">i. 70</span></li> + +<li>Varalettes, Bishop’s, <span class="righttext">i. 62</span></li> + +<li>Variable composition of secret remedies, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page261">261</a></span></li> + +<li>Variable dosage of secret remedies, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page263">263</a></span></li> + +<li>Vegetable Compound, Mrs. Pinkham’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page190">190</a>, <a href="#Page194">194</a></span></li> + +<li>Venice turpentine, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page17">17</a></span></li> + +<li>Veno’s Lightning Cough Cure, <span class="righttext">i. 16</span></li> + +<li>Veno’s Seaweed Tonic, <span class="righttext">i. 74</span></li> + +<li><i>Veratrum album</i>, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page17">17</a></span></li> + +<li><i>Verbena officinalis</i>, <span class="righttext">i. 124, 125, 127</span></li> + +<li>Verophen Mouth Water, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page238">238</a></span></li> + +<li>Vervain, <span class="righttext">i. 124, 125, 127</span></li> + +<li>Vervain Restorative Assimilant, O. Phelps Brown’s, <span class="righttext">i. 127</span></li> + +<li>Victoria Asthma Drops, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page86">86</a></span></li> + +<li>Vilixir, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page227">227</a></span></li> + +<li>Vilja Cream, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page239">239</a></span></li> + +<li>Vincent’s Anti-Stout Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page116">116</a></span></li> + +<li>Vin Urané Pesqui, <span class="righttext">i. 76, 77</span></li> + +<li>Vitæ Ore, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page48">48</a></span></li> + +<li>Vital Renewer, Niblett’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page153">153</a></span></li> + +<li>Völlner’s Cotton Wool, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page28">28</a></span></li> + +<li class="newletter">Wafers, Curic, <span class="righttext">i. 38</span></li> + +<li>Wafers, Hargreave’s Reducing, <span class="righttext">i. 91</span></li> + +<li>Wafers, Paciderma Blood, <span class="righttext">i. 109</span></li> + +<li>Wallace, A. Gordon, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page258">258</a></span></li> + +<li>Wallace’s Specifics, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page210">210</a></span></li> + +<li>Wallace’s Treatment for Obesity, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page114">114</a></span></li> + +<li>Warner’s Safe Cure, <span class="righttext">i. 72</span></li> + +<li>Weidhaas Hygienic Institute, <span class="righttext">i. 23</span></li> + +<li>Weigand’s Rheumatic and Gout Spirit, <span class="righttext">i. 65</span></li> + +<li>Welch’s (Widow) Female Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page196">196</a></span></li> + +<li>Whelpton’s Purifying Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page95">95</a></span></li> + +<li>White hellebore, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page17">17</a></span></li> + +<li>White precipitate, <span class="righttext">i. 113, 143, 144</span></li> + +<li>White’s Kompo, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page75">75</a></span></li> + +<li>Whooping Cough Remedy, Assmann’s, <span class="righttext">i. 19</span></li> + +<li>Williams’ Pink Pills for Pale People, <span class="righttext">i. 170, 174</span></li> + +<li>Wind Pills, Woodcock’s, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page98">98</a></span></li> + +<li>Wine, Pesqui’s Uranium, <span class="righttext">i. 77</span></li> + +<li>Winslow’s (Mrs.) Soothing Syrup, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page148">148</a></span></li> + +<li>Wintergreen, oil of, <span class="righttext">i. 73, 180; ii. <a href="#Page20">20</a>, <a href="#Page33">33</a>, <a href="#Page40">40</a>, <a href="#Page82">82</a>, <a href="#Page85">85</a>, <a href="#Page110">110</a>, <a href="#Page145">145</a>, <a href="#Page183">183</a></span></li> + +<li>Wisbech Remedy for the Eyes i. 144</li> + +<li>Witch hazel (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind19">Hamamelis</a>).</li> + +<li>Woodcock’s Wind Pills, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page98">98</a></span></li> + +<li>Wood tar, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page80">80</a></span></li> + +<li>Woods’ Treatment for Alcoholism<span class="pagenum" id="Page282">[282]</span>, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page133">133</a></span></li> + +<li>Woods’ Treatment for Tobacco Habit, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page141">141</a></span></li> + +<li>Woodward’s Gripe Water, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page149">149</a></span></li> + +<li class="newletter">Xaxa (<i>see</i> <a href="#Ind1">Acetyl-salicylic acid</a>)</li> + +<li>X.L. Reducing Pills and Lotion, <span class="righttext">i. 89</span></li> + +<li class="newletter">Yolk of egg, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page69">69</a></span></li> + +<li>Yonkerman’s Tuberculozyne, <span class="righttext">i. 32</span></li> + +<li class="newletter">Zam-buk, <span class="righttext">i. 111</span></li> + +<li>Zehrkur, <span class="righttext">i. 103</span></li> + +<li>Zinc, <span class="righttext">i. 156</span></li> + +<li>Zinc chloride, <span class="righttext">i. 122</span></li> + +<li>Zinc oxide, <span class="righttext">i. 109, 129, 148, 151; ii. <a href="#Page35">35</a>, <a href="#Page41">41</a>, <a href="#Page42">42</a>, <a href="#Page43">43</a>, <a href="#Page177">177</a>, <a href="#Page237">237</a></span></li> + +<li>Zinc phosphide, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page52">52</a>, <a href="#Page127">127</a></span></li> + +<li>Zinc sulphate, <span class="righttext">i. 120</span></li> + +<li>Zinc valerianate, <span class="righttext">i. 172</span></li> + +<li>Zip Ointment, <span class="righttext">i. 112</span></li> + +<li>Zobeide, <span class="righttext">i. 87</span></li> + +<li>Zotos, <span class="righttext">ii. <a href="#Page231">231</a></span></li> + +<li>Zox, <span class="righttext">i. 58</span></li> + +</ul> + +<p><i>Volume I. or Volume II. of “Secret Remedies” can be obtained +from The British Medical Association, 429, Strand, London, W.C., or from +bookstalls and booksellers.</i></p> + +<hr class="full"> + +<div class="tnbot"> + +<h2 id="TN">Transcriber’s Notes</h2> + +<p>Inconsistencies and errors (in spelling. capitalisation, hyphenation, formulae, lay-out, etc.), including those in +proper and product names, have been retained, unless listed under Changes below.</p> + +<p>Page 237, ...absolutely non-poisonous cresote preparation...: possibly intended to read ...absolutely non-poisonous creosote preparation....</p> + +<p>Index: the (spelling) differences between the main text and the index have not been corrected, except as mentioned +under Changes below. Several items listed in the Index are not present in the text of Volume ii (and several items described +in volume ii are not listed in the Index).</p> + +<p class="blankbefore75">Changes:</p> + +<p>Minor typographical and punctuation errors (except when deliberately included in direct quotes) have been corrected silently.</p> + +<p>Raised decimal points · have been changed to low decimal points . except in those tables where all decimal points are +printed raised. In some tables and in the index, ditto marks have been replace with the dittoed text, and minor alignment +irregularities have been standardised.</p> + +<p>Page 8: ...a rational person be believed,... changed to ...a rational person he believed,....</p> + +<p>Page 12: ...all kinns of Pains... changed to ...all kinds of Pains....</p> + +<p>Page 15: closing quote mark inserted after ...supple in my joints as a young man.</p> + +<p>Page 20: opening quote marks inserted before Quint-essence of Life!”</p> + +<p>Page 39: ...a faint anise-like odours;... changed to ...a faint anise-like odour;....</p> + +<p>Page 54: ...Nervous Exhaustion, Spermatorrhoea, Varicocele,... changed to ...Nervous Exhaustion, Spermatorrhœa, Varicocele,....</p> + +<p>Page 58, table: Powdered genetian changed to Powdered gentian.</p> + +<p>Page 67: Fe<sub>3</sub>(PO<sub>4</sub>)<sub>2</sub>8H<sub>2</sub>O changed to Fe<sub>3</sub>(PO<sub>4</sub>)<sub>2</sub>,8H<sub>2</sub>O (comma as elsewhere).</p> + +<p>Page 122: (Fucus vesiculosos), such as are contained... changed to (Fucus vesiculosus), such as are contained....</p> + +<p>Page 173, item 23: closing bracket inserted after ...the size of the surrounding redness or inflammation.</p> + +<p>Page 187: Closing quote mark inserted after ...Suppression of the Menses, incidental to females.</p> + +<p>Page 202: These cones are composed of Theobrama,... changed to These cones are composed of Theobroma,....</p> + +<p>Page 213: No. 1.--This is stated... changed to No. I.--This is stated....</p> + +<p>Page 216: Hermia.... Varicose veins.... changed to Hernia... Varicose veins....</p> + +<p>Page 217: closing quote mark inserted after ...indicate the requirement of No. III.</p> + +<p>Page 248, item 11: closing bracket inserted after ...which surrounds the pupil of the eye.</p> + +<p>Index: Methylene blue moved to appropriate place (p. 275), Rhytol changed to Rhycol (p. 279).</p> + +</div><!--tnbot--> +<div style='text-align:center'>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 78809 ***</div> +</body> +</html> diff --git a/78809-h/images/cover.jpg b/78809-h/images/cover.jpg Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..46adb1b --- /dev/null +++ b/78809-h/images/cover.jpg diff --git a/LICENSE.txt b/LICENSE.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6c72794 --- /dev/null +++ b/LICENSE.txt @@ -0,0 +1,11 @@ +This book, including all associated images, markup, improvements, +metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be +in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES. + +Procedures for determining public domain status are described in +the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org. + +No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in +jurisdictions other than the United States. Anyone seeking to utilize +this eBook outside of the United States should confirm copyright +status under the laws that apply to them. diff --git a/README.md b/README.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..043b5ad --- /dev/null +++ b/README.md @@ -0,0 +1,2 @@ +Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for eBook #78809 +(https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/78809) |
