Felters Materia_Medica-H

8/2/2019 Felters Materia_Medica-H

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HAEMATOXYLON.

The heart-wood ofHaematoxyloncampechianum , Linn (Nat. Ord. Leguminoseae).

J a m a ic a a n d t h e We s t In d i es .

Co m m o n Na m e : Logwood.

P r in c i p a l Co n s t i t u e n t s .Tannin and haematoxylin, an alkaloida l in dicator.

P r e p a r a t i o n s .1. DecoctumHamatoxyli, Decoct ion of Logwood (Logwood, 1 ou n ce;

Wat er, 16 flu idoun ces). Dose, 1 to 2 flu idoun ces .

2 . Extractum Ham atoxyli, Extra ct of Hxm atoxylon. Dose, 5 to 30 grains .

3 . S pe cific Med icine Logw ood. Dose, 5 to 30 drops.

A c t i o n a n d Th e r a p y . -A mild, unirri tating astringent and tonic

formerly much used in chronic diarrhoea and summer complaint of

children, and in passive hemorrhages, and colliquative sweats. I t isn ow seldom em ployed.

HAMAMELIS.

The leaves, bark and twigs of Ham am elis virginiana , Linn (Nat. Ord.

Hamamelidaceae), collected in the autumn. Common in the United States. Dose,

5 to 60 grains .

Co m m o n Na m e s .Witch-Hazel, Snapping Hazelnut, Winterbloom.

P r in c i p a l Co n s t i t u e n t s .A bit ter b ody, tan n in, a n d a volat ile oil .

P r e p a r a t i o n s .-1. AquaHamamelidis , Hamamelis Water, (Distillate of Hamamelis,

Distilled Witch-Hazel, Distilled Extract of Witch-Hazel). Dose, 5 drops to 2

fluidrachms.

2 . Specific Medicine Hamamelis . Dose, 5 to 60 drops.

Spec i fi c In d ica t ions .Venous debili ty, with relaxed and full t issues;

pallid mucosa or occasionally deep red from venous engorgement, or

deep blue from venous stasis; excessive mucous flow, with venousrelaxat ion; passive hemorrhages; prehemorrhagic states, with venous

fullness; varicoses; hemorrhoids with weight and fullness; rectal

prolapse; dull aching pain in pelvis, genitalia, or rectum, with perineal

relaxation and fullness; relaxed or engorged and painful sore throat;

gastro- intest inal i r r i tabi l i ty , with venous weakness and mucous or

muco-bloody passages. Locally to inflamed, ulcerated or wounded skin

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or mucosa, especially where venous circulation is debili tated;

con tu s ion s , bru ises , an d m u scu lar s oren ess from exer t ion or exposu re .

A c t i o n a n d Th e r a p y .External. Witch-hazel bark and its f luid

preparations are astringent. The disti l late and the specific medicine

are sedative and slightly astringent. The latter two form agreeablygrateful and soothing appl icat ions to the skin and mucous surface in

irri tated and inflamed conditions and where venous relaxation is

present. The specific medicine is an elegant and heavy disti l late,

carrying a large proportion of the oil , as compared to the ordinary

dist i l la te , and is much to be preferred where a bland and soothing yet

astringent effect is required. Where more alcoholic stimulation is

permitted or desired the ordinary disti l late may be used. As a rule, the

specif ic medicine is best for use upon mucous, and the dist i l la te uponthe cu tan eou s s u r faces .

Witch-hazel disti l lates are splendid applications for sprains,

contusions, wounds and inf lamed swell ings, and for sunburn, tan,

freckles, and dilatation of the capillaries of the skin. They are cooling

and rel ieve smart ing and pain. Used alone or combined with an equal

quantity of bay rum they form an elegant face wash to remove excess of

soap and heal abrasions af ter shaving. Witch-hazel is one of the most

comforting applications for painful hemorrhoids. I t may be used ice

cold or hot, as preferred. App lied to the ten der pa rts a fter th e par tu rien t

toilet , i t removes soreness of the t issues from childbirth. Rubbed uponth e sk in , or ap plied b y mea n s of compr ess es, i t is an efficien t lotion for

muscular soreness and aching af ter severe exer t ion; f rom cold,

exposure , or when due to bru ises and s t ra ins . I t s use should be

accompanied with gent le massage. Compresses wetted with witch-

hazel give marked relief in acute cutaneous inflammations, chafing,

an d es pecia l ly in m am m it is .

Incised wounds, ragged cuts from glass or t in, barbed wire injuries,

and crushed fingers are quickly relieved of pain and heal rapidly when

th e followin g is a pp lied: Rx Ech a folta , 1/ 2 flu idou n ce; Asep sin , 15grains; Specific Medicine Hamamelis and Water, enough to make 4fluidounces. Mix. Apply upon gauze. A similar preparation, with but

two drachms of the echafolta, or the disti l late with menthol, makes a

good dressing for burns and scalds. Glycer in and hamamelis , equal

parts, or equal parts of Specific Medicine Hamamelis and Lloyd's

Colorless Hydrastis give excellent results in irr i tation and



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inf lammation of the aural canal due to inspissated cerumen, or to

efforts to rem ove th e latter.

Sprayed upon the throat the specific medicine or the disti l late, suitably

di luted, is a useful and sedat ive astr ingent for angry and deep red

sorethroats, with relaxation of membranes; or in pharyngitis, faucitis,and tonsill i t is, with hyperaemia or congestion. The specific medicine

is especially soothing and astringent in congestive nasal catarrh. Few

local was h es give greater r elief in th e a n gin a of sca rlet fever th an th ose

of which witchhazel forms a part . They relieve pain, cleanse the parts,

and constr inge the relaxed t issues and di lated vessels . I t may also be

ad ded to local was h es for u se in diphth er ia .

Together with colorless hydrastis, or other non-alcoholic hydrastispreparations, with or without a grain of alum or of zinc sulphate, i t is a

most effective collyrium for acute conjunctivitis, with dilatedconjunctival vessels. Especially is it effective in vernal conjunctivitis.

The same combinations are exceedingly useful as an injection in

gonorrhea , a f ter the acute symptoms have subsided and a ca tar rhal

s ta te has su pervened.

Internal. Ham am elis h as an im portan t tonic effect up on ven ous debi lity,

act ing upon the coats of the veins throughout the body. Unlike some

vascular remedies i ts action is not merely local, but extends

throughout the whole venous system. I t is therefore a remedy of muchvalue in var icoses, hemorrhoids, and passive hemorrhages. When

indicated, the t issues are pal l id and relaxed, and in some instances

deep red, due to venous engorgement. There is a sense of fullness or

th ickening an d weight a n d congest ion . Th ese ar e especia l ly prom in ent

in the type of hemorrhoids benefited by hamamelis. I t is of some value

in oozing of blood from the mucosa, in passive bleeding from the nose,

lungs, and stomach, but is a bet ter remedy for the venous relaxat ion

that precedes these hemorrhages and which renders the i r occur rence

easy. I t is of less value in hemoptysis than lycopus, and is adapted to

su ch cas es as are ben efited by geran iu m a n d er igeron .

Hamamelis is a decidedly useful remedy in congestive conditions with

marked tissue debili ty. I t should be given a fair tr ial in congestion of

the ovaries, with dull aching pain and sense of weight and fullness; in

chronic congestive conditions of the uterus, with soft and flabby cervix

and patulous os; in uter ine subinvolut ion; and in leucorrhea, with



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sponginess of the vagina and tendency to prolapsus of the womb; and

in pr olap s e of th e rectu m , with ven ou s fu lln ess . It frequ en tly relieves in

va ricocele, with sen s e of weight a n d d ra ggin g.

Hamamelis should also be given in nasal catarrh and ozaena, with

congest ion and tendency to recurr ing epistaxis , and thickened andre laxed mucosa , wi th abundant mucous or muco-purulent d ischarge;

and in chronic inf lammation of the fauces, pharynx, and larynx with

sluggish venous circulation, and greatly relaxed tissues. For chronic

diarrheal , and sometimes acute bowel disorders, as cholera infantum

and dysentery , i t i s prompt ly cura t ive when much mucus i s passed ,

and especially if the passages are t inged with blood. In all cases in

which it is indicated there is debili ty of the venous circulation and

relaxat ion of the mucosa; and where possible i t should be usedconcu rren t ly in tern al ly an d local ly .

HEDEOMA.

The leaves and tops ofHedeomapulegioides (Linn,) Persoon (Nat. Ord. Labiatae).

Comm on in American woods a n d waste p laces . Dose, 5 to 60 gra ins .

Co m m o n Na m e s : Penn yroyal, Am erican Penn yroyal, Squ awm int, Tickweed.

P r i n c i p a l C o n s t i t u e n t .A fragrant volatile oil (Oleum Hedeomae).

P r e p a r a t i o n s .1. Specific Medicine Pennyroyal. Dose, 5 to 60 drops.2 . Oleum Hedeomae , Oil of Pen n yroyal. Dose, 2 to 10 drops.

3 . Infusu m Hedeomae , Infusion of Pennyroyal (1 ounce to Water, 16

fluidounces), ad libitum .

Spec i fi c In d ica t ions .Amenorrhea of long standing, with pallor and

anemia and dark circles around the eyes; the pat ient complains of

languor , lassi tude, takes cold easi ly , has pain in back and l imbs, andexhibits full , prominent veins (Hennell) ; suppressed lochia.

Action .Oil of pennyroyal produces toxic effects when given inoverdoses. A drachm caused severe headache, difficult swallowing,

intense nausea, severe retching without emesis , intolerable bear ing

down, laborl ike pains, abdominal tenderness, const ipat ion, dyspnea,

sem ipa ralysis of th e lim bs , an d n ervous weak n ess a n d prostra t ion.

T h e r a p y .External. Oil of Pennyroyal is rubefacient and relieves the



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i tching of insect bites. I t is useful in embrocations for rheumatic pain.

I t is sometimes appl ied to the hands and face to protect against

mosquitoes, f leas, and other insects. A cloth saturated with oil ofpenn yroyal may be hu n g in s leepin g apa r tm ents to repel su ch insects .

Internal. Oil of Pennyroyal is useful in nausea, s tomach cramps,flatulent colic, and amenorrhea in debili tated subjects. I t is frequently

used to prevent griping from other medicines. I t may be given upon

sugar or in emulsion. I t and the dilution in alcohol are also credited

with calmative properties in spasmodic cough, whooping cough, and in

hysteria from menstrual debili ty. A drachm of the specific medicine

given in hot water is the most cer tain agent we possess to restore

suppressed lochia. The infusion is a popular and pleasant remedy for

acute colds. I t acts chiefly as a diaphoretic, and for this effect i t is oneof the most certain of medicines; and a relic of domestic methods once

in favor am ong ph ysician s, a s well a s th e laity.

HELLEBORUS.

The root ofHelleb orus niger, Linn (Nat. Ord. Ranunculaceae.) Subalpine woods of

cen t ra l an d sou th e rn Europe . Dose, 1 to 10 gra ins .

Co m m o n Na m e s : Black Hellebore , Chr is tm as Rose .

P r i n c i p a l C o n s t i t u e n t s .Two toxic glucosides, helleborin (acting upon the heart

an d as a dr as t ic ca th ar t ic), and helleborein (narcotic).

P r e p a r a t i o n .S pecific Med icine Helleborus . Dose, 1 / 10 to 3 d rops .

A c t i o n a n d Th e r a p y .Hellebore is a powerful gastro-intestinal and

nerve poison, and produces death by convulsions and exhaust ion.

Small doses st imulate the hear t . Large doses are drast ical ly cathar t ic ,

and in this way it exerts also emmenagogue effects. Helleborus was

once largely used as a revulsive in various types of insanity, but is no

longer employed for such a purpose. In minute doses i t may be

employed to increase cardiac power and ar ter ial tension and slowrapid act ion of the hear t . I t increases renal act ivi ty and has caused

rapid disappearance of noncompensatory symptoms in hear t disorders.I t is also suggested when there are jelly-like passages in bowel

affect ions. Scudder advised i t as an emmenagogue when the pat ient is

annoyed by f lashes of heat , burning of the surface of the thighs and

nates, and sensitiveness of the pelvic and perineal t issues. Properly



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used i t might prove of advantage in hypochondria dependent upon

reproductive atony. The dose should be fractional. Rx Specific

Medicine Helleborus, 5 drops; Water, 4 fluidounces. Mix. Sig.: Oneteas poonfu l every two to fou r h ou rs .

HELONIAS.

The rhizome of Chamaeliriumluteum , Gray (Helonias dioica , Pursh)-(Nat. Ord.

Lil iaceae). Abundant in woodlands, meadows, and wet places in some parts of the

Uni ted S ta tes . Dose, 10 to 30 grains .

Co m m o n Na m e s : Blazing Star, Unicorn Root, Starwort, Drooping Starwort, Devil 's

Bit.

P r i n c i p a l C o n s t i t u e n t .A yellowish , b itter pr inciple, chamaelirin .

P r e p a r a t i o n .Specific Medicine Helonias . Dose, 10 to 30 drops .

Spec i fi c In d ica t ions .Sense of weight, congestion, or expulsion of thepelvic cont ent s, with m en ta l torpor, d esp ond en cy, or irr ita bility; gas tric

and other disturbances reflexly due to pelvic relaxation; strong, sticky

leu corrh ea; pelvic fu lln ess with disch ar ge.

A c t i o n a n d Th e r a p y .Tonic, diuretic, and vermifuge. (For relation to

Aletris, compare Aletris.) Helonias is a valuable uterine tonic,

specifically adapted to uterine weakness in which relaxation of t issueis so great as to give the sensation of downward pressure, dragging or

expulsion-or as the patient expresses i t , a sensation as if everything in

the pelvis would fall out or be expelled. Marked irritability and

despondency are of ten associated with such disorders, and whenmenstruat ion occurs there is a feel ing of undue ful lness, as i f the

womb and rec tum were d is tended wi th b lood, and about to be pushed

out of the body. There is associated aching and propulsive pain. In

anemic cases the drug i s usefu l in amenorrhea , and in leucor rhea

should be given internally, while hot antiseptic and astringent

injections are used locally. Helonias is said to correct sexual lassitudein both sexes, and to have checked nocturnal losses due to excesses

and associated with enfeebled body, impaired memory, and mental

apathy . In ch loro t ic anemia dependent in a measure upon u ter ine and

ovarian weakness, i t is also asserted to be very serviceable, and

reputed to improve loss of appetite, indigestion, and malassimilationwhen aggravated by sexual weakness. I t is also said to relieve the



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nausea and vomit ing of pregnancy, to prevent miscarr iages, and to

correct gas tr ic complicat ion s of albu m in u ria .

HEPATICA.

The leaves ofHep atica nobilis va r. acu ta (Anemoneacutiloba ) (Pursh) Steyermark, andof Hepatica nobilis var. obtusa ( A. hepatica) (Pursh) Steyermark (Nat. Ord.

Ranunculaceae). Common in r ich woods in the United States. Dose, 5 to 60

grains.

C o m m o n N a m e s : Liverleaf, Liverwort, American Liverleaf, Kidney Liverleaf (A.

Hepa tica), Hear t Liverleaf (A. a cu tiloba ).

P r in c i p a l Co n s t i t u e n t s .Tan n in , mu cilage , an d a b land oleores in .

P r e p a r a t i o n .Sp ecific Medicine Hep at ica. Dose, 1 to 60 drops.

Spec i f i c Ind ica t ion .Irritation and hypersecretion of mucous

m e m b r a n e s .

A c t i o n a n d Th e r a p y .A mild, mucilaginous astringent, used

sometimes to allay bronchial irr i tation, with free secretion and similarconditions of the gastro-intestinal tract. I t may be exhibited when there

is subacute or acute inf lammation, and in cough with expectorat ion of

bloody mucus. I t is one of the negative medicines that occasionally

meets special conditions when more energetic agents, seemingly

indicated, would aggravate. I t came into use under mistaken ident i ty

for another plant and acquired a great reputat ion for vir tues i t did not

pos s ess . Th e in fu sion m a y be given liber ally.

HIPPOCASTANUM (Aes cu lus Hipp oc as t an u m ).

The bark and fruit of AesculusHippocastanum , Linn (Nat. Ord. Sapindaceae). Asia

an d Eu rope; p lan ted in United Sta tes . Dose (ba rk), 1 t o 60 gra ins; (rind of n u t) 1 to

10 grains.

Co m m o n Na m e : Ho r s e Ch e s t n u t .

P r i n c i p a l C o n s t i t u e n t s .Aesculin, the glucoside giving fluorescence to watery

an d a lka l ine s o lu t ions , argynaescin, and a s te rn u ta to ry, sapon in (aphrodaescin ).

P r e p a r a t i o n .S pecific Med icine Hors e Che s tnu t. Dose, 1 / 10 to 10 d rops .



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Spec i fi c In d ica t ions .Vascular engorgement, with dull , aching pain

and fullness, throbbing of the vessels, and general malaise; visceral

n eu ra lgia; dist u rba n ces reflex from vas cu lar con gest ion of th e rectu m .

A c t i o n a n d Th e r a p y .The act ion and therapeut ic uses of

hippocastanum are closely similar to those of Aes culus glab ra , whichsee. By som e it is b elieved to ha ve a s omewh at s tron ger action u pon t h e

venous circulation. I t is often a remedy of value in neuralgia of the

abdominal and pelvic viscera, when there is plethora. I t is a remedy for

congestion and engorgement, and not for active conditions. Uneasy

and throbbing sensat ions, with dul l , aching pain in any par t of the

body, bu t es pecially in th e h epa tic region, is a n in dication for it . It m ay

be used for non-bleeding piles when full , purple and painful, with a

feeling as if a foreign body is in the rectum; there may also be i tchingan d h eat , or s imply a sen se of u n easiness or discomfort . Wh en proct it is

and neuralgic pain come from this engorged hemorrhoidal state i t iseffective, as i t is also in reflex disorders depending upon the rectal

involvement-such as headache, spasmodic asthma, dyspnea dizziness,

an d d is tu rbed d iges t ion .

HORDEUM.

The decorticated seeds ofHordeum distichon , Linn (Nat. Ord. Graminacee). Native

of central Asia; cult ivated in all tropical and temperate cl imes.

Co m m o n Na m e : Bar ley.

P r i n c i p a l C o n s t i t u e n t s .Maltose, dextrin, fat ty matter , s tarch and proteids. I t

contains no gliadin, as does wheat, hence no gluten can be obtained from it . After

germin at ion i t yields diastase (m altine), a sta rch -digesting bod y.

P r e p a r a t i o n . Decoctum Hordei, Decoction of Barley (Barley Water). Dose, ad

libitum .

A c t i o n a n d Th e r a p y .Outside of its food value in broths, barley is

useful as a demulcent and dr ink for fever pat ients and those suffer ingfrom diarrheal complaints. Barley flour, made into a thin pap, is useful

in infant feeding, and a decoction of barley provides a soothing

injection for rectal inflammations and a medium for the conveyance of

medicines into the bowels in dysentery. I t is also a good gastric

len it ive a fter a cu te p oison in g by ir r i tan ts .



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HUMULUS.

The strobiles ofHum ulus Lupu lus , Linn (Nat. Ord. Urticaceae). Europe and Asia;

common in cult ivation.

Co m m o n Na m e s : Hops , Hop.

P r i n c i p a l C o n s t i t u e n t s .Lupulin (see Lupulinum), hop-bit ter acid, humuli-

tan nic ac id , res in s , vola t i le o il and as par agine , t r imeth ylam in e, an d ch olin e .

P r e p a r a t i o n .Specific Medicine Humulus . Dose, 1 to 60 drops.

Speci f ic Indica t ions .(See Lupulinum .)

A c t i o n a n d Th e r a p y .External. A hop-pillow is a favorite device for

procuring sleep. The odor of the hop has a decidedly sedative influence

upon some individuals, relieving headache and producing sleep; inothers i t produces intense headache, with nausea and vomit ing.

Probably the psychic effect has much to do with i ts value in insomnia.

A hot "hop bag" applied to the face is a favorite domestic cure for

n eu ralgic face a che, a n d a h op pou lt ice h as an odyn e proper t ies.

Internal. This is a remedy to relieve nervous excitability in fevers and to

induce sleep. I t a lso checks fermentat ion of the stomach contents and

th u s proves u sefu l in fermen tat ive dyspeps ia with acid eru ctat ions. For

other uses see Lupulinum , which has superseded hops largely as anin te rn a l m ed ic in e .

HYDRANGEA.

The root ofHydrangeaarborescens , Linn (Nat. Ord. Saxifragaceae). A handsome

shrub a long s t reams and in damp, rocky s i tuat ions in the southern and middle-

wes t s t a te s o f th is cou n t ry . Dose, 5 to 60 grains .

Co m m o n Na m e s : Wild Hydra n gea, Seven Bark s.

P r i n c i p a l C o n s i t i t u e n t s .The glucoside hydrangin (C34H25O11), saponin,

resins, and fixed and volati le oils .

P r e p a r a t i o n .Specific Med icine Hy drangea . Dose, 5 to 60 drops.

Spec i f i c Ind ica t ions .Vesical and urethral irritation, with gravel;



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difficult urination; deep-seated renal pain; bloody urine; irr i tation of

the bronchia l mem bran es .

A c t i o n a n d Th e r a p y .Hydrangea is diuretic and sedative to cystic

and urethral irr i tation, with passage of gravelly urine. I t does not

dissolve gravel, but is believed to be of value in preventing theirformation, especially alkaline and phosphatic concretions. I t should be

administered in hot water . Hydrangea may be used in any renal

disorder with dysuria , blood in the ur ine, or deep-seated pain in the

region of the kidneys. I t is not contraindicated by inflammation and

may be employed with safety in acute nephrit is. I t is especially

serviceable in alkaline urine and in bladder irr i tation of the aged with

tendency to catarrh. Unquest ionably hydrangea has a kindly act ion

upon the mucosa of the ur inary organs and i t has al terat ive proper t iesma kin g it u sefu l in s t ru m ous d iseas es .

HYDRASTIS.

The dried rhizome and roots of Hydrast is canadensis, Linn (Nat. Ord.

Ranunculaceae) United States and Canada in r ich, shady woods. (Chiefly Ohio,

Indiana, Kentucky, and West Virginia.)

Co m m o n Na m e s : Golden Sea l, Yellow Root, Yellow Pu ccoon , Or a n ge Root.

P r i n c i p a l C o n s t i t u e n t s .Three alkaloids: berberine (yellow); and hydrastine a n d

canadine, both wh ite .

P r e p a r a t i o n s a n d De r i v a t i v e s .1. Specific Medicine Hydrastis . Dose, 1 to 30

drops .

2 . Colorles s Hy d ras tis (Lloyd's). Dose, 1 to 15 dr ops. Lar gely emp loyed locally.

3 . Hydrast ineMuriate (Hydrochlorate of Berberine). A yellow powder. Dose, 1

to 5 gra ins .

4 . Hydrastin (Resinoid), not now used.

5 . Hydrastin (Comb ined Hydra s t in). Only su bsta nce n ow sold a s h ydra s t in .

6 . Hydrastina , Hydrastine. (Alkaloid, both natural and synthetic.) Permanent

white or creamy crystals or powder, almost insoluble in water; soluble in

ch loroform ; less so in a lcohol. Dose, 1 / 12 to 1 / 3 gr . ; average dose , 1 / 6 gra in .7 . Hydrastinae Hydrochloridum, Hydrastine Hydrochloride (Hydrastine

Chloride). White or cream-colored powder, odorless, hygroscopic, very soluble in

alcohol an d water . Dose, 1 / 12 to 1 / 3 gra in ; average dose , 1 / 6 gra in .

8 . HydrastininaeHydrochloridum , Hydrastinine Hydrochloride (Hydrastinine

Chloride). Odorless, light-yellow crystals or powder, very soluble in water and

alcohol. Dose, 1 / 4 to 1 gra in ; average dose, 1 / 2 gra in

9 . Liquid Hydrastis(nonalcoholic). Dose, 1 to 20 drops.



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Spec i f i c Ind ica t ions .Catar rhal s ta tes of the mucous membranes

unaccompanied by acute inf lammation (except in acute purulent ot i t ismedia); relaxed tissues, with profuse secretion of thick and tenacious

yellowish or greenish-yellow muco-pus; relaxation and ulceration of

t issues of mouth and throat; imperfect recovery from diarrhea ordysentery, with mucous discharges and relaxat ion; aphthae,

ulceration, or erosion of mucous surfaces; atonic gastric irr i tabili ty;

irr i tation of mucous surfaces, with feeble circulation; muscular

soreness aggravated by pres su re;. pa ss ive h emorrh ages from th e pelvic

organs; ice water dyspepsia; skin diseases depending upon gastr ic

wron gs wh ich a lso in dicat e hydra st is .

Action .Extensive experiments by pharmacologists show thatHydrastis alkaloids, particularly hydrastine, are actively poisonous to

certain animals, producing spinal convulsions followed by paralysis,lowered blood pressure succeeded by a marked r ise, and death. Upon

man, however, no so-called physiological effects of any moment have

been observed. In the ordinary medicinal doses i t certainly is not a

poison to human beings. No cerebral effects have been observed in

either animals or man; and judging from clinical effects i t probably

increases contract ion of special nonstr iated muscles, as i t controls

u ter in e hem orrha ge in wom en an d h as an ecbolic effec t up on th e lower

mammals. Schatz explains this by asser t ing i ts power upon the

unstriped fibers of the arteries and denying its effects upon othertubu la r muscu la r s t ruc tu res . I t has a l so been assumed , bu t no t

experimentally proved, that i t sl ightly increases hepatic secretion in

m a n .

T h e r a p y .External. Hydrastis is one of our most efficient topical

medicin es when a ppl ied in d isorders of th e mu cou s m embra nes ; an d is

occasionally of service upon the skin. I t is of most importance perhaps

in ophthalmic practice, being a thoroughly effective subastringent and

soothing agent in acute and subacute catarrhal and fol l icular

conjun ctivit is. For th is pu rpose, a n d ind eed for m ost topical effects, th ecolorless preparations are preferred. Lloyd's Colorless Hydrastis inpar t icular is to be commended, for i t is both non-staining and non-

alcoholic and has almost completely replaced the formerly used

hydras t in and berber ine prepara t ions . The same medicament may be

used in superficial corneal ulcer, cil iary blepharit is, and in simple

trachoma. While signally useful in these affections of the eye



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ap pen da ges, hydra st is is of n o valu e in intr aocu lar d isorders .

Inspissated cerumen may be readily softened by colorless hydrastis,thus facili tating its removal by water. I t also controls the irr i tation of

the aural canal when due to the presence of hardened wax. Eczema of

the external audi tory canal has been cured by i t . In both acute andchronic otit is media i t may be employed hopefully when there is a

pu ru len t o r m u copu ru len t d i scharge and gran u la t ions do no t exis t .

Hydrast is preparat ions are among the most successful remedies in

catarrhs of the nose and throat . I t should be used both local ly and

internally in catarrhal and follicular pharyngitis, subacute forms of

simple catarrhal sore throat following tonsill i t is, subacute rhinitis,

naso-pharyngeal and re t ro-pharyngeal ca tar rh , and in u lcera ted naso-pharyngeal passages. I t sometimes aids in the cure of syphili t ic

ulcerat ion of the upper breathing t ract . For catarrhal hyper trophy andengorgement of the turbinates i t is often effective. The abundant

discharge and thickened Schnieder ian membranes wil l guide to i ts

selection. Locke advised it for nasal catarrh with thick, tenacious

mucus and a lmost constant f ronta l headache. When th ick gela t inous

masses f rom the pharyngeal vaul t constant ly drop into the throat ,

causing hacking cough and nausea, hydrast is given internal ly and as

an ingredient of a local wash gives very satisfactory results. In all

catarrhal affect ions of the upper respiratory t ract , hydrast is should be

administered for a prolonged per iod to obtain the best resul ts .Hydrastis is valued by some as a topical reducer for chronically

enlarged tonsi ls , but . l ike most medicines recommended for that

pu rpos e it fails far often er th an it su cceeds.

Hydrastis is universally admitted to be a most valuable topical agent in

gonorrhea. I t is best adapted af ter the f i rst and acute stage has passed,

though i t is not contraindicated at any t ime during the course of the

infection. The preparation preferred is the colorless, though other

hydrast is preparat ions, par t icular ly berber ine and hydrast in sal ts are

useful, but objectionable on account of their staining qualit ies. Zincsulphate increases the usefu lness of the drug and quicker resu l t s canbe obtained by insti tuting the treatment with a single irr igation with

some mild silver salt , in order to destroy the gonococci. Care should be

had not to use ei ther the si lver or zinc compounds too strong or too

freely lest str icture be produced. The great advantage of the hydrastis

t reatment alone is that , while perhaps slower , i t never produces and



13/22

probably prevents str icture. Hydrastis is especially valuable in the late

sta ge of gonorrh eal u reth r it is , popu lar ly known as gleet .

Leucorrhea, both vaginal and uterine, is well treated with washes

containing hydrastis, with or without the addition of indicated

cleansing and astringent agents. I t heals cervical erosion, which isfrequen tly the s ource of th e ab n orma l secret ion. J ean on valued it

locally for this purpose and to remove light papillary vegetations. As

there is usually relaxation and debili ty, some form of hydrastis should

be given in terna lly at th e sa m e t im e. Locke pra ises h ydra st is as a was h

for u lcerat ion of th e bladd er du e to ch ronic cyst it is .

Hydrastis preparations are effective in skin disorders depending upon

gastro-intestinal debility, with imperfect digestion. Here the local useshould be accompanied by i ts internal exhibi t ion. Such disorders as

sluggish cutaneous ulcers, acne, eczema of the scrotum, and eczemaof the anus and marginal area, and other or if ices of the body come

under i ts inf luence when used in this manner . I t is commonly

employed locally to give tone to the rectal tissues, being especially

useful in prolapse of the rectum and sometimes rel ieves non-

ulcerat ing hemorrhoids. In f issures of the anus, rectal ulcers, and

proctit is i t is a very painful application, and unless very carefully used

and in small amounts i t may provoke the very condit ions sought to be

relieved by it . Such conditions readily rebel against continuous

s t imu la t ing an d tonic t rea tm ent wh en i r r itab ility and sen si t ivenes s a rep r o n o u n c e d .

In most conditions, save those of the conjunctiva, hydrastis gives the

best topica l resu lt s when a lso adm in is tered in terna lly.

Internal. Clinically hydrastis is known to stimulate the salivary, gastric,

and intestinal secretions, and, to a slight extent, that of bile. I t

cer tainly has a most decided act ion on mucous surfaces, and is one of

th e mos t effective of bit ter tonics. It sh ar pen s th e app etite an d pr omotes

digest ion. Disorders of a subacute character and atonic states withincreased flow of mucus are the types benefited by hydrastis. I t ispreeminently a mucous membrane remedy, al laying i r r i tat ion when

present , toning relaxat ion and correct ing catarrhal tendencies. I t

should be considered when subacute and chronic inf lammation with

free secret ion a re presen t . For a ph th ous stom ati t is it is equ aled on ly by

coptis and phytolacca; and is then to be used in the less act ive forms



14/22

bordering on chronicity. For gastric irritability it is one of our best

remedia l resources , but should -not be used when the s tomach i s

acutely inflamed. The more the tendency toward chronic debili ty withoversecretion the more effective is hydrastis. It first relieves the

irri tation, then restrains the secretions, and finally gives tone to the

gastr ic membranes. Without quest ion i t is our best s ingle drug forchronic gastric catarrh, or so-called chronic gastri t is. In that form due

to alcoholic abuse, in which occurs the morning vomiting of

drunkards, with disgust for food and craving for s t imulants , hydrast is ,

with or without capsicum and nux vomica, gives incomparable resul ts .

In this af termath of chronic alcoholism success at tends this t reatment

in just so far as the pat ient may be prepared to take and assimilate

nourishment . Usual ly the hydrast is is more eff icient with capsicum,

and the latter may be given in l iberal quantit ies of beef soup or othereasily digested food regularly administered. Bartholow, one of the great

therapeut ic authori t ies of his t ime, and one who was largelyresponsible for the introduction of hydrastis and other Eclectic

medicines into the materia medica of the regular school, went so far as

to declare that in sufficient doses of the t incture or f luidextract

hydrastis is probably the best substitute for alcoholic beverages when it

is desired to abandon the use of spir i tuous st imulants . Small doses of

specific medicine hydrastis are indicated in that form of dyspepsia

accompanied by the belching of putrescent gases, and followed by

weakness or sense of goneness at the pit of the stomach. I t also

re l ieves an unpleasant d is t ress jus t be low the s ternum, amount ingalmost to an internal i tching and causing one to constant ly shif t or

contract the muscles of the epigastric region. This condition is largely

due to gastric irr i tation with distention by gases, and is promptly

relieved best by colorless hydrastis, although the specific medicine is

effective. When irritability is marked in stomachal debility small doses

of the fluid preparations are to be preferred, but when there is but l i t t le

irr i tabili ty larger doses may be used, or hydrastin or berberine salts

may be given immediately after meals. Specific medicine hydrastis, or

Lloyds colorless h ydra st is, b oth in doses of 10 drops before m eals a n d

at bedtime, are the best agents we have employed in icewaterdyspepsia, a p ecul iar ly Am erican com plaint du e to the im m oderate u seof iced dr inks and ices. For gastr ic ulcer no t reatment should be

considered without a fair and generous t r ial of hydrast is , geranium,

and b ismuth subni t ra te . In the t rea tment of s tomach d isorders wi th

hydrast is or i ts der ivat ives, the fact must be kept prominently in mind

that it is only in conditions of atony, with gastric irritability or



15/22

subacute inf lammatory symptoms, with increased secret ion, that the

drug is of any benefit . Acutely inflamed tissues, so far as the gastro-

in test in al t ract is con cerned , abs olu tely proh ibi t its em ploymen t .

Hydrastis, though most effective in gastric disorders, is valuable in

certain affections of the accessory digestive organs. It is ofunquest ioned worth in catarrhal s tates of the intest ines and gal l duct ,

in duodenal catarrh aggravated by neighboring biliary concretions,

and in chronic constipation due to debili ty and imperfect action of the

intestinal glands. I ts use must be persisted in for a long period. I t is a

serviceable tonic for enfeeblement of the gastro-enteric tract of infants

and chi ldren, as well as adul ts , and offers support in convalescence

from severe and depleting intestinal discharges, debili tating stomach

and bowel disorders, the prostration occasioned by fevers and otheracute affections, and hemorrhage. I t is asserted of value in hepatic

congest ion. I t is a quest ion, however , whether i t has any markedspecific action upon the l iver proper, and that benefit , if any, derived

from it in hepatic disorders is largely due to i ts salutary effect upon the

du odenu m an d b i le du ct an d i t s proper t ies of a genera l ton ic .

Hydrast is controls passive hemorrhage. I t is not adapted to copious

act ive hemorrhages , as gas t r ic and post -par tum hemorrhages , but in

those forms only of renal, uterine, or pulmonary bleeding in which

small quant i t ies of blood are passed at a t ime and are recurrent in

form. I t is adapted to and is successful in rare cases to restrainbleeding and to reduce the size of uterine fibroids, and similarly in

uterine subinvolution. In passive hemorrhages occurring in virgins

and during the climacteric i t is distinctly useful. Good results have

followed its intercurrent use in congestive dysmenorrhea,

menorrhagia, and metrorrhagia, chiefly functional in character. I t is a

comparatively slow-acting drug in most forms of hemorrhage, but i ts

effects a re perm an ent .

Hydrastis, locally to relieve pain and retard growth, has been advised

in carcinomata, par t icular ly mammary cancer . While i ts generalalterative and tonic properties and control over circulatoryengorgement may make i t a desirable general or support ing agent in

carcinomatous cachexia, i t is folly, in the l ight of present-day

knowledge of this malignant scourge, to hope for any appreciable

results from hydrastis, certainly not for a cure.



16/22

HYOSCYAMUS.

The leaves and flowering or fruiting tops ofHyoscyam us niger, Linn (Nat. Ord.

Solanaceae). Europe; naturalized in waste places in the United States. Dose, 2 to

10 grains.

Co m m o n Na m e : Henbane .

P r i n c i p a l C o n s t i t u e n t s .Two alkaloids: Hyoscyamine (C17H23NO 3), probably

identical with duboisine (from Duboisia) and daturine (from Stramonium); and

hyoscine (scopolamine) (C17H21NO 4)

P r e p a r a t i o n .Sp ecific Med icine Hy oscy am us . Dose, 1 / 10 to 20 d rops .

D e r i v a t i v e . Hyoscyaminae Hydrobromidum, Hyoscyamine Hydrobromide

(Hyoscyam ine Brom ide). Dose, 1 / 200 gra in .

Spec i fi c In d ica t ions .Nervous irr i tabili ty, with unrest and insomnia;

dilated pupils and flushed face, accompanied by debili ty; fr ight andrest lessness in sleep; night terrors; loquaciousness; garrulousness;

destructiveness; busy muttering delir ium, or singing, talkativeness,

amusing hallucinations and il lusions, particularly in fevers; choking

sensations; the insomnia of debili ty, exhaustion, or insanity; the

excitabili ty of the insane; urethral irr i tation in the feeble, with urging

to u r in ate; rap id, palpitat ing h ear t act ion; m u scu lar s pas m s; spas m odic

pain; sharp, dry nervous cough, aggravated by the recumbent posi t ion.A remedy to rel ieve pain, spasm, and nervous unrest in the aged and

th e in fan t , an d in th e an emic an d th e debilita ted .

Action .The physiological actions of hyoscyamus, belladonna,stramonium, and duboisia are quite similar, differing chiefly in degree

and less in qual i ty . They produce the same dryness of the throat ,

flushing of the face, dilatation of the pupils, quickening of the

respiratory and hear t act ion, i l lusions, hal lucinat ions and del i r ium.

While the alkaloids of these drugs also act in the same general

manner , there are shades of dif ference which make some var iat ion ineffects. Thus hyoscine (scopolamine) acts somewhat as a check upon

its as socia ted h yoscyam in e in th e pa rent dru g, the la t te r a lka lo id b ein g

more closely all ied to atropine in action. This check upon the latter

makes hyoscyamus less exci tant and less fur iously del i r iant than i ts

congeners and it is less l ikely to cause cerebral hyperaemia. Underhyoscyamus the pr imary s t imula t ion observed under be l ladonna and



17/22

stramonium and their alkaloids may be absent , or at least i t is of very

much shor te r du ra t ion and subdued charac te r , so tha t under i t s

influence sleep is induced without much previous excitement. This isof great a dvan tage in th e t reatm ent of th e in sa n e.

There is l i t t le observable difference between atropine and hyoscyamineupon the mechanism of ocular accommodation, but the lat ter

sometimes fails to produce mydriasis. There is also but l i t t le variation

in their effects upon the heart or breathing. Scopolamine (hyoscine),

however , is said to cause st ronger mydriasis and more quickly than

atropine, though it is of shorter duration. Hyoscyamine is more

hypnotic and less del i r iant than atropine, but this is probably due to

the presence of hyoscine in commercial hyoscyamine. I t is well-

establ ished knowledge that scopolamine is more depressant to thehigher cerebral centers than ei ther hyoscyamine or atropine, and that

even smaller amounts act decidedly as a hypnotic . Hyoscyamine actsmore powerful ly upon the per ipheral nerves, hence hyoscyamus is a

bet ter agent than bel ladonna to combine with cathar t ics to lessen

griping and tormina. Moreover, i t does not restrain secretion and is

likely to pr ove m ore or less la xat ive.

Great care must be observed, however , in the use of hyoscine and

hyoscyamine. The former, in particular, in large doses dangerously

depresses respiration, and if in any case i t must be given in full doses

its effects u pon brea th in g sh ould be closely watch ed.

The symptoms of poisoning by hyoscyamus and i ts alkaloids are

sufficiently similar to those named under belladonna for diagnosis,

an d th e t r ea tmen t is th e sam e as th e re r ecomm ended .

T h e r a p y .According to the dose in which it is administered

hyoscyamus is a cerebral st imulant or a cerebral sedative. I t is largely

used under condit ions in which opium would be indicated, but is not

acceptable on account of the const ipa t ion , nausea , and headache

induced by i t . Hyoscyamus does not , l ike opium, restrain secret ion,and proves laxat ive rather than const ipat ing. Hyoscyamus is a saferdrug for old persons and chi ldren than bel ladonna or opium. As a

remedy for pain i t is relatively far weaker than the latter , but should be

preferred in mild at tacks and especial ly in such when associated with

spa sm odic tubu lar con t rac t ions .



18/22

Hyoscyamus is the remedy for nervous irr i tabili ty and irr i tation (small

dos es), an d m en ta l excita tion with great m otility (lar ge doses ).

Hyoscyamus allays spasm and relieves pain. I t is a better agent for

spasmodic d isorders and per iphera l pa in than bel ladonna, but less

effective than opium. Where i t can be made to control the pain,however, i t should always be preferred to the latter . Hyoscyamus is a

bet ter remedy for spasm, especial ly tubular and sphincter ic spasm,

than for pain, but if the latter is caused by the former i t is doubly

efficient. It cannot be relied upon, however, for very severe paroxysms

of eith er pa in or spa sm su ch a s a t ten d ba d cas es of calcu li coliceith er

biliary or renal. But i t does very well in the milder attacks. In all

painful and spasmodic condit ions i t takes rather ful l doses, except in

states characterized by nervous irr i tation with feeble circulationinother words, in nervous depression rather than in nervous

excitability; then small doses act specifically. Properly selectedaccordin g to th is d epression or the contra ry, an d in doses to m eet each

condition, i t is extremely useful in spasmodic dysmenorrhea, f latulent

colic, gastrodynia, spasmodic bowel disorders, painful hemorrhoids,

spasmodic cyst ic pain, spasmodic asthma, and whooping cough. As a

remedy for pain i t will usually be found to meet depressed conditions

best . Hence i ts value in nervous headache, the headache of debi l i ty ,

the vague pains of so-called chronic rheumatism, idiopathic neuralgia,

visceral pain, urethral pain, and that of herpes zoster . The more these

cases show nervous i r r i tat ion, weak circulat ion, tendency to anemia,an d con sta n t bu t not violent u n rest , the bet ter they are h elped by sm all

doses of th e dru g.

Hyoscyamus quiets that form of irr i tabili ty akin to pain but not

am oun t ing to ac tua l pa in , su ch as ir r ita t ion of the b ladder an d u re thra

with tend ency to sph in cter ic sp as m . Here nerve force is low an d u n der

similar conditions i t relieves the ever-annoying urging to urinate

accompanied by tenesmus that is so of ten associated with diurnal as

well as nocturnal incontinence of urine, and in the cystic troubles of

the aged and women during the menopause. In combinat ion withcamphor i t has long held a reputation for the relief of nervous erethismproduced by the pa ssa ge of ins t rum ents in to the u re thra .

Cough, whether occurring in acute or chronic disorders, is controlled

by hyoscyamus. The more spasmodic or convulsive the bet ter i t acts ,

though for some reason it is not as effective in whooping cough as



19/22

stramonium, solanum, or bel ladonna. Probably none of these agents

act any too well because there is some causat ive factor other than

spasm, probably of a bacterial character. I t relieves the short , dry,explosive cough of bronchitis. It relieves most irritable dry coughs,

nervous cou gh, a n d h aras s ing bronchia l cough, cau sed or ma de worse

upon lying down. It may be given for long periods, preferably in syrupof wild cherry, to rel ieve the cough and nervousness and thus promote

rest in ph th isis . In m ost of th e forms of cou gh m ention ed m ediu m doses

must be employed, except where nervous and physical depression is

very m ark ed. Hyoscyam u s, in th e sm all dose, is often th e best a gent to

use in pneumonia, with dry cough and sub-del i r ium with widely

di lated pu pils .

Hyoscyamus is one of the most important agents in nervous andmental diseases. In the small doses i t meets the depressive types; in

full doses the excitable and furious manias. One of the chief uses of thedrug (usually in this instance, hyoscyamine, or preferably hyoscine) is

to produce sleep in acute mania. If of the violent, furious and

destructive type, with great mental and motor excitabili ty, full doses of

hyoscine should be given. But if of the sub-delir ious or mildly

aberrative form, the smaller doses of hyoscyamus are to be preferred.

Often both drugs fail to overcome the insomnia, in which instance

wider wakefulness ensues and the pat ient paces the f loor unt i l the

effect of the drug is spent. Full doses are usually required in

delusional insani ty, epi lept ic mania, recurrent mania, and puerperalmaniaall with sleeplessness and great mental exci tement . On the

con trary when in su ch disorders as n ym ph oman ia followin g ch ildbir th ,

and due more to de l i r ium than to pass ion , and in puerpera l mania , in

both of which there is a feeble pulse, exhaust ion, cont inuous but mild

mental agi tat ion, and nervous unrest , then small doses of the parent

drug give the best resul ts . Small doses of hyoscyamus are also to be

preferred in th e in sa n it ies , an d in th e delir iu m of acu te diseas es, when

the pat ient indulges in singing, cont inuous talking, or low mutter ing

delir iu m , or wh en gar ru lous an d qu ar re lsome, bu t n ot vio lent .

When insomnia depends upon mere exci tabi l i ty , or when i t is neededto rel ieve rest lessness and unpleasant dreams during sleep, small

doses of hyoscyamus are splendidly effective. These conditions often

occur dur ing the acute diseases of chi ldren and are promptly met by

the drug. For the wandering del i r ium of exhaust ion- the typhomania of

typhoid fever, i t is often the best calmative we can employ. The patient



20/22

feels that he is away from home and fr iends and constant ly asks and

makes an effort to go home. In hysteria with frequent voiding of small

qu an tit ies of u r in e hyoscyam u s s h ou ld be given in fra ct iona l doses .

If i t is borne in mind that all of the solanaceae in true therapeutic

doses produce effects opposite from those of their gross physiologicaction, it will not be difficult to apply them specifically. If strong

sedation is needed, the large doses are to be given; if st imulation, the

small doses. For violent maniacal excitement the alkaloids are

preferable: for mild forms, hyoscyamus.

Hyoscine is sometimes used in at tempts to cure the opium habit . For

the violent excitement following the complete withdrawal of the drug it

is useful , but i t should not be given continuously. I t should beregarded here as an emergency remedy and so employed. I t is an easy

matter to permanently damage the intel lect with the powerfulso lanaceous a lkalo ids .

HYPERICUM.

The leaves and flowering tops of Hy pericum perforatu m , Linn (Nat. Ord.

Hypericaceae). Eu rope a nd Am erica.

Co m m o n Na m e : S t . J ohn ' s Wor t .

P r i n c i p a l C o n s t i t u e n t s .Volatile oil, a resin, tannin, and hypericum red, aresinou s red colorin g prin ciple.

P r e p a r a t i o n .- Tinctu ra Hy pe rici, Tincture of Hypericum (herb, 8 ounces; Alcohol,

76 per cent , 16 flu idoun ces). Dose , 1 / 4 to 30 dr ops .

Spec i f i c Ind ica t ions .Spinal injur ies, shocks, and concussions;

throbbing of the body without fever; spinal irritation, eliciting

tenderness an d bu rning pain u pon s light pressu re ; sp ina l in ju r ies an d

lacerated and punctured wounds of the extremit ies, with excruciat ing

pa in ; h ysteria. Locally as a vu ln era ry.

Act ion and Therap y .External. St . J ohn 's Wort is valued b y m an y

pra ct it ioners as a vu ln erary, mu ch a s a rn ica is emp loyed. Th erefore it

ha s been u sed extens ively as a local app lica t ion to b ru ises , contu s ion s ,

spra in s , lacera t ion s , s wellin gs , ecchymoses , an d in a cute ma m m it is .



21/22

Internal. Hypericu m is sa id to be diu ret ic an d seda t ive, an d as su ch h as

been used in chronic ur inary disorders, par t icular ly suppression of

ur ine. I t undoubtedly has a st rong inf luence upon the nervous system.Used according to the indicat ions named above, many physicians

believe it useful to relieve the painful effects of spinal concussion,

shocks, etc. , and to prevent tetanic complications. I t will take prettystrong proof to convince most practit ioners of the present day of any

such vir tue as t rue ant i tetanic proper t ies in this s imple drug. The

internal uses as given above are based chief ly upon homeopathic

symptomatology, and the drug has gained li t t le favor in the Eclectic

school of practice. I t has, without question, a value in nervous

disorders and should be more ful ly studied and tested, but miraculous

powers sh ould n ot be h oped for from it .



22/22

m o n o gr a p h s e x t r a c t e d fr o m

Th e Ec le c t i c Ma t e r ia Me d ic a , P h a r m a c o lo gy a n d Th e r a p e u t i c s

by Harvey Wicke s Fe l ter , M.D. (19 2 2)

NOTE: Throughout these monographs are references to Specific Medicines.

In some respects Specific Medicines are the single reason that Eclecticismsurvived so long in the face of Organized Medicine and were still being

manufactured for the surviving Eclectic M.D.s as late as the early 1960s.

Using u p t o eight organ ic solvent s a n d th e Lloyd Extra ctor, Specific Medicin es

represented the strongest possible concentration of the bioactive aspects of

botan icals th a t wou ld s tay in a collo ida l so lu t ion .

Perfected over fou r d ecades by J ohn Uri Lloyd, each Specific Medicin e was

prepared according to the nature of THAT specific plant. You cannot translate

a Specific Medicine into tincture or fluidextract. The latter are GENERIC

or standard strengths applied across the board to ALL botanicals. A Specific

Medicine represented the greatest s trength, without degradation, for aPARTICULAR plant, using anywhere from several to all of the solvents to

achieve this . The Eclectic physician was trained to use botanicals in an

oftentimes rural sett ing, and these medicines had to resist breakdown in the

deepest winter and the hottest summer. Since they needed to contain even

the most ephemeral consti tuents of a plant remedy, Lloyd approached each

plant separa te ly .

The amazing quali ty of these preparations assuredly maintained the Eclectic

Movemen t long after oth ers h ad fad ed. Lloyds recipes were Paten t

Medicines, were not official, and when relatives finally closed down the

Lloyd Broth ers Pha rm acy in Cincinn at i, thes e form u lae disa ppea red. On e of

the hottest topics for many years amongst professional herbalists in North

America and Europe has been So who has the Lloyd Formulas, already?

Since we cannot access them, the best approach is the use of well made

tinctures, capsules or tea. I might suggest the preparations and doses

recommended in my Herbal Materia Medica 5.0 as a start ing place.. . in many

respects I am perhaps a Neo-Eclectic at heart, and have tended to follow

th e la ter Eclect ics in m y app roach to p lants an d dosa ges .

Michael Moore

Bisbee, Arizon a

October, 200 1

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