Produced by Don Kostuch

[Transcriber's Notes]

Some of the suggestions in this book may be helpful or at least have a placebo effect. Beware of the many recipes that include kerosene (coal oil), turpentine, ammonium chloride, lead, lye (sodium hydroxide), strychnine, arsenic, mercury, creosote, sodium phosphate, opium, cocaine and other illegal, poisonous or corrosive items. Many recipes do not specify if it is to be taken internally or topically (on the skin). There is an extreme preoccupation with poultices (applied to the skin, 324 references) and "keeping the bowels open" (1498 references, including related terms).

I view this material as a window into the terror endured by mothers and family members when a child or adult took ill. The doctors available (if you could afford one) could offer little more than this book. The guilt of failing to cure the child was probably easier to endure than the helplessness of doing nothing.

There are many recipes for foods I fondly remember eating as a child.

Note the many recipes for a single serving that involve lengthy and labor-intensive preparation. Refrigeration was uncommon and the temperature of iceboxes was well above freezing, so food had to be consumed quickly.

Many recipes use uncooked meat and eggs that can lead to several diseases.

Obvious typographical errors have been corrected but contemporary spelling and usage are unchanged. Page headers are retained, but are moved to the beginning of the paragraph where the text is interrupted. Page numbers are shown in brackets [ ].

The author claims the material is directed toward non-medical "family" members, but many passages are obviously copied from medical textbooks. The following glossary of unfamiliar (to me) terms is quite lengthy and does not include incomprehensible (to me) medical terms and many words and names I could not find in several reference books. The book's own 16 page dictionary is on page 893.

I recommend the article on "hydrophobia" (page 241) as an interesting history of the Pasture treatment.

Don Kostuch

Transcriber's Dictionary

These entries are absent or brief in the original dictionary on page 893. A short cooking dictionary is on page 831. Check there for items not found here.

acetanilide (also acetanilid)
  White crystalline compound, C6H5NH(COCH3), formerly used to relieve pain
  and reduce fever. It has been replaced because of toxicity.

Aconite
  Various, usually poisonous perennial herbs of the genus Aconitum, having
  tuberous roots, palmately lobed leaves, blue or white flowers with large
  hoodlike upper sepals, and an aggregate of follicles. The dried leaves
  and roots of these plants yield a poisonous alkaloid that was formerly
  used medicinally. Also called monkshood, wolfsbane.

actinomycosis (lumpy jaw)
  Inflammatory disease of cattle, hogs, and sometimes humans, caused by
  actinomyces; causes lumpy tumors of the mouth, neck, chest, and abdomen.

Addison's disease
  Caused by partial or total failure of adrenocortical function;
  characterized by a bronze-like skin color and mucous membranes, anemia,
  weakness, and low blood pressure.

ad libitum
  At the discretion of the performer. Giving license to alter or omit a
  part.

affusion
  Pouring on of liquid, as in baptism.

ague
  Alternating periods of chills, fever, and sweating. Used in reference to
  the fevers associated with malaria.

aletris farinosa (Colicroot, star grass, blackroot,
blazing star, and unicorn root )
  Bitter American herb of the Bloodwort family, with small yellow or white
  flowers in a long spike (Aletris farinosa and A. aurea).

algid
  Cold; chilly.

alkanet
  European perennial herb (Alkanna tinctoria) having cymes of blue flowers
  and red roots. The red dye extracted from the root. Plants of the
  Eurasian genus Anchusa, having blue or violet flowers grouped on
  elongated cymes.

allyl
  Univalent, unsaturated organic radical C3H5.

aloin
  Bitter, yellow crystalline compound from aloe, used as a laxative.
alum
  Double sulfates of a trivalent metal such as aluminum, chromium, or iron
  and a univalent metal such as potassium or sodium, especially aluminum
  potassium sulfate, AlK(SO4)2 12H2O, widely used in industry as
  clarifiers, hardeners, and purifiers and medicinally as topical
  astringents and styptics.

anemonin
  Acrid poisonous compound containing two lactone groups; obtained from
  plants of the genus Anemone and genus Ranunculus, containing the
  buttercups.

aneurysm (aneurism)
  Localized, blood-filled dilatation of a blood vessel caused by disease
  or weakening of the vessel wall.

animadversion
  Strong criticism. Critical or censorious remark:

anise
  Aromatic Mediterranean herb (Pimpinella anisum) in the parsley family,
  cultivated for its seed-like fruits and the oil; used to flavor foods,
  liqueurs, and candies.

anodyne
  Relieves pain.

antipyrine (antipyrin, phenazone)
  Analgesic and antipyretic (reduces fever) C11H12N2O formerly used, but
  now largely replaced by less toxic drugs such as aspirin.

antrum
  Cavity or chamber, especially in a bone. Sinus in the bones of the upper
  jaw, opening into the nasal cavity.

apomorphine
  Poisonous white crystalline alkaloid, C17H17NO2, derived from morphine
  and used to induce vomiting.

arnica
  Perennial herbs of the genus Arnica. Tincture of the dried flower heads
  of the European species A. montana, applied externally to relieve the
  pain and inflammation of bruises and sprains.

articular
  Relating to joints: the articular surfaces of bones.

asafetida (asafoetida)
  Fetid (offensive odor) gum resin of Asian plants of the genus Ferula
  (especially F. assafoetida, F. foetida, or F. narthex). It has a strong
  odor and taste, and was formerly used as an antispasmodic and a general
  prophylactic against disease.

atresia
  Absence or closure of a normal body orifice or tubular passage such as
  the anus, intestine, or external ear canal. Degeneration and resorption
  of one or more ovarian follicles before a state of maturity has been
  reached.

atropine
  Poisonous, bitter, crystalline alkaloid, C17H23NO3, obtained from
  belladonna and related plants. Used to dilate the pupils of the eyes and
  as an antispasmodic.

bainmarie
  Large pan of hot water in which smaller pans may be placed to cook food
  slowly or to keep food warm.

barberry
  Shrubs of the genus Berberis having small yellow flowers, and red,
  orange, or blackish berries.

baryta
  A barium compounds, such as barium sulfate.

baste
  Sew loosely with large running stitches to hold together temporarily.

batiste
  Fine, plain-woven fabric made from various fibers and used especially
  for clothing.

bedizen
  Ornament or dress in a showy or gaudy manner.

belladonna (deadly nightshade)
  Poisonous Eurasian perennial herb (Atropa belladonna) with solitary,
  nodding, purplish-brown, bell-shaped flowers and glossy black berries.
  An alkaloidal extract of this plant used in medicine.

benne (sesame)
  Tropical Asian plant (Sesamum indicum) bearing small flat seeds used as
  food and as a source of oil.

benzoin
  Balsamic resin obtained from certain tropical Asian trees of the genus
  Styrax and used in perfumery and medicine. Also called benjamin, gum
  benjamin, gum benzoin. A white or yellowish crystalline compound, C14
  H12 O2, derived from benzaldehyde.

berberine
  Bitter-tasting yellow alkaloid, C20H19NO5, from several plants such as
  goldenseal. Used medically as an antipyretic and antibacterial agent.

bergamot
  Small tree (Citrus aurantium subsp. bergamia) grown in southern Italy
  for its sour citrus fruits. The rinds yield an aromatic oil (bergamot
  oil) used in perfume.

beri-beri
  Deficiency of thiamine, endemic in eastern and southern Asia and
  characterized by neurological symptoms, cardiovascular abnormalities,
  and edema.

Berserker
  Ancient Norse warriors legendary for working themselves into a frenzy
  before a battle and fighting with reckless savagery and insane fury.

bijouterie
  Collection of trinkets or jewelry; decorations.

bilious
  Relating to bile. Excess secretion of bile. Gastric distress caused by a
  disorder of the liver or gallbladder. Resembling bile, especially in
  color: a bilious green. Peevish disposition; ill-humored.

bistort
  Eurasian perennial herb (Polygonum bistorta) with cylindrical spikes of
  pink flowers and a rhizome used as an astringent in folk medicine.

blue flag
  Several irises with blue or blue-violet flowers, especially Iris
  versicolor of eastern North America.

blue stone (blue vitriol, blue copperas, chalcanthite)
  Hydrated blue crystalline form of copper sulfate.

bobbinet
  Machine-woven net fabric with hexagonal meshes.

boil
  Painful, circumscribed pus-filled inflammation of the skin and
  subcutaneous tissue usually caused by a local staphylococcal infection.
  Also called furuncle.

bolster
  Long narrow pillow or cushion.

bombazine
  Fine twilled fabric of silk and worsted or cotton, often dyed black for
  mourning clothes.

boracic acid (boric acid)
  Water-soluble white or colorless crystalline compound, H3BO3, used as an
  antiseptic and preservative.

boutonniere
  Flower or small bunch of flowers worn in a buttonhole.

bryonia
  Small genus of perennial old world tendril-bearing vines (family
  Cucurbitaceae) having large leaves, small flowers, and red or black
  fruit; Dried root of a bryony (Bryonia alba or B. dioica) used as a
  cathartic.

bubo (buboes)
  An inflamed, tender swelling of a lymph node, especially in the area of
  the armpit or groin, that is characteristic of bubonic plague and
  syphilis.

bubonic plague (black death)
  Contagious, often fatal epidemic disease caused by the bacterium
  Yersinia (syn. Pasteurella) pestis, transmitted from person to person or
  by the bite of fleas from an infected rodent, especially a rat; produces
  chills, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and the formation of buboes.

buchu
  South African shrubs of the genus Agathosma, especially A. betulina and
  A. crenulata; the leaves are used as a mild diuretic and provide an
  aromatic oil used for flavoring.

burdock
  Weedy, chiefly biennial plants of the genus Arctium.

cachexia
  Weight loss, wasting of muscle, loss of appetite, and general debility
  during a chronic disease.

cajeput (paperbark)
  Australian and southeast Asian tree (Melaleuca quinquenervia, M.
  leucadendron) of the myrtle family (Myrtaceae); yields a pungent
  medicinal oil; grown in Florida.

calamine
  White or colorless mineral, essentially Zn4Si2O7(OH)2.H2O
  (hemimorphite). Pink, odorless, tasteless powder of zinc oxide with a
  small amount of ferric oxide, dissolved in mineral oils and used in skin
  lotions.

calcareous
  Composed of calcium carbonate, calcium, or limestone; chalky.

cale
  Variety of cabbage in which the leaves do not form a head, being nearly
  the wild form of the species; also called kail.

calomel
  Colorless, white or brown tasteless compound, Hg2Cl2, used as a
  purgative and insecticide. Mercurous chloride.

cambric
  Finely woven white linen or cotton fabric.

cantharis (pl. cantharides) (also called Spanish fly) Brilliant green blister beetle (Lytta vesicatoria or Cantharis vesicatoria) of central and southern Europe. Toxic preparation of the crushed, dried bodies of this beetle, formerly used as a counter-irritant for skin blisters and as an aphrodisiac.

capsicum
  Topical American pepper plants, genus Capsicum, especially C. annuum and
  C. frutescens.

capsid (mirid bug, mirid)
  Variety of leaf bug.

carbolic acid (phenol)
  Caustic, poisonous, white crystalline compound, C6H5OH, derived from
  benzene and used in resins, plastics, and pharmaceuticals and in dilute
  form as a disinfectant and antiseptic.

carbuncle
  A painful localized bacterial infection of the skin that usually has
  several openings discharging pus.

cardamom
  Rhizomatous (horizontal, usually underground stem) Indian herb
  (Elettaria cardamomum) having capsular fruits with aromatic seeds used
  as a spice or condiment. Plants of the related genus Amomum, used as a
  substitute for cardamom.

carminative
  Inducing the expulsion of gas from the stomach and intestines.

cascara (See Rhamnus purshiana)
  A buckthorn native to northwest North America; the bark yields cascara
  sagrada.

cassia
  Tropical or subtropical trees, shrubs, or herbs of the genus Cassia in
  the pea family, having yellow flowers, and long, flat or cylindrical
  pods. Tropical Asian evergreen tree (Cinnamomum cassia) having aromatic
  bark used as a substitute for cinnamon.

Castile soap
  Fine, hard, white, odorless soap made of olive oil and sodium hydroxide.

castor oil
  Colorless or pale yellowish oil extracted from the seeds of the
  castor-oil plant, used as a laxative and skin softener.

catarrh
  Inflammation of mucous membranes, especially in the nose and throat.

catechu (cutch, Acacia catechu, betel palm)
  Spiny Asian tree with yellow flowers, and dark heartwood. A raw material
  obtained from the heartwood of this plant, used in the preparation of
  tannins and brown dyes.

caudal
  Near the tail or hind parts; posterior. Similar to a tail in form or
  function.

caustic potash (potassium hydroxide)
  Caustic white solid, KOH, used as a bleach and in the manufacture of
  soaps, dyes, alkaline batteries.

cerate
  Hard, unctuous, fat or wax-based solid, sometimes medicated, formerly
  applied to the skin directly or on dressings.

chambray
  Fine lightweight fabric woven with white threads across a colored warp.

chancel
  Space around the altar of a church for the clergy and sometimes the
  choir, often enclosed by a lattice or railing.

chary
  Cautious; wary; not giving or expending freely; sparing.

chelidnium
  Herbs of the poppy family (Papaveraceae) with brittle stems, yellowish
  acrid juice, pinnately divided leaves, and small yellow flowers that
  includes the celandine. Preparation of celandine (Chelidonium majus)
  used formerly as a diuretic.

Cheviot
  Breed of sheep with short thick wool, originally raised in the Cheviot
  Hills. Fabric of coarse twill weave, used for suits and overcoats,
  originally made of Cheviot wool.

chicken pox
  Caused by the varicella-zoster virus; indicated by skin eruptions,
  slight fever, and malaise. Also called varicella.

chilblain
  Inflammation and itchy irritation of the hands, feet, or ears, caused by
  moist cold.

chloral hydrate
  Colorless crystalline compound, CCl3CH(OH)2, used as a sedative and
  hypnotic.

chlorosis
  Iron-deficiency anemia, primarily of young women, indicated by
  greenish-yellow skin color.

cholera infantum
  Acute non-contagious intestinal disturbance of infants formerly common
  in congested areas with high humidity and temperature.

cholera morbus
  Acute gastroenteritis occurring in summer and autumn exhibiting severe
  cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting. No longer in scientific use.

chorea
  Nervous disorders marked by involuntary, jerky movements, especially of
  the arms, legs, and face.

Chrysarobin
  Bitter, yellow substance in Goa powder (from the wood of a Brazilian
  tree Vataireopsis araroba), and yielding chrysophanic acid; formerly
  called chrysphanic acid.

cinchona (Jesuit's bark, Peruvian bark)
  Trees and shrubs of the genus Cinchona, native chiefly to the Andes and
  cultivated for bark that yields the medicinal alkaloids quinine and
  quinidine, which are used to treat malaria. Dried bark of these plants.

Cinnamyl
  Hypothetical radical, (C6H5.C2H2)2C, of cinnamic compounds. Formerly,
  cinnamule.

clonic
  The nature of clonus—contraction and relaxation of muscle.

cocculus
  Poisonous bean-shaped berry of a woody vine (Anamirta cocculus) of the
  East Indies that yields picrotoxin.

cochineal
  Red dye made of the dried and pulverized bodies of female cochineal
  insects.

coddle
  Cook in water below the boiling point: coddle eggs. Treat indulgently;
  baby; pamper.

codling (codlin)
  Greenish elongated English apple used for cooking. Small unripe apple.

Cohosh (baneberry, herb Christopher)
  Plant of the genus Actaea having acrid poisonous berries; especially
  blue cohosh, black cohosh.

colchicum
  Various bulbous plants of the genus Colchicum, such as the autumn
  crocus. The dried ripe seeds or corms (short thick solid food-storing
  underground stem) of the autumn crocus which yield colchicine.

collodion
  Highly flammable, colorless or yellowish syrupy solution of pyroxylin,
  ether, and alcohol, used as an adhesive to close small wounds and hold
  surgical dressings, in topical medications, and for making photographic
  plates.

colocynth (bitter apple)
  Old World vine (Citrullus colocynthis) bearing yellowish, green-mottled
  fruits the size of small lemons. The pulp of the fruit is a strong
  laxative.

colombo (calumba)
  Root of an African plant (Jatrorrhiza palmata, family Menispermaceae)
  containing columbin; it is used as a tonic called calumba root or
  colombo root.

colostrum (foremilk)
  Thin yellowish fluid secreted by the mammary glands at birth, rich in
  antibodies and minerals. It precedes the production of true milk.

coltsfoot (galax)
  Eurasian herb (Tussilago farfara), naturalized in parts of North America
  with dandelion-like flower heads. Dried leaves or flower heads of this
  plant have been long used in herbal medicine to treat coughs.

consomme
  Clear soup or bouillion boiled down so as to be very rich.

contretemps
  Unforeseen disruption of the normal course of things; inopportune
  occurrence.

copaiba
  Transparent, often yellowish, viscous oleoresin from South American
  trees of the genus Copaifera in the pea family, used in varnishes and as
  a fixative in perfume.

copperas (ferrous sulfate)
  Greenish crystalline compound, FeSO4.7H2O, used as a pigment,
  fertilizer, and feed additive, in sewage and water treatment, and in the
  treatment of iron deficiency.

corrosive sublimate
  Mercuric chloride.

costal
  Relating to or near a rib.

costive
  Constipated

cranesbill (geranium, storksbill) Plants of the genus Geranium, with pink or purplish flowers. Various plants of the genus Pelargonium, native chiefly to southern Africa and widely cultivated for their rounded and showy clusters of red, pink, or white flowers.

cream of tartar
  Potassium bitartrate. White, acid, crystalline solid or powder,
  KHC4H4O6, used in baking powder, in the tinning of metals, and as a
  laxative.

Creasote (creosote)
  Colorless to yellowish oily liquid containing phenols and creosols,
  obtained by the destructive distillation of wood tar, especially from
  beech, and formerly used as an expectorant in treating chronic
  bronchitis. Also used as a wood preservative and disinfectant. May cause
  severe neurological disturbances if inhaled.

crepe de Chine
  Silk crepe used for dresses and blouses.

cretonne
  Heavy unglazed cotton, linen, or rayon fabric, colorfully printed and
  used for draperies and slipcovers.

croton oil
  Brownish-yellow, foul-smelling oil from the seeds of a tropical Asian
  shrub or small tree (Croton tiglium); formerly used as a drastic
  purgative and counterirritant. Its use was discontinued because of its
  toxicity.

croup
  Condition of the larynx, especially in infants and children, causing
  respiratory difficulty and a hoarse, brassy cough.

Culver's root
  Perennial herb (Veronicastrum virginicum) native to eastern North
  America; the root was formerly used as a cathartic and an emetic.

cupping
  Therapeutic procedure, no longer in use; an evacuated glass cup is
  applied to the skin to draw blood to the surface.

Cuprum
  Copper.

Curacao
  Flavored with sour orange peel. Popular island resort in the Netherlands
  Antilles.

cystitis
  Inflammation of the urinary bladder.

damask
  Rich patterned fabric of cotton, linen, silk, or wool. Fine, twilled
  table linen.

deadly night-shade (bittersweet, bittersweet nightshade, climbing
nightshade, poisonous nightshade, woody nightshade, Solanum dulcamara)
  Perennial Eurasian herb with reddish bell-shaped flowers and shining
  black berries; extensively grown in United States; roots and leaves
  yield atropine (belladonna, Atropa belladonna).

decollete
  Cut low at the neckline. Wearing a garment that is low-cut or strapless.

demi-monde
  Class of women kept by wealthy lovers or protectors; prostitutes; group
  whose respectability is dubious or whose success is marginal.

demulcent
  Soothing, usually mucilaginous or oily substance, such as glycerin or
  lanolin, used to relieve pain of irritated mucous membranes.

diathesis
  Hereditary predisposition to disease, allergy, or other disorder.

digitalis
  Plant of the genus Digitalis, including foxgloves. Drug prepared from
  the seeds and dried leaves used as a cardiac stimulant.

dilatory
  Delay or postpone.

discomfit
  Make uneasy or perplexed; disconcert; embarrass; thwart the plans of;
  frustrate.

dry cupping
  See cupping.

dysmenorrhea
  Painful menstruation.

effusion
  Seeping of serous, purulent, or bloody fluid into a body cavity or
  tissue. The effused fluid.

eiderdown (eider down)
  Down of the eider duck, used to stuff quilts and pillows. Quilt stuffed
  with the down of the eider duck.

empyema
  Pus in a body cavity, especially the pleural cavity.

ennui
  Listlessness, dissatisfaction, lack of interest; boredom:

Epsom salts
  Hydrated magnesium sulfate, MgSO4.7H2O, used as a cathartic and to
  reduce inflammation.

ergot
  Fungus (Claviceps purpurea) infecting cereal plants; forms compact black
  masses of branching filaments that replace many of the grains of the
  host plant. Disease caused by such a fungus. The dried sclerotia of
  ergot obtained from rye is a source of several medicinal alkaloids and
  lysergic acid.

erigeron
  Genus of composite herbs having flower heads resembling asters. Formerly
  used as a diuretic and as a hemostatic in uterine hemorrhage

erysipelas
  Acute skin disease caused by hemolytic streptococcus; marked by
  localized inflammation and fever. Also called Saint Anthony's fire.

eschar
  Dry scab or slough formed on the skin caused by a burn or by the action
  of a corrosive or caustic substance.

eucaine
  A crystalline substance, C15H21NO2, used as a local anesthetic,
  substituting for cocaine, in veterinary medicine.

eucalyptol (cineole)
  Colorless oily liquid, C10H18O, from eucalyptus; used in
  pharmaceuticals, flavoring, and perfumery.

eucalyptus
  Trees of the genus Eucalyptus, native to Australia; they have aromatic
  leaves that yield an oil used medicinally.

farcy (see glanders)
  Chronic form of glanders that affects the skin and superficial lymph
  vessels.

febrile
  ferverish

felon
  Painful purulent infection at the end of a finger or toe in the area
  surrounding the nail. Also called whitlow.

ferrocyanate
  Salt of ferrocyanic acid; a ferrocyanide.

fistula
  An abnormal duct or passage resulting from injury, disease, or other
  disorder that connects an abscess, cavity, or hollow organ to the body
  surface or to another hollow organ.

flounce
  Strip of decorative, gathered or pleated material attached by one edge,
  as on a garment or curtain.

fondant
  Sweet creamy sugar paste used in candies and icings. Candy containing
  this paste.

fontanelles
  The soft membranous gaps between the incompletely formed cranial bones
  of a fetus or an infant. Also called soft spot.

formaldehyde
  Colorless gaseous compound, HCHO, used to manufacture resins,
  fertilizers, dyes, and embalming fluids and in aqueous solution as a
  preservative and disinfectant.

formalin
  Aqueous solution of formaldehyde that is 37 percent by weight.

fossa
  A small depression, as in a bone.

foulard
  Lightweight twill or plain-woven fabric of silk or silk and cotton,
  often having a small printed design. Necktie or scarf, made of this
  fabric.

Fowler's solution
  Solution of arsenite of potassium in water; named for Fowler, an English
  physician who brought it into use.

frock coat
  Man's dress coat or suit coat with knee-length skirts.

fuller's earth
  Highly adsorbent (attaches to other substances without any chemical
  action) clay-like substance consisting of hydrated aluminum silicates;
  used in talcum powders.

fly blister
  Blister caused by the vesicating (blistering) body fluid of certain
  beetles.

fusiform
  Tapered at each end; spindle-shaped.

galatea
  Durable, often striped cotton fabric used in making clothing.

galax (beetleweed, coltsfoot, wandflower)
  Stemless evergreen perennial plant (Galax urceolata) of the eastern US,
  with a rosette of glossy, heart-shaped leaves and small white flowers in
  spike-like clusters.

gallic acid
  Colorless crystalline compound, C7H6O5, derived from tannin used as a
  tanning agent, ink dye, in photography, and paper manufacturing.

gamboge
  Brownish or orange resin from trees of the genus Garcinia of
  south-central Asia and yielding a golden-yellow pigment.

gaucherie
  Awkward or tactless act, manner, or expression.

gelsemium
  Genus of climbing plants. The yellow (false) jasmine (Gelsemium
  sempervirens) is a native of the Southern United States; the root is
  used for malarial fevers.

gentian
  Plants of the genus Gentiana, having showy, variously colored flowers.
  The dried rhizome and roots of a yellow-flowered European gentian, G.
  lutea, used as a tonic.

germander
  Aromatic plants of the genus Teucrium, with purplish or reddish flowers.

gingham
  Yarn-dyed cotton fabric woven in stripes, checks, plaids, or solid
  colors.

glace
  Smooth, glazed or glossy surface, such as certain silks or leathers.
  Coated with a sugar glaze; candied.

glairy
  Slimy consistency, like egg white; cough producing glairy sputum.

glanders
  Contagious, usually fatal disease of horses, caused by the bacterium
  Pseudomonas mallei; causes swollen lymph nodes, nasal discharge, and
  ulcers of the respiratory tract and skin. Communicable to other mammals,
  including humans.

glaubers salts
  (Na2SO4.10H2O); colorless salt used as a cathartic.

gleet
  Inflammation of the urethra caused by chronic gonorrhea with a discharge
  of mucus and pus; the discharge that is characteristic of this
  inflammation.

Glonoin
  Dilute solution of nitroglycerin used as a neurotic.

glycerite
  Preparation made by mixing or dissolving a substance in glycerin.

glycyrrhiza
  Widely distributed perennial herbs of the family Leguminosae that
  include licorice. Dried root of a licorice of the genus Glycyrrhiza (G.
  glabra); used to mask unpleasant flavors in drugs or to give a pleasant
  taste to confections called licorice.

goiter (goitre)
  Enlargement of the thyroid gland; often results from insufficient intake
  of iodine.

golden seal
  See hydrastis.

groats
  Hulled, usually crushed grain, especially oats.

grosgrain
  Closely woven silk or rayon fabric with narrow horizontal ribs. Ribbon
  made of this fabric.

gruel
 Thin porridge (usually oatmeal or cornmeal). See page 574.

guaiacum (guaiac )
  Tree of the genus Guaiacum; a lignum vitae. Greenish-brown resin from
  this tree, used medicinally and in varnishes.

gustatory
  Concerning the sense of taste.

haematuria
  Blood in the urine.

hamamelis
  Genus of shrubs or small trees (family Hamamelidaceae), including the
  witch hazels. Dried leaves of a witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) of
  the eastern U.S. used formerly as a tonic and sedative.

hartshorn
  Antler of a hart, formerly used as a source of ammonia and in smelling
  salts. Ammonium carbonate.

hellebore
  Plants of the genus Helleborus, native to Eurasia, most of which are
  poisonous. Plants of the genus Veratrum, especially V. viride of North
  America, yielding a toxic alkaloid used medicinally.

henbane (black henbane, insane root)
  Poisonous Eurasian plant (Hyoscyamus niger) having an unpleasant odor,
  sticky leaves, and funnel-shaped greenish-yellow flowers. It is a source
  hyoscyamus, hyoscamine and scopolamine.

henna
  Tree or shrub (Lawsonia inermis) of the Middle East, having fragrant
  white or reddish flowers. Reddish-orange dyestuff prepared from the
  dried and ground leaves of this plant, used as a cosmetic dye and for
  coloring leather and fabrics. To dye (hair, for example) with henna.

Hepar
  Liver of sulphur; a substance of a liver-brown color, sometimes used in
  medicine. Fformed by fusing sulphur with carbonates of the alkalies
  (esp. potassium), and consists essentially of alkaline sulphides. Called
  also hepar sulphuris. A substance resembling hepar; in homeopathy,
  calcium sulphide, called also hepar sulphuris calcareum.

hepatica (liverleaf)
  Woodland plants of the genus Hepatica, especially H. americana of
  eastern North America, having three-lobed leaves and white or lavender
  flowers.

Herpes Zoster
  Varicella-zoster virus: A herpesvirus that causes chickenpox and
  shingles. Causes an acute viral infection—inflammation of the sensory
  ganglia of spinal or cranial nerves and the eruption of vesicles along
  the affected nerve path. It usually strikes only one side of the body
  and is often accompanied by severe neuralgia.

Honduras Bark
  Dried bark of a tropical American tree (Picramnia antidesma) formerly
  used in the treatment of syphilis and skin diseases.

Hunyadi (Hunyady )
  Hungarian noble family, partly of Romanian origin. The first recorded
  member of the family was Serbe, who settled in Hunyad county in
  Transylvania from Wallachia.

hydrastis
  Genus of herbs (family Ranunculaceae) with palmately lobed leaves and
  small greenish flowers and including the goldenseal (H. canadensis). The
  dried rhizome and roots of the goldenseal formerly used in pharmacy as a
  bitter tonic and antiseptic called also goldenseal.

hydragogue
  Cathartics that aid in the removal of edematous fluids and promote the
  discharge of fluid from the bowels.

hydrophobia (rabies)
  Viral disease of the nervous system of warm-blooded animals. Transmitted
  by a rhabdovirus (genus Lyssavirus) in infected saliva of a rabid
  animal. Causes increased salivation, abnormal behavior, and paralysis
  and death when untreated

hypophosphite
  Salt of hypophosphorous acid.

hyoscine (scopolamine)
  An alkaloid, C17H21NO4, from plants such as henbane; used as a mydriatic
  (dilatate the pupils) and sedative, and to treat nausea and motion
  sickness.

hyoscyamus
  Poisonous Eurasian herbs of the family Solanaceae that have simple
  leaves, irregular flowers, and include the henbane (H. niger). Dried
  leaves of the henbane containing the alkaloids hyoscyamine and
  scopolamine, used as an antispasmodic and sedative.

ichthyol Oily substance prepared by the dry distillation of a bituminous mineral containing fossil fishes. Used as a remedy for some skin diseases.

ignatia
  Dried ripe seeds of the Saint-Ignatius's-bean used like nux vomica.

impetigo
  Contagious bacterial skin infection, usually of children, indicated by
  the eruption of superficial pustules with thick yellow crusts, commonly
  on the face.

incommode
  Cause inconvenience; disturb.

inspissate
  Undergo thickening or cause to thicken, as by boiling or evaporation;
  condense.

intercostal
  Relating to or near a rib.

iodoform
  Yellowish crystalline compound, CHI3, used as an antiseptic.

ipecac
  Tropical American shrub (Cephaelis ipecacuanha) that yields emetine.
  Medicinal preparation made from this shrub used to induce vomiting.

Iris Florentina (Florentine iris, orris, Iris germanica florentina, Iris florentina) German iris having large white flowers and a fragrant rhizome.

Irish moss (carrageen)
  Edible North Atlantic seaweed (Chondrus crispus) that yields a
  mucilaginous substance used medicinally and in preparing jellies.

iritis
    Inflammation of the iris of the eye.

jalap
  Eastern Mexican vine (Ipomoea purga) with tuberous roots that are dried,
  powdered, and used as a cathartic.

jocose
  Given to joking; merry; humorous.

kamala
  Asian tree (Mallotus philippinensis) that bears a hairy capsular fruit;
  vermifugal powder is obtained from the capsules of this tree.

kino
  Reddish resin from several Old World trees of the genera Eucalyptus,
  Pterocarpus, and Butea and from tropical American trees of the genera
  Coccoloba and Dipteryx.

kumiss (koumiss)
  Fermented milk of a mare or camel, used as a beverage in western and
  central Asia.

La Grippe
  Influenza.

lancinating
  Sensation of cutting, piercing, or stabbing.

lard
  White solid or semisolid rendered fat of a hog.

laudanum
  Tincture of opium, formerly used as a drug.

leukemia (leucemia, leukaemia, leucaemia) Disease in humans and other warm-blooded animals involving the blood-forming organs; causes an abnormal increase in the number of white blood cells in the tissues with or without a corresponding increase in the circulating blood.

lime (calcium oxide)
  White, caustic, lumpy powder, CaO, used as a refractory, as a flux, in
  manufacturing steel and paper, in glassmaking, in waste treatment, in
  insecticides, and as an industrial alkali.

  Slaked lime is calcium hydroxide, a soft white powder, Ca(OH)2, used in
  making mortar, cements, calcium salts, paints, hard rubber products, and
  petrochemicals.

litmus
  Coloring material from lichens that turns red in acid solutions and blue
  in alkaline solutions.

Liveforever (orpine, orpin, livelong, Sedum telephium)
  Perennial northern temperate plant with toothed leaves and heads of
  small purplish-white flowers.

lobelia
  See Herb Department, page 428.

lochia
  Normal uterine discharge of blood, tissue, and mucus from the vagina
  after childbirth.

lupus
  Systemic lupus erythematosus. Chronic skin conditions characterized by
  ulcerative lesions that spread over the body. No longer in scientific
  use.

lupulin
  Minute yellowish-brown hairs in the strobili of the hop plant, formerly
  used in medicine as a sedative.

lycopodium
  Plant of the genus Lycopodium, including club mosses. The yellowish
  powdery spores of certain club mosses, especially Lycopodium clavatum,
  are used in fireworks and as a coating for pills.

madras
  Cotton or silk cloth of fine texture, usually with a plaid, striped, or
  checked pattern. Large handkerchief of madras cloth.

malines
  Thin, stiff net woven in a hexagonal pattern, used in dressmaking.

mandrake (may-apple)
  Southern European plant (Mandragora officinarum) having greenish-yellow
  flowers and a branched root. This plant was once believed to have
  magical powers because its root resembles the human body. The root
  contains the poisonous alkaloid hyoscyamine. Also called mandragora. See
  podophyllin.

marseille
  Heavy cotton fabric with a raised pattern of stripes or figures.

meatus
  Body opening or passage, such as the opening of the ear or the urethra.

menorrhagia
  Unusually heavy or extended menstrual flow.

menstruum
  Solvent used to extract compounds from plant and animal tissues and
  preparing drugs.

messaline
  Lightweight, soft, shiny silk cloth with a twilled or satin weave.

mezereon
  Poisonous Eurasian ornamental shrub (Daphne mezereum) with fragrant
  lilac-purple flowers and small scarlet fruit. The dried bark of this
  plant was used externally as a vesicant (blistering agent) and
  internally for arthritis.

miliary
  Appearance of millet seeds. Small skin lesions with the appearance of
  millet seeds.

mullein
  Eurasian plants of the genus Verbascum, especially V. thapsus. Also
  called flannel leaf, velvet plant.

muriate
  Chloride; compound of chlorine with another element or radical;
  especially, a salt or ester of hydrochloric acid called.

myrrh
  Aromatic gum resin from trees and shrubs of the genus Commiphora of
  India, Arabia, and eastern Africa, used in perfume and incense.

methyl salicylate
  Liquid ester C8H8O3 obtained from the leaves of wintergreen (Gaultheria
  procumbens) or the bark of a birch (Betula lenta); now made
  synthetically, and used as a flavoring and a counterirritant.

motherwort
  Eurasian plants of the genus Leonurus, especially L. cardiaca, a weed
  having clusters of small purple or pink flowers.

mugwort
  Aromatic plants of the genus Artemisia, especially A. vulgaris, native
  to Eurasia; used as a condiment.

mustard plaster (sinapism)
  Medicinal plaster made with a paste-like mixture of powdered black
  mustard, flour, and water, used as a counterirritant.

nephritis
  Various acute or chronic inflammations of the kidneys, such as Bright's
  disease.

naphthalene (naphthaline, tar camphor)
  White crystalline compound, C10H8, derived from coal tar or petroleum
  and used in manufacturing dyes, moth repellents, and explosives and as a
  solvent.

nebulize
   To convert a liquid to a fine spray; atomize.
   To treat with a medicated spray.

nainsook
  Soft lightweight muslin used for babies.

Neroli
  An essential oil made by distilling the flowers of the orange; it is
  used in perfume.

nitre (niter, saltpeter)
  Potassium nitrate, KNO3, used in making gunpowder.

nux vomica
  Tree (Strychnos nux-vomica) native to southeast Asia, having poisonous
  seeds that are the source of the medicinal alkaloids strychnine and
  brucine.

ocher (ochre)
  Yellow, brown, or red mineral oxides of iron used as pigments.

oil of vitriol
  Sulfuric acid; highly corrosive, dense, oily liquid, H2SO4, colorless to
  dark brown depending on its purity and used to manufacture a wide
  variety of chemicals and materials including fertilizers, paints,
  detergents, and explosives.

omentum
  Folds of the peritoneum (membrane lining the abdominal cavity) that
  connect the stomach with other abdominal organs.

ophthalmia neonatorum (infantile purulent conjunctivitis)
  Various forms of conjunctivitis in newborns, usually contracted during
  birth from passage through the infected birth canal of the mother.

orchitis
  Inflammation of the testes, often the result of mumps or other
  infection, trauma, or metastasis.

organdy (organdie)
  Stiff transparent fabric of cotton or silk, used for trim, curtains, and
  light apparel.

Origanum
  Marjoram. Genus of mint-like plants (Origanum). The sweet marjoram (O.
  Majorana) is aromatic and fragrant, and used in cooking. The wild
  marjoram of Europe and America (O. vulgare) is less fragrant.

orris
  Several species of iris with a fragrant rootstock, especially Iris
  germanica, used in perfumes and cosmetics.

panada
  Paste or gruel of bread crumbs, toast, or flour combined with milk,
  stock, or water; used for soups or thickening sauces.

Paralysis Agitans (Parkinson's disease, shaking palsy)
  Progressive nervous disease causing destruction of brain cells that
  produce dopamine, muscular tremor, slowing of movement, partial facial
  paralysis, peculiarity of gait and posture, and weakness.

paregoric
  A camphorated tincture of opium, taken internally for the relief of
  diarrhea and intestinal pain

Paris green
  Poisonous emerald-green powder, C4H6As6Cu4O16, used as a pigment,
  insecticide, and wood preservative.

pedicle (pedicel)
  Small stalk or stalk-like structure, especially one supporting or
  connecting an organ or other body part. Slender foot-like part, as at
  the base of a tumor.

pell mell
  Jumbled, confused manner; helter-skelter; frantic disorderly haste;
  headlong:

pemphigus
  Several acute or chronic skin diseases characterized by groups of
  itching blisters.

pennyroyal
  Eurasian mint (Mentha pulegium) with small lilac-blue flowers that yield
  an aromatic oil. Aromatic plant (Hedeoma pulegioides) of eastern North
  America, having purple-blue flowers that yields an oil used as an insect
  repellent

peptonize Convert protein into a peptone (water-soluble protein derivative produced by partial hydrolysis of a protein by an acid or enzyme ). Dissolve (food) by means of a proteolytic enzyme.

pernicious anemia (Addison's anemia, malignant anemia.)
  Severe anemia in older adults, caused by failure absorb vitamin B12;
  causes abnormally large red blood cells, gastrointestinal disturbances,
  and lesions of the spinal cord.

pharyngitis
  Inflammation of the pharynx.

phenacetine (phenacetin)
  White, crystalline compound, C10H13O2N, used as an antipyretic.

phlox
  North American plants of the genus Phlox, having opposite leaves and
  flowers.

phytolacca decandra (Scoke, Poke, Pokeweed)
  Tall coarse perennial American herb with small white flowers followed by
  blackish-red berries on long drooping racemes; young fleshy stems are
  edible; berries and root are poisonous.

picric acid
  Poisonous, yellow crystalline solid, C6H2(NO2)3OH, used in explosives,
  dyes, and antiseptics.

piece de resistance
  Outstanding accomplishment. Principal dish of a meal.

pilocarpus
  Small tropical American shrubs (family Rutaceae) with small greenish
  flowers.

pilocarpine muriate
  3-ethyl-4-[(3-methylimidazol-4-yl)methyl]oxolan-2-one hydrochloride
  C11H17ClN2O2

pique
  Vexation caused by a perceived slight or indignity; feeling of wounded
  pride.

pleurodynia
  Paroxysmal pain and soreness of the muscles between the ribs. Epidemic
  disease caused by a coxsackievirus, causing pain in the lower chest and
  fever, headache, and malaise.

podophyllin
  Bitter-tasting resin from the dried root of the may apple; used as a
  cathartic.

pokeweed (pokeberry, pokeroot.)
  Tall North American plant (Phytolacca americana) with small white
  flowers, blackish-red berries, and a poisonous root.

prickly ash
  Deciduous or evergreen shrubs or trees of the genus Zanthoxylum.

probang
  Long, slender, flexible rod with a tuft or sponge at the end; used to
  remove objects from or apply medication to the larynx or esophagus.

proteid (obsolete term)
  Protein.

proud flesh
  Swollen flesh that surrounds a healing wound, caused by excessive
  granulation (Small, fleshy, bead-like protuberances—new capillaries—on
  the surface of a wound that is healing).

pruritus
  Severe itching, often of undamaged skin.

Prunus Virginiana (Chokecherry)
  Astringent fruit of a species of wild cherry; the bush or tree which
  bears such fruit.

pterygium
  Abnormal mass of tissue on the conjunctiva of the inner corner of the
  eye that obstructs vision by covering the cornea.

pulsatilla
  Dried medicinal herb from a pasqueflower (especially Anemone pulsatilla)
  formerly used to treat amenorrhea and dysmenorrhea.

punctilio
  Fine point of etiquette. Precise observance of formalities.

purpura
  Hemorrhages in the skin and mucous membranes having the appearance of
  purplish spots or patches.

pyemia
  Septicemia (blood poisoning) caused by pyogenic (producing pus)
  microorganisms in the blood, often resulting in the formation of
  multiple abscesses.

pyrogallic Acid
  White, toxic crystalline phenol, C6H3(OH)3, used as a photographic
  developer and to treat certain skin diseases.

quassia
  Tropical American shrub (Quassia amara) with bright scarlet flowers. A
  bitter substance from its wood is used in medicine and as an
  insecticide.

Queen of the meadow (Meadowsweet)
  European herbaceous plant (Spiraea Ulmaria). North American shrubs
  (Spiraea alba or S. latifolia) having umbel-shaped clusters of white
  flowers. Perennial herbs of the genus Filipendula in the rose family.

quinine
  Bitter, colorless, powder or crystalline alkaloid, C20H24N2O2-3H2O,
  derived from cinchona barks and used to treat malaria.

quince
  Western Asian shrub or tree (Cydonia oblonga) with white flowers and
  hard apple-like fruit.

quinsy
  Acute inflammation of the tonsils and surrounding tissue, often leading
  to an abscess.

rabies
  see hydrophobia

ranunculus bulbosus
  Perennial Old World buttercup with yellow flowers in late spring to
  early summer.

red precipitate
  Mercuric oxide (HgO) a heavy red crystalline powder formed by heating
  mercuric nitrate, or by heating mercury in the air.

repousse
  Ornamented with patterns in relief made by pressing or hammering on the
  reverse side;

resorcinol (resorcin)
  White crystalline compound, C6H4(OH)2, used to treat certain skin
  diseases and in dyes, resin adhesives, and pharmaceuticals.

Rhamnus Purshiana (Cascara buckthorn )
  Buckthorn of the Pacific coast of the United States, which yields
  cascara sagrada.

rhatany
  Dried root of South American shrubs (Krameria lappacea or K. argentea)
  used as an astringent and in toothpaste and mouthwash.

rheumatic fever
  Acute inflammatory disease occurring after an infection from group A
  streptococci, marked by fever and joint pain. Associated with
  polyarthritis, Sydenham's chorea, and endocarditis; frequently causes
  scarring of the heart valves.

rheumatism
  Painful disorder of the joints or muscles or connective tissues. Chronic
  auto-immune disease with inflammation of the joints and marked
  deformities.

rhus
  Genus of vines and shrubs including poison ivy, poison oak, and poison
  sumac.

rickets (rachitis)
  Childhood disease caused by a lack of vitamin D or calcium and from
  insufficient exposure to sunlight, characterized by defective bone
  growth.

Rochelle salts
  Potassium sodium tartrate; colorless efflorescent crystalline compound,
  KNaC4H4O6.4H2O, used in making mirrors, in electronics, and as a
  laxative

ruche
  Ruffle or pleat of lace, muslin, or other fine fabric used to trim
  women's garments.

rumex Crispus (chrysophanic acid)
  Yellow crystalline substance found in the root of yellow dock (Rumex
  crispus).

rush
  Stiff marsh plants of the genus Juncus, having pliant hollow or pithy
  stems and small flowers with scale-like perianths (outer envelope of a
  flower,).

sago
  Powdery starch from the trunks of sago palms; used in Asia as a food
  thickener and textile stiffener.

sal-ammoniac
  ammonium chloride; white crystalline volatile salt NH4Cl, used in dry
  cells and as an expectorant called.

saleratus
  Sodium or potassium bicarbonate used as a leavening agent; baking soda.

salicylate
  Salt or ester of salicylic acid.

salicylic acid
  White crystalline acid, C6H4(OH)(COOH), used to make aspirin and to
  treat skin conditions such as eczema.

salol
  White crystalline powder, C13H10O3, derived from salicylic acid and used
  in plastics, suntan oils, analgesics and antipyretics. Was a trademark.

saltpetre (potassium nitrate, saltpeter, niter, nitre)
  (KNO3) used especially as a fertilizer, explosive and a diuretic.

salt rheum
  Popular name in the United States, for skin eruptions, such as eczema.
  Eczema; inflammatory skin disease, indicated by redness and itching,
  eruption of small vesicles, and discharge of a watery exudation, which
  often dries up, leaving the skin covered with crusts;—called also
  tetter, and milk crust.

sanguinaria
  Rhizome (horizontal, underground stem) and roots of the bloodroot
  (Sanguinaria canadensis) used formerly as an expectorant and emetic.

sedulous
  Persevering and constant in effort or application; assiduous.

senna
  Plants of the genus Cassia, having showy, nearly regular, usually yellow
  flowers. Dried leaves of Cassia angustifolia or C. acutifolia, used as a
  cathartic.

santonin
  Colorless crystalline compound, C15H18O3, wormwood, especially
  santonica; used to expel or destroy parasitic intestinal worms.

sarsaparilla
  Tropical American plants, genus Smilax, with fragrant roots used as a
  flavoring. Dried roots of any of these plants. Sweet soft drink flavored
  with these roots.

savin
  Evergreen Eurasian shrub (Juniperus sabina) with brownish-blue
  seed-bearing cones and young shoots that yield an oil formerly used
  medicinally.

scrofula (struma)
  A form of tuberculosis affecting the lymph nodes, especially of the
  neck. Common in children. Spread by unpasteurized milk from infected
  cows.

scurf
  Scaly or shredded dry skin, such as dandruff.

scurvy
  Disease caused by deficiency of vitamin C (citrus fruit; oranges,
  limes,..); causes spongy and bleeding gums, bleeding under the skin, and
  extreme weakness.

Seidlitz
  A village in Bohemia (also Sedlitz). Seidlitz powders, effervescing
  salts, consisting of forty grains of sodium bicarbonate, two drachms of
  Rochell salt (tartrate of potassium and sodium) and thirty-five grains
  of tartaric acid. The powders are mixed in water, and drunk while
  effervescing, as a mild cathartic; the result resembles the natural
  water of Seidlitz. Also Rochelle powders.

senega
  Dried root of seneca snakeroot containing an irritating saponin and was
  formerly used as an expectorant

sesquioxide
  Oxide containing three atoms of oxygen with two atoms (or radicals) of
  some other substance; thus, alumina, Al2O3 is a sesquioxide.

shirr
  Cook (unshelled eggs) by baking until set.

sinapism.
  See mustard plaster.

sitz bath
  Bathtub shaped like a chair, used to bathe only the hips and buttocks.

slaked lime
  See lime

sling
  Drink consisting of brandy, whiskey, or gin, sweetened and usually
  lemon-flavored.

smallpox
  Contagious febrile (feverish) disease characterized by skin eruption
  with pustules, sloughing, and scar formation. It is caused by a poxvirus
  (genus Orthopoxvirus) that is believed to exist now only in lab
  cultures.

smilax (catbrier, greenbrier)
  Slender vine (Asparagus asparagoides) with glossy foliage, greenish
  flowers, heart-shaped leaves, and bluish to black berries; popular as a
  floral decoration.

Socotrine
  Pertaining to Socotra, an island in the Indian Ocean, on the east coast
  of Africa.

sordes
  Dark brown or blackish crust-like deposits on the lips, teeth, and gums
  of a person with dehydration resulting from a chronic debilitating
  disease.

spermaceti
  White, waxy substance from the head of the sperm whale used for making
  candles, ointments, and cosmetics.

spematorrhea (spermatorrhoea)
  Involuntary discharge of semen without orgasm

spigelia (pinkroot )
  Genus of American herbs (family Loganiaceae) related to the nux vomica
  and used as anthelmintics (expel or destroy parasitic intestinal worms).

sprue
  Chronic, chiefly tropical disease characterized by diarrhea, emaciation,
  and anemia, caused by defective absorption of nutrients from the
  intestinal tract.

squill (sea onion)
  Bulbous Eurasian and African plants of the genus Scilla, having narrow
  leaves and bell-shaped blue, white, or pink flowers. The dried inner
  scales of the bulbs used as rat poison and formerly as a cardiac
  stimulant, expectorant, and diuretic.

stephanotis
  Woody climbing plants of the genus Stephanotis, especially S. floribunda
  of Madagascar, cultivated for its showy fragrant white flowers.

staphisagria (stavesacre)
  Eurasian plant of the genus Delphinium (D. staphisagria). Ripe seeds of
  the stavesacre contain delphinine, are violently emetic and carthartic,
  and have been used to kill head lice called also staphisagria