Treatment.—In all cases empty the stomach by emetics or stomach tube and the bowels by cathartics. Stimulate if necessary.



HEAT STROKE.—Called also heat exhaustion; thermic fever, coup de Soleil. A condition produced by exposure to excessive heat.

Heat Exhaustion.—This is caused by continued exposure to high temperatures, especially while working hard.

Symptoms.—Prostration with cool skin, temperature often below normal, 95-96, pulse is small and frequent, sometimes restlessness and delirium. The person need not necessarily be exposed to the direct rays of the sun, but the condition may come on at night, or while at work in close, confined rooms.

Treatment of indoor heat exhaustion.—Aromatic spirits of ammonia one to two drams and strychnine; avoid alcohol. If the temperature is below normal, (98.6) a warm bath can be given. Rest in bed in a well ventilated room.



SUNSTROKE. Heat Stroke, Thermic (heat) Fever.—This occurs in persons chiefly who, while working very hard are exposed to the sun. Soldiers who are marching with their heavy accoutrements are very liable to be attacked. In large cities the most of the cases are confined to workmen who are much exposed and at the same time, have been drinking beer and whisky.

Symptoms.—The patient may be struck down and die very soon with symptoms of failure of the heart, difficult breathing and coma. This kind is most frequent in soldiers. In ordinary cases there may be failure to perspire, premonitory headache, dizziness, sometimes nausea and vomiting, colored or poor sight (vision); insensibility follows, which may be temporary or increased deep coma. The face is flushed, the skin is dry and hot, the pupils are temporarily dilated, then usually greatly contracted, the pulse is rapid and full, and the temperature ranges from 107 to 110 degrees or higher. The breathing is deep, labored and snoring (stortorous). Usually there is complete muscular relaxation, with twitchings, jerkings, or very rarely convulsions may occur. In fatal cases, coma (deep sleep) deepens, the pulse becomes more frequent and feeble, the breathing becomes more hurried, shallow and irregular and death may occur within twenty-four to thirty-six hours. In others, the consciousness returns, the temperature falls, the pulse and breathing become normal and recovery may be complete or leave bad results. The patient may be predisposed to future attacks or suffer from weakness or headache, and disturbance of the mind when ever the weather is warm.

[376 MOTHERS' REMEDIES]

Prognosis.—The death rate is higher when treatment is delayed, and when alcohol has been used as a beverage.

MOTHER'S REMEDY. Sunstroke, Quick Method to Relieve.—"Apply alternately hot and cold applications to forehead and base of the brain or back of the neck, place the feet in warm mustard water, and apply mustard to the stomach and calves of legs. This remedy was tried by my brother's wife, who is a trained nurse. She says it is very effective," The hot and cold applications help to draw the blood from the brain. Placing feet in warm mustard water will help to give relief.

Treatment.—Avoid exposure and alcohol. For a mild case—Rest in a cool place, cool sponging, aromatic spirits ammonia or strychnine if needed for the prostration.

For severe cases.—The temperature must be reduced as rapidly as possible. Pack the patient in a bath of ice. Rubbing the body with ice is an excellent procedure to lower the temperature rapidly. Ice water enemata (injections in bowel) may also be employed. If ice cannot be obtained strip the patient and sprinkle him with water until the temperature is reduced. Use a thermometer to see it does not go too low. Ice cap or cold water to the head. Keep working for hours.

Medicine.—Glonoin, 1/100 to 1/200 grain is of help in severe cases.



ACCIDENTS, EMERGENCIES AND POISONS

COLLAPSE.—1. Place the patient flat on his back.

2. Raise the feet and lower his head, unless blueness of the face occurs.

3. Make the patient warm by applying warm coverings and hot water bottles, bricks or wood.

4. Enema of strong coffee.

5. If necessary the legs and arms can be bandaged beginning at the feet and hands and then bandage up. Use above in order given.



FAINTING.—Place the patient on her back, with the head low and feet raised unless the face is flushed. The face is generally pale.

Loosen the clothing about the waist, throat, etc.

Plenty of air and no crowding around the patient.

ACCIDENTS AND POISONS 377

Cold water on the face with cloths. It is not necessary to wet her all over. Ammonia or camphor near the nostrils to inhale. Lie still for some time and do not attempt to rise while still feeling dizzy or faint.

MOTHERS' REMEDIES.—1. Sea Sickness, Red Pepper and Molasses Relieves.— "A teaspoonful of red pepper mixed with molasses and taken in one dose is considered one of the best remedies for this trouble."

2. Sea Sickness, Peppermint an Excellent Relief for.—"A teaspoonful of essence of peppermint put in a tumbler of hot water, sipped occasionally, is both a preventive and cure for sea-sickness."

Sea Sickness.—Dr. Hare, of Philadelphia, says: "The bromides should be used in the dose of five to ten grains three times a day for several days before the patient sails to quiet the vomiting center." After sea sickness begins the following combination is good:

(a) Citric Acid 2 drams Distilled Water 4 ounces Make a solution.

(b) Bromide of Potash 1 dram Bicarbonate of Potash 1 dram Distilled Water 4 ounces Make a solution.

Then a tablespoonful of each of these solutions should be added to one another and taken during effervescence. Lemon juice can be used in place of citric acid in the first combination.



DOG BITES (Not Rabid).—Treat the same as for any torn wound, wash out thoroughly with hot water and an ounce of salt in a pint of water. There is no danger of hydrophobia from the bite of a dog, cat or any animal unless that animal has hydrophobia. No one can take hydrophobia from an animal that does not have it. (See Hydrophobia).



POISONED WOUNDS. Mosquito Bite.—Remove the sting in the wound. Diluted vinegar applied to the bites is sometimes of help. Camphor is also good.

Snake Bite.—Naturalists have discovered twenty-seven species of poisonous serpents and one poisonous lizard; eighteen species of these are true rattlesnakes; the remaining nine are divided between varieties of the moccasin, copperhead or the viper. The poisonous lizard is the Texan reptile known as the "Gila Monster." In all these serpents the poison fluid is secreted in a gland which lies against the side of the skull below and behind the eye, from which a duct leads to the base of a hollow tooth or fang, one on each side of the upper jaw; which fang, except in the case of vipers, is movable and susceptible of erection and depression. When not in use the fang hugs the upper jaw and is ensheathed in a fold of mucous membrane. In the vipers the fang is permanently erect. In the case of biting the contents of the poison sac are forcibly ejected through the hollow fang.

[378 MOTHERS' REMEDIES]

Symptoms of a Snake Bite.—The symptoms are similar in bites of poisonous snakes. Pain in the wound, slight at first, but becoming more severe, with rapid swelling and spotted discoloration in the vicinity of the wound. Symptoms of heart and lung depression soon show themselves by feeble and fluttering pulse, faintness, cold sweating, mental distress, nausea and vomiting and labored breathing. Death may occur very soon in intense poisoned cases, but more frequently the struggle extends over a number of hours.

Treatment.—First thing to do.—When the bite is on a limb, tie the limb above the bite toward the body and twist the ligature so tight that the circulation is cut off, or checked. Then cut the wound open very freely. When the bite is on the body, make a free cut, and when this cannot be done suck the wound vigorously, which can done without danger, if there are no cracks or abrasions of the lips or mouth, as the poison is harmless when taken into a well mouth. If a hot iron is at hand apply it freely within the wound and this may take the place of the knife or suction. Salt put in the cut wound will be of help, or fill the wound with permanganate of potash and inject a solution of the same, diluted three-quarters with water, around the wound. Strychnine one-fifteenth of a grain every two hours until the symptoms are better. This is not given until the symptoms of snake poisoning have shown themselves.

If such agents are not at hand, brandy or whisky should be given freely. The pulse will show when the patient has had enough.

MOTHERS' REMEDIES. INSECT AND OTHER BITES.—1. Simply Use Pepper for Dog Bite.—"My son had his hand bitten by a dog and it was over a week before it was brought to my notice. The sore was then filled with green pus and the pain went up to his jaw, so we were afraid of lockjaw. I had him cleanse it thoroughly in a basin of warm saleratus water, then filled and thickly covered it with black pepper. The pain stopped almost instantly. It seems as though pepper would smart a cut terribly, but it does not." This is a good remedy and worth trying. The black pepper did not smart the wound because the flesh was dead.

2. Bites, Tobacco Good for Dog.—"Immediately wash the parts with clear water; then take leaf or cut tobacco and bind over the part bitten, changing it two or three times a day for a week. This effectually absorbs the poison. It is a good prevention of any future trouble."

3. Bites, Ammonia Good for Insect.—"Rub the affected parts with ammonia, which will draw out the poison. For mosquito bites have often used baking soda. This always gives relief and is very cooling."

4. Bites, Baking Soda for Insect.—"Cover the affected parts with baking soda and keep moist." A mud poultice is an old tried remedy.

[ACCIDENTS AND POISONS 379]

5. Bites, Hartshorn Old Time Remedy for.—"Apply hartshorn or spirits of ammonia to part which neutralizes the formic acid, the active principle of the poison." This is an old-time remedy and will always give relief if applied immediately.

6. Bites, Carbolic Acid Draws Poison from.—"Bathe frequently in a weak solution of carbolic acid." The carbolic acid is a very good remedy and seldom fails to cure, but if you do not happen to have the acid, use vinegar, and it will have practically the same effect.

7. Bites, Alum and Vinegar Good Remedy for.—"Alum and vinegar. Purchase five cents' worth of powdered alum and dissolve in a pint of vinegar and apply freely. This is a very good remedy."

8. Bites, Salt Water for Mosquito.—"Take salt and water in a little dish and keep wetting the bite for a few moments. This will soon destroy the poison," This will be found a very simple but effective remedy, especially in children or small babies, as we mothers all know how very annoying a mosquito bite is to children. The salt water will remove all the poison and at the same time relieve the itching and swelling. Care should be taken not to make it too strong for a small baby.

9. Bites, Spirits of Ammonia for Snake.—"Strong spirits of ammonia applied to the wounds of snake bites or rabid animals is better than caustic. It neutralizes the poison." Enough of the ammonia should be used to irritate the parts. It is harmless treatment and should be used freely.

STINGS, MOTHERS' REMEDIES.—1. Leaves of Geranium Good for Bee or Wasp.—"Bruise the leaves of geranium and bind on the affected part. This has proved an excellent, though simple remedy."

2. Stings, Simple Remedy for.—"Take a dresser key or any with a good sized hole and press over the sting. If used very soon this will remove the stinger, then cover with wet salt."



DISLOCATIONS.—A dislocation is the putting out of joint some bone, such as the elbow or shoulder bone or bones. The bone has slipped out of its socket. They are called after the joints involved.

General Causes.—Blows, sudden contraction of the muscles; also due to some diseases of the joints.

General Symptoms.—There is a deformity at the joint, pain and sometimes it is not possible to make all the joint movements.

General Treatment.—Of course it is to replace the bone, as soon as possible, before there is much swelling, inflammation and consequent adhesions.



DISLOCATION OF THE JAW.—It is not possible to close the mouth. The chin is too far forward. The jaw may turn toward the other side in one-sided dislocation.

[380 MOTHERS' REMEDIES]

Treatment.—Hold something hard between the teeth in front so that when the jaw snaps in place your thumbs will not be bitten. A piece of wood as thick as your fingers will do. Stand in front of the patient, who should be sitting in a high chair. Put your thumbs in the mouth upon the lower jaw two-thirds of the length backwards, and your forefingers directly underneath the jaw; with the thumbs press down and with the fingers pull forward.



Sometimes it is necessary to hold the jaw in place for some days. For that purpose the bandage for a broken jaw can be used.



SHOULDER JOINT DISLOCATION.—There is a depression of the skin over the cavity. The shoulder is flattened. The bone of the arm points to where the head of the bone is.

Treatment.—Carry the elbow to the side with the forearm at right angles to the arm: turn the arm around until the forearm points away from the body. Then carry the arm up from the body until it is level with the shoulder. In this position gradually rotate the arm again and then bring the arm to the side, with the forearm across the chest, hand pointing to the other shoulder when it should be bandaged by pieces of bandages three inches wide passing around the arm, elbow and body. A pad should be placed under the hand to keep it from making the flesh sore.



FINGER OR THUMB DISLOCATION.—If the joint is dislocated forward pull the front part forward and backward. If it is dislocated backwards, pull the front part of the finger forward and upward. If reduced immediately this needs no bandaging.



FRACTURES.—They are simply broken bones or cartilage, usually applied popularly to a broken bone.

Varieties.—Simple fracture means a break of the bone only.

Compound fracture is where the broken bone sticks out through the skin.

ACCIDENTS AND POISONS 381

Comminuted is where the bone is broken into small parts.

Impacted is where one part of the broken bone is driven into the other part.

Green stick break. This is not really a break, but only a bending of the bone, seen mostly in children.

Bandages for fractures can be made of muslin. They should be six to eight to twelve yards long for large bones.

Width. For a finger one inch. For arm or head two and one-half inches. For the leg three to four inches. For the body six to eight inches.

An old sheet can be used and the ends of the strips sewed together and then wrapped tight in a roll, with the ravelings from the sides removed. The bandage should be started from the end of the limb, wrapped towards the body. They should not be wrapped so tightly as to shut off circulation,

Padding.—This should be of cotton. In case of necessity, handkerchiefs, towels, pieces of muslin, cloths; hay or grass can be used temporarily.

Splints.—In emergencies splints can be made from shingles, pasteboards or even bark.

How to Take Hold of a Broken Leg or Arm.—Never take hold of it from above, but slip the hands underneath, and then take a firm but gentle hold at two points a short distance from the break on each side, and all the while making slight extension with the hand on the end part (distal part) so as to keep the ends from rubbing together, and lift with both hands at the same time slowly and evenly until the limb is in the required position. Then apply the emergency treatment. This is to help keep the broken parts in place until proper care can be given, or to assist in safely and comfortably moving the patient to the place desired. Support the broken limb with something smooth and stiff, such as a thin narrow shingle, three inches wide perhaps, or thin board, stout pasteboard, or the bark of trees, and padded with something soft, such as cotton, wool, hay, straw, leaves, which can be held by bandages of required width, or handkerchiefs folded in triangular shape, or by strips of linen, muslin, ribbon or anything with which the splint can be temporarily held fast.

For the Forearm.—Two padded splints three to four inches wide and long enough to take in the hand also should be applied, one to the thumb, and the other to the back of the forearm, slight extension being made by pulling on the patient's hand. This pulls the broken end in place. Tie on the splints over the hand, wrist and just below the elbow. Two or three wraps of adhesive plaster or five or six wraps of a bandage or handkerchief or towel folded and pinned will temporarily hold the limb in place. Put on a sling reaching from the finger tips to beyond the elbow.

[382 MOTHERS' REMEDIES]

For the Arm.—Put on two padded splints from the shoulder to the elbow, one in front and the one behind, and bind on at the bottom and top. Then place the forearm on the chest pointing to the well or sound shoulder and bind the arm with bandages or a long towel to the body.

For a Broken Leg.—Pull on the foot gently to make slight extension, and lift the leg on a pillow or some sort of pad, and tie this firmly about the leg; or broad strips of wood may be padded and placed on either side of the broken leg and securely tied.

For a Broken Thigh, Upper Leg.—The splint should extend from under the arm to the ankle, padded and bound to the body and to the leg by means of long towels or pieces of sheeting applied six inches apart. If the patient is in a wagon and no splint can be had, bags of dirt or sand applied around the thigh will hold some. But there is always something at hand to use as a splint and to bind the splint to the leg.

For a Broken Collar Bone.—Place the patient on his back if he is to be moved and put a firm pad in the arm pit and bind the arm to the side with the forearm across the chest; or if you have a roll of adhesive plaster two or three inches wide, after putting a pad in the arm pit (sometimes this is not necessary) put the adhesive strip around the arm midway to the shoulder. The arm should be lifted up and a little back. Run the strip of adhesive plaster around the body and fasten to the first part. Then put another strip fast to the band around the arm and run this down around the bent elbow and over the forearm placed on the chest, the fingers pointing to the sound shoulder. This strip can pass over the sound collar bone and fasten to the strip about the body. If it is put on properly, the injured part will feel comfortable.

Broken Ribs.—Put on a towel, about eight to twelve inches wide. This should go around the body and be pinned tightly; or, if you have a roll of adhesive plaster, two and one-half to three inches wide, use this. Start at the backbone, at the lowest point necessary, about two ribs below the broken one, and carry it straight across the chest to the breast bone; put on about eight of such strips, lapping each about one-half inch. Fasten the ends with a strip running up and down one-half on the flesh and the other half on the strip. This is to keep the strips from slipping any. The arms should be held up while the strips are being applied.

A Broken Jaw.—Take a strong piece of muslin, long enough to reach around the neck and eight inches longer. Split this through the center to within about seven inches of the center of the band. Put this unsplit part above, over and under the chin. Tie the upper tails around the neck and run the under tail pieces up in front of the ear to the crown of the head. Tie each end on the back part of the head to the pieces left over after tying back of the neck.

[ACCIDENTS AND POISONS 383]

Broken Nose.—Put the parts in place by pressure and moulding. It is easily done. Do not hurry. Put a strip of adhesive plaster across the bridge of the nose over the break reaching to the cheek.

If the injury causes bleeding, the wound should be washed with clean linen and boiled water and covered with clean linen. To wash the wound, one teaspoonful of salt to one pint of boiled water. Salt is usually at hand.

If an artery is cut, this bleeding must be stopped. The blood spurts out. Press your hands hard on the back of the thigh towards the body of the wound. Another should tie some cloth around the thigh above the wound tightly. It can be made tighter by putting a stick under the band and twisting it around as much as possible. Raise the leg high up and put the head low. If the cut is below the knee or on the foot, bend the leg back. First put a pad or your fist in under the knee joint and bend leg over the pad or your fist. Sometimes the spurting artery can be caught or pressed upon with your finger. If the arm is injured, bandage as for the thigh. If the forearm, the same as for the leg.

If a finger is cut clean off, pick the piece up and wash it and the stump clean and then place the cut off part against the stump and tie on, or stick on with adhesive plaster. It sometimes grows fast.



SPRAINS.—Sprains or wrenches of the joints are caused by a twist or a blow. The injury consists in the tear or rupture of a number of the fibres of the ligaments.

Symptoms.—Severe pain, the joint is practically useless for a time; swelling, heat and later the joint discolored from effusion of the blood into the tissues.

MOTHERS' REMEDIES.—1. Sprains, Ointment for.—"The bark of bittersweet with chamomile and wormwood simmered in fresh lard make an excellent ointment for sprains and swellings."

2. Sprains, Vinegar and Bran Poultice for.—"Make a poultice with vinegar and bran only, or with the addition of oatmeal, or bread crumbs. As the poultice becomes dry it should be moistened with vinegar."

3. Sprains, Turpentine Most Common Remedy for.—"Rub the injured part with turpentine and keep warm and you will find this remedy to be one of the best to keep proud flesh out that has ever been used. I always have turpentine in my home and find that I have to use it often, and it always does as I said above, if once used you will never be without it."

4. Sprains, Quick Relief for.—"Bathe the parts with hot water as hot as one can bear it and relief comes at once." This is an old tried remedy, but if hot water does not give relief use cold water.

5. Sprains, Relieves Pain of.—"Put warm woolen cloth over sprain, drip hot water as hot as can be borne on cloth for half hour. Bathe with spirits of camphor."

[384 MOTHERS' REMEDIES]



Bandaging and Photographs by DR. W. E. ZIEGENFUSS, of Detroit. Done expressly for this book.

[ACCIDENTS AND POISONS 385]

6. Sprains, Quick Application for.—"A poultice of stiff clay and vinegar." Add enough vinegar to the clay to make a nice moist poultice. The clay is exceptionally good for swellings and sprains.

7. Sprains, Turpentine Liniment for.—"Equal parts of spirits of turpentine and vinegar and the yolk of one egg make a valuable liniment in cases of sprains, bruises and rheumatism poultice. Take common salt, roast it on a hot stove till dry as possible. Take one teaspoonful each of dry salt, venice turpentine and pulverized castile soap. Excellent for felon, apply twice daily until open." This is a very good liniment and if applied often will draw, which is one of the essential things for a felon.

8. Sprains, Old English White Oil.—

"Alcohol 1/4 pint. Turpentine 1/4 pint. Hartshorn 1/2 ounce. Oil Origanum 1 ounce.

For sprains and rubbing around sores."

9. Sprains, Arnica Much Used for.—"Tincture of arnica." This should be diluted with water about one and one-half for adults and one and three-fourths for a child. This is one of the best known remedies for sprains that can be obtained. Apply freely to the bruise or sprain.

PHYSICIANS' TREATMENT for Sprains.—Rest for a time (for some weeks). The parts should be raised to lessen the blood supply. Hot applications, through fomentations, or cold evaporations, lotions, massage later, and support with a pad and a firm bandage, in some cases. When there is not much swelling, a plaster of Paris bandage is sometimes applied at once in order that absolute rest can be secured.

1. Tincture of Arnica.—This is an excellent remedy for sprains When the part is much swollen and looks bluish is when it is especially beneficial. It can be used full strength by saturating cloths and applying either hot or cold, or diluted to half strength.

2. Hot Water.—Applied with soaked cloths on the part is very grateful in some cases. It should be kept hot and plenty of water on the part all the time. This should be applied for hours. Between the soakings, the parts should be dressed with the lead and laudanum wash, and rubbed with ichthyol ointment or camphor and laudanum liniment.

3. Cold Applications.—Cold water.—Some patients are more benefited by the cold applications. The part should be elevated and a cloth wrung out of ice cold water, or an ice bag should be kept on the part.

4. Lead and Laudanum Wash.—This should not be used if the skin is broken. Then the laudanum, three-fourths water, can be used alone. Composition of lead and laudanum wash, proportions four parts of undiluted lead water, diluted with sixteen parts of water to one of laudanum. This can be made stronger in the laudanum.

[386 MOTHERS' REMEDIES]

5. Fomentations of hops, or smartweed or wormwood, etc., are also good.

6. Vinegar and Hops—Turpentine Liniment.—This can be used later, for stimulating purposes.



Bandaging and Photographs by DR. W. E. ZIEGENFUSS, of Detroit. Done expressly for this book.

The following is a liniment made by an old gentleman I used to know. I was well acquainted with him while he was living, and I know he was a good, competent man. Following is the recipe:

"Oil of Amber l ounce. Oil of Wormwood 1 ounce. Oil of Tansy 1 ounce. Camphor Gum 2 ounces. Ammonia 2 ounces. Oil of Spike 1 ounce. Small piece castile soap. Spirits of Wine 1 pint.

Rub in thoroughly. In some cases it should be diluted one-fourth to one-half strength. Full strength for much pain.

[ACCIDENTS AND POISONS 387]

BURNS. SCALDS.—

A Burn is caused by dry heat.

A Scald is caused by moist heat.

A superficial burn, upon a young child, that involves the third of the body will almost certainly prove fatal, while a very deep burn, provided it is localized, may not be so serious, unless important nerves and blood vessels have been destroyed.

Burns may be divided into three degrees:

First degree are those burns that only affect the outer or superficial layer of the skin, producing a redness with some small vesicles.

Second degree burns: These extend through the true skin and blisters result.

Third degree burns: This goes down underneath and involves the deeper tissues. Charring and destruction of tissue takes place.

MOTHERS' REMEDIES. 1. Burns, Linseed Oil for.—"Quick application of linseed oil." The oil forms a coating and is very soothing.

2. Burns, Common Soda for.—"There is nothing better than common baking soda for burns and scalds; apply a thick coating of dry soda. Bind a cloth over it, and keep on until the pain ceases, after which any good healing salve will do."

3. "Apply crushed onion poultice; cover to keep out the air. This will soon extract the heat and pain." Onions seem to possess many medicinal properties. They are very soothing, and in a case of scalds keep out the air and relieve the pain.

4. Burns, Molasses Takes Pain from.—"Apply New Orleans molasses to the burn and cover with flour. This forms a coating over the affected parts, keeping the air from it, thereby relieving the burning. This is an excellent remedy and one easily prepared."

5. Burns, Butter a Relief for.—"Spread butter on the affected parts and bandage well. This is one of the remedies our grandmothers used to use and is a good one."

6. Burns, Oil of Peppermint Draws Fire Out of.—"Apply oil of peppermint; it will take the fire out almost immediately."

7. Burns, Sweet Oil and Cotton Batting Relieves.—"Saturate cotton batting in sweet oil and cover the burns and keep covered until the fire is out. I had my hand burned with steam until the skin peeled off, and this remedy relieved the smarting."

8. Burns, Vinegar Prevents Blistering from.—"Vinegar applied every few minutes will keep it from blistering." This is a remedy always at hand, and will do just what it says.

[388 MOTHERS' REMEDIES]

MOTHERS' REMEDIES. 1. Scalds, Elder Berries Soothing for.—"The flowers of the black elder berries and the bark all possess valuable medicinal properties. An ointment made by stirring the fresh flowers into melted lard or vaselin and occasionally stirring it, will be found an excellent remedy for scalds or burns." It is not only soothing, but forms a coating thereby keeping the air out.

2. Scalds, Alum for Slight.—"Put a teaspoonful of alum in a pint of water, and bathe the parts frequently. Keep the parts well wet with this solution which extracts the heat in a remarkable manner and soothes the patient into a calm and refreshing sleep." This remedy is most always at hand and will relieve if the case is not too severe.

3. Scalds, Scraped Potatoes will Relieve.—" A few raw potatoes scraped or grated and beaten in a bowl, then add a dram of laudanum; apply to the affected parts as you would a poultice."

4. Scalds, Crackers and Slippery Elm as Poultice for.—"Apply a poultice of cracker and slippery elm, made of raspberry leaf tea. Guard against taking cold." Use enough of the raspberry tea to make a soft mixture. This is very soothing, and keeps the air from the scald which is one of the essential things in order to get relief.

5. Scalds, Raisins' and Lard with Tobacco Helps.

"One pound Raisins, chopped. One pound Lard. Five cent package of Chewing Tobacco.

Mix all together and let this simmer about three hours slowly, strain it and put in a jar."

6. Scalds, Sweet Oil Soothing for.—"I know of nothing better than equal parts of sweet oil and lime water." This is very good and should be applied freely.

PHYSICIANS' TREATMENT for Superficial Bums.—Exclude the air; protect and treat the parts is the theory of treatment.

Superficial Burn.—When the skin is not broken, bicarbonate of soda may be sprinkled thick over the burn, then wrap the part in moist gauze, lint or linen, and over this a layer of common cotton, and hold in place with a bandage. Flour can be used in place of the soda. Oatmeal flour, rice flour, etc., will do also. The objection to all powders is that the moist gauze, etc., will make the flour form cakes and make removal painful and difficult. Applications in liquid form are therefore better.

Liquid Forms.—If the blisters are large, open them with a clean (sterile-boiled) instrument (scissors or knife) and absorb the fluid with a clean gauze. Then dissolve bicarbonate of soda in water—a saturated solution. This term means as much soda as the water will dissolve. Then gauze, lint or linen pads may be wrung out of this solution or the same strength of boric acid solution and applied. Put over this a layer of clean cotton and hold in place by a bandage or strip of adhesive plaster. (Keep parts always moist). Baking soda will do about as well as bicarbonate of soda.

[ACCIDENTS AND POISONS 389]

Oil and ointments are also very beneficial. Spread the ointments or oil over the burn thick and cover with lint or soft linen, and change frequently to keep from smelling badly.

1. Carron oil made of equal parts of lime-water and linseed oil is good.

2. Carbolized oil or simple pure sweet oil is good.

3. Cosmoline, Vaselin, Pineoline (salves) are all good; they cover and protect.

4. Cold cream is very good.

5. Thick lather from any good pure soap spread over the part thick and then covered with the cloth dressing. This is very good and is always at hand.

6. Dr. Douglas, of Detroit, very strongly recommends the following simple remedy: One teaspoonful of common salt to one pint of boiled water, used comfortably warm. Old clean muslin or gauze cloths of several thicknesses should be dipped in this solution and spread evenly over the sores in several layers and over this oiled paper or paraffine paper should be applied to prevent evaporation or drying and bind all with a bandage. The covering should not be too thick or it might make the part too warm. This should be avoided in all dressings.

This salt water dressing can be moistened and changed when necessary.

7. Beeswax ointment. (Dr. Douglas).-

"Benzoinated Lard 6 ounces. Yellow Beeswax 1 ounce. Salicylic Acid 20 grains."

Mix the wax in a tin cup, then add the lard, when all is melted remove from the fire and stir till cool, then add the salicylic acid and continue stirring until cold. This makes an excellent covering, excludes the air.

8. Ointment of Oxide of Zinc is very good. The following are the ingredients:

"Oxide of Zinc 2 drams. Lanoline 5 drams. Alboline 1 dram. Salicylic Acid 10 grains.

Mix, and make ointment and apply."

The following is not very pleasant to think about, but farmers have frequently used it: Cow manure as a poultice.

Another: The inner bark of elder boiled in cream. Use the salve resulting. This is good for burns and sores.

Another: Slippery elm bark tea boiled down so it will be thick and oily, is very good.

[390 MOTHERS' REMEDIES]

Some claim that immersing the part in milk and keeping it so is a very good remedy. We know that cream is, but it will soon become rancid.

Remedies must be of an oily covering nature to do good, or else do it by their antiseptic qualities like salt, boric acid, etc.

Another:

"Picric Acid 75 grains. Alcohol 20 ounces. Distilled Water 2 pints.

Mix and apply."

Cleanse the burns of dirt and charred clothing and then soak strips of clean gauze in this solution and apply to the part. Place over this a pad of dry absorbent cotton which can be fastened by a light bandage or adhesive straps. The dressing dries rapidly, and may be left in place for several days. Then moisten it with the same solution so as to soften the dressing and remove it. Then apply a fresh dressing of the same kind and leave on a week. This dressing soon relieves the pain, prevents the formation of matter (pus), hastens healing and, leaves a smooth surface. The dressing stains the hands so it is best applied with rubber gloves. This is good for all degree burns.

For Severe Case.—There may be and is shock and great weakness after some burns. The patient should be put to bed and given strong black coffee, or if you have it one teaspoonful of aromatic spirits of ammonia in a glass of water. Hot water bags and jars should be applied to the feet and one teaspoonful of paregoric may be given to an adult for the pain. Give the patient ice to hold in his mouth, as he is very thirsty. Cold water and milk to drink also. If the burn is severe put oil cloth or rubber on the bed to protect the bed from the wet dressing. Do not put a night-shirt or pajamas on him, as it pains to remove and renew the dressings, if such are used as need frequent removal and renewal. Cover warmly, but keep covers lifted so that their weight will not give unnecessary pain. The bowels can be kept open with soap-suds enemas. Watch carefully, especially a man, if urine is passed and enough in quantity. It must be drawn if it is not passed within twelve hours.

For Third Degree Burns.—In this kind there is a great shock. Stimulate the patient with whisky, etc. Put one ounce in a glass one-half full of water, and give two teaspoonfuls frequently, dependent upon how much stimulant the patient has ever used; or an enema of one ounce of hot coffee can be given.

The first dressings may be the same, but when the patient is stronger others should be used.

Warm Baths are now used when the deep tissues are burned, and the sloughs and charred material are removed.

[ACCIDENTS AND POISONS 391]

When convenient, begin with a warm tub bath, with boric acid added to the water—handful to the tub. This is good for stimulating purposes, and also to relieve pain and for cleansing the surfaces before the applications of the dressings, these can be of those recommended.

When the air passages have been scalded by hot steam or hot liquids, the steam of lime-water, not too hot, may soothe.

Burns from Acid.—Soda, chalk, whiting, sprinkled over the surface of the skin and covered with moist coverings of gauze. Egg albumen is also good applied, on the part.

Bums from Alkali (like potash or strong ammonia).—Vinegar poured over the part, or dress with a mild solution of boric acid. One teaspoonful to four ounces of water.



MOTHERS' REMEDIES. 1. Bruises, Cold Water Prevents Coloring.—"Bathe the parts in cold water, prevents turning black and blue."

2. Bruises, Kerosene Relieves the Pain of.—"Bathe freely with kerosene."

3. Bruises, Turpentine to Keep Proud Flesh from.—"Rub the injured part with turpentine and keep warm, and you will find this remedy to be one of the best to keep proud flesh out and gangrene that has ever been used. I always have turpentine in my home, and find that I have use for it often. If once used you will never be without it."

4. Bruises, Bread and Vinegar Quick Remedy for.—"Apply a poultice made of hot vinegar and bread. A girl bruised her fingers with some iron rings in a gymnasium. She applied this poultice at night, and they were well in the morning. Since then I always use it for a bruise."

5. Bruises, Good Liniment for.—"Where inflammation is under the thin covering of the bone, dissolve chloral and camphor gum together. They dissolve each other by putting together, and looks like glycerin. Apply very little with tip of finger, put absorbent cotton on and bind up with pure gum rubber band to keep it from evaporating as it is very volatile. Rubber band must not be too tight, as it will cut off the circulation."

6. Bruises, Liniment Used in Ohio for.—"Five cents' worth spirits ammonia, five cents' worth spirits turpentine, whites of two eggs beaten, one cup cider vinegar, two cups rain water." This gentleman from Ohio says he has used the liniment for many years, and his neighbors have used it with the utmost success. He recommends it as the best he ever used.



PHYSICIANS' TREATMENT. Bruises.—1. Tincture of Arnica applied from one-half to full strength is very good.

2. Alcohol about two-thirds strength is also very good, gently rubbed in the parts.

3. Cold or hot water applied with cloths.

4. Raw beefsteak (lean) is excellent. Place it on the bruise.

5. Lead and laudanum wash if the skin is not broken. Of course bruises usually disappear in time. The above remedies will help. Heat applied at some distance from the parts relaxes the surrounding vessels and promotes absorption of the blood in the bruise.

[392 MOTHERS' REMEDIES]

CUTS. WOUNDS.—They are named cut (incised); contused, such as made by a blunt instrument.

Lacerated or torn, when the tissues are torn or ragged.

Punctured, stab-wounds, when made by a pointed instrument.

Treatment.—There may be pain, gaping (opening) of the edges and bleeding. In order to gape, the cut must pass through the deep skin. Cuts or wounds that do not go deep leave little or no scar. Such require only a little antiseptic dressing like this remedy:

"Boric Acid 1/2 ounce. Boiled Water 1 pint."

Wash the cut thoroughly and cover with gauze or clean linen. Cuts or wounds should always be washed first with boiled water, cooled enough to use. Do this with absolutely clean muslin, absorbent cotton or gauze and boiled water. After being thoroughly cleansed and washed with hot water and cloths, a thick pad of muslin, absorbent cotton or gauze thoroughly soaked with the boric acid solution, (strength one-half ounce of boric acid to a pint of boiled water) should be applied on the wound, and for an inch or two around it. Over this lay a thick layer of absorbent cotton or muslin, bandage all securely with a bandage or adhesive strap, so the dressing cannot slip.



Gaping Wounds generally need stitches. These should be put in deep enough to draw the deep edges together. If that is not done, a pocket will be left where the parts are not together and "matter" may form there. Plaster will not draw the deeper parts of wounds together. They should then be covered the same way as superficial wounds; of course the wound should be thoroughly cleansed in the same way before the stitches are put in. Such wounds unless they are large, need not be dressed for a day or two, unless there is soreness or pain. If the wound is sore and throbs it should be redressed immediately. Some discharge will no doubt he found penned in, and needs a drain through which to escape. This does not usually happen, and if it does, the wound was infected (poisoned) and then needs dressing once or twice a day, and full vent given to any discharge that may be present. The dressing immediately over the wound should then be thick and soft so as to absorb the discharge that may be present. The stitches are usually removed in small wounds the third or fourth day. This is easily done, with a sharp pointed scissors or knife; put one point underneath the stitch next to the knot, cut it off and with the forceps take hold of the knot and pull it out gently. It comes away easily as a rule.

[ACCIDENTS AND POISONS 393]

Torn Wounds should be trimmed. That is, cut away the torn pieces and then stitch together as for other wounds. Of course all the tissue possible should be saved and only ragged flesh should be cut away. This would die anyway, and prove a foreign body, and would be very apt to cause pus. These wounds should be dressed the same way as previously directed.

Sometimes bleeding may cause trouble. Usually, hot water constantly applied will stop it. Pressing above the part will often stop bleeding. If an artery is cut it will spurt red blood. The artery should be tied and pressure made upon the limb above the cut toward the body; or tying the limb tight. If a finger or toe is cut and bleeds much, press on each side. The arteries are there. Put the limb high and the head low. Bandaging a limb tight, beginning at the end, often stops bleeding. Stimulants' are sometimes necessary for a time.

Punctured Wounds.—From a sharp pointed instrument, nail, etc. The first thing to do is to cleanse the wound thoroughly with hot water and about one-half ounce of salt to a pint of water. Keep this up constantly for one-half hour. Then if it is from a nail, put on a bread and milk poultice hot, and keep changing it every ten minutes to keep it good and hot. Keep this going for at least an hour. Salt pork can then be put on and kept on; or a cloth dipped in hot salt water can be applied, and kept on for a few hours when it can be dressed as other wounds are. There should be no throbbing pain the next day. A wound of this kind should be dressed every day, with great care in the matter of cleanliness. It is lack of cleanliness that usually causes trouble, either the poison that gets into the wound at the time of injury or that is allowed to get in and infect the wound afterwards. Clean hands, tools, basins, dressings and boiled water are essential to a quick healing.

Rusty Nail Wound, Simple Guard Against Serious Results from.—"Every little while we read of someone who has run a rusty nail in his foot or some other part of his person, and lockjaw has resulted therefrom. All such wounds can be healed without any fatal consequences following them. It is only necessary to smoke such wounds or any wound or bruise that is inflamed, with burning wood or woolen cloth. Twenty minutes in the smoke will take the pain out of the worst case of inflammation arising from any wound I ever saw." Put on a poultice of bread and milk, changing every five or ten minutes. After this bind on salt pork and keep on for several days.

[394 MOTHERS' REMEDIES]

MOTHERS' REMEDIES. 1. Cuts, Iodoform and Vaselin Salve for Barb Wire.—

"Iodoform 1 teaspoonful. Vaselin 1 ounce."

Before applying the above salve it is very necessary to cleanse the affected parts with a solution made of one teaspoonful of salt to a pint of water. If the iodoform is offensive to some people, you may use the vaselin alone, although the iodoform is known to be one of the best healing remedies that can be obtained.

2. Cuts, Turpentine Good in Small Quantities for.—"For cuts and any open wound pour turpentine in and put a piece of absorbent cotton on and soak well with the liniment, tie up, and leave it so until dry, then pour on some more." Care should be taken in using turpentine, not to put too much on the wound, as it may cause proud flesh in some people; a little of it is very healing and effective.

3. Cuts, Tincture of Myrrh for Fresh.—"Use freely of the tincture of myrrh by saturating a cloth and applying to the parts affected." This tincture of myrrh may be purchased at, any drug store, and is a very effectual remedy for fresh wounds of any description. It is slightly contracting, and has great healing qualities.

MOTHERS' REMEDIES. 1. Bleeding, Unusual Way to Stop.—"If fresh, sprinkle full of black pepper. It will not smart, and is soon healed. If not fresh, clean with a weak solution saleratus and cover while wet with pepper. This has been tried many times in our home and has never failed."

2. Bleeding, Cobwebs to Stop.—"Make a pad of cobwebs and apply to cut. I have never found anything to equal this remedy." This simple remedy has been known to save many lives, and can always be obtained. As most housekeepers know; cobwebs are easily found in every home, and perhaps after reading this remedy they will not seem such a pest as heretofore, if we stop to think that at some future date our baby's life might be saved by using them.

3. Bleeding, Powdered Alum and Hot Water Stops.—"A heaping teaspoonful of powdered alum, placed in a teacup of water will stop the flow of blood in ordinary wounds, where no large artery has been cut. This will be found very beneficial for children, when their finger has been cut and bleeding badly." Alum is something that should always be kept in the home, using it in a case of emergency when there is no time to run to the drug store.

4. Bleeding, Salt and Flour Successful Remedy for.—"Equal parts of fine salt and flour placed on cut. I have seen this tried and it proved successful." The salt will stop the bleeding by its astringent action and mixed with flour forms a coating over the cut.

5. Bleeding, Boracic Acid Excellent for.—"Bind up in boracic acid powder." The boracic acid is very healing and a good antiseptic, which is one of the important things to be attended to in a bad cut or wound.

[ACCIDENTS AND POISONS 395]

6.—Bleeding, Tobacco Will Stop.—"Bind in tobacco." Very few people know that the nicotine in tobacco is very healing, and by applying it to a cut, not only stops the flow of blood, but heals.



THINGS IN THE EAR; Buttons, Beads, etc.—The bent hairpin is good to use for removing these objects, unless it is too far in. Sometimes the object can be washed out with a stream of water. This will kill and destroy insects. A small stream from a pitcher will do, if there is no fountain syringe handy. Water should not be used for corn, peas or beans, for if they are not removed the water will cause them to swell up and enlarge. A competent person should then be called, but no injury will be done for a few hours.



GAS from wells, cisterns, mines, illuminating gas and coal gas.

Treatment.—Fresh pure air. Open all windows in the house and remove patient from a house filled with coal gas. Artificial respiration: Inject salt enemas; teaspoonful of salt to one pint of warm water.



FITS. (Convulsions).—Loosen all clothing. Put something hard between the teeth to keep the patient from biting his tongue. Allow plenty of sleep afterward.



IN-GROWING TOE-NAILS. Causes.—Pressure from improperly fitting shoes, or a wrong way of cutting the nails. The flesh along the nails becomes inflamed. Toe-nails should be cut straight across, and not trimmed too closely at the corners.

Treatment.—Wear broad-toed shoes with low heels. The high heels push the toes against the shoe and besides are unhealthy and dangerous in walking.

Hot poultices will relieve the inflammation and pain. Soak the toe in hot water and push the flesh back from the nail. Cotton under the edge and corner of the nail helps to keep it away. Dust a boric acid powder, mixed with an equal quantity of starch flour, on the parts. Mennen's borated talcum powder is good.

MOTHER'S REMEDY. 1. In-growing Toe-Nail, Popular Remedy for.—"Shave a little common laundry soap and mix with a little cream and pulverized sugar, work to the consistency of salve and apply to the affected part night and morning. It will take off the proud flesh in about ten days and then heal. This is a good salve for bed-sores or cuts, that, have dirt in them, and will also draw out a splinter. To prevent in-growing toe-nails, scrape the center of the nail very thin and cut a V in the top. This will allow the nail to bend and the corners will have a chance to grow up and out. Avoid short shoes and stockings." Anyone suffering from this dreaded thing will be willing to try anything that will give relief. The above treatment is always at hand, and has been known to cure in severe cases.

[396 MOTHERS' REMEDIES]

FALLS.—If one has had a severe fall and is wholly or partially conscious, move as little as possible, in case of broken bones. Remain in a comfortable position until proper aid can be given. If unconscious stimulation may be necessary.



FIRE in Clothing.—Keep quiet, and away from a draught. Wrap anything handy around him and roll him. Leave only the head and face uncovered. Keep mouth closed.



CHOKING. (Foreign bodies in the larynx).—Produce vomiting. Give an emetic, warm water, melted lard, vaselin or one teaspoonful of mustard in one-half glass of warm water and drink. Tickle the throat with your finger or a feather. For a child, sometimes by taking hold of the feet with the head down and give a few slight jerks frequently expels the foreign body. Slap patient's back. The last resort is an operation,—tracheotomy.

MOTHERS' REMEDIES. 1. Choking, Fish Bone to Stop.—"A fish bone stuck in the throat can often be dislodged by swallowing a raw egg or raw oyster."

2. Choking, Simple Remedy to Stop.—"Hold both hands high above the head. If necessary tap gently between the shoulders."

3. Choking, Pennyroyal Tea and Lard Relieves.—"Pennyroyal tea and hog's lard; drink hot." The pennyroyal may be purchased at any drug store for ten cents. Make a tea of this, then add the hog's lard. As we all know, that this will produce vomiting and relax the tissues so that any foreign matter will come out.

4. Choking, Grease and Meat Common Remedy for.—"Warm lard, or any kind of grease, and give the patient. Have seen it used with success." The warm grease will usually cause vomiting, and in that way remove the foreign matter.

In the Gullet.—An emetic is good to give if the body cannot be reached with the hand. Doctors use forceps or another instrument called a probang. Pennies will go down into the stomach and pass out through the bowels and usually cause no trouble. Fish bones can generally be reached with the finger or crochet hook. This is also good for foreign bodies in the nose, such as beans.



THINGS IN THE NOSE. Corn, Peas, Beans, Buttons, etc.—Children frequently get such things in their nose and also ears. They should be removed soon and then there will be no harm done. They have been known to remain for years, and they have been the cause of catarrh. A small curved hair-pin makes a good instrument to use and is always handy. Also a crochet hook, though not so good, for it will not bend as well as the hair-pin. The mother should sit facing a window or open door. The child should be placed on its back with its head resting between the mother's limbs and an assistant holds the child's hands. Its legs will be hanging down. The light now shines into the nostril and the bent hair-pin can be slipped over the foreign body and easily hooked out. The head must be held quiet by the mother. The mother can do this herself, with one hand holding the head quiet and with the other can introduce the hair-pin and remove the object. But the position of the child must be reversed with the head between her knees and the light shining in the nose; or place the child on a bench or cradle or buggy, head on a pillow, and to the light. Hold the head and legs quiet; by kneeling by the child's side, you can easily see the object and remove it. If they are too far back, they can be pushed over into the throat, but parents should never attempt to remove an object in the nose they cannot see. Sometimes causing sneezing with a feather or pepper will expel the object.

[ACCIDENTS AND POISONS 397]

TREATMENT OF THE DROWNED, SUFFOCATED OR ELECTRICALLY SHOCKED. Accidents, etc.—The one action of first importance in the treatment of the drowned, the suffocated or the electrically shocked is to restore breathing. This must be done by expelling from the lungs the poison or water which has caused the trouble, and by establishing artificial respiration. Avoid delay. One moment may lose or save a life.

Schaefer Method of Effecting Artificial Respiration In Case of Drowning.—After an investigation and comparison of the different methods of artificial respiration, Schaefer suggests one which is by far the simplest and easiest and at the same time one of the most effective and least injurious to the patient. In describing it he says: "It consists in laying the subject in the prone posture, preferably on the ground, with a thick folded garment underneath the chest and epigastrium, (region above the stomach). The operator puts himself athwart or at the side of the subject, facing his head (see plate) and places his hands on each side over the lower part of the back (lowest ribs). He then slowly throws the weight of his body forward to bear upon his own arms and this presses upon the thorax of the subject and forces air out of the lungs. This being effected, he gradually relaxes the pressure by bringing his own body up again to a more erect position, but without moving his hands." These movements should be repeated regularly at a rate of twelve to fifteen times per minute, until normal respiration begins or until hope of its restoration is abandoned. Some claim there is no hope of restoring respiration after half an hour of artificial respiration. Others claim there is a chance of saving the patient even then, and say that artificial respiration should be kept up for two or three hours.

[398 MOTHERS' REMEDIES]

TO RESUSCITATE THE DROWNED.—First: Lose no time in recovering the body from the water. Always try to restore life; for while ten minutes under the water is usually the limit, still persons have been resuscitated after being under water for thirty or forty minutes. Do not lose time by taking the body to a place of shelter—operate immediately.



[ACCIDENTS AND POISONS 399]

Second: Quickly lay the person prone, face downward with stomach resting on a barrel or roll of clothing, so the head will be lower than rest of the body and the water will run out from the throat and lungs. Wipe dry mouth and nostrils. Wrap the corner of a handkerchief about the forefinger and clear the mouth of all mucus and slimy substance back as far as the top of the throat. Rip open the clothing on chest and back and keep the face exposed to the air. Separate the jaws and keep them apart with a cork, stone, or knot in a handkerchief.

Third: Remove the roll of clothing from underneath the stomach of the patient. Kneel by the side of or across the patient. Place your hands over the lowest ribs. Lean forward and put your weight straight over the lowest ribs. Exert this pressure for three seconds. To count three seconds, say: "One thousand and one, one thousand and two; one thousand and three,"

Fourth: Do not remove the hands from the ribs; but release the pressure from the ribs for two seconds, by squatting backward. To count two seconds, say: "One thousand and one, one thousand and two,"

Fifth: Again exert pressure straight over the lowest ribs for three seconds. Alternate thus (three seconds pressure and two seconds release), about twelve times a minute, until breathing is restored. This method of resuscitation at once expels water and produces the identical results of normal breathing.

Sixth: If another person is at hand to assist, let him do everything possible to keep the body warm, by sheltering it from the wind, rubbing hands and soles of feet, making hot applications. Warm the head nearly as fast as the other parts of the body to avoid congestion. Camphor or ammonia may be applied to nostrils to excite breathing.

Seventh: Do not give up too soon. Any time within two hours you may be on the point of reviving the patient without there being any sign of it. Send for a physician as soon as possible after the accident. Prevent friends from crowding around the patient and excluding fresh air.

AFTER-TREATMENT.—After breathing is restored, remove the patient to a warm bed where there is free circulation of fresh air. Administer in small doses stimulants (hot coffee, ginger tea, hot sling) being careful not to let the patient choke or strangle. There is danger that the patient may suffer congestion of the lungs and have great difficulty in breathing. When this occurs, a large mustard plaster should be placed over the lungs.

HOW TO KEEP FROM DROWNING.—To keep from drowning it is advisable, but not necessary, to know how to swim. The human body in the water weighs little more than a pound; so that one finger placed upon a piece of board, an oar or a paddle, will easily keep the head above water, and the feet and the other hand can be used to propel the body toward the shore. It is all important for the person in the water to breathe and keep a cool head, and the mouth closed.

[400 MOTHERS' REMEDIES]

HOW TO FIND DROWNED PERSONS.—Make a board raft, ten or twelve feet square. Cut a round hole in the center, eight or ten inches in diameter. Lie down on the raft with the face over the hole, covering the head with a coat or shawl, to exclude the light. By this contrivance the rays of the light are concentrated directly under the raft, and objects of any size can be seen a considerable distance below the surface. Tow the raft over the place where the drowned person is supposed to be. If the body has just gone under and no raft can be provided at once, dive or drag the bottom with line and hooks. The important object is to rescue the body at the earliest possible moment. If the body is not rescued, it will rise to the surface within a week or ten days.

Three hundred lives are lost in Michigan every year from drowning. If by studying and learning how to carry out the directions in this article, you can be a life saver at some critical moment, the few moments spent in careful reading will be well repaid. Master the directions so that you will be able to do everything possible in case of accident.

ELECTRIC SHOCK, ETC.—In suffocation by smoke or any poisonous gas, as also by hanging if the neck is not broken, and in suspended breathing from effects of chloroform, hydrate of chloral, or electric shock, remove all obstructions to breathing, instantly loosen or cut apart all neck and waist bands, taking special pains to keep the head very low, and placing the body face downward, to prevent closure of the windpipe by the tongue falling back. Then proceed to induce artificial respiration the same as in drowning, described above.

BATHING IN SEWAGE POLLUTED WATERS IS DANGEROUS.—Cases have been reported where typhoid fever has been contracted by bathing in streams below cities and villages. Probably this occurred through accidentally or carelessly taking the infected water into the mouth. No person should bathe in an ordinary stream just below any city or village, or other source of sewage or privy drainage, or in any harbor or lake near the entrance into it of a sewer or the drainage of a privy.

POISONS

An antidote is something given that counteracts poison, such as soda, chalk, magnesia, soap, whiting, milk mixed with magnesia, soda diluted, etc., followed by whites of eggs and bland drinks such as flaxseed tea, slippery elm tea, quince seed tea, and sweet or castor oil given after regular antidote.

For Shock, inject hot black coffee into the rectum.

Emetic is some medicine given to produce vomiting. The simplest emetic is mustard and warm water. If one does not know what poison has been taken, the best thing to do is to give an emetic first.

[ACCIDENTS AND POISONS 401]

Mustard.—One-half ounce or four teaspoonfuls for an adult, one to two teaspoonfuls for a child, of mustard to a cup of warm water may be given and repeated every ten or fifteen minutes until free vomiting is produced.

Salt and warm water may be used in the same way. Tickling the throat with a finger or a feather produces vomiting.

Goose grease, lard, lard drippings, vaselin, all in large amounts.

Other medicines: Sulphate of zinc, ten to twenty grains at a dose, in a cup of warm water; or fluid extract of ipecac fifteen to thirty drops, or syrup of ipecac one teaspoonful.

Poisons may be divided into corrosive and irritant.

Corrosive poison: This is a poison that is likely to eat or burn through organic tissue immediately.

Irritant poison acts more slowly and produces inflammation which later may result in suppuration and perforation.

An emetic or stomach pump cannot be used in some poisons, such as suphuric acid, because the tissues are quickly injured by the acid and the emetic and pump would only injure farther.



ACONITE. Symptoms.—Sudden collapse; slow, feeble, irregular pulse, and breathing; tickling in the mouth and the extremities, giddiness, great muscular weakness; pupils generally dilated, may be contracted; mind is clear.

Antidotes: Solution of tannic acid, twenty drops to a glass of water, to wash out the stomach.

Treatment.—Stimulants, whisky or brandy; digitalis, artificial respiration, warmth and friction of the body. Lie in recumbent position.



ALCOHOL. Symptoms.—Stupid, confused, giddy, staggers, drowsy, but can be aroused; full pulse, deep snoring, respiration, injected eyes, dilated pupils, low temperature.

Emetics.—Strong hot coffee, inhale amyl nitrite; hot and cold douches.



AMMONIA. Symptoms.—Intense inflammation of the stomach and bowels, often with bloody vomiting and purging; lips and tongue swollen; violent difficulty in breathing; characteristic odor.

Antidotes.—Lemon juice and water, vinegar and water half and half.

Treatment.—Milk, soothing drinks; sweet oil or castor oil, bland drinks like flaxseed tea, slippery elm, albumen (white of egg) water. The oil should be used last.



ANTIMONY. Symptoms.—Metallic taste, violent vomiting, becoming bloody, feeble pulse; pain and burning in the stomach. Violent watery purging, becoming bloody; cramps in the extremities, thirst, great weakness; sometimes prostration, collapse, unconsciousness.

Antidotes.—Tannic acid, twenty drops to a glass of water.

[402 MOTHERS' REMEDIES]

Treatment.—Soothing drinks, milk, white of egg and water, flaxseed tea, etc.; external heat.



ARSENIC, Symptoms.—Violent burning in the stomach, nausea and vomiting, retching, thirst, purging of blood and mucus, suppressed urine, cramps in the legs, intense thirst, collapse.

Antidotes.—Jeaunel's antidote.

Treatment.—Emetics freely, mustard water, salt and warm water, goose grease, etc. White of egg and milk, and then sweet oil or castor oil.



ARSENICAL POISONING, Chronic Cases, Causes.—Inhaling arsenic from dyes, in wall-paper, carpet, etc, Taking it in by the mouth in handling dyed paper, artificial flowers, etc., and in many fabrics employed as clothing. The glazed green and red papers used in the kindergartens also contain arsenic. The drug given in repeated and excessive doses causes poisoning sometimes.

Symptoms.—Dry throat, watery swelling of the eyelids, sometimes coryza, nausea, burning vomiting, and burning watery diarrhea; skin eruptions, falling off of the hair, paralysis of the arms and legs, with wasting and numbness, but little pain, The legs are most affected, causing steppage gait.

Treatment.—Remove the cause in these chronic cases and treat the symptoms. It may be best for a physician to prescribe treatment.



ATROPINE. Symptoms.—Flushed face, red eyes, throbbing head, pulse fast, dizzy, staggering, hot and dry throat, dilated pupils, scarlet rash on the skin. Patient may be delirious and wildly so.

Antidotes.—Tannic acid, twenty drops in glass of water. Emetics to produce vomiting, such as mustard water, salt and warm water, goose grease, vaselin, etc.

Stimulants.—Coffee to drink or by enema, artificial respiration.



BELLADONNA, Symptoms.—Flushed face, red eyes, throbbing head, pulse fast, dizzy, staggering, hot and dry throat, dilated pupils, scarlet rash on the skin. Patient may be delirious and wildly so.

Antidotes.—Tannic acid, twenty drops in glass of water,

Treatment.—Emetics to produce vomiting, such as mustard water, warm salt water, goose grease, vaselin, etc.

Stimulants.—Coffee to drink or by enema, artificial respiration,



BLUE STONE. Symptoms.—Vomiting and purging, taste of metal, severe pains, dizziness and headache and sometimes insensibility.

Treatment.—Emetics such as mustard water, warm salt water, goose grease, vaselin, etc. Then white of eggs, followed by milk and soothing drinks, flaxseed tea, etc.



BLUE VITRIOL. Symptoms.—Vomiting and purging, taste of metal, severe pains, dizziness and headache and sometimes insensibility.

Antidote.—Jeaunel's antidote.

[ACCIDENTS AND POISONS 403]

Treatment.—Emetics such as mustard water, warm salt water, goose grease, vaselin, etc., then white of eggs, followed by milk and soothing drinks, flaxseed tea, etc.



CARBOLIC ACID. Symptoms.—Immediately burning pain from mouth to stomach; giddiness, loss of consciousness, collapse, partial suppression of the urine; characteristic odor and white color of lips, etc.

Antidotes. Epsom salts or glaubers salts, and water very freely to drink; drink a pint of flaxseed tea. Later strong coffee or whisky and water as stimulants.

External.—If burned externally by carbolic acid, apply immediately some oil-sweet oil, olive oil or any good oil at hand-or wash freely with baking soda water. Should the acid get into the eye continue application of oil or soda water and send for a physician. Hold lower lid down to prevent acid getting into pupil until you are sure all the acid is off of the lids.



CHLORAL. Symptoms.—Deep sleep, livid look, pulse weak, breathing slow, pupils contracted during sleep, but dilated when awake, temperature low.

Antidotes.—Permanganate of potash, four to five grains every half hour.

Treatment.—Emetics at first, if seen early, such as mustard water, and warm salt water, vaselin, goose grease, etc. Keep person awake by walking, slapping and cold applications; give strong coffee enemas.



COPPER. Symptoms.—Intense corrosion of the mouth and stomach, bleeding and cramps in the bowels.

Treatment. Emetics.—Mustard water, warm salt water, lard, vaselin, etc. Then milk and eggs, black coffee enema.



CORROSIVE SUBLIMATE. Symptoms.—Burning heat in stomach and bowels, vomiting, diarrhea, with bloody stools, tongue white, shriveled: suppressed urine, gums sore, salivation.

Antidote.—Milk or white of eggs; one egg for four grains of drug; milk, flour paste.

Treatment.—Cause vomiting after the antidote has been given, and follow with soothing drinks, castor oil.



CHEESE, Spoiled. Symptoms.—Vomiting, cramps, diarrhea, weakness, cold hands and feet.

Treatment.—Emetics, such as warm water and salt until patient vomits freely; or mustard water, lard, vaselin, tickle throat with feather, etc. Enema to empty lower bowel; stimulants, such as strong coffee or whisky.



DEADLY NIGHT-SHADE. Symptoms.—Flushed face, red eyes, throbbing head, pulse fast, dizzy, staggering, hot and dry throat, dilated pupils, scarlet rash on the skin. Patient may be delirious and wildly so.

[404 MOTHERS' REMEDIES]

Antidotes.—Tannic acid, twenty drops in glass of water. Emetics to produce vomiting, such as mustard water, salt and warm water, goose grease, vaselin, etc.

Stimulants.—Coffee to drink or by enema, artificial respiration.



FOWLER'S SOLUTION. Symptoms.—Violent burning in the stomach, nausea and vomiting, retching, thirst, purging of blood and mucus, suppressed urine, cramps in the legs, intense thirst, collapse.

Antidote.—Jeaunel's antidote.

Treatment.—Emetics freely, mustard water, salt and warm water, goose grease, etc., then white of egg and milk and follow with sweet oil or castor oil.



HYDROCHLORIC ACID, Symptoms.—The stomach and bowels are irritated and inflamed, the mouth may burn and bleed; swallowing is difficult; "coffee grounds" vomiting.; pulse feeble, clammy skin.

Treatment.—Usually the first thing to do is to give an emetic. Send for a doctor and give an emetic. Then give chalk or, if necessary, take plaster from the wall, mix it with a glass of water. Also three or four eggs (raw) in a glass of milk can be taken.



HELLEBORE, WHITE AND GREEN. Symptoms.—Pain and burning in the bowels, vomiting and diarrhea, slow weak pulse, pupils dilated usually.

Treatment.—Emetics, such as mustard water, warm salt water, goose grease, vaselin, etc.; stimulants, strong coffee, brandy, whisky. Keep patient quiet and warm.



IODINE. Symptoms.—Pain in throat and stomach, vomiting is yellow from the iodine, or blue if starch is in the stomach; color and odor of iodine on lips and in mouth.

Antidote.—Starch or flour mixed into a paste with water, should be given and followed by emetics.

Treatment.—Emetics, something to cause vomiting, warm salt water, mustard water, etc. Then sweating drinks, such as hot flaxseed or hop tea, etc.



LYE. Symptoms.—Intense inflammation of the stomach and bowels, often with bloody vomiting and purging; lips and tongue swollen; violent difficulty in breathing; characteristic odor.

Antidotes.—Lemon juice and water; vinegar and water, half and half.

Treatment.—Milk, soothing drinks; sweet oil or castor oil, bland drinks like flaxseed tea, slippery elm, albumen (white of egg) water. The oil should be used last.



LAUDANUM. Symptoms.—Excitement at first, soon weariness weighty limbs, sleepiness, pin-point pupils, pulse and breathing slow and strong, patient roused with difficulty and later it is impossible, snoring breathing.

[ACCIDENTS AND POISONS 405]

Treatment.—This is a dangerous poison. A stomach pump should be used. Emetics, such as mustard and warm water or warm salt water or vaselin, etc. Keep patient awake, stimulants, coffee enemas, artificial respiration, etc.



MERCURIC CHLORIDE. Symptoms.—Burning heat in stomach and bowels, vomiting, diarrhea, with bloody stools, tongue white, shriveled, suppressed urine, gums sore, salivation.

Antidote.—Milk or white of eggs; one egg for four grains of drug, flour paste.

Treatment.—Cause vomiting after the antidote has been given, then give soothing drinks and dose of castor oil.



MORPHINE. Symptoms.—Excitement at first, soon weariness, weighty limbs, sleepiness, pin-point pupils, pulse and breathing slow and strong; patient roused with difficulty and later it is impossible; snoring breathing.

Treatment.—This is a dangerous poison. A stomach pump should be used. Emetics, such as mustard and warm water or warm salt water, or vaselin, etc. Keep patient awake; stimulants, coffee enemas, artificial respiration, etc.



NUX VOMICA. Symptoms.—Appear quickly. Terrible convulsions, in paroxysms, devilish grin, the body is curved backward, jaw set.

Treatment.—Cause vomiting with warm salt water, warm mustard water, lard, vaselin, etc.; sixty grains of bromide of potash and thirty grains of chloral hydrate by the rectum. Dark quiet room.



NITRIC ACID. Symptoms.—The stomach and bowels are irritated and inflamed, the mouth may burn and bleed; swallowing is difficult. "Coffee grounds" vomiting. Pulse feeble, clammy skin.



OXALIC ACID. Symptoms.—Hot acrid taste; burning, vomiting, collapse, numb and stupid.

Antidotes.—Lime or chalk.

Treatment.—Medicines, soothing drinks, flaxseed tea, etc.



OPIUM. Symptoms.—Excitement at first, soon weariness, weighty limbs, sleepiness, pin-point pupils, pulse and breathing slow and strong, patient roused with difficulty and later it is impossible, snoring breathing.

Treatment.—This is a dangerous poison. A stomach pump should be used. Emetics, such as mustard water, or warm salt water or vaselin, etc. Keep patient awake, stimulants, coffee enemas, artificial respiration, etc.



PARIS GREEN. Symptoms.—Violent burning in the stomach, nausea, and vomiting, retching, thirst, purging of blood and mucus, suppressed urine, cramps in the legs, intense thirst, collapse.

[406 MOTHERS' REMEDIES]

Antidotes.—Jeaunel's antidote.

Treatment.—Emetics freely, mustard water, warm salt water, goose grease, etc. White of egg and milk first, and then sweet oil or castor oil.



PAREGORIC. Symptoms.—Excitement at first, soon weariness, weighty limbs, sleepiness, pin-point pupils, pulse and breathing slow and strong, patient roused with difficulty and later it is impossible, snoring breathing.

Treatment.—This is a dangerous poison. A stomach pump should be used. Emetics such as mustard and warm water or warm salt water, or vaselin, etc. Keep patient awake, stimulants, coffee enemas, artificial respiration, etc.



PHOSPHORUS MATCHES. Symptoms.—Vomiting and pain, the vomit may be luminous in the dark, characteristic odor, after several days deep jaundice, blood in vomited matter and bloody stools, pulse is rapid and weak.

Treatment.—Emetics to cause vomiting such as warm salt water, warm mustard water, etc., followed by epsom salts in large doses; five to ten drops of turpentine.



POTASH, CAUSTIC. Symptoms.—Intense inflammation of the stomach and bowels, often with bloody vomiting and purging; lips and tongue swollen; violent difficulty in breathing; characteristic odor.

Antidotes.—Lemon juice and water, vinegar and water half and half.

Treatment.—Milk, soothing drinks; sweet oil or castor oil, bland drinks like flaxseed tea, slippery elm, albumen water, white of egg water. The oil should be used last.



POISONOUS PLANTS. Symptoms.—Vomiting, terrible weakness.

Treatment.—Emetics such as warm mustard water, warm salt water, goose grease, vaselin, lard, etc.; strong coffee, brandy; heat to extremities, artificial respiration.



ROUGH ON RATS. Symptoms.—Violent burning in stomach, nausea, and vomiting, retching, thirst, purging of blood and mucus, Suppressed urine, cramps in legs, intense thirst, collapse.

Antidote.—Jeannel's antidote.

Treatment.—Emetics freely such as warm mustard water, warm salt water, goose grease, etc. White of egg and milk first, and then sweet oil or castor oil.

[ACCIDENTS AND POISONS 407]

SALTPETRE. Symptoms.—Intense inflammation of the stomach and bowels, often with bloody vomiting and purging; lips and tongue swollen; violent difficulty in breathing; characteristic odor.

Antidotes.—Lemon juice and water, vinegar and water half and half.

Treatment.—Milk, soothing drinks; sweet oil or castor oil, bland drinks like flaxseed tea, slippery elm, albumen (white of egg) water. The oil should be used last.



SANTONIN. Symptoms.—Object looks blue, then yellow, ringing ears, dizziness.

Treatment.—Emetics such as warm mustard water, warm salt water, goose grease, lard, etc.; stimulants, brandy, strong coffee.



STRYCHNINE. Symptoms.—Appear quickly. Terrible convulsions, in paroxysms, devilish grin, the body is curved backward, jaw set.

Treatment.—Cause vomiting, with warm salt water, warm mustard water, lard, vaselin, etc.; sixty grains of bromide of potash and thirty grains of chloral hydrate by the rectum. Dark, quiet room.



SPOILED FOODS. Symptoms.—Vomiting, cramps, diarrhea, weakness, cold hands and feet.

Treatment.—Emetics such as warm salt water until patient vomits freely; or mustard water, lard, goose grease, vaselin, tickle throat with feather, etc.



SULPHURIC ACID. Symptoms.—The stomach and bowels are irritated and inflamed, the mouth may burn and bleed; swallowing is difficult. "Coffee grounds" vomiting. Pulse feeble, clammy skin.

Treatment.—Usually the first thing to do is to give an emetic. Send for a doctor and give an emetic. Then give chalk or, if necessary, take plaster from wall, mix it with a glass of water. Also three or four eggs (raw) in a glass of milk can be taken.



TARTAR EMETIC. Symptoms.—Metallic taste, violent vomiting, becoming bloody, feeble pulse; pain and burning in the stomach. Violent watery purging, becoming bloody; cramps in the extremities, thirst, great weakness; sometimes prostration, collapse, unconsciousness.

Antidotes.—Tannic acid, twenty drops to glass of water.

Treatment.—Soothing drinks, milk, white of egg and water, flaxseed tea, etc., external heat.



TOBACCO. Symptoms.—Vomiting, terrible weakness.

Treatment.—Emetics, such as warm salt water, warm mustard water, goose grease, lard, vaselin, etc.; then stimulants such as strong, coffee, brandy; heat to extremities, artificial respiration.



WINE OF ANTIMONY. Symptoms.—Metallic taste, violent vomiting, becoming bloody, feeble pulse; pain and burning in the stomach. Violent watery purging, becoming bloody; cramps in the extremities, thirst, great weakness; sometimes prostration, collapse, unconsciousness.

Antidotes.—Tannic acid, twenty drops to glass of water.

Treatment.—Soothing drinks, milk, white of egg and water, flax seed tea, etc.; external heat.

[408 MOTHERS' REMEDIES]

HERB DEPARTMENT

OVER ONE HUNDRED (100) MEDICAL HERBS Partially Illustrated, with Full and Detailed Explanation as to Their Internal and External Uses, Part to Be Used, When to Gather, Time of Flowering, Where Found, Preparation for Medicine, Teas, Etc., and Full Directions for Using.

In preparing this department we have been governed by two essential observations. First, that the tendency in American and Canadian homes is to the return to the good old home remedies that mother and grandmother used so successfully. We have, therefore, tried to choose in this list of over one hundred herbs, the most common ones, ones that could be prepared at home easily and quickly and which would be perfectly safe for the average person to administer as medicine.

Second, upon a close examination of the herb departments of practically all of the medical works or receipt books sold for family use today we discovered that only general information and directions were given. In this connection, we have endeavored, and we believe successfully, to supply what other books have neglected,—definite directions for the preparation, dose, etc. Should a physician leave a bottle of medicine at your home without directions you would not think of using it, and it is just as useless and indiscreet for a young mother to attempt to use herbs from the field without explicit directions for their preparation and administration.

We give below a few important directions for gathering, keeping and preparation of herbs, etc., for reference when using herbs not in this list. Those in the list are explained under their respective headings.

Drying and Preserving Roots, Herbs, Barks, etc.—Gather herbs when the weather is fine, when there is no dew upon them, when the flowers are in full bloom or the seeds are ripening. By gathering the herbs yourself you are assured of their being fresh although, if living in the city, you can purchase them ready prepared in ounce packages for about five cents at any drug store. Should you gather them yourself dry them in the shade, after which they should be kept from exposure to the air by wrapping up in paper or keeping in paper bags, tied and hung up in the attic or other dry place. If hanging exposed in your home for a long time watch them that moths do not gather in them and make their nests.



[HERB DEPARTMENT 409]

Roots should be dug in the spring when the sap is rising if you wish to make extract; or they may be gathered in autumn when they have ceased to vegetate. To dry for winter use they should be sliced, dried and kept from the air.

Barks should be stripped when the tree is in full leaf and dried in the shade. The bark of the roots should be taken in the fall, when the sap has descended.

Flowers and Seeds.—Flowers should be gathered when in full bloom and free from the dew and should be kept from exposure to the air. Be sure that seeds have fully matured; dry them also in a shady place and keep ready for use.

Preparation of Herbs for Medicine.—There are many different methods of preparing herbs for medicine,—Infusion, Decoction, Fomentation, Ointment, Plaster, Poultice, Powder, Essence, Tincture, etc. Only five of these, Plaster, Poultice, Fomentations, Decoction and Infusion are commonly used. An infusion is more commonly called "tea."

Infusion or Tea, to make.—Usually about one ounce of the herb to a pint of water is used for an infusion. Sometimes cold water is poured over the herb, but the most common method is to pour boiling water over the herb and let stand for a short time, just as you would make common tea for the table. Sometimes a little sugar may be added to make the tea more palatable. An infusion or tea should be used while fresh.

Decoction, to make.—Make same as for infusion and boil for some time, just as you would make coffee.

Essence, to make.—Take about an ounce of the essential oil of the herb and dissolve in a pint of alcohol.

Fomentations, to make.—Dip cloths or heavy towels in the infusion or decoction, wring out and apply locally to part that you wish to cover.

Ointments or Salve, to make.—An easy method to make a salve or ointment is to take about eight parts of vaselin or lard or any like substance and add two parts of the remedy you wish to use. Thus, if you were to make a sulphur salve you would use eight ounces of vaselin and two ounces of sulphur; stir and mix well while hot and when cool you would have a regular sulphur salve or ointment.

Plasters, to make.—Bruise the leaves, root, or other part of the plant and place between two pieces of cloth, just as you would a mustard plaster, and apply to the surface you wish to cover.

[410 MOTHERS' REMEDIES]

Poultices, to make.—Poultices are used to apply heat (moist heat), to soothe or to draw. Usually a soft substance is used, such as soap and sugar, bread and milk, mustard, etc. Some cause a counter-irritation, some draw the blood from a congested part and thus relieve pain. In the chapter on nursing many different poultices are given with methods of preparing them.