_Elixir of Iron._
_Take a quantity of rusty iron, the smaller the pieces are, the
better, for the less quantity will do_; pour on it good strong
vinegar, sufficient to cover it; _let them steep till the
vinegar becomes of a deep brown colour, which it soon will, and
at length acquire a consistence of a black elixir. The vessel
should be either stone or glass; but what is yet better is an
iron pot, which of itself will contribute to the medicine._
If the patient therefore, after the vomit, and the above draught, is
attacked again with the fit of the ague, and succeeding fever, have
immediate recourse to your elixir of iron.——Let him take after the fever
is off, every three hours, a table spoonful of the elixir, and should it
seem to come up again at first (which it sometimes will, particularly if
the stomach is yet foul) give immediately another spoonful, and repeat
this at least three times of the day.
A little gentle exercise upon taking the elixir is highly beneficial;
and if it throws a gentle warmth over the body, and brings it into a
gentle perspiration, you are sure of success.
The quantity of it should be adapted to the condition of the patient,
and the strength of the stomach; if it sits easy, a larger quantity may
be taken, and seldomer; and if it is more nauseous, a smaller dose and
oftener.—Should the fits seem obstinate, the following electuary may be
used; and is a powerful specific.