Dr. Chase gives this definition of a felon in his first edition: "This is
on one of the fingers, thumb or hand and is very painful. It is often
situated at the root of the nail." The latter is the kind, and also that
of the structures above the covering of the bone that are eased by local
treatment. Especially the superficial, about the nail, etc. Steaming with
herbs will do such good, or any hot poultice will do good. Dr. Chase says
in another place, "Whitlow resembles a felon, but it is not so deeply
seated. It is often found around the nail. Immerse the finger in strong
lye as long and as hot as can be borne several times a day." Such felons
are curable by local treatment. I prefer the salt and yolk of the egg to
the lye. If you cannot stand this all the time, steam in the intervals
with strong herbs or use hot poultices, and then open when it points.
[72 MOTHERS' REMEDIES]
ULCERS. An Eating Away of the Parts, Causes.--Diseases like syphilis,
tuberculosis, leprosy. Disturbances of nutrition, constitutional ulcers,
local conditions. Ulcers are acute and chronic. An acute ulcer is a
spreading ulcer, in and about which acute destructive inflammation exists.
Treatment.--Keep them thoroughly clean (aseptic) and use soothing
applications, mild lotions and salve.
Chronic Ulcer.--This is one which does not tend to heal, or heals very
slowly. Sometimes such ulcers need to be stimulated like the application
of nitrate of silver and then healing applications. Carbolated oxide of
zinc ointment is a good healing ointment.
MOTHERS' REMEDIES. 1. Sores and Ulcers, the Potato Lotion for.--"Take the
water you boil potatoes in and in one quart of it boil one ounce of
foxglove leaves for ten minutes, then add one ounce tincture of myrrh to
the lotion, bathe the affected parts with the lotion warm, then keep a
cloth wet with it on the sore, if possible, until cured."
2. Sores and Ulcers, Chickweed Ointment for.--"Chop chickweed and boil in
lard, strain and bottle for use." This makes a fine green cooling
ointment, It is surprising to see the relief obtained by this simple
ointment.