The vapors of tar and turpentine are of great value in the treatment of
diphtheria. The process is simple. Pour equal parts of turpentine and
tar into a tin pan or cup and set fire to the mixture. A dense resinous
smoke arises which clouds the air of the room. The patient immediately
experiences relief. The choking and rattle in the throat stop, the
patient falls into a slumber, and seems to inhale the smoke with
pleasure. The vapors dissolve the fibrous membrane which chokes up the
throat in croup and diphtheria, and it is coughed up readily. A remedy
so convenient and so easily given should be in every household for
prompt use when necessary.
Turpentine also is a convenient remedy for croup. Saturate a piece of
flannel with it and place the flannel on the throat and chest. In a very
severe case three or four drops in a lump of sugar may be taken
internally.