Transcriber’s Notes
Text between _undrscores_ represents text printed in italics in
the source document. Small capitals have been transcribed as ALL
CAPITALS. Text between hash marks (#) represents a note printed
in the margin.
Volume I of this text is available at Project Gutenberg as well.
More Transcriber’s Notes may be found at the end of this text.
MORE
SECRET REMEDIES.
WHAT THEY COST & WHAT THEY CONTAIN.
BASED ON ANALYSES MADE FOR THE
BRITISH MEDICAL ASSOCIATION.
SECRET REMEDIES--SECOND SERIES.
LONDON:
BRITISH MEDICAL ASSOCIATION,
429, STRAND, W.C.
1912.
COPYRIGHT.
TABLE OF CONTENTS.
PAGE
CHAPTER I.--Remedies for Rheumatism, Gout and Neuralgia 1
„ II.--Preparations for Eczema and other Skin Affections 30
„ III.--Nerve Tonics and “Elixirs of Life” 44
„ IV.--Medicines for Coughs, Consumption, Catarrh etc. 71
„ V.--Medicines for Indigestion, Constipation, etc. 87
„ VI.--Kidney Medicines 102
„ VII.--Obesity Cures, and a “Flesh Producer” 112
„ VIII.--Medicines for Alcoholism and for the Tobacco Habit 128
„ IX.--Soothing Syrups for Infants 147
„ X.--Medicines for Epilepsy 152
„ XI.--The “Tremol Treatment” for Bad Legs 167
„ XII.--The “Crimson Cross Remedies” 178
„ XIII.--Medicines for Amenorrhœa, etc. 184
„ XIV.--Wallace’s Specific Remedies--“An Absolute System
of Medicine” 210
„ XV.--Preparations for the Hair 222
„ XVI.--Some Miscellaneous Medicines 231
„ XVII.--Unqualified Practice through the Post 241
„ XVIII.--The Advertising of Proprietary Medicines 252
„ XIX.--The “Expert” behind the Proprietary Medicine 256
„ XX.--Some Echoes of Volume I. 259
INDEX 265
PREFACE.
The publication by the British Medical Association--under the title
“Secret Remedies: What they Cost and What they Contain”--of the
results of a series of analyses of some of the most advertised of the
many proprietary medicines put forward for the cure of disease, has
perhaps done more than anything else to open the eyes of the public,
the authorities, and the Legislature to the true facts in regard to
the nature of such articles and of the enormous traffic that goes
on in them. At the time of the publication of this second volume, a
public inquiry into the matter by a Parliamentary Committee has just
been opened, with a view to deciding on what alterations of the law
are necessary or desirable. The present state of the law in regard
to the matter, and of its administration, undoubtedly leave room for
much amendment. But the surest enemy of quackery in this department
is increased publicity in regard to the facts, and the recognition by
the public of the great disparity that exists in many cases between
the actual composition of many nostrums on the one hand, and the
extravagant claims that are made for their curative powers on the
other. As a further contribution to a general enlightenment on the
subject, the British Medical Association publishes in the present
volume the results of a further series of analyses of proprietary
medicines which have been carried out for the purpose, together with
extracts from the statements of the proprietors of the medicines. The
number of those at present existing is so vast that it is only possible
to deal with comparatively a few, and these have been selected, as a
rule, as being some of the most widely advertised or the most largely
sold.
It will be recognised at once that there is a very wide variation in
the degree of exaggeration in the claims put forward. In a few cases--a
small minority--the advertisements appear to consist of very little but
an indication of the disorders for which the medicine is recommended.
At the other end of the scale there are nostrums put forward with the
greatest assurance for even the most serious disorders, including
consumption, smallpox, cancer, etc., etc., and in many cases one and
the same article is asserted to be a cure for almost every disease to
which the human body is liable. As a rule, the more extravagant the
claims made, the more surely does the composition of the article, as
revealed by analysis, show it to be of little or no value, if not even
harmful, for the diseases named. Between these extremes, of the modest
proprietary medicine--more or less of the nature of a harmless domestic
medicine--on the one hand, and the most fraudulent quackery on the
other, are to be found all gradations. The medicines described in this
book have not been chosen as inclining more in one direction than the
other, but include the various grades. From the facts stated the reader
will be able to draw his own conclusions; it has not been necessary, as
a rule, to express opinions on the articles described, a juxtaposition
of the claims made and the facts shown by analysis being sufficient.
The analyses here published have been made with the greatest care
during the last few years. Since it is open to the maker of a
proprietary medicine to alter its composition at any time without
warning (and very great alterations have been proved in some cases),
it is, of course, possible that some of those described may have been
altered since the analyses were made, though there is no reason to
suppose that such has been the case. It is desirable to repeat here
the caution that was expressed in the first volume: most of the active
substances employed in medicine can be detected with certainty, even
in complex mixtures, by sufficiently painstaking work on the part
of the analyst; but this is not the case with preparations of some
organic drugs, usually of vegetable origin, that have never been fully
investigated, and especially with mixtures of the extracts of several
vegetable drugs; in such cases analysis can only give approximate
results, and constituents having no well-defined characters may
escape detection. Since the maker of a secret medicine is in no wise
limited to the Pharmacopœia or to drugs in ordinary use, but may
employ, for example, a mixture of extracts of a dozen plants, none
of which possesses any medicinal virtue or is recognised as a drug,
it is no matter for surprise if all the constituents of a nostrum
cannot be named as the result of analysis. But if it is remembered
that the _active_ ingredients of most substances having medicinal
properties possess well-defined characters by means of which they can
be identified, it will be seen that the limitations of the powers of
analysis here referred to are of comparatively little importance in
regard to exposing the _essential_ nature of a given medicine, or
substance put forward as such.
The figures given in this book as the “estimated cost of ingredients”
of the various articles refer only to the ingredients, the cost prices
being taken from a wholesale druggist’s list; nothing is allowed for
the cost of making up the ingredients into the form in which they
are sold, or for bottles, boxes, packages, etc. Where the results of
analysis are not sufficiently definite for the cost of ingredients to
be estimated with reasonable fairness, the figure is omitted.
Dr. F. Zernik, of Berlin, has continued the publication in the
_Deutsche Medicinische Wochenschrift_ of the results of his analyses
of various nostrums sold in Germany, and some of his results are here
included.
MORE
SECRET REMEDIES.
WHAT THEY COST AND WHAT THEY CONTAIN.
CHAPTER I.
REMEDIES FOR GOUT, RHEUMATISM, AND NEURALGIA.
The medicines described in this chapter include some of those most
widely advertised for the treatment of these complaints. They show a
great variety in the methods of treating them, including as they do
powders, pills, tablets, drops, and mixtures to be taken; liniments
to be applied externally (one of these being also taken internally),
paint, ointment, and plasters to be stuck on to the soles of the
feet. The medicaments employed also vary much, but for the most part
consist of articles in common use. The advertisements are in several
respects instructive; for example, there is undoubtedly a prejudice
among the more ignorant section of the public in favour of drugs
coming from other and less civilised countries where they have been
discovered by “natives,” or introduced in some other way than through
careful experimenting, and some of the statements made are clearly
intended to turn such prejudices to account. Thus in one case it is
stated that the discoverer “went back to the heart of Nature in an
endeavour to wrest from it the secret of an ideal liniment. In the
course of his searches he was favourably impressed with the healing
properties of many herbs used by native tribes,” etc.; in another,
“this wonderful preparation is the discovery of a Hindu doctor in the
Himalayan Mountains.” In their varied forms of appeals to “Nature”
some of the advertisers do not hesitate to ascribe high intelligence
to the medicines or to parts of the body other than the brain.
Thus one states that “No one can reasonably deny an instinctive
knowledge and a physical power exerted in the stomach by a conscious
principle which selects and rejects, and which in its natural purity
may be ranked as a nerve of sense”; another that “Immediately the
liniment has been applied it sets out upon its message of discovery
and healing, travelling with lightning rapidity to the seat of the
trouble”; yet another calls his preparation “A subtle extract from
the vegetable kingdom, the hidden fire or life of plants and flowers,
the ‘Quintessence of Life.’”
Among these articles, as in most other groups of nostrums, the
claims made by rival proprietors are mutually exclusive; those dealt
with in this chapter include the following: “Greatest and latest
discovery in medicine ... there is nothing known in medicine which
will compare with it”; “the only efficient remedy ever discovered
for these disorders”; “the finest cure for these complaints,” curing
“when all other remedies fail”; “we guarantee magic foot drafts to
cure any case of rheumatism”; “it is the one remedy that achieves a
complete and permanent cure”; “the most effective scientific remedy.”
Obviously, such claims cannot all be true.
Most advertisers of proprietary medicines seem unable to resist
dragging in references to the medical profession into their
advertisements. There are two principal ways in which this is done:
the one is to claim to be receiving the support and recommendations
of medical men, and the other is to vilify and slander them as rogues
and fools, or both. These two methods are both illustrated here; the
former includes “highly endorsed by the leading medical profession”
and “physicians are already using them in their regular practice,
and recommending them”; the latter is exemplified by “certain
medical men have done their best by tongue and pen to persuade the
public that Box’s Golden Fire is poisonous.... Those who raise the
cry of ‘poison’ are wholesale traffickers in the same--it is their
stock-in-trade; poisons bring grist to their mills, while the poor
victims who swallow them perish by thousands.” It is hardly necessary
to remark that statements of the former kind are as a rule just as
baseless as those of the latter.
One preparation described below--Bengué’s Balsam--cannot be properly
described as a “secret remedy,” since the principal constituents are
mentioned on the label; seeing, however, that it is advertised in
somewhat the same way as others, it is useful to include it here.
DR. HOFFMAN’S RHEUMATIC POWDERS.
These powders are supplied by “The International Chemical Co.,” from an
address in London. They are advertised in the following terms:
Greatest and latest discovery in medicine.
Dr. Hoffman’s Celebrated Rheumatic Powders.
Great German Rheumatic Cure.
Will cure permanently all forms of Rheumatism, Gout, Neuralgia,
Sciatica, Excess of Uric Acid, etc.
Highly endorsed by the leading Medical Profession, Analytical and
Consulting Chemists, and general public in all parts of the world.
Contain absolutely no injurious drugs, poison, or any kind of
Narcotic. Its manufacture is based on scientific principles.
Relief is felt after the First Dose.
There is nothing known in medicine which will compare with it.
A circular enclosed in the package contained statements similar to the
above, accompanied by a so-called “analysis” in the following terms:
I hereby certify that “Dr. Hoffman’s Rheumatic Powders” have been
tested in these laboratories, the data obtained being of a most
satisfactory character, and indicating them to be judicious and
skilful preparations that are well suited for the purposes for which
they are designed. They are valuable powders for rheumatism, gout,
and kindred complaints. These powders are free from narcotics,
poisons, or undesirable constituents, but are powerful uric acid
solvents. I consider them to be perfectly safe, reliable, and
effective medicines.
This recommendation, or testimonial, bears the name of an individual
who has made himself conspicuous by giving such puffs under the guise
of analyses; his name is followed by a long paragraph setting forth
his title to speak with authority, commencing with “Ph.D.,” and
concluding with “Ph.D., etc.,” but with no mention of the university
which conferred this duplicate degree. Such distinctions as “author
of ... ‘The Physiology of the Invertebrate,’ ‘Respiratory Proteids,’
etc.... Analytical Chemist, Assayer and Chemical Engineer, Consulting
Chemist, and Expert Adviser to Foreign Governments, Corporations,
Collieries, Companies, Pharmaceutical and Chemical Manufacturers;
... Bacteriological and Agricultural Expert,” are no doubt intended
to display his ability to pronounce with authority on the merits of
powders for rheumatism or on any other subject whatever.
The powders are supplied in boxes at 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. and 2s. 9d. A 1s.
1¹⁄₂d. box was found to contain 12 powders. The directions are:
Take one powder every three or four hours; place on the tongue, and
wash it down with a draught of water.
It would appear that the amount taken at one time is not regarded as
of great importance, as the powders in one box varied in weight from
11.3 to 20.8 grains, the average of the 12 being 15.8 grains. Analysis
showed the powder to have the following composition:
Acetyl-salicylic acid 66.4 per cent.
Phenacetin 11.4 „
Caffeine 1.3 „
Sugar 20.1 „
Moisture 0.8 „
Acetyl-salicylic acid is also known by the shortened name of the B.P.
Codex, acetosalic acid, and by the trade names Aspirin, Xaxa, etc. The
estimated cost of the materials for 12 powders is 1d.
EADE’S GOUT AND RHEUMATIC PILLS.
These pills are supplied by a firm in London. In an advertisement it is
stated that they
instantly relieve and rapidly cure the worst form of gout,
rheumatism, rheumatic gout, pains in the head, face, and limbs.
The extracts which follow are from a circular enclosed in the package
with the pills:
They are specially recommended to the afflicted, with confidence
arising from experience, as one of the valuable results of the
improved state of medical science, and the only efficient remedy
ever discovered for these disorders.
The never-failing effects of Eade’s Gout and Rheumatic Pills in
curing these distressingly painful diseases have secured to them a
celebrity unequalled by any medicine of past or present times. They
not only give relief in a few hours where the patient has been driven
to madness by the horrible, excruciating tortures of this disease,
but restore to perfect health in an inconceivably short space of
time--in most cases giving relief from the intolerable pain in one or
two hours; one bottle will frequently carry off the attack in two or
three days, even when the patient has kept his bed for as many weeks,
and sometimes months.
These Pills have repeatedly succeeded after all the usual internal
and external remedies have failed; and it is their peculiar property
that the first dose completely arrests the frequent tendency of those
diseases to attack some vital part while, if attacked, the symptoms
are immediately and effectually removed.
The pills are supplied in bottles at 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. and 2s. 9d.; a 1s.
1¹⁄₂d. bottle was found to contain 18 pills, and a 2s. 9d. bottle 60
pills. The directions are: “Take one pill three times a day, and two
at bedtime; for delicate females and weak persons, one pill night and
morning.”
The pills were not coated, as ordinarily understood, but had a thin
irregular layer of adherent powder, which proved to be carbonate of
magnesia; the average weight of one pill was 5.4 grains. Analysis
showed the presence of aloes, powdered colchicum corm, and extractive,
with cane sugar, glucose, gum and dextrin, various characters
indicating that the sugars were added in the form of treacle; the
amount of colchicine was determined (and the alkaloid identified) and
was found to be considerably more than would be proper to the amount of
corm present, and this fact and the presence of an extract pointed to
extract of colchicum being present as well as the corm. The amounts of
the different constituents were determined as accurately as possible;
the amount of aloes, not being determinable with any exactness, was
arrived at by comparing the pills by various tests with a mass of known
composition. The formula was found to be approximately as follows:
Barbadoes aloes 10 per cent.
Extract of colchicum 18 „
Powdered colchicum corm 35 „
Treacle 27 „
Gum and dextrin 10 „
Estimated cost of materials for 18 pills, ³⁄₄d.; for 60 pills, 2¹⁄₂d.
URICURA DROPS AND LINIMENT.
These preparations, also known as Hammond’s Specifics, are made by a
firm in Glamorganshire. An advertisement inquires:
Have you tried to eliminate the cause of Rheumatism, Gout, Lumbago,
and Sciatica? Uricura Drops will do this for you, being the finest
cure for these complaints.
The price of each is 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. A bottle of the drops contained half a
fluid ounce, and of the liniment 4 fluid ounces. On the package of the
former appears:
N.B.--In conjunction with the drops it is strongly recommended to use
Uricura Liniment.
And on the package of the liniment:
_N.B._--It is strongly recommended that for Rheumatism, Lumbago, and
Sciatica, Uricura Drops be taken in conjunction with the Liniment.
In a circular enclosed in each package it is stated that:
“Uricura” Liniment and Drops (Hammond’s Specifics) Cure Rheumatism,
Gout, Sciatica, Lumbago and Neuralgia When All other Remedies fail.
These invaluable preparations have permanently cured many bad cases
of from One to Twenty Years’ standing. They give immediate relief,
and effect a Cure quickly if Regularly and Persistently used as
directed....
For Colds in the Chest, Sore Throat, and Swollen Glands, nothing
better than the Liniment can be used.
Athletes and others will find the Liniment a most efficacious remedy
for Sprains, Bruises, Stiffness and Cramp. It has been used with
remarkable results by leading Football Players.
_Uricura Drops._--The directions are:
Dose.--Four Drops on sugar, night and morning. Increase two drops
each day up to 10, and then reduce two drops each day.
Analysis showed the liquid to contain oil of turpentine, terebene, and
oil of amber; no other ingredient could be detected. The proportions
of the constituents were ascertained as nearly as possible by
analytical methods and checked by comparison with made-up mixtures. The
approximate formula arrived at was:
Oil of amber 5 per cent.
Terebene 47.5 „
Oil of turpentine 47.5 „
Estimated cost of ingredients of half a fluid ounce, ¹⁄₃d.
_Uricura Liniment._--The directions are:
To be gently rubbed in for 10 to 15 minutes, night and morning.
The liniment consisted of a partly separated emulsion, which was
found to contain oil of turpentine, acetic acid, ammonia, alcohol,
egg-substance (as emulsifying agent), and water; a trace (under
0.01 per cent.) of alkaloid was found, but this did not possess any
properties by which it could be identified, and may have consisted
of bases derived from the egg. The acetic acid and ammonia of course
combine, but the former was in excess and the liniment moderately
acid, about one-fourth of the acetic acid being in the free state.
The quantities of the different ingredients were determined (the
egg-substance only approximately) and the formula arrived at was as
follows:
Oil of turpentine 42 parts (by measure)
Acetic acid (_B.P._) 10 „ „
Strong solution of ammonia 2.3 „ „
Alcohol 9.0 „ „
Egg-substance 2.0 „ „
Alkaloid (?) 0.01 „ „
Water, to 100 „ „
In estimating the cost of ingredients, the alkaloid is neglected; if
the alcohol present were added in the form of rectified spirit, the
cost of the ingredients for 4 fluid ounces would be about 1¹⁄₂d.; but
if, as is more likely, “non-mineralised methylated spirit” were used,
the different odour and other characters would be covered by the other
ingredients, and the cost would be about ³⁄₄d.
CHAMELEON OIL.
This is made by a limited company giving an address in London. It is
advertised as “The Only Perfect Liniment,” but the directions show that
it is intended to be taken internally as well as applied externally.
Besides being recommended for human patients, it is described as “The
Best Veterinary Medicine Known.”
It is stated on the package that:
Chamelion Oil Relieves and cures Rheumatism, Sciatica, Lumbago,
Neuritis, Neuralgia, Toothache, Headache, Earache, Backache, Colds,
Sore Throats, Sprains and Strains, Stiff and Swollen Joints,
Chilblains, Chapped Hands, Insect Bites, etc., etc.
A pamphlet enclosed in the package gives further particulars;
paragraphs headed “The Story of its Birth” and “Discovery of an Ideal
Liniment” do not actually give much information, but the references to
the heart of Nature and herbs used by native tribes seem to indicate
a method of discovery common to a very large number of nostrums. The
following are extracts from these paragraphs:
When a Roman Scholar coined the word “Liniment” which, literally
translated, means “to anoint” he had in mind the germ idea of what
a perfect liniment should be. In his day the physician anointed
his patient with a healing balm which had the magical effect of
curing muscular trouble without the aid of that tiresome modern
invention--massage. Such a thing was totally unnecessary with Romans,
who possessed a supreme knowledge of the curative action of simple
herbs upon the human frame.... But the priceless secret of that
painless balm was lost, and so it happens, at the present day, when
an embrocation or a liniment is mentioned one instantly conceives of
some crude preparation which must be rubbed into the skin violently.
... It was left to Dr. Chas. F. Roberts to bring the word back to
its original meaning, as being an ointment whose sole method of
action would consist of simply anointing the affected part, and thus
painlessly effecting the cure. The task he had set himself was to
produce an external application which, to the two other virtues of
being “soothing and pain-killing,” should add a third, and the most
important of all, “a healing power.” As an advanced medical man he
realised that the ideal of the healing art should be to relieve
human pain by natural means. And so like the ancient physician, he
went back to the heart of Nature in an endeavour to wrest from it
the secret of an ideal liniment. In the course of his searches he
was favourably impressed with the healing properties of many herbs
used by native tribes, because being a rational person he believed,
like the late Rev. Charles Spurgeon, that there was a deal to be
gained from the use of “Sanctified commonsense,” which, after all,
is the sum of a man’s own tried and trusted experience. Armed with
this knowledge, which he further tested by very careful laboratory
research, his industry was at length rewarded in finding a perfect
liniment with the treble merit of being “healing, soothing, and
pain-killing,” the result of which is embodied in Chameleon Oil
Liniment.
The action of Chameleon Oil is simplicity itself. Immediately the
Liniment has been applied it sets out upon its message of discovery
and healing, travelling with lightning rapidity to the seat of
the trouble. This found, it restores to the affected part all
that pristine freshness which pain and suffering has caused it to
lose, quickens the action of the blood, and renews the patient’s
vitality.... The principle of Chameleon Oil Liniment may be summed up
in a few words--it releases those healing powers which nature itself
has set in the human body in order to overcome the constant wastage
and ravages of disease.
The general directions are:
Shake the bottle thoroughly until the contents become cream coloured.
Rub the Oil gently into the affected part (use plenty of the Oil)
until the pores of the skin refuse to take any more and sweating
begins; then cover with a layer of wool, flannel, or other porous
material, and fix with a bandage. FOR STRONGER EFFECT, wash affected
part with hot water and apply Oil as above after drying. FOR VERY
POWERFUL EFFECT, wash first with very hot water, apply Oil as above
after drying, and bandage with flannel or absorbent cotton wool
soaked in the Oil or solution of it. Keep on bandage as long as
possible; note that if kept on too long it will raise a blister.
Special directions are given for its use in various complaints. The
following will serve as a sample:
FOR COUGHS AND COLDS. FOR COLD ON THE CHEST.--Rub the throat, chest,
and the back between the shoulder blades thoroughly with the Oil,
and while the skin is still moist apply a fold of warm flannel; take
15 to 20 drops of the Oil in a little sweetened water, or gruel, at
bedtime. FOR CATARRH OR COLD IN THE HEAD.--Mix one part of the Oil
with eight parts of warm water, gargle the throat, inhale the fumes
up the nostrils, and a few applications will cure. FOR CONTINUED
COLDS.--Rub the chest thoroughly every night with the Oil, and cover
with a piece of flannel. Take 15 drops of the Oil in a wineglassful
of water three times a day between meals.
A 1s. 1d. bottle which was examined contained 3 fluid ounces, and a 2s.
9d. bottle 9¹⁄₄ fluid ounces. The liquid in the two bottles differed in
composition; it consisted of an oily and an aqueous layer, these being
in the ratio of 1 to 1.66 in the one case and 1 to 2 in the other. The
figures given on the next page refer to the mean composition of the two.
The oily layer consisted of a mixture of essential oils; this
was submitted to fractional distillation, and the following were
recognised: Oils of turpentine, camphor, mustard, spearmint, pimento,
and cassia (or cinnamon). The aqueous layer contained some alcohol,
free ammonia in considerable quantity, and a resin in combination with
ammonia as a soluble resinate; some of the resin was extracted and
examined, but its characters did not agree with those of any single
resin in ordinary use; various mixtures were made and compared with
it, but complete agreement in all characters was not arrived at, and
it is not possible to speak positively as to the nature of the resins
present. By making a mixture of balsam of tolu (4 parts) and storax
(1 part), boiling with ammonia, and filtering from the undissolved
portion, a solution of ammonium resinates was obtained which agreed
fairly well with that present in the Chameleon oil.
The amounts of all the other constituents were determined with as much
exactness as is possible with such a mixture, and the following formula
was arrived at:
Essential oil of mustard 0.75 part by measure
Essential oil of spearmint 0.45 „ „
Essential oil of pimento 1.5 parts by measure
Essential oil of cassia 1.5 „ „
Essential oil of camphor 15.0 „ „
Oil of turpentine 15.0 „ „
Alcohol (90 per cent.) 7.3 „ „
Strong solution of ammonia 8.0 „ „
Resins (as above) 1.6 „ „
Water, to 100.0 „ „
A mixture prepared by this formula agreed in physical and chemical
properties with the original, except in regard to some minor characters
of the resins.
Assuming the resins to be of the nature indicated, the estimated cost
of the ingredients for 3 fluid ounces is 3¹⁄₁₀ pence if rectified
spirit were used, and about 2¹⁄₂d. if non-mineralised methylated spirit
were used.
LEVASCO.
The address given on the package of this article is merely “Levasco
Depôt, Dover”; it is described as “The Great Indian Gout and Rheumatic
Cure.”
The following extracts are from a pamphlet contained in the package:
Levasco.--This wonderful preparation is the discovery of a Hindu
Doctor in the Himalayan Mountains, and if you but give it a trial you
will find yourself Quickly freed from pain and anguish.
Levasco is for outward application only, is not an oil, and requires
no rubbing, it can be conveniently used at any time. Two or three
applications daily Cures the most Chronic cases....
Levasco is not being advertised altogether as a business venture, but
partly from extreme gratitude of one who for many years was a great
sufferer.
Levasco has an exhilarating effect on every nerve and muscle similar
to a soothing electric current, which diffuses a gentle warmth, goes
direct to the pain centres, and gives immediate relief.
Levasco penetrates the skin, breaks up the Uric Acid, causing the
blood to flow freely, the pain then ceases.
Levasco will effect a permanent Cure after years of suffering if the
directions are followed and persevered with....
Levasco has a pleasant and invigorating odour, the relief is
marvellous. Sufferers will sometimes resort to ordinary remedies, and
the continual pouring of drugs into an already weakened system will
snap the vitality, and cause their lives to become a misery, which
brings habitual users to an early grave.
Gout cured in a few hours--Apply Levasco upon the affected parts....
The first application will give immediate relief. After a few hours’
treatment--during which time Levasco should be applied as often as
possible--your Gout will have entirely disappeared.
Levasco applied freely will cure Lumbago or Sciatica in one night.
_Neuritis._--Levasco rubbed upon the affected part gives immediate
relief, and after three or four applications the pain will be
gone, but do not cease using to effect the cure. You must continue
to use for a week or two--two or three times daily, or when the
pain is felt. This is a most difficult complaint to cure, and some
great authorities say it is incurable, but we have evidence where
perseverance and regular use of Levasco has effected the cure.
No athlete should be without a bottle of Levasco. A little rubbed
on the limbs previous to and after any extra exertion ensures your
fitness for the next event.
Headache Cured in a few minutes.
Earache Cured in 2 minutes.
Toothache Cured in 2 minutes.
Great care should be taken that Levasco is not applied to wounds,
cuts, or embrasures (_sic_).
A 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. bottle was found to hold rather less than 1 fluid
ounce. Analysis showed the presence of oleo-resin of capsicum, oils
of rosemary and lavender, camphor, alcohol, and what appeared to be
a trace of soap. The quantities of the different ingredients were
determined as exactly as possible, and the results indicated the
following formula, and a mixture prepared in accordance with it was
practically indistinguishable from the original:
Oleo-resin of capsicum 3 grains
Camphor 6 „
Oil of lavender 3 minims
Oil of rosemary 4 „
Soap ¹⁄₈ grain
Alcohol (90 per cent.) to 1 fluid ounce
Estimated cost of ingredients, ¹⁄₂d. if methylated spirit were used;
about 2¹⁄₂d. if made with rectified spirit.
DYXOL.
This preparation is supplied by a firm in a small town near London. It
is stated on the package that:
Dyxol cures Neuralgia, Toothache, Cold in the Head, Headache,
Stiff-neck, Lumbago, Rheumatism, etc., etc.
Further particulars are given in a circular enclosed with the bottle,
from which the following extracts are taken:
This is a simple Preparation of great value for the removal of all
kinds of Pains. Most of these are caused by Congestion of the Blood
in certain parts of the body. Relieve this Congestion and you drive
away the Pain.
Dyxol has the power, above all other known preparations, of almost
instantly dispersing congested blood. Its efficacy in this direction
can be easily demonstrated. Rub one drop of Dyxol on the face, when,
in less than one minute, the spot will temporarily redden through the
flow of blood to the surface.
In another advertisement the following statements occur:
Simply rub on or inhale Dyxol according to directions, and neuralgia
vanishes like magic. Muscular Rheumatism is speedily relieved by
rubbing in a little Dyxol. Dyxol quickly removes the most obstinate
cold in the head and on the chest, and it is an excellent remedy for
Headache, Toothache, and Earache. Dyxol inhaled prevents influenza.
A 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. bottle contained 2 fluid drachms. The general directions
are:
No rubbing is necessary. Apply one or two drops to the part affected.
When using, fan away the vapour which arises. This will prevent
discomfort to the eyes. To produce a milder action add a small
quantity of Dyxol to an equal quantity of pure Olive Oil.
Analysis showed the principal constituent to be volatile oil of
mustard, others being oils of pimento and nutmeg, liquid paraffin
(heavy and light), and a fixed oil; the latter appeared to be
cottonseed oil, but the quantity was too small for positive
identification. The results of quantitative analysis indicated the
following formula, and a mixture prepared in accordance with it was
practically indistinguishable from the original:
Essential oil of mustard 20 per cent. by volume.
Essential oil of nutmeg 20 „ „
Essential oil of pimento 4 „ „
Cottonseed oil 6 „ „
Liquid paraffin, yellow 17 „ „
Kerosene 33 „ „
Estimated cost of ingredients for ¹⁄₄ oz., 2d.
POND’S ARTHRITICUS.
This preparation is supplied by a firm in London. It is stated on the
label that it
cures Gout, Rheumatism, Rheumatic Gout, Lumbago, Sciatica, and
all Rheumatic Affections.... It contains no drugs, no colchicum.
Arthriticus neutralises all Gouty and Rheumatic Acidity in the
Stomach, Liver and Bowels; removes the offending matter from the
System, the Blood is purified, the Liver and Kidneys are relieved,
the Joints become supple, and there is a general freedom from pain.
The Skin, participating in the improvement, loses any Gouty Eczema
which may exist, and assumes a healthy appearance.
A pamphlet enclosed in the package bears the title:
Gout and Goutiness. Their cause, treatment, cure, and prevention. By
Geo. P. Pond, M.P.S., Surgeon-Chiropodist. In practice since 1857.
The degree of enlightenment to be obtained from this treatise may be
judged from the following extracts:
No food or drink is gouty; yet, no alcoholic drink can be said to be
good for gout; that is, anti-gout; it is the quantity and quality
which are so....
No one can reasonably deny an instinctive knowledge and a physical
power exerted in the stomach by a conscious principle which selects
and rejects, and which in its natural purity may be ranked as a nerve
of sense....
Air, again, is as necessary with every mouthful in the process of
digestion as the gastric juice itself; it mixes with the saliva which
pours out of four different glands of different kinds and forms a
powerful solvent for the food....
Water, like air, is nourishing....
Cold is death, warmth is life. Cold is, perhaps, the greatest cause
of disease.... Of all supposed remedies to strengthen the body, cold
baths in cold weather are the most dangerous.
Several other preparations from the same maker are recommended in the
pamphlet.
The price of “Arthriticus” is 2s. 6d. per package; this was found
to contain a bottle holding nearly 13 fluid ounces of liquid and 16
powders. The directions are:
One of the Powders to be taken with every dose, mixed thus: In a
tumbler pour a wineglassful of water, mix with it a sixteenth part of
the Arthriticus, then add one of the Powders and drink immediately,
while effervescing.
It is ordered to be taken night and morning for gravel and affections
of the kidneys and bladder, and all abnormal conditions of the urine;
twice or thrice daily for rheumatism, sciatica, lumbago, etc.; and
similarly in other cases.
The powders varied in weight from 10.9 grains to 17.4 grains, the
average being 14.2 grains; they consisted of tartaric acid. Analysis
showed the mixture to have the following composition:
In one dose,
approximately.
Lithium citrate 1.4 parts 5.0 grains
Potassium citrate 0.9 part 3.0 „
Sodium citrate 0.2 „ 0.7 grain
Sodium salicylate 1.5 parts 5.3 grains
Potassium bromide 1.6 „ 5.6 „
Potassium bicarbonate 8.0 „ 28.0 „
Glycerine 5.1 „ 18.0 „
Chloroform water, about 10 „ by measure
Water, to 100 „ „
On mixing a dose of the liquid with one powder, the resulting draught
would be alkaline even with the heaviest powder; the alkalinity would
of course be greater when the lighter powders were used.
Estimated cost of ingredients for mixture and powders, 2¹⁄₂d.
MAGIC FOOT DRAFTS.
This is the name by which plasters, to be applied to the soles of the
feet for the cure of rheumatism, are supplied by the Magic Foot Draft
Company, London, the price being 4s. 6d. per pair. In addition to the
numerous advertisements of the article by name, others have appeared
recently, offering in the name of R. A. Oliver to send “my Celebrated
External Treatment [for Rheumatism] ... to try free” to anyone sending
his name and address. On sending a name and address a pair of the “Foot
Drafts” was received (differing from those sold in the ordinary way by
bearing no revenue stamp), together with a long letter and a printed
sheet of testimonials. The letter states:
the Drafts cannot be purchased for less than 4s. 6d. per pair
anywhere, and you can see that we could not afford to send them on
approval if they did not really cure.
To introduce our great discovery most favourably to you, and through
you to your friends, we are going to make this extraordinary
inducement: Give this pair of Drafts a careful trial; if the results
give you faith in our wonderful absorption method, as they must, we
shall be pleased to send you three more pairs of our Foot Drafts on
receipt of 11s., and as we make no charge for the first pair to all
those who accept this offer, this will make four pairs (18s. worth)
of Magic Foot Drafts for only 11s.... We have found by careful study
of this disease, based on years of experience, that this number of
Drafts will effect a cure in nine out of ten patients, because it
nearly always takes all the power of the first two pairs to open up
the clogged pores and start the removal of all poisonous acid urates.
It is the third and fourth pair that invariably bring that sense of
relief and freedom from pain that every poor sufferer is looking for.
This was followed at short intervals by other letters pressing for
money to be sent. In the second it is stated:
We take a sincere interest in your case [no case had been even
mentioned in sending for the “cure”], and we are going to cure you.
Now that the cure has been started, every day’s delay makes it more
difficult for the Drafts to do their work, and we trust that we shall
hear from you by return post.
From the third letter:
We prefer to think that the promise you made us two weeks ago has
escaped your memory.
[Of course no sort of promise had been made.]
From the fourth:
We think that we are justified in asking to hear from you, for we
have spent some considerable time and money in your case; frankly,
because we were interested in it.... According to our terms, which
you accepted when writing for the first pair of Drafts, we must have
by return either 4s. 6d. (for which another pair of drafts will be
sent) or your statement on honour that you received no benefit.... We
guarantee to cure you.
The letters quoted freely from alleged testimonials, and further
printed sheets of these were also sent. On one of these is printed in
large capitals: “We guarantee Magic Foot Drafts to cure any case of
rheumatism!”
Curious discrepancies are shown by some of the testimonials. Thus in
the advertisement, referred to above, in which the name “Foot Drafts”
is carefully avoided, we read:
A marvellous cure has been effected in the case of Mr. James Bodman,
8, The Mount, Frome. Mr. Bodman writes: “I have suffered from
Rheumatism for the past seven years, and was almost a hopeless wreck.
I tried all sorts of remedies and doctors, but to no avail, and was
sinking fast when I tried your treatment. I am glad to say that it
has cured all my sufferings, and I have had no aches or pains since.
I may add that I am 72 years old, and feel as supple in my joints as
a young man.”
The following is printed on one of the sheets mentioned above:
8, The Mount, Frome,
1st Feb., /09.
The Magic Foot Draft Co.,
Shoe Lane, E.C.
Dear Sir,--I received your letter of recent date, and am pleased
to give you the following account of my case of Rheumatism. I have
suffered from this complaint for the past seven years, and was almost
a hopeless wreck. I could neither dress nor undress without help. I
could get no rest in bed or up, and my life was a perfect misery. I
tried all sorts of remedies, too numerous to mention, which did not
give me the least comfort. I also saw a doctor, who stated that he
could not cure me. He, however, gave me something to relieve the pain
for a couple of nights, but then I became even worse than before. At
last I gave up all hopes of ever getting better; in fact, I felt I
was fast sinking, until a kind friend called to inquire after me. She
said it grieved her to see me walk about such a pitiful sight, and
asked if I would try Magic Foot Drafts, as she had received such good
results from them. I consented, and she wrote to you for me. I only
used three pairs, which cured me of all my sufferings, and I have had
no aches or pains or any other complaint since. I may add that I am
in my 72nd year, and feel as lissom in all my joints as a young man.
I cannot estimate the value of your Magic Foot Drafts to sufferers
from Rheumatism. I have highly recommended them to several sufferers
since my cure. I scarcely ever go out without someone asking me how I
got so well. It makes me feel almost like an agent of the Magic Foot
Draft Co. Please send me another of your books, so that I may bring
your treatment more directly before my friends and acquaintances.
Again thanking you,
I remain, yours faithfully,
JAMES BODMAN.
Yet again, in one of the letters from the Magic Foot Draft Co., already
quoted from, dated “June 2nd/10,” it is stated that:
Mr. James Bodman, of 8, The Mount, Frome, Somerset, has just written
us regarding the result of three pairs of Drafts. “I have suffered
from Rheumatism for the past seven years, and was almost a hopeless
wreck, as I could not rest in bed nor when I was up, so that my
life was a perfect misery. I tried various remedies, and also saw a
doctor, who, while he could not cure me, gave me something to relieve
the pain for a couple of nights, but I became worse after this. I had
given up all hope when a friend who called to see me stated that she
had received wonderful results from Magic Foot Drafts, and asked for
permission to send for a pair for me. I am now delighted to tell you
that after wearing three pairs of Drafts, I have not an ache or pain,
and I am completely cured of all my sufferings. I am in my 72nd year,
and I feel as supple now in all my joints as a young man. I cannot
estimate the value of your Magic Foot Drafts, and I can never thank
you enough for the benefit they have given me.”
This had been “just received” on June 2nd, 1910. The phraseology
has not changed much in the interval of sixteen months; but as the
gentleman is still in his 72nd year, evidently time stands still with
him; curiously, though, in the letter first quoted, which appeared in a
newspaper advertisement on May 18th, 1910, he is already 72 years old.
One wonders how Mr. Bodman was induced to send three variants of his
letter, one of them obligingly omitting any reference to Foot Drafts by
name and substituting “your treatment.”
The same differences are shown in other letters; in one place is a
letter over the name of J. W. Ludell, ascribing two cures to Magic Foot
Drafts, while in the advertisement in which the latter name is not used
he is represented as saying that one cure was due to “your Antiseptic
Plasters” and the other to “your treatment”; two variants are given in
different places of a letter from Mr. J. Bull, in one of which he says:
“I am thankful to think I tried the Foot Drafts, for they are worth
double what you charge for them,” and in the other: “I am thankful
that I tried your Foot Drafts, for they are worth a good many times
the money that I paid.” All this appears to suggest either that the
writers of the testimonials are very obliging in supplying varying
readings of them, or else that the advertiser alters them according to
his fancy; unless indeed, they are entirely manufactured.
A booklet which is also sent, entitled “Rheumatism, Its Cause and
Cure,” contains various plain and coloured pictures professing to
represent nerves, arteries, etc., of the leg and foot, and gives an
account of how the “Drafts” are supposed to act; the following extract
will suffice:
The rheumatic sufferer faces this situation:--His or her system
has become more or less clogged with rheumatic poisons--lithic
acid, uric acid, lactic acid, or any other toxin, as the case may
be. This poison may be either driven out or drawn out. Certain
agents--salicylic acid, for example--will sometimes accomplish the
former result; but the system will then contain a poison worse than
the rheumatism. In fact, remedies which are strong enough to be
effective against rheumatism almost invariably ruin the digestive
organs. Magic Foot Drafts, as the name implies, draws the poisons
out through the pores of the tender skin on the bottom of the feet.
The Drafts absorb this poison. A pair should be worn only six days,
as they become filled with the waste matter from the body and need
renewing in that length of time, if the case is a bad one....
Physicians are already using them in their regular practice, and
recommending them.
The “drafts” consisted of plasters spread on a sort of jaconet backing,
of oblong shape and measuring about 5 in. by 3¹⁄₂ in.; the darker
central portion measured about 3³⁄₄ in. by 2¹⁄₂ in. The margin was
coated with about 10 grains of sticky material, which had the physical
and chemical characters of “Venice turpentine”; the darker portion,
or the plaster itself, weighed about 80 grains and was found to be a
mixture of Stockholm tar and the powdered rhizome of white hellebore
(_Veratrum album_); determination of their proportions showed the
formula to be, approximately:
Powdered white hellebore 40 per cent.
Stockholm tar 60 „
No other ingredients could be detected.
Estimated cost of ingredients for one pair ¹⁄₆d.
CELMO.
This preparation is supplied by the Celmo Company, London. It is in the
form of tablets, of which a 2s. 9d. bottle contained thirty-six. In a
booklet contained in the package the tablets are described as:
Specific for all uric acid ailments, viz.: Gout, Rheumatism,
Rheumatic Gout, Lumbago, Gouty Dyspepsia, Sciatica, Eczema, Neuritis,
Gouty Eczema, Suppressed Gout, etc.
Other extracts are:
In order to effect a cure the first requisite is to remove the cause.
This can only be accomplished by administering a remedy which has
the power of dissolving uric acid, and which will also restore the
normal alkalinity of the blood so as to prevent fresh depositions.
This remedy we present in “Celmo” Tablets. It is the One remedy that
achieves a complete and permanent cure, and is the only medicine
in the world that has a direct and combined action on the Kidneys,
Liver, Stomach, Bladder, Bowels, and Digestive Organs....
We find, in the large majority of cases, from five to eight bottles,
4s. 6d. size, sufficient. The tablets must be taken with absolute
regularity, and there should be no interval whatever between the
bottles. It is always advisable to state your ailment and order of us
direct. We then can change the dose as and when required to expedite
a cure.
A so-called “analysis” is published, which is as follows:
I have made a careful Chemical examination of the above-described
sample of Compressed Tablets known as “Celmo,” and from my results
I am able to certify that they are absolutely free from Arsenic,
Mercury, Opium, Digitalis, and Colchicum.
I find that these tablets have been prepared from pure drugs of the
best possible quality, and contain nothing of an injurious nature
whatsoever. The formula from which they are made has been submitted
to me, and I am of opinion that it is an excellent one in every way,
and one which is not capable of improvement.
After reading in the booklet quoted from that Celmo is “the One
remedy,” and “the only medicine in the world that,” etc., it is
somewhat surprising to read, in another circular also enclosed in the
package, that:
Every intelligent person is aware it is impossible to prepare any
one medicine for Rheumatism, Gout, etc., to suit every system. We
overcome this difficulty by supplying “Celmo” Tablets in two forms,
both for Uric Acid ailments.
It further appears that there is also a “Celmo No. 2” for indigestion,
etc. (described in Chapter V.), “Celmo Laxative,” “Celmo Ointment,” and
“Celmo Liniment.”
The directions are:
In commencing treatment, take two tablets with half an ordinary glass
of water just before or after each of the three meals, making six
tablets per day. In very severe cases three tablets can be taken at
a dose until pain is relieved, then two as above. A child’s dose,
one-half to one tablet at times stated.
The tablets had an average weight of 5¹⁄₂ grains. They had a slight
smell of oil of juniper, but the amount present was far too small to be
determined, and can only be described as a trace. Analysis showed the
presence of acetyl-salicylic acid (commonly known as aspirin), powdered
charcoal, maltose, glucose, and dextrin (these three being evidently
present as malt extract, used for binding the powders together),
magnesium silicate, alkaloid, extractive, and the mineral constituents
commonly found in vegetable extracts; a slight trace of a pungent
substance resembling capsicum oleo-resin was also present. Ordinary
talc is magnesium silicate, but the mineral of that composition here
present did not have the physical properties of ordinary talc; it is,
of course, quite inert, talc being commonly added to tablets as a
lubricant to facilitate their production by a machine. The alkaloid and
extractive did not show any characters by which they could be certainly
identified; the alkaloid did not agree, in its behaviour to various
tests, with any of the alkaloids in ordinary medicinal use.
The proportions of the various constituents were determined as
accurately as practicable, and indicated the following formula:
Acetyl-salicylic acid 35.5 per cent.
Powdered charcoal, about 8.0 „
Malt extract, dry 18.0 „
Magnesium silicate 14.5 „
Other mineral constituents 2.8 „
Water 12.3 „
Alkaloid 0.5 „
Extractive, about 8.0 „
Oleo-resin of capsicum trace.
Oil of juniper „
DR. BENGUÉ’S BALSAM.
This preparation, made by a firm giving addresses in Paris and London,
differs from most of those dealt with here in the important respect
that the principal constituents are stated on the label, and it is,
therefore, not altogether a “secret remedy.” It is included in this
series, since it is advertised to the public as
“A wonderful Remedy for Rheumatism, Gout, Neuralgia.”
In a circular enclosed in the package it is stated that:
The following is an enumeration of the different diseases in which
Dr. Bengué’s Balsam has proved to be the most effective scientific
remedy.
Acute or Chronic Rheumatism; }
Gout; }
Various forms of Neuralgia, } Spread the Balsam on the affected
Facial, Intercostal, Lumbar, } part and cover up carefully with
Ovarian, Sciatical; } cotton wool. After two or three
Locomotor Ataxy; } applications the parts affected
Various forms of Hyperæsthesia;} should be cleansed with warm water
Saturnine Colics; } so as to facilitate the absorption
Nephritic Colics; } of the Balsam when the next
Peritonitis; } dressing of the Balsam is applied.
Gastralgia; }
Torticollis; Zona. }
The “Balsam” is supplied in collapsible tubes; a 2s. package contained
1¹⁄₅ oz. On the label, following the name, are the words “Menthol,
Methyl-Salicylate, Lanolin,” and these three substances were found to
be present. Analysis showed the composition to be:
Menthol 18 per cent.
Methyl salicylate 20 „
Lanoline, anhydrous 54 „
A fat, apparently lard 8 „
Estimated cost of ingredients, 1¹⁄₄d.
BOX’S PILLS AND GOLDEN FIRE.
These preparations are supplied from an address in a south-coast town.
The “Golden Fire” is more especially recommended for rheumatism, but
it is stated that “in severe cases of Rheumatism, etc., Box’s Pills
should be taken in conjunction with the ‘Golden Fire,’” and the two
are associated in many of the statements made. The following specimen
extracts are from circulars enclosed in the packages, and other
advertisements:
Box’s Golden Fire is a New Discovery for the removal of diseases,
being an Electric Fluid of Intense Power in rapidly attenuating,
dissolving, and removing obstructions in any part of the system.
Box’s Golden Fire, which is used internally and externally, is a
subtle extract from the vegetable kingdom, the hidden fire or life
of plants and flowers, the “Quint-essence of Life!” Call it, if you
please, “Bottled Fire!” “Bottled Health!” “Bottled Life!”
This Great Remedy and its accompaniment are sure cures for
rheumatism, diphtheria, etc.
In some advertisements the medicines are described as “The Giant
Remedy,” and it is explained that
The Giants have declared war against unbelief, and are determined to
push the battle to the gate. The Giants ask for no quarter nor will
they show any, therefore one of the contending parties must be wiped
out. The Giants in fight are a noble race and are of ancient origin.
Their fathers lived in Eden, and their seed rising upon the wings of
the wind, ultimately spread over the whole earth.
They have lived since the days of creation in the fields, without a
covering, sipping the dew and drinking in the sunshine and the rain.
When in their prime they were translated to ---- ---- ---- where
they sleep. And when the proprietor of the Giant Remedy calls them
they awake, and, springing upon the foe, they quickly overwhelm and
annihilate him, and joyfully hand back the captive to his friends
in perfect health. Their origin is Divine. As you now see them so
they came from the hands of their Creator, filled with the nectar of
health and life from root to leaf.
In a circular dealing more especially with the pills directions are
given for their use for costiveness, bad taste in the mouth, heart
disease, corpulency, sick headache, wind and swelling after meals,
toothache, influenza, inflammation of brain, stomach, bowels, lungs,
kidneys, etc., fevers, sore throats, diphtheria, and tumours. One of
the “testimonials” is headed, in large letters, “Cancer Cured.” The
full directions in the case of influenza will serve as a sample:
Take as directed on the label. Also make a strong tea of Elder
Blossom and Peppermint Herb, and drink a pint at bedtime. Repeat
the tea at bedtime for two or three nights, if necessary. It seldom
requires repeating. This will save when on the brink of death.
The thrilling nature of some of the testimonials may be judged by an
extract:
My brother-in-law had his leg jammed in South Africa between rocks,
just above the ankle. He came home, and feared he would be a cripple
for life. I advised him to get your Pills and “Golden Fire,” which he
did, and after 6 days a spot came out under the heel as Black As Your
Hat. He has since left for America Quite Cured.
Another circular states:
As certain medical men have done their best by tongue and pen to
persuade the public that Box’s Golden Fire is poisonous, the said
Golden Fire in consequence has been submitted to a rigid Chemical
Analysis. The following Report from the Eminent Analyst will
effectually sew up the lying lips.
Then follows the report, which is in the usual style of such
“analyses,” and states that the “Golden Fire” was found to consist
of “certain carefully selected and powerful, but perfectly innocent,
ingredients, which combined (as in the mixture) may be taken internally
or applied externally without fear or hesitation.”
The circular continues:
Those who raise the cry of “Poison” are wholesale traffickers in the
same--it is their stock-in-trade: Poisons bring grist to their mills,
while the poor victims who swallow them perish by thousands.
The directions for use are:
For Rheumatism, Lumbago, Gout, Neuralgia, Sprains, Chest Affections,
Asthma, Bronchitis, Swellings, Tumours, Enlarged Joints, etc., the
Golden Fire should be rubbed in briskly three or four times a day;
and in extreme cases a piece of flannel should be saturated with the
Golden Fire and applied after each application.
For Sore Throat, Quinsy, and Diphtheria, rub in several times a day;
and to one tablespoonful of Golden Fire add one tablespoonful of
water and gargle every two hours.
For the above, Golden Fire should be taken internally three times a
day, in a little water, beginning with six drops and increasing a few
drops each dose until a teaspoonful is reached, and continue until
well.
For toothache, apply Golden Fire to the Tooth and rub it well into
the gums. For Neuralgia, Bruises, Sprains, etc., rub it briskly over
the seat of pain. For Polypus, apply with a camel-hair brush, and rub
in on the outside twice a day.
A 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. bottle of the “Golden Fire” contained nearly 2¹⁄₂ fluid
ounces of liquid. Analysis showed this to contain acetic acid, sodium
chloride, volatile oils, a little alcohol, starch, dextrin, extractive,
and the pungent principle of capsicum. The mixture of essential oils
appeared to consist of oils of camphor, eucalyptus, rosemary, and
amber. After determining the quantities of the other ingredients, the
amount left to be described as starch, dextrin, and extractive was
about 7 per cent. of the liquid; this part possessed no characters
by which its source could be determined, but the liquid contained
solid particles which appeared to be due to defective straining, and
microscopical examination of these showed them unmistakably to consist
of barley, lobelia, and capsicum, and the liquid appears, therefore,
to be a decoction of these, with the addition of the other ingredients
named. The pungency was just similar to that of an aqueous decoction
of capsicum; the proportions of barley and lobelia could not be
determined; the amounts of the other substances found are given in the
following formula:
Oil of amber 0.16 per cent.
Oil of rosemary 0.16 „
Oil of eucalyptus 0.32 „
Oil of camphor (essential) 1.3 „
Sodium chloride 6.4 „
Glacial acetic acid 6.4 „
Alcohol 1.0 „
Decoction of capsicum.
Decoction of barley.
Decoction of lobelia.
It is hardly necessary to point out that lobelia is a dangerous drug to
be administered and taken by ignorant people.
A 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. box of the pills contained fifty-three of various sizes
and shapes, roughly coated with talc, and having an average weight of
2¹⁄₂ grains each. The directions on the label are, “Dose--Two pills
morning and evening, after meals.” Analysis showed the presence of
powdered capsicum in considerable quantity, this drug forming, in
fact, so large a proportion of the pill, that the recognition of other
ingredients was a difficult matter; microscopic examination showed
also powdered gentian, and a flour which did not agree perfectly
in character with any ordinary flour, though having a considerable
resemblance to barley flour; small quantities of soap and aloes
appeared to be present, and a trace of an essential oil or other
aromatic substance which was not identified. The following formula
gave a pill substantially agreeing in characters with the pill under
examination:
Powdered capsicum 35 parts.
Powdered gentian 15 „
Flour 15 „
Aloes 20 „
Soap 5 „
Water to 100 „
BOWDEN’S INDIAN BALM.
This article is supplied by a firm in the West of England at prices
from 7¹⁄₂d. to 10s. A tin priced 2s. 9d. was found to contain about 4
oz.
It is described on the package as
For all Inflammations, Muscular Complaints, Skin Diseases, etc., as
Inflamed Eyes, Neuralgia, Face-ache, Bronchitis, Rheumatism, Eczema,
Ringworm, Cuts, Stings, Wounds, Scalds, Burns, Strains, Piles,
Chilblains, Chaps, etc.
Circulars enclosed in the package also contained recommendations
of the use of the Balm for colds, congested nostrils, catarrh,
whooping-cough and croup, lumbago, stiff-neck, erysipelas, bedsores,
irritation after fever or vaccination, eruptions, abscesses, boils,
ulcers, itching at the anus, sores, sprains, bruises, mumps, abrasions,
stings of mosquitos and other insects, sunburn, sore and tender feet,
inflammation of the bowels, cancerous sores, asthma, coughs and chest
complaints, sore throats, whitlow, corns and warts.
It is further stated that:
This Preparation contains no less than seventeen ingredients,
including Valuable Balsams, Extracts, Essences, Indian Oils,
etc., and so is a veritable little Medicine Chest in itself. Few
other remedies will be required where it is kept at hand and used
habitually.
The most delicate Lady or Child, as well as the strongest Athlete,
will find the Indian Balm to be a treasure. It can be used with
perfect safety upon an open wound, be placed upon the Eyeball for
Inflammation, or be used internally for Complaints of Throat and
Chest. It will draw out every particle of injurious matter before
healing any Ulcer or Sore, thus preventing a return of the trouble.
Prompt application to Wound, Scald, or Burn is the best preventive of
Blood Poisoning.
Lengthy directions are given for its use in a variety of cases; the
following will suffice as examples:
Ophthalmia and Inflammation of the Eye.--Rub the Indian Balm round
the Eyes two or three times a day. In acute cases apply inside the
lids.
Inflammation of the Gums, Toothache, and Faceache.--Well rub the
Balm on the Gums and Face. When the Tooth is hollow the Balm can be
inserted on cotton wadding.
Inflammation of the Bowels and Pain in the Small of the Back.--Foment
the parts with hot water, and briskly rub with Balm (10 to 15 minutes
at a time) till relieved.
It would appear to be equally efficacious when administered internally,
for we read:
Sufferers from Asthma, Croup, Bronchitis, and all Throat or Chest
Complaints find the soothing and healing effects of Indian Balm, when
taken internally on lump sugar, to be immediate and remarkable. It
also enables patients to get rid of injurious phlegm. Public Speakers
and Singers should use it. The Balm is pleasant to use and effectual
in operation.
The “Balm” consisted of a brownish-yellow ointment. Analysis showed
the presence of about 7 per cent. of volatile oil, in which oil of
eucalyptus predominated, and a fatty basis. The oil did not contain as
much cineol as an ordinary good specimen of eucalyptus oil, and some
evidence was obtained of the presence of essential oil of camphor,
terebene, and oil of lemon. The solid basis contained, besides fatty
constituents, a very small amount of ammonia, and a little of a
resinous substance; the latter was not ordinary resin, but showed no
distinctive characters sufficing for its identification. It may have
been derived from balsam of Peru, or some similar ingredient, but
comparison of its properties pointed to the probability of a mixture
of balsamic substances. The statement that seventeen ingredients are
present may be true, for the essential ingredients are a fatty basis, a
mixture of volatile oils, and resinous material, and each one of these
can easily be made of an almost unlimited number of ingredients mixed
together; no other active substance was found. An ointment prepared
from the following formula, which is based on the analytical results
obtained with the “balm,” strongly resembled the latter, and only
differed from it in minor points:
Lard 35 per cent.
Cocoanut oil 35 „
Tallow 10 „
Rape oil 5 „
Lanoline, anhydrous 4.5 „
Balsam of Peru 1 „
Oil of eucalyptus 5 „
Terebene 1.5 „
Essential oil of camphor 1.5 „
Essential oil of lemon 0.5 „
Solution of ammonia 1 „
Annatto colouring a sufficiency.
BATH SALTS FOR RHEUMATISM.
Recently certain “bath salts” have been largely advertised for the
treatment of complaints of this kind by means of baths. We give here
the results of analysis of some of the principal articles of this kind.
OZONIA.
This is supplied by a firm in Dublin, in a packet, price 1s.,
containing about 3 oz. The package contained a descriptive leaflet,
from which the following extracts are taken:
The introduction of Ozonia marks a new era in the treatment of
Rheumatism, Gout, and allied complaints. This remarkable preparation
is used in the bathing water, where it reaches the source of the
trouble through the pores of the skin. The whole body is treated
at once, and not the least trouble is entailed to the sufferer.
The system is thoroughly cleansed--the poisonous uric acid is
neutralised, and the patient is reinvigorated. The method is new, but
it has hundreds of wonderful cures to its credit already--so try one
packet, and judge by results....
The Bath Cure. Bathe in it--that’s all.
There are many complaints which are acknowledged to have one root
cause. The cause of Rheumatism, Sciatica, Lumbago, and Gout is the
presence of too much uric acid in the blood. The problem of how to
remove this poison has hitherto proved unsolvable, but now Ozonia
has been proved to be the proper means. The worst cases of uric acid
troubles yield to the soothing medicated waters of Ozonia....
“Ozone,” the health-giving principle of Fresh Sea Breezes, is
liberated in the “Ozonia” bath, and has a marvellous exhilarating
effect on the patient; this, combined with the stimulating effect
of the other constituents of the bath, induces a feeling of bodily
well-being which is most gratifying.
How to use “Ozonia.”
Dissolve one packet in an ordinary bath of hot water, and immerse the
body in it, keeping the face and back of the neck sponged.
Remain in the bath at least 15 or 20 minutes, even longer if desired.
The best time for taking the Bath is before going to bed, but this is
not imperative.
Number of Baths to be taken. In severe cases a bath every second
night is advised, but when the acute symptoms have disappeared, a
bath once or twice a week is sufficient; in most cases, a series of
12 baths will be found to effect a perfect cure.
If total immersion is not feasible, stuping with a hot solution (a
tablespoonful of “Ozonia” to a gallon of water) is very beneficial,
but complete immersion gives best results.
Analysis showed the composition of the salt to be:
Sodium carbonate, reckoned as anhydrous 77.00 per cent.
Water 22.30 per cent.
Chloride, reckoned as sodium chloride 0.46 per cent.
Potassium salt a trace.
In view of the statement, quoted above, that ozone is liberated in the
bath, special search was made for any ingredient, such as percarbonate,
perborate, or peroxide, which could yield oxygen, but no trace was
found of any such substance. Commercial sodium carbonate commonly
contains a little chloride, such as the quantity found.
ANTURIC BATH SALTS.
This preparation is supplied by a limited company in London. A tin,
price 1s. 6d., contained about 4¹⁄₂ oz. It is described on the package
as:
For Gout, Rheumatism, Sciatica.
Directions. Dissolve the contents of one tin in a bath full of hot
water. Take two baths weekly for six weeks. The water should be as
hot as can be comfortably borne. In severe cases the contents of two
tins may be used for one bath.
If it is inconvenient to use a full bath, or for local affections
fomentations may be used; for this purpose dissolve a tablespoonful
of the Anturic Salts in a gallon of hot water, and bathe the part
affected.
After the cure an occasional bath is desirable.
Analysis showed the salt to consist of:
Sodium carbonate, reckoned as anhydrous 96.86 per cent.
Water 2.70 „
Chloride trace
Potassium salt „
Perfume „
RHEUMSOL BATH SALTS.
This is supplied from an address near London. A tin, price 1s.,
contained about 5 oz. It is described on the tin as:
Uric Acid Solvent. For Rheumatism, Gout, etc.
Directions for use. Add the contents of this tin to a full-sized bath
of hot water. For a smaller bath less in proportion. A bath should be
taken every third night for a month.
Analysis showed the salt to consist of:
Sodium carbonate, reckoned as anhydrous 87.96 per cent.
Water 11.18 „
Chloride considerable trace
Potassium salt trace
Exsiccated sodium carbonate (_B.P._) is practically anhydrous, and
is priced in a wholesale druggist’s list at 7d. per lb. One pound of
anhydrous sodium carbonate of commercial quality represents about 2³⁄₄
lb. of common washing soda crystals.
SOME GERMAN NOSTRUMS.
Dr. F. Zernik, of Berlin, has continued the publication in the
_Deutsche Medicinische Wochenschrift_ of the results of his examination
of various German nostrums. The following notes refer to preparations
advertised for rheumatism.
_Dr. Richter’s Orudon Essence_ preparation has been introduced
at the “Hof-Apotheke” (a pharmacy holding the right of using the
affix “Court”) in Elbing as a remedy for rheumatic and analogous
affections. The directions for use are that the essence should be
taken in doses of from 4 to 6 teaspoonfuls according to the severity
of the case, diluted in a tumblerful of sugar water. It is claimed
that it contains a new chemical substance--namely, _ammonium iodatum
salicyl. solubl._--as well as other ingredients which the medical
profession has found to be most useful during the past decades.
Among these is mentioned “_diaethyl-diamin_,” aromatic extract
and brandy (cognac). It is sold in bottles, containing 135 c.cm.,
at 6s. the bottle. The fluid, which is dark brown and bitter, was
found to contain ammonium salicylate and iodide, but not a trace
of the “new” chemical substance, which Zernik points out has long
been recognised in chemistry, piperazin, which is diaethylen-diamin
and not diaethyl-diamin, as well as alcohol and some extractives
and perfumes, the nature of which could not be identified. _Orudon
Salt_ is supposed to act well in the same conditions as the essence.
A bottle of this powder costs 5s. 6d., and is stated by the
manufacturers to contain basic citrate of urea (an imaginary chemical
substance!), magnesium, sodium, lithium carbonate, citric acid,
sodium sulphate, and extract of almonds. The analysis proved it to
be a mixture of about 10 per cent. theobromine-sodio-salicylate, 10
per cent. sodium sulphate, 4 per cent. urea, 16 per cent. magnesium
citrate, 4 per cent. sodium citrate, 2 per cent. lithium citrate,
and fully 40 per cent. citric acid, together with a bitter extract.
No trace of a substance which could correspond to the alleged basic
citrate of urea was found.
_J. Völlner’s World-renowned Rheumatism Cotton-wool_ is, it is
stated, manufactured by W. Völlner, Hamburg, London, and New York. It
is claimed by the manufacturers that it produces five times as much
warmth as ordinary cotton-wool, being impregnated with the finest
kinds of resins. The packet costs 1s. and contains 86 grams of a
cotton-wool sheet, measuring 1 cm. in thickness, 36 cm. in width, and
80 cm. in length. On analysis Zernik found that the cotton-wool was
ordinary raw cotton-wool, which had been superficially singed on one
side and which was not even fat-freed. There was nothing else in the
wonderful rheumatic wool.
_Limosan_ is vaunted as a certain cure for rheumatism, gout, and
“stone.” In one of the booklets accompanying the preparation
testimonials galore were reproduced. It consists of white limosan
tablets and greyish-green laxative tablets; 30 of the former
tablets contained in a tube cost 6s., while 15 of the latter cost
6d. Several tubes are required for a course, since the patient is
told to take 10 of the white and 4 or 5 of the laxative tablets
daily. The composition is given as follows: Aethylenimin, 1 gram;
glycocol-para-phenyledin (basic), 4.5 grams; lithium carbonate,
0.1 gram; salicylic salt, 1 gram; and acetic salt, 0.4 gram. The
first-named ingredient is merely a synonym for piperazin, the second
name on the list is used instead of phenocoll, while the salicylic
salt has the same form as the substance usually known as salocoll.
The laxative tablets are stated to contain Tinavelly senna, rhamnus
purshianus, and frangula, of each 20 parts; liquorice root, rhizoma
root, of each 10 parts; peppermint, marigold, and poplar tree leaf,
of each 5 parts. The action, therefore, would depend on the senna,
cascara sagrada, and frangula. The manufacturers have, it is stated,
repeatedly been punished in courts of law for the puffing nature of
the advertisements of these limosan preparations.
_Professor Tissander’s cure for rheumatism, gout, and sciatica_ is
stated by Zernik to be sent for 4s. 6d. by “The Sabalek Syndicate,”
of London. Quoting from a letter received from this firm, the “cure”
is said to be composed of a number of reagents which act against
uric acid. These reagents, together with a kidney stimulant and a
blood purifier, are combined by “Professor” Tissander in a very
concentrated form. It is pleasant to take, and does not produce any
deleterious effects of any kind. The examination revealed that the
tablets contained sulphur, salts (chiefly alkali phosphates), and an
emodin-containing vegetable powder (rhubarb, senna). Zernik concludes
by saying: “This composition indicates sufficiently in how far the
preparation can possess the action ascribed to it.”