The Specific and General Action of Iris.

F. J. NORTON, M. D., ESCANABA, MICHIGAN

I have recently had a case of liver disorder of a pronounced type in which I determined the following symptoms: The skin was highly jaundiced; the conjunctivae were very yellow; the stools were clay colored and scanty; the urine was scanty with a specific gravity of 1028, and of a reddish yellow color. The skin was exceedingly inactive, very dry and rough; there was but little pain in the region of the liver and the liver dulness was greatly constricted. There was an entire loss of appetite and with all the rest symptoms which pointed to a general muscular rheumatism. The specific liver symptoms in this case pointed directly to iris as the indicated remedy, and this remedy almost alone, with hot applications over the liver, hot baths three times a week and small doses of epsom salts each day to stimulate the intestinal tract accomplished excellent results.

Iris is a remedy that deserves our study. It is not only indicated as above but it is an excellent stimulant and tonic to the entire glandular system. Upon the lymphatic system it acts in unison with phytolacca. For this reason it may be used in bubo and in other acute glandular enlargements, as well also as in the sub-acute and chronic forms, such as adenitis and the so-called scrofulous and tubercular enlargements.

In the treatment of syphilis this remedy is a most active agent, because of the influence upon glands above referred to. I prescribe it in conjunction with phytolacca, podophyllum, chionanthus, caulophyllum, or echinacea as the case seems to demand. In the treatment of those chronic skin disorders which are attended with glandular inactivity it is of excellent service. It may be combined with berberis, or other specific remedy.

In psoriasis it may be used alone externally, while given in conjunction internally. Dr. Kinnett relates in the Feb. THERAPEUTIST an interesting case so treated. The remedy exercises an active alterative and eliminative influence through its tonic influence upon the glandular structures. In the treatment of goitre no one single remedy, perhaps, has a wider influence than this. This is especially true of recent cases, while in those of longer standing, proper combinations may be made as indicated.

Dr. Stevens claims that in the treatment of exophthalmic goitre, a combination of phytolacca and cactus, with aconite as indicated, will be found superior to many other advised methods. Iris can be combined with any or all of these with satisfactory results.

In simple stomach troubles, where there is acid vomiting with a burning sensation in the stomach, the esophagus, mouth and fauces, iris is the indicated remedy, especially if there is a profuse flow of ropy saliva.

Ellingwood's Therapeutist, Vol. 2, 1908, was edited by Finley Ellingwood M.D.