Erigeron Canadensis.

Properties: Astringent, slightly diuretic and tonic.

Use. Erigeron is an astringent; but has also tonic effects on the muscles and mucous membrane. It is a useful remedy in hemorrhage from any part of the body, and as it has an astringent effect on the capillary vessels it is of value also in conditions where there is profuse mucous discharge of a chronic nature depending on atony and relaxation. We think of it in hematemesis, hemoptysis, hematuria, epistaxis, post partum hemorrhage, uterine hemorrhage and hemorrhage of the bowels in typhoid fever. In many cases, especially in uterine hemorrhages it may be combined to advantage with cinnamon. In chronic diarrhea, chronic dysentery, tympanitis, flatulent colic, it may be given where there is a condition of atony and relaxation; in these cases it should be preceded by a cathartic to empty the bowels. It is especially valuable in all passive hemorrhages in absence of marked general irritation and fever.

Dose of the oil in hemorrhages is from 5 to 10 drops, repeated every ½ to 1 hour as long as necessary. Average dose of oil otherwise is 1 to 3 drops 2 or 3 times a day. Dose varies according to condition. In hemorrhage 10 to 40 drops of the tincture diluted may be given and repeated every ½ to 1 hour until desired effect is obtained. Average dose otherwise is from 3 to 10 drops 3 or 4 times a day.

The Materia Medica and Clinical Therapeutics, 1905, was written by Fred J. Petersen, M.D.