Colchicum.

It is difficult to procure a reliable preparation of Colchicum, and we have been obliged to use the English wine of Colchicum. Our manufacturers in this city now prepare a fluid extract, representing ounce for ounce of the crude article. The medium dose is one drop; we do not desire a cathartic action.

Colchicum has long been used as a remedy for rheumatism and gout; and, though probably the best of the old Materia Medica, it failed of giving its best results, because used in poisonous doses. In acute and chronic rheumatism it should be employed in small doses, following or alternated with the sedatives. We only obtain its anti-rheumatic influence when the pulse and temperature are reduced to nearly a normal standard.

It is also beneficial in some cases of intestinal disturbance, especially when there are gaseous accumulations. Thus in colic from intestinal irritation, it may be employed in the proportion of gtts. xx. to water, ℥iv., a teaspoonful every two hours, with prospect of success.

It exerts an influence upon the skin, and may occasionally be employed with advantage in chronic disease of the surface.

Specific Medication and Specific Medicines, 1870, was written by John M. Scudder, M.D.