COUGH.
As a cough is a symptom of various diseases, these in addition to the cough should be treated.
Kinds of Cough.—Many writers give several different varieties, but for the sake of convenience I will divide them into two forms, namely: Acute and Chronic.
Cause.—Acute coughs are generally due to sudden exposure of cold, drafts and are the forerunning symptom of a disease of the organs of breathing.
Chronic Coughs are associated with, and are a result of sore throat, lung fever, pleurisy, bronchitis, catarrh and tuberculosis.
Treatment.—Under each disease, of which a cough is a symptom, I have also prescribed to include its supprice, yet very effective in all forms of cough: Tannic pression. The following prescription is reasonable in Acid, one ounce; Potassi Chlorate, four ounces; Potassi Nitrate, four ounces. Powder well and mix with Black Strap Molasses, one pint, placing container with contents in hot water, which assists in dissolving. When this is thoroughly mixed, add Pine Tar, one pint, and place one tablespoonful well back on the tongue with a wooden paddle every three or four hours, according to the severity of the cough.
Sometimes a liniment applied to the throat and windpipe has a good effect, and I would recommend the following on account of its penetrating qualities: Aqua Ammonia Fort., two ounces; Turpentine, two ounces; Raw Linseed Oil, four ounces. Mix and apply twice daily, shaking the contents of the bottle well before using.