Every family has their own time-tested remedies and methods of tending the invalid, however, as the herbalist's apprentice, I will convey a few of my favorite receipts and basic guidance.
Avoiding the Sickbed
Adherence to a time-tested regimen that includes exercise, fresh air, and a diet avoiding acidic foods, will insure a healthy future. Keep your bowels moving freely with daily dosing of Castor oil. Avoid sudden changes in temperature, and at all cost do not stay long in wet clothing. I admit that due to impulsiveness, I have not always followed my own advice on this latter recommendation.A lesser known practice, which I heartily suggest, is the ancient method of friction. Rubbing one's body, especially the spine, with a strip of flannel or a flesh brush will stimulate stagnating humors.
Medicinal Receipts
Catarrh in the head: Snuff new milk, morning and night.
Cholera morbus: A tea of saleratus, cinnamon, and an anodyne injection.
Colic: I do not condone the use of Godfrey's Cordial or any other dosing of colicky infants with opium, instead add a fennel tincture to their milk.
Dropsy: Decoction of Black nightshade or alfalfa.
Felon: A poultice of Iris root or pokeweed wrapped around the joint.
Hydrophobia: Lunar caustic will destroy the poison.
Ringworm: Gunpowder and vinegar applied several times a day.
Warts: A paste of tobacco juice and chalk.
Worms in children: A mixture of senna, garlic, and yogurt
Nourishment for the InvalidTo hasten recovery, special dietary consideration must be given to the sick. Calves feet broth, chicken jelly, and custard egg are dependable standbys, sure to bring rosiness to the pallid cheek, but when the constitution is too weakened for this sustenance, try rice gruel or milk porridge. And when all food is adamantly turned away by your patient, especially in the case of typhus and other fevers of debility, try the healthy benefits of wine whey. The recipe is as follows:
Wine Whey
“Take a half pint of new milk, and put it on the fire until it boils. Immediately pour in two glasses of white wine and tea-spoonful of powdered sugar. Let it stand until the curd gathers in a lump and settles to the bottom, then pour your whey into a China basin. Add loaf sugar to sweeten to taste and a sprig of lemon balm.
Visiting the Patient
No one enjoys boring days in bed, so keeping your loved one's spirit up is essential. Having family and friends visit the invalid is helpful, however, too many can overtax their strength. Keep in mind brevity and levity, and your patient will prosper. For contagious diseases, be sure the visitor dons the latest disease resistant mask and robe.
Doctors' House Calls
Of course, I'm inclined toward midwives and herbalists, but I also realize physicians and barbers have a place in today's health-care. Heed my warning though, concerning overzealous physicians or those who imbibe too much of their own morphine laden concoctions. And when they over-prescribe Dover's Pills or demand to cup and bleed you, run for your life.
Leaving the Sickbed
When the feeble are strong enough, movement of the muscles and fresh air is encouraged. Always keep moderation in mind, and avoid it immediately following a meal, which can cause cramping. Reading out loud is good exercise, but not too loud as it can harm the lungs. If walking is too taxing, then invest in a good invalid carriage.
I hope these simple measures will ensure a rosy future for you, and perhaps you may find further assistance in "The Herbalist's Apprentice".
Leaving the Sickbed
When the feeble are strong enough, movement of the muscles and fresh air is encouraged. Always keep moderation in mind, and avoid it immediately following a meal, which can cause cramping. Reading out loud is good exercise, but not too loud as it can harm the lungs. If walking is too taxing, then invest in a good invalid carriage.
I hope these simple measures will ensure a rosy future for you, and perhaps you may find further assistance in "The Herbalist's Apprentice".
