MATERIA MEDICA AND THERAPEUTICS.
Antiperioclic Properties of the Ilumulus Lupulus. By W. Y. Gad-
berry, M.D., of Benton, Miss.—As a substitute for quinine is a great
desideratum on account of its enhanced market value, I have thought a
brief notice of the antiperiodic virtues of the humulus lupulus, or com-
mon hop, might not be unacceptable to the profession. I am not aware
that any author has ascribed to this plant any such virtue. Having
used it for nearly tw-o years I can confidently state that its antiperiodic
properties equal, if they do not exceed, those of any other article of the
materia medica with which we are acquainted, quinine alone exc pted;
and, indeed, in my experience, it has often succeeded in arresting mter-
mittents after that remedy had failed. It is harmless in its effects, and
will often be borne by patients who cannot take quinine.
Every practitioner is aware of the advantage of combining an anodyne
with antipcriodics; and by reference to the works on materia medica,
the reader will see that hops possess these properties. When adminis-
tered alone the infusion is preferable, and should be made of double the
strength prescribed by the Dispensatory. One ounce infused in a pint
of boiling water may be taken during the interval, or a larger quantity
if necessary. If the secretions arc properly regulated, and there exists
no enlargement of the spleen, it will rarely fail to effect a cure of tertian
or quartan ague. It has not succeeded so well in the cases of quotidian
type as in those of more protracted intervals. The tincture was used
alone in three cases successfully. The following combination is worthy
a trial by all who desire a safe and efficient substitute for quinine :
R. Tinct. hops, tinct. Peruvian bark, aa 5 iv.
Pulv. black pepper, 5 ss.
To be given in doses of half an ounce every two hours during the in-
terval.
My limited experience will not justify an opinion upon the antiperiodic
virtue of lupuline, not having used it except in combination of quinine.
Patients to whom I have administered this combination prefer it to qui-
nine alone, on account of its soothing effect upon the nervous system.
The hop is indigenous to this country, growing abundantly in almost
every garden; and if I have not over estimated its antiperiodic virtue,
it will prove a blessing to the poor, in whose welfare the physician
should always feel a special interest.— West. Journ. Med. and Surg.