CHAPTER III.. Nerve Tonics and “elixirs of Life.”

NERVE TONICS AND “ELIXIRS OF LIFE.”

A very large class of proprietary medicines consists of those advertised as nerve tonics and restoratives of lost vitality, and a number of these are described in the present chapter. Some of them are conspicuously advertised in the newspapers, and are sold through retailers in the ordinary way; while in other cases the interest of those likely to become purchasers is usually aroused by a small advertisement with a bold headline to catch the eye--such as “Lost Manhood Restored”--in which a free book is offered, to be sent by post on application. The applicant is not only urged by the contents of the book which is sent to place himself at once under the advertiser’s treatment, but this advice is further pressed on him by letters at intervals. Medicines of this kind are not usually sold through retailers, but only direct from the advertiser to the consumer. The latter is often supplied with a list of questions to be answered, and--to judge from the examples described--when he has answered them, and paid the one or two guineas demanded, he is likely to be told that his is a complicated case requiring additional treatment, for which, of course, further payment is to be made. In some cases references occur to “our consulting physician,” or “our specialist,” etc. In regard to specialists of this anonymous kind, some facts elicited at a coroner’s inquest, mentioned in chapter XIX., throw some light on the probable value of such references. Obviously, no real expert would consent to work under such conditions as those indicated; but even if that difficulty could be got over, no satisfactory diagnosis could be made in the manner pretended, and the paying of a fee for advice in such circumstances is a very different thing from paying for the attention and skill of an expert who really investigates his cases.

In regard to the nerve tonics supplied through retailers, it will be seen that some of these consist of a few simple and commonplace drugs, the cost of which is almost negligible compared to the price charged. Others, which have only recently appeared on the market, appear to be based--at least in regard to the wording of the advertisements--on the orchitic fluid suggested by the late Dr. Brown-Séquard, and a good deal of play is made with a few terms having a scientific appearance, but serving--as, for example, “the red corpuscles or phagocytes,” and “a vital extract (C₂H₅N₁)”--only to display to anyone understanding them the ignorance of the advertiser. The last of the articles dealt with has been very extensively advertised as a “brain and nerve food”; our advertisement shows that the daily dose of this preparation, costing ninepence, represents about a teaspoonful of beaten-up egg and a wineglassful of skim milk.

PHOSFERINE.

This widely-advertised preparation is supplied at 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. and 2s. 9d. by a limited company in London. A 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. bottle was found to contain 2 fluid drachms, and a 2s. 9d. bottle just over 1 fluid ounce.

Phosferine is described in an advertisement as

The Greatest of all Tonics.

A Proven Remedy for

Nervous Debility, Influenza, Indigestion, Sleeplessness, Exhaustion, Neuralgia, Maternity Weakness, Premature Decay, Mental Exhaustion, Loss of Appetite, Lassitude, Neuritis, Faintness, Brain Fag, Anæmia, Backache, Rheumatism, Headache, Hysteria, Sciatica, and disorders consequent upon a reduced state of the nervous system.

In a circular enclosed in the package it is stated that

Phosferine is a potent strengthening medicine, withal gentle in its action and perfectly harmless; being akin to gastric juice, it rests and restores the digestive organs and regulates the bowels to normal action.

The public cannot be too strongly warned against the many purging medicines advertised for indigestion, etc., which are not only a fruitful source of piles, but injure the coating of the stomach and sap the very gastric juice Nature is straining herself to supply.

Unlike other tonic medicines, Phosferine does not injure the teeth or upset the stomach and cause constipation; on the contrary, it will be found beneficial in these conditions.

Phosferine may be taken at all times with benefit; there is no possible objection to its continued use either as an appetiser or a general strengthening and nerve remedy.

Somewhat varying directions are given as to the quantity to be taken for different ailments, the dose being stated as from five to ten drops, to be taken from twice to four times a day.

Analysis showed the presence of alcohol, quinine, phosphoric acid, and a little sulphuric acid; a trace of sodium salt was found, but this was probably an accidental impurity in the phosphoric acid; no other ingredient could be detected. Expressing the acids as the dilute acids of the British Pharmacopœia, and the quinine as the ordinary official sulphate, the formula arrived at is

Quinine sulphate 0.67 part Diluted sulphuric acid 2.5 parts by measure Diluted phosphoric acid 54.6 „ „ Alcohol 8.1 „ „ Water, to 100 „ „

The estimated cost of the ingredients for 1 fluid ounce (2s. 9d. bottle) is ¹⁄₂d.

GUY’S TONIC.

This is a liquid prepared by a London firm; a bottle priced 1s. 1¹⁄₂d. contained 6 fluid ounces. In a circular enclosed in the package it is stated that:

Guy’s Tonic is a rich Cordial prepared from Vegetable Tinctures and other curative agents found in the British Pharmacopœia.... Guy’s Tonic is not put forward as a Remedy for “all the ills to which flesh is heir,” for no such thing as a “Cure-all” exists. It is, however, confidently recommended for the specific Ailments enumerated.... The use of Guy’s Tonic will be attended with the happiest results in:--

1. Disorders of the Digestive System: Dyspepsia, Heartburn, Loss of Appetite, Pain after Food, Flatulence or Wind, a sensation of Nausea (Sickness), Furred or white-coated Tongue, unpleasant Breath, disagreeable Taste in the Mouth, Drowsiness after Eating, a feeling of weight or discomfort in the Chest, palpitation of the Heart, shortness of Breath and Acidity of the Stomach.

2. Functional Derangements of the Liver: Sluggishness, Congestion, Constipation, Biliousness, Despondency, Dizziness, Sallowness of the Complexion, Blotches on the Skin, dull pains between the Shoulders, variable Appetite, Headache, disturbed Sleep, Lassitude, and Irritability.

3. Disorders of the Blood: Anæmia, Emaciation, Paleness, Weariness, and Disorders dependent upon a Vitiated or Impoverished condition of the Vital Fluid.

4. Nervous Maladies: Neuralgia, Nervousness, Hysteria, Giddiness, Alcoholism, disturbed Sleep, unpleasant Dreams, confused Thoughts, lack of Confidence, Loss of Memory, Depression, Melancholy, Exhaustion, Languor, and affections due to Malnutrition of the Brain and Spinal Cord.

5. General Diseases: Gout, Rheumatism, Rheumatic Gout, Lumbago, and Disorders characterised by Perverted Nutrition and Lack of Vital Force.

6. Convalescence from Acute Diseases: also in cases of recovery from Influenza, Fevers, Bronchitis, and other exhausting Diseases, and in General Debility and Prostration from whatever cause arising.

The dose is stated on the label to be:

For adults, one tablespoonful. Under 9 years, one dessertspoonful. Under 2 years, one teaspoonful.

Analysis showed it to contain small quantities of hydrochloric and phosphoric acids, alcohol, bitter and aromatic substances and colouring matter, and a trace of chloroform. No alkaloid was present; the bitter and aromatic substances present in very small amount agreed well with those of the official compound infusion of gentian; the behaviour of the colouring matter indicated that it was cochineal. The quantities of the two acids and the alcohol were determined, and the amounts of the other ingredients estimated by methods of comparison. The following formula gives an exactly similar mixture:

Diluted hydrochloric acid 0.59 parts by measure Diluted phosphoric acid 0.52 „ „ Alcohol 2.27 „ „ Compound infusion of gentian 40 „ „ Chloroform water 50 „ „ Cochineal colouring a sufficiency Water, to 100 parts by measure

The estimated cost of the ingredients of 6 fluid ounces is ¹⁄₂d.

VITAE ORE.

The article sold under this name is supplied by a limited company in London, price 4s. 6d. per package.

An offer to send a package, containing sufficient for one month, to be paid for only if benefit is received, is largely advertised. The advertisement usually includes an illustration of a man’s head, said to represent “Prof. Theo. Noel,” described as “the well-known geologist.” The following are extracts from one of these advertisements:

I discovered by accident the dried residue of the greatest curative spring in the world. It seemed worth while to try whether this, when redissolved, would have mineral spring virtues. The results astonished me and those who experienced them. The spring was a marvel--far exceeding anything that Homburg, Harrogate, Aix, Bath, or any other spa can show. Some untraceable element defying the chemist’s analysis--is it Radium?--enters into the rock. Whatever the element may be, its effect can be distinctly felt when the drink made from this deposit, which I call Vitae Ore, or “life-rock,” is taken as a beverage. Those who use it say that it gives a degree of buoyant, cheerful energy, which they never, perhaps, experienced before.

Everyone knows a few people with health and vigour to spare--the men whose breezy personality carries all before it, so that no one can resist them; the women whose warm bloom and feminine grace capture all hearts. Well, Vitae Ore will give these things to ALL, if used as I will tell you how to use it. No artificial drug enters into it. No artificial drug can rival its effects.

Whether you are well or ill--strong or weak--Vitae Ore will give you new life. Under its influence Nature herself cures

Rheumatism Sciatica Gout Anæmia Dropsy Catarrh Indigestion Constipation Nervous Exhaustion and all Liver, Blood, and Stomach Diseases....

Its effect in giving new vigour and nerve-force to people of mere ordinary health, turning them into noticeably and radiantly strong men and women, makes it worth using in every case....

How to use Vitae Ore.

Vitae Ore comes to you as a box of powder. You simply dissolve it in a pint of cold water, and of this mixture drink a teaspoonful in a half-tumbler of water three times a day, and at bedtime, for a month. In a few days, a week, or later, according to your present condition, you will begin to notice greater strength, better digestion, higher spirits, a clearer complexion, a healthier appetite. These are the effects of the new vitality in Vitae Ore.

A 4s. 6d. package contained 137 grains of the substance; analysis showed it to contain a slightly basic but soluble iron sulphate, magnesium sulphate, and combined water; the quantity of each constituent was determined and found to be as follows:

Ferric oxysulphate, calculated as anhydrous 47.57 per cent. Magnesium sulphate, calculated as anhydrous 15.89 „ Water, in combination 36.54 „

No other substance was detected. The iron, magnesium, sulphate, and water were all determined separately, and, as the figures add up to 100.00 per cent., not much is left for “some untraceable element defying the chemist’s analysis.” If the directions, quoted above, are followed, each dose would contain:

Iron oxysulphate, anhydrous 0.47 grain. Magnesium sulphate, anhydrous 0.15 „

The estimated cost of the ingredients contained in one package is about one-eighth of a penny.

COCAPHOS.

This preparation is supplied by a firm in London. A box priced 4s. 6d. contained 94 tablets.

The following extracts are from an advertisement in a magazine:

Gavin’s “Cocaphos” Puts New Life Into You.... You cannot do your work if you are in a nervous state; the worry and stress of modern life tells on the best of constitutions. Many fly to stimulants and find temporary relief, but as there is always reaction, they find it necessary to continue taking them, and thus a bad habit is formed. When you feel run down and need energy and go the finest thing to take to brace you up and allow you to make the most of your opportunities, to remove that tired feeling, and to build up your nervous system is “COCAPHOS.” This is composed of the finest ingredients for the purpose, acknowledged by the Medical Profession to be a fine recuperative tonic.

The dose is given on the label as “One tablet after each meal.”

The tablets were sugar-coated, and coloured red externally; after removal of the coating the average weight was 3.9 grains. Analysis showed the presence of:

In one tablet. Iron hypophosphite 20 per cent. 0.78 grain. Quinine sulphate 2.8 „ 0.10 „ Extract (probably damiana) about 50 „ 2 grains. Sugar Talc 11 „

The extract agreed in characters and tests with extract of damiana; it was not possible to determine exactly how much was present. The name of the article appears to imply that a preparation of coca is present; no evidence was obtained of any, but a small proportion of extract of coca, if present, could not be identified in the presence of the extract of damiana.

The estimated cost of ingredients for 94 tablets is 8¹⁄₄d. The most costly ingredient is the extract of damiana, which is also the least certain in quantity; probably the figure given is a liberal estimate.

DAMAROIDS.

The tablets sold under the name “Damaroids” are supplied by a limited company in London at 2s. 9d. and 4s. 6d. per box. A 2s. 9d. box contained 36 tablets.

“Damaroids” are thus described in an advertisement:

They are a Safe and Sure Cure of General Weakness, Physical Decay, and Loss of Nerve Power, Varicocele, etc., etc. They are a Unique and Wonderful Specific for men. Effectually Restore Lost Vitality and Stamina, counteract result of late hours, etc. “Damaroids” is The True Nervo-Spinal Tonic, the Safest and most effective medicine yet introduced for nervous and all exhausting diseases.

They have cured thousands of cases--and they Do cure.

On the label they are described as:

A Safe and Sure Remedy for General Weakness, Spinal Exhaustion, Neurasthenia, Physical Decay, and Loss of Nerve Power.

Directions:--One to be swallowed three times a day, after meals.

The tablets were sugar-coated and coloured red externally; after removal of the coating they had an average weight of 3.9 grains. They exactly resembled the tablets just described as “Cocaphos” and showed the same composition, with some difference in the proportions of the ingredients. The figures arrived at are:

In one tablet. Iron hypophosphite 14.2 per cent. 0.55 grain. Quinine sulphate 3.4 „ 0.13 „ Extract (probably damiana) about 50 „ 2 grains. Sugar Talc 16 „

The same remarks apply here as in the preceding case, and the cost would be approximately the same, about 3d. for the ingredients of 36 tablets.

INVIGOROIDS.

The tablets sold under the name Invigoroids are supplied from an address in Yorkshire at 2s. 9d. per box containing 54 tablets.

They are thus described in a circular:

Invigoroids are a pure and powerful nerve and organic tonic and food, designed to replace (at a reasonable price) the highly priced and pernicious remedies that are so common. With results much more beneficial and yet with no evil after-effects, Invigoroids are worth their weight in gold to suffering, sorrowful men, and are regularly prescribed by leading specialists. Invigoroids create blood, nerve force and energy. Fill weak and worn-out men with healthy life and rampant vigour. Make existence a perfect pleasure, and render the system disease-proof and capable of sustaining prolonged exertion in any form.

The only Cure for Impotence in Men....

We Speak to You If your complaint is amongst the following: Back Pains, Brain Fag, Dejection, General Weakness, Head Pains, Hysteria, Impotence, Loss of Flesh, Lost Vitality, Nerve Paralysis, Nervous Debility, Senile Decay, Unnatural Forebodings, Weakness of Generative Organs, etc.

In a newspaper advertisement it is stated that:

Invigoroids contain free phosphorus (nerve and brain food) and rare herbal blood and flesh-forming specifics.

The directions on the label were: “Take one three times daily.” The label was printed, “Take two, twice or three times daily,” but this was altered in ink, not very clearly, to the preceding.

The tablets were sugar-coated and coloured red externally, after removal of the coating they had an average weight of 2.8 grains. Analysis showed the presence of asafœtida, ferrous carbonate, zinc phosphide, strychnine, brucine, and sugar of milk. The alkaloids were probably added in the form of extract of nux vomica, and the amount of this is calculated from the proportion of alkaloids found; the asafœtida was estimated from the proportion of resin found. The results of tests for the zinc phosphide were somewhat obscured by the other substances present; the amount was calculated from the proportion of zinc found. The ferrous carbonate is calculated as the official saccharated carbonate. The formula so arrived at is:

In One Tablet. Extract of nux vomica 1.0 per cent. 0.028 grain. Zinc phosphide 2.4 „ 0.067 „ Saccharated carbonate of iron 18.0 „ 0.50 „ Asafœtida 9.0 „ 0.25 „ Sugar of milk.

The package was not labelled “Poison,” although it would appear to come within the schedule of the Poisons and Pharmacy Act.

The estimated cost of the ingredients for fifty-four tablets is ¹⁄₂d.

DR. MORGAN’S RADIO-VIMETTES.

This preparation is supplied by a limited company in London at 2s. 9d. per box, containing 20 pills. They are advertised in the following terms:

Proved by thousands to be unsurpassed in restoring lost vitality and strength in all cases of Debility, Nervous Exhaustion, Lost Vitality, Varicocele, and all Diseases of the Blood, Nerves, and Brain. Not a quack remedy, but compounded from the Private prescription of a celebrated Doctor.

A supply was obtained by post, and a few days later a letter was received from the makers as follows:

Dear Sir,

We sent you a week ago a course of Dr. Morgan’s “Radio-Vimettes,” and as in every case in which these are sent, we take, not merely an interest to sell the Vimettes, but a genuine interest in your ailment and its cure, we are writing now to know just what benefit has accrued from the course of treatment you have had.

If your case is a mild one we have no doubt that by this time your nerves are strengthened, your energy restored and your general vitality and health renewed, and it only remains for us to say how glad we are that the Vimettes have once more vindicated their claim to supremacy.

If, on the other hand, you had not regarded the first signs of disease and wrote us only when nature positively demanded relief from suffering we know that you cannot possibly be ENTIRELY CURED, and if such is your ailment, our interest in its eradication still continues firm. For all such ailments our primary desire is to relieve, and should you still be suffering we beg you to let us know AT ONCE, not merely saying “I am not cured,” but by writing a quiet, friendly letter saying just how you feel, giving particulars of your case,--the cause--and the result. Direct this to “The Specialist” marked “Private,” and it will then be read only by him, regarded by him as most strictly confidential and, if desired, returned to you. Enclose a stamp for return postage and you will then obtain full advice on your case FREE OF ALL CHARGE, and we sincerely trust that by so writing health, strength, and vitality may be yours again.

A leaflet was enclosed on “Special Courses of Radio-Vimette Treatment,” from which it appears that there are three such courses, referred to as: “No. 1. Neurasthenic; No. 2. Urinary; No. 3. Impotence.”

The Courses of Treatment in each case enumerated above are put up in two forms, the supply being sufficient approximately for one month’s treatment.

No. 1. SPECIAL STRENGTH for mild cases, 11s. per Course, Carriage Paid.

No. 2. CONCENTRATED for severe cases and cases of long standing, 21s. per Course, Carriage Paid.

The best advice of the Specialist is at the services of every Patient free of all charge, and in every case correspondence is treated in the strictest confidence.

A list of questions to be answered was also sent.

The dose is given, in a circular of “General Directions,” as follows:

The Ordinary Strength Radio-Vimettes will be found sufficiently powerful for all mild cases of Nerve trouble, such as NERVOUS DYSPEPSIA, HEADACHES, etc.

For these troubles One Radio-Vimette should be taken night and morning after meals.

The pills were ovoid in shape, sugar-coated, and coloured purple externally. After removal of the coating they had an average weight of 3.7 grains. Analysis showed the presence of free phosphorus, reduced iron, quinine sulphate, and excipient. The amounts found were:

In One Pill. Reduced iron 70 per cent. 2.6 grains. Quinine sulphate 11.8 „ 0.44 grain. Phosphorus 0.13 „ 0.005 „

The estimated cost of the ingredients for twenty pills is ¹⁄₂d.

GORDON’S VITAL SEXUALINE RESTORATIVE.

This preparation and a number of others are supplied by a firm in a Yorkshire town. The price of this “restorative” is 22s. per bottle, holding 21 fluid ounces.

The usual advertisement is of a pamphlet called “Strength, How Lost, How Regained,” which is thus referred to:

Interesting and instructive remarks to young and middle-aged men on “How to Preserve Strength and Retain the Powers.” A Brief Treatise on Nervous Exhaustion, Loss of Strength, and Debility in Men. This book not only contains valuable remarks on how to preserve Strength and retain the Powers to an advanced age, but points out the best means of restoring Exhausted Vitality, Poverty of Nerve Force, Mental Depression, and will especially interest those who wish to create Vitality, increase Nerve Stamina, renew the Vital Forces, or fit themselves for business, study, or marriage.

The pamphlet is further entitled:

“A Confidential Treatise on Nervous Exhaustion, Spermatorrhœa, Varicocele, Generative Weakness, Debility, Special Diseases and Urinary Derangements in Men, THEIR CAUSE AND CURE, By Concentrated Herbal Remedies. A Popular, Practical, and Moral Exposition of Some of the Fundamental Problems of Sociology. By Charles Gordon, P.M.B.”

“P.M.B.,” it may be noted, does not represent any known medical qualification, but is of unknown signification, and is probably intended to suggest to the ignorant some sort of medical degree.

It is a booklet of 43 pages, with sections on Onanism, Spermatorrhœa, Marriage, Varicocele, Impotence, Gonorrhœa, Gleet, Syphilis, etc. An “advice form” was also sent, containing a list of questions to be answered by those desiring medicine.

A price list gives the prices of the following: Vital Sexualine Restorative (described as “for Onanism, Night Emissions, Seminal Losses, Waste of Vitality, Brain Fag, Depression, General Weakness, Loss of Energy, Nervous Debility, Spermatorrhœa, and Varicocele”), Viro-Erectile Elixir, Anti-Syphilitic Mixture, Bubo Compound, Gleet Compound, Gonorrhœal Mixture, and Gravolene, all at 22s. per bottle, and Gentiana Tonic and Varixolene Liniment, at 11s. per bottle.

On the label of the “Vital Sexualine” it is called:

The Great Nerve Restorative, Brain Fertilizer, and Vital Tonic. Feeds, Strengthens, and Sustains the Nerves, prevents Losses and waste of Vitality, Creates Nervous Fluid, Brain Matter and Nerve Force. Brightens the intellect, improves the memory and mental faculties, restores strength, and promotes a renewal of life in the entire system. A proven remedy for all weakened conditions of the system dependent upon the deficiency of the vital forces.

Permanently Cures--Neurasthenia, Nervous Breakdown, Brain Fag, Depression, Loss of Energy, Sleeplessness, Nervous Headache, Melancholia, Trembling, Poverty of Nerve Force, Nervous Prostration, General Weakness, Loss of Strength, Exhausted Vitality, Premature Decay, Brain Wreckage, Neuralgia, Nerve Tire, etc.

Dose.--One small teaspoonful in a wineglassful of cold water three times a day, immediately after meals.

The liquid was reddish-brown in colour, and syrupy. Analysis showed it to contain:

In One Dose. Iron hypophosphite 0.50 part 0.27 grains. Calcium hypophosphite 0.50 „ 0.27 „ Sodium hypophosphite 0.60 „ 0.32 „ Potassium hypophosphite 0.14 „ 0.07 „ Quinine sulphate 0.50 „ 0.27 „ Citric acid 0.90 „ 0.48 „ Sugar (approx.) 51 parts Glycerine „ 36 parts by measure Colouring matter Water to 100 „ „ „

Metallic hypophosphites are not generally considered to be “concentrated herbal remedies.”

The estimated cost of the ingredients for 21 fluid ounces is 10¹⁄₂d.

THE MARSTON TREATMENT.

This is supplied by a firm in London, and is advertised as follows:

EVERY MAN

Suffering from GENERAL and PHYSICAL DEBILITY should send for a Valuable Pamphlet explaining how all Nervous and Organic Derangement may be successfully treated without stomach medication. The method is easy and pleasant, and will effect a perfect and permanent cure. Sent in a plain sealed envelope post free 2 stamps.

Application to the address given brought a paper-covered book of seventy-two pages, entitled A Treatise on the Modern Treatment of Nervous Diseases and Exhaustion in Men by Local Absorption, the scope of which is indicated by the following extracts:

The object of this treatise is to describe, in as clear and simple a manner as possible, for the non-professional reader, the various diseases and affections resulting in the nervous and sexual systems from the indulgence of early pernicious habits, excessive venery, fast living, and other irregularities, the product of our modern civilisation....

In issuing this edition of our treatise on NERVOUS DISEASES, we desire especially to point out that ours is not an empirical or secret treatment, nor do we use merely one single preparation and designate it a cure-all and panacea for every variety of disease. On the contrary, the Remedies used are varied, and such as long experience in the treatment of Nervous and Sexual ailments have proved to be the most valuable in their cure. Our object is to prescribe the course necessary to be taken to ensure the result expected or hoped for; we claim no new or occult discoveries in the domain of Medicine or Pharmacy, but we do claim that our method of combining medicinal drugs, in the form of a suppository and applying them directly to the immediate locality of the diseases described in this treatise, is not only more successful in its results but is more effectual and rational than purely stomach drugging for nervous Diseases allied with sexual troubles.

The book was accompanied by various other papers, and a letter from which the following extracts are taken:

If for any reason after a perusal of our book you are unable to select the course of treatment necessary, you may give us a full and as clear a statement as possible of your symptoms, and we will submit it to the consulting physician, when such course as will meet the requirements of your case will be prescribed. The treatment can be sent to you by post, together with the necessary medical and hygienic advice suitable for your case.

Should you still have any doubt as to the advantages of rectal treatment in your case, possibly owing to some complication that does not enter within the scope of our treatise, we shall be glad to hear from you, and any letters will be treated in the fullest confidence. Consultation personally or by letter free of charge.

In a subsequent letter the following occurs:

We are well aware that there are firms in existence which treat nervous debility on similar lines to our own, but we again emphatically claim and challenge all rivals to contradict the fact, viz., that we are the oldest established advertising medical business, and that we were the first to originate the Rectal Method for the cure of Nervous and Sexual Diseases.

From the papers sent it appears that five kinds of treatment are supplied, as follows:

Graded Course for the cure of Seminal Losses, Spermatorrhœa, etc.

Impotence Course for the cure of Impotence, Loss of Sexual Vigour, Erectile Power, etc.

Urinary and Prostatic Course for all troubles of the Prostate Gland, Bladder, Kidneys, etc.

Developing Course for Atrophy or Wasting and Shrinkage of the Organs, etc.

Neurasthenic or Nervine Tonic Course for General Weakness, Debility, Loss of Memory, Sleeplessness, Melancholy, Despondency, Depression, Neuralgia, Brain Exhaustion, and all those conditions arising from Debility associated with Nervous Diseases.

The price of the treatment is the same in all cases, namely, £1 1s. for one month’s treatment, and £2 2s. for three months’ treatment, of any course.

In a third letter it was stated that--

To convince you of our confidence in our Treatment to effect your cure, we will send you a three months’ course of treatment upon receipt of One-Half the Regular Price, namely, 21s., and you need not pay the balance of 21s. unless you are perfectly satisfied with the results.

A guinea was accordingly sent for a three months’ supply of the Nervine Tonic Course; this elicited a request for answers to the printed questions that were sent, and a sample of urine, for “our Consulting Physician.” The question paper was therefore filled in with particulars of an imaginary case of nocturnal emissions, and sent with a sample of normal healthy urine to which some glycerine and water had been added. Three boxes of suppositories were received, with a letter, of which the principal parts were as follows:

We have your favour with answers to questions and sample of urine enclosed, and our Consulting Physician has submitted the latter to a careful examination, and we are pleased to inform you that it was found to be of normal specific gravity, and showed no evidence of any organic kidney disease, but an examination of the urinary débris, together with the statements made in the diagnosis form discloses sufficient evidence to convince us that your nerve and sexual system is very much below par, and in order to bring about your complete restoration to sexual health and strength it will be necessary for you to undergo the treatment our Consulting Physician has prescribed in your case....

You will therefore see that it is absolutely necessary in your case for you to undergo, in addition to the Tonic Course which you ordered in your previous letter, a three months’ treatment of the Graded Course to permanently check all losses either at stool, in your urine, or by nightly emissions, and by this means a reinvigoration of the exhausted seminal secreting organs will be gradually effected. This course could be used every night whilst you are using the Tonic Course every morning ... we forward you herewith a three months’ treatment of the Tonic Course.... Use from box No. 1 the first month, box No. 2 the second month, and box No. 3 the third month.... If you would like to follow our advice and use the Graded Course at night and will remit the reduced fee of 21s. for the same, the further remedy will be at once prepared and sent you....

Each box contained 29 suppositories, or 87 in all, having an average weight of 16¹⁄₂ grains. All three kinds were found to be similar in composition; they differed a little in the proportions of the ingredients, but, as the drugs are not soluble in the fat, suppositories of such a composition, if prepared by melting and pouring into moulds, would show such differences in strength as those found, unless prepared in very small quantities and with extreme care. The composition shown by analysis was:

----------------------+-------------+-------------+------------- | No. 1. | No. 2. | No. 3. ---- +-----+-------+-----+-------+-----+------- | Per |Grains | Per |Grains | Per |Grains |Cent.|in One.|Cent.|in One.|Cent.|in One. ----------------------+-----+-------+-----+-------+-----+------- Calcium hypophosphite | 0.4| 0.07 | 0.3| 0.05 | 0.3| 0.05 Powdered gentian and | | | | | | powdered cinchona bark| 2.1| 0.35 | 3.7| 0.61 | 2.7| 0.45 Oil of theobroma | 97.5| -- | 96.0| -- | 97.0| -- ----------------------+-----+-------+-----+-------+-----+-------

The two vegetable drugs could not, of course, be determined separately; they appeared to be present in something like equal quantities.

The estimated cost of the ingredients for the eighty-seven suppositories (ordinary charge 42s.) is 5d.

MURRAY’S COMBINED TREATMENT.

This “treatment,” which has so great a resemblance in many respects to the preceding as to suggest that it can hardly be merely accidental, is supplied by another London firm.

It is advertised as follows:

BOON TO MAN.

All Men suffering from Nervous Exhaustion, Physical Debility, and all Allied Troubles, should send for my Illustrated Book, fully describing Symptoms, together with most modern scientific method of cure, including hundreds of testimonials of complete cures. No Trusses. No Electricity. Sent sealed Post free two stamps.

On application to the address given two paper books and a small pamphlet were sent. The first entitled The Combined Stomach and Rectal Treatment for the Permanent Cure of Nervous Debility and Sexual Diseases, including Spermatorrhœa, Impotence, and other Disorders, resulting from these Conditions, is a booklet of eighty-four pages, from which some extracts are given below; the second is a booklet of forty pages, entitled Varicocele: Its Symptoms and Cure; and the pamphlet, of eight pages, is entitled A Treatise on Venereal Diseases Gonorrhœa, Gleet, Stricture, etc.

The “Treatment” is thus explained:

The present therapeutic methods of treating Nervous Debility may be described as three distinct systems, viz.:--Treatment by the Stomach alone, Treatment by Local Absorption, through the means of the Rectum or opening of the lower bowel, and the Murray system of combined Rectal and Stomach Treatment.

The two former methods used separately have proved of considerable advantage in removing some of the distressing symptoms of this disease, but the successful cure of Nervous Debility, needless to say, depends upon the cure and removal of every symptom associated with the disease.... This result is effected by “Murray’s Treatment,” which has received the appellation “Combined” from its peculiar means of administration. It comprises two forms of treatment. The first consisting of prescribed remedies taken by means of the stomach.... The second form ... is that of a Rectal Suppository.

The books were accompanied by various papers and a letter of the usual type, which was followed at intervals by others, in one of which it was stated that:

It is always the earnest endeavour of my Consulting Physician to carry out to a successful issue the many cases that come under our care, and I am glad to say that the results have in no way contradicted my claims as to this satisfactory issue.

In all cases that are submitted to my opinion, it is honestly given after consulting with my Physician, and in no case do we encourage or give hopes of a successful cure in those chronic cases which sometimes do not yield to treatment.

From the book it appears that five “courses” are supplied--namely:

The Nervine Tonic and Brain Food Course. The Seminal Course. The Impotence Course. The Genito-Urinary Course. The Atrophy Course.

From a long and varied experience in the treatment of Nervous Debility my Physician and myself find it very requisite that three months’ treatment should be prescribed in order to bring about a thorough and complete cure.

The fee for a three months’ Treatment is £2 2s.

The fee for a month’s Treatment is £1 1s.

No order having been sent, a further letter was received, containing the following offer:

... I shall be most happy to make such reduction in the cost of the treatment as I hope will adapt itself to your means; and to show you the confidence I have in the value and benefits of my method of cure, I am willing to meet you in the matter of payment, and would suggest your paying me, say, 20s. for a three months’ course, and the balance of 22s. I shall only expect or look for, provided that you are perfectly satisfied with the results obtained from its use.

Twenty shillings was then sent for the “Nervine Course,” and brought a request for answers to the questions on a sheet forwarded, and a sample of urine. The questions were answered in the same way as for the Marston Treatment (above), and a sample of the same mixture of urine, glycerine, and water was sent. Not only was the result the same, that is, a discovery that an additional course--at an additional fee--was necessary, but it was conveyed in very similar words:

It is evident that your case is more complicated than your first letter indicated, and from the full particulars to hand, together with result of examination of urine, your case needs in addition to the Nervine Tonic Course a Special Seminal Course to permanently check all seminal losses, whether at stool, in the urine, nightly or otherwise, and it will strengthen the now weakened seminal secreting ducts. This extra Course would have to be used in the morning, and in conjunction with the night Course they will act in harmony with each other and attack every symptom of your case.... I shall be pleased to let you have this extra Course on the same reduced terms, viz., 20s., and upon receipt of this amount it will immediately be prepared and sent you with full directions, and I trust you will see your way clear to order the same at once so that they may be used conjointly.

The preparations sent consisted of three boxes of gelatine perles (called “gelatinoids”) marked “No. 1,” “No. 2,” and “No. 3,” each box containing 10, and three boxes of suppositories, similarly marked, each containing 30. It was explained that:

I am only sending you the first month’s gelatinoids, as it may be necessary to modify these next month.

The general directions were to use a suppository

from box No. 1 first day, box No. 2 second day, and box No. 3 third day, recommencing with box No. 1 again on fourth day, and so on in this order day after day. The Stomach Gelatinoids are to be swallowed and in same alternative order as Rectal Treatment.

The directions on the gelatinoids were “Take one every morning after breakfast.”

Gelatinoids No. 1.

Each contained 0.75 grain of quinine sulphate, partly dehydrated, equivalent to 0.84 grain of the B.P. salt. No other substance was present.

Gelatinoids No. 2.

The contents of one had an average weight of 1.35 grains, and contained:

Ferrous phosphate (Fe₃2PO₄,8H₂O) 26 per cent. Quinine phosphate (Q₂H₃PO₄,8H₂O) 35 „ Strychnine. Talc 11 „ Milk-sugar.

The strychnine was only a small proportion of the alkaloid, and the amount of material available did not suffice for its separate determination.

Gelatinoids No. 3.

The contents of one had an average weight of 1.66 grains, and consisted of a brown extract agreeing in most characters and tests with extract of damiana. No other ingredient could be detected, but some other extract might have been present, as a mixture of some vegetable extracts could not be separated with such a small quantity as was available.

The estimated cost of the ingredients of the 30 gelatinoids is 1¹⁄₄d.

The Suppositories.

All the three kinds of suppositories had the same constituents, only showing such small variations in the amounts as would be inevitable in making a large quantity in the usual way; the average weight was 16 grains. Analysis showed the presence of:

----------------------+-------------+-------------+------------- | No. 1. | No. 2. | No. 3. ---- +-----+-------+-----+-------+-----+------- | Per |Grains | Per |Grains | Per |Grains |cent.|in One.|cent.|in One.|cent.|in One. ----------------------+-----+-------+-----+-------+-----+------- Calcium hypophosphite | 4·05| 0·7 | 3·54| 0·6 | 3·70| 0·6 Powdered gentian and | | | | | | powdered cinchona bark| 3·90| 0·6 | 4·30| 0·7 | 5·30| 0·9 Oil of theobroma |92·05| -- |92·16| -- |91·00| -- ----------------------+-------+-----+-----+-------+-----+-------

In the mixture of powdered gentian and cinchona, the former appeared to constitute more than half.

The estimated cost of the ingredients for 90 suppositories is 5¹⁄₂d., and therefore of the entire “combined treatment” 6³⁄₄d.

SEQUARINE.

Sequarine is supplied by a firm in London, at the price of 8s. a bottle, holding 1 fluid ounce. It is advertised as “The New Serum Cure,” and both newspaper advertisements and the descriptive pamphlet sent on application include what is stated to be a portrait of “The Discoverer, Dr. Brown-Sequard, F.R.S.” It is stated in the pamphlet that:

Since the discovery of blood circulation by Harvey there has been no greater addition to the forces of medical science than the strength producing element discovered by Professor Brown-Sequard, F.R.C.P. (London), L.L.D. (Cambridge). This element, which is the Serum-Sequarine, has already become an indispensable aid to physicians.... The new serum has been given various names, such as “Sequard Fluid” and “Spermine,” etc., but the registered and generally recognised name of Professor Brown-Sequard’s discovery is “Sequarine”--a name derived from that of the discoverer himself, thus: Sequar--ine.

Since the general nature of the preparation is thus indicated, it is not altogether a “secret” remedy; but from the way in which it is advertised to the public, and the attempt to identify Brown-Séquard’s orchitic fluid (which, of course, is not a serum) with the preparation supplied by this particular firm under a registered trade name, it is fairly to be classed among nostrums.

The following is an extract from a newspaper advertisement:

Nature and Action of the Serum.

According to leading physicians the nature of Sequarine and the manner of action on the human organism in curing disease may be briefly summarised as follows:

Within every animal body there exists a “power of disease resistance,” the principle of “natural immunity”; this power resists the entrance of any disease into the body, and if it is of normal strength readily repels the disease even after it has gained entrance. In treating disease doctors are aided greatly by the principle of “natural immunity.” The homœopaths rely on it almost entirely--and in a great many instances drugs get the credit for a cure when vital resistance has really effected it. The greatest scientists have always been baffled in their endeavours to discover the element or force which is the basis of this peculiar power. In his search for this element Professor Brown-Sequard discovered that there exists in the blood infinitesimal quantities of a fluid which subsequently proved to be the basis of the power of natural immunity from disease.

This fluid is the serum which has been named Sequarine in his honour.

What Sequarine Cures.

Sequarine is a cure for any ailment or weakness brought about by lack of nerve power or an accumulation of impurities in any part of the body.

The attempt to secure the prestige of the name of the late Dr. Brown-Séquard, without stating precisely that he was in any way responsible for the article now sold as Sequarine, is very obvious in a circular letter sent with the pamphlet referred to above, from which the following is an extract:

Since the introduction of Sequarine into England an ever-increasing number of sufferers have taken this treatment with remarkable success. The name of Dr. Brown-Sequard, L.L.D. (Cambridge), Fellow of the Royal Society and Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians (London), is a sufficient guarantee of its efficacy.

The directions on the label are:

Dose.--Adults, 20-30 drops; children, 5-15 drops in half-a-glass of water (soda-water or water which has been previously boiled preferred).

To be taken three times daily, half-an-hour before meals.

The liquid contained 35.8 per cent. by volume of alcohol, and a sufficient trace of oil of peppermint to give a flavour; on evaporation it left 1.9 per cent. of solid residue, of which 0.6 was ash--principally sodium and potassium phosphates. The nitrogen present was 0.22 per cent., equivalent to 1.4 per cent. of protein, but a small portion of it was present as ammonia, perhaps formed by decomposition of nitrogenous organic matter. The liquid was thus shown to be of the nature of an animal extract, with alcohol; definite constituents could not, of course, be isolated.

NEUROVRIL.

The preparation known as Neurovril is supplied by the Neurovril Company, London. The price is 21s. per bottle, “sufficient for one month,” or 7s. 6d. for a smaller bottle, “sufficient for one week.” The smaller bottle was found to contain nearly 3 fluid ounces. An advertisement occupying the space of a column in a London daily paper, is headed, in large letters,

HAS THE ELIXIR OF LIFE BEEN DISCOVERED?

Amazing Results of Great Health Discovery announced To-day.

And the first paragraphs are as follows:

There is announced to-day a mysterious serum, which, whilst according relief in cases of severe illnesses, apparently, from the statements made, actually introduces into the body not a mere stimulating force, but life itself. Although the discovery has been made by a Continental scientist, he has already sent particulars to his confrères all over the world, and so important do British scientists consider this matter, that they are making every effort to place the information at once in the hands of those who are ailing.

The amazing successes that have attended the application of this wonderful new health discovery have aroused on all hands the question: “Has the Elixir of Life at last been discovered?”

After much more of the same sort, it continues:

The new serum is a new food for use in cases of

Loss of Memory, Headache, Exhaustion, Nervous Weakness, Brain Fag, Melancholia, Irritability, Slackness, Nervous Prostration, Partial Paralysis.

It is a blood food for use in cases of

Anæmia, Rheumatism, Sciatica, Impoverished Blood, Kidney Troubles, Disordered Liver.

It is a physical food for use in cases of

Wasting Tissue, Lack of Muscular Vigour, Weak Back, Thinness, Aged Appearance, Premature Decline.

The wonderful result after even the first dose will be a delightful sensation to those who have long lost the vigour of full manhood or womanhood.

A booklet is sent on application, from which the following passages are quoted:

When it is said that old men and women are made young, that the decrepit take on a new virility, that the yellow-hued cheeks assume the roses of youth, and the worn out brain gains new power to think and control action--these are facts beyond all disputing.

The great new basic serum makes it possible to defy the approach of age, and, better still, enables men and women to come back from the realms of senile decay and continuous illness to the vigour of perfect man and womanhood. Tissue by tissue, new flesh, new energy-creating cells are formed, and as the basic serum is absorbed into the system, throughout the whole body is carried on a work of rejuvenation....

Realising the inutility of conducting investigation on stereotyped lines, elaborate search was made for a new idea, and in a most singular manner the secret that proved the keynote of our scientist’s success was found. His work involved ceaseless laboratory experiments through the realms of organic chemistry and physiological science, and demanded abnormal patience....

Further experiments proved that the new basic serum not only supplied vitality and strength to the body, but could be prepared in such a way as to prove an anti-toxin, a means of resisting and curing illness....

To say that Neurovril contains protoplasmic life is no rash assertion; it is a perfectly true statement proven by exhaustive laboratory tests.

Teeming with millions of life centres, every drop of Neurovril introduced into the body effects a wonderful change. The life centres develop and give up their energy to the body....

The following appears on the label:

Analysis of Active Principle:

75 per cent. phosphates, immediately assimilable. 20 „ albumen, remarkable for creating virility. 2 „ carbonate calcic. 3 „ water. Total = 100 per cent.

The directions are:

Take of this Tonic, regularly, half of a Neurovril glass (supplied with this bottle) night and morning directly after meals.

“Half of a neurovril glass” is about 5 fluid drachms. Analysis showed that 100 parts (by measure) of “neurovril” contained 18.9 parts (by measure) of alcohol, and gave 19.1 parts of residue on evaporation, of which 18.1 parts consisted of sugar. A trace of oil of cloves was present, giving a slight clove odour, and a faint odour like that of an animal extract in a state of incipient decomposition could also be detected.

The liquid was slightly turbid, and a trace of fatty substance was present. No appreciable amount of “serum” or other animal substance was present; only the slightest indication of a trace of nitrogenous matter could be detected, this being of the nature of an organic base, and the amount of phosphate was so small that it was doubtful, even with a very delicate test, whether any at all were present. The total ash was 0.03 per cent., and it contained a little lime. The 1 part per 100 fluid parts which was not sugar was probably chiefly glycerine, but a small quantity of glycerine in presence of a large quantity of sugar can hardly be positively identified by examining a reasonable quantity of the material.

If the “active principle” contains, as stated on the label, 75 per cent. of phosphate and 20 per cent. of albumen, it follows from the analysis that only a minute trace of it is present in the liquid, which is practically a mixture of simple syrup and diluted alcohol.

OSOGEN.

Osogen is supplied by a firm in London at 2s. 9d., 7s. 9d., and 11s. a bottle. A bottle price 2s. 9d. was found to contain 1 fluid ounce, and a bottle price 11s. 5 fluid ounces.

An advertisement, occupying the space of a column in a London daily paper, is headed:

MYSTERIOUS SERU-PHOS.--Amazing Elemental Combination Startles Scientists. More Effective than the most powerful Serum.

Some extracts from it are:

Scientific discussion is at present rife anent a mysterious new combination of organic elements. Some time ago Professor Brown-Sequard, F.R.S., F.R.C.P. (formerly head of Queen Square Hospital, London), discovered a serum (Sequard Fluid) which was used with success in treating various ailments. Another eminent scientist has now discovered that by combining this serum with organic reconstituent elements its curative value is more than doubled. After Professor Brown-Sequard announced his discovery to the Paris Biological Society, Professor Prince Tarkanhov (St. Petersburg) and other scientists began experiments with the serum, and hence the new remedy is a direct product of the labour and learning of some of the greatest scientific men of their age. This seru-phos combination (called Osogen) has been pronounced absolutely certain in curative effect and more swift in action than the most powerful serum used alone. Scientists who investigated it were amazed by its wonderful potency, and Physicians, both in London and on the Continent, predict that Osogen will supersede many other forms of treatment....

Osogen is not a secret remedy. It is a vital extract (C₂H₅N₁), combined with organic reconstituent elements (glycerophosphates), all of which are now recognised by the Medical Profession, and appear in Pharmacopœias throughout the world. One of the ingredients has been called by famous scientists “More powerful than the interchange of blood.” The whole is almost an exact replica of the elements which combine to form the human economy. The vital extract increases disease-fighting corpuscles, another constituent forms nerve cells (especially cells of the Spinal Nerves), another forms tissue cells, etc. Its action is restorative in every part of the body, and its use is especially recommended in cases where the serum alone has not effected a thorough cure.

In a small pamphlet enclosed in the package, “Osogen” is described as

Serum and Glycerophosphates. A Natural Remedy for Neurasthenia, Nervous Disorders, Brain Fag, General Debility, Anæmia, Bright’s Disease, Influenza, Sciatica, Functional Weakness, Loss of Vital Power, Indigestion, Dyspepsia, Rheumatism, Kidney Disease, Dropsy, Diabetes, Asthma, Consumption, Locomotor Ataxy, and Paralysis.

The directions on the label are:

20 to 30 drops in a wineglass of water after meals three times daily. Children over six: 5 to 15 drops as above.

Analysis showed the liquid to contain glycerophosphates of iron, magnesium, sodium and quinine, a little alcohol and a trace of chloroform, with glycerine in large quantity. Not more than a trace of nitrogenous matter was present in addition to the quinine, showing that if the mixture contained any of Brown-Sequard’s Orchitic Fluid, the amount was very small. Determination of the quantities of the various ingredients gave the following formula:

Quinine glycerophosphate 0.75 part Iron glycerophosphate 2.14 parts Magnesium glycerophosphate 0.77 part Sodium glycerophosphate 0.90 „ Spirit of chloroform 3.8 parts by measure Glycerine 73 „ „ Water to 100 „ „

DR. LECOY’S VIGOROIDS.

These consisted of sugar-coated tablets, coloured blue externally. After removing the coating, the tablets had an average weight of 2.2 grains. The dose is stated to be two, three times daily.

Analysis showed them to contain:

Ferrous phosphate. Quinine. Strychnine. A vegetable extract. Sugar. Starch. Talc.

The ferrous phosphate, calculated as Fe₃(PO₄)₂,8H₂O, from the iron found, was 8.7 per cent., or 0.19 grain in each tablet. The quinine and strychnine together amounted to 4.35 per cent., or 0.09 grain in one tablet; the strychnine was clearly not more than one-twentieth of the total alkaloid (= 0.005 grain in one tablet), but it was not possible to determine the amount exactly on the quantity available. The vegetable extract showed no well-marked properties by which it could be identified; the amount was small, the sugar constituting the largest part of the tablet.

ANTINEURASTHIN, A BRAIN AND NERVE FOOD.

Readers of daily or weekly papers or magazines who allow their eyes occasionally to travel over the advertisement pages of these journals can hardly fail to have seen somewhat frequently a lengthy advertisement of a preparation called Dr. Hartmann’s Antineurasthin. The advertisement is usually headed “The Twentieth Century Disease.” This, it appears, is neurasthenia, and the various stages of its manifestations are set out in a sort of table, beginning with “Sensitiveness” and ending with “Suicidal Tendency.” Antineurasthin, referred to as “this marvellous twentieth century brain and nerve food discovery,” is put forward as a specific for the cure of neurasthenia:

Dr. Hartmann’s discovery is one that should personally and very deeply interest brain-workers in all walks of life. Every day are heard and seen all too serious evidences of the undue strain of their intense work on the vital power of the body. And now, on the highest possible authority, it is heralded that science has proved equal to the stern necessity which demanded the discovery of “Antineurasthin,” the brain and nerve food.

For greater convenience “Antineurasthin” is compressed into small tablets, and although its beneficial effect on the brain and senses is so immediate, yet there is none of the depressing reaction that follows the administration of artificial drug stimulants, “Antineurasthin” being a special brain and nerve nutrient, and not a brain and nerve drug-irritant. No longer need the brain-worker struggle on under the cloud of fear of failing powers of brain and body. He or she may, by including “Antineurasthin” as an article vitally necessary in the daily dietary, build up and maintain that perfect balance of mental and physical power which alone can uphold health and happiness.

It appears that this article was sold in Germany before being introduced here, and it was included in the series of proprietary preparations analysed by Dr. Zernik. According to Zernik’s analysis, it consists of dry yolk of egg, milk sugar, a small quantity of starch, dextrin, and an aromatic substance.

A detailed quantitative analysis of “Antineurasthin” as sold in this country gave the results described below. A 4s. 6d. box contained twenty-four tablets, having an average weight of 30¹⁄₂ grains each. The directions are:

To be taken when and as required, particularly before or after great exertions (bodily and mental); in all cases of nervous disorders and mental affections, general debility, etc.

Usual dose 3-4 tablets a day between meals. Antineurasthin contains no injurious ingredients, and is therefore absolutely harmless to the most delicate, even if taken in large quantities.

Analysis showed the presence of:

Protein 26.4 per cent. Fat 2.5 per cent. Sugar of milk 32.8 per cent. Ash 5.7 per cent. Water 8.3 per cent. Gum about 2.0 per cent. Aromatic substances traces. Potato starch (by difference) about 22.0 per cent.

The material of the tablets is nearly white, with yellow particles like dried egg-yolk distributed through it; extraction with appropriate solvents proved a fair trace of lecithin to be present; if the whole of the fat present were derived from egg-yolk it would represent 3.8 per cent. of dried yolk, equivalent to 7.7 per cent. of fresh liquid yolk in the tablets; this accounts for 1.3 out of the 26.4 per cent. of protein. Sulphur in organic combination was found to be present to the extent of 0.09 per cent.; sulphur is practically absent from the yolk, but occurs in the white of eggs, and the amount found corresponds to 5.4 per cent. of dried, or about 38.6 per cent. of liquid, egg-albumen in the tablet; a further 5.1 out of the 26.4 per cent. of protein is thus accounted for. This leaves 20 per cent. of protein, and this stands in about the same ratio to 32.8 per cent. of milk sugar, and about 5 per cent. of ash (deducting the ash of the egg and gum), as corresponds to the composition of a dried separated milk. The ash consisted principally of calcium phosphate, like the ash of milk. The aromatic substances appeared to include a trace of vanilla and of some other substance that could not be identified; these are probably added to serve at the same time as flavouring agents and preservatives.

The starch was seen by the microscope to be very abundant, corresponding in appearance to the amount required by difference. On the above assumptions the composition of the tablets would be approximately:--

Dry yolk of egg 3.8 per cent. Dry white of egg 5.4 per cent. Dry separated milk 57.8 per cent. Gum 2.0 per cent. Potato starch 22.7 per cent. Moisture 8.3 per cent. Aromatic substances traces.

The daily dose of four tablets, or 122 grains, would, according to this formula, contain the equivalent of 10 grains of yolk and 43 grains of white of egg (not dried); the ratio between these is about the same as exists in an average egg, and the two may be put together and regarded as about a teaspoonful of fresh egg; in addition, the daily dose would represent about 2 oz., or a quarter of a tumblerful, of separated milk, and a little starch.

A GERMAN NOSTRUM.

According to Dr. Zernik:

Dr. J. Schäfert’s physiological nutrient (nerve) salts for neurasthenia is a preparation made in Barmen. The prospectus states that it is composed of glycerine phosphate compound with certain physiological salts, which act on the formation of the red blood corpuscles and improve the circulation generally; 100 grams of the salts put up in a glass vessel costs 4s. It consists of 40 parts of glycerine phosphate of calcium, 30 parts of glycerine phosphate of sodium, and 20 parts of sodium chloride with a trace of iron.