This is a very common remedy, known well to all civilization, therefore it is not necessary for me to dwell on the plant long. It is of great importance in the treatment of many diseases. It is perfectly safe for a man to administer who knows its effects. I have given it in hundreds of cases without fear, with very happy results. This remedy was discovered by a man by the name of Thompson. He first fully satisfied himself that it had emetic properties by coaxing his partner, who was mowing with him in the field, to chew the green plant, which he did, and became deadly sick and relaxed, and upon drinking some water he vomited and rapidly recovered from its effects, and felt better aftterwards than he did before. Thompson was one of the first botanic or herb doctors, and did a great deal for suffering mankind by discovering that herbs had many valuable medical properties, that have since been used by all physicians.

Medical properties and uses. -- Lobelia is one of our most valuable emetics, and is only fit to be handled by a physician who knows well his business. It is one of the essentials in the croup syrup that is dealt out by many of our best doctors. I will here give you a formula:

Acetic tincture of Lobelia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . one ounce.

Acetic tincture of Squill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . one ounce.

Camphorated tincture of Opii. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1/8 ounce.

Simple Syrup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . four ounces.

Dose, a teaspoonful every two or three hours in a case of bad cold or cough. In a case of croup, every five to ten minutes, until vomiting occurs.