But again, our doctrine is confirmed by the experiment usually termed "venous transfusion." The solution of soda, when raised to a temperature from 105° to 120° Fahr., and injected into the veins of the suffering patient, gave _temporarily_ prompt and immediate relief; but, when injected at a lower temperature, failed. In this experiment, the sole and only agent contributing to the result was, as before explained, the free caloric which immediately permeated every tissue, supplied warmth to the body, relieved the depressed nerve-power, equalized the circulation, and restored generally the normal action of the system. Of this result, and of the diffusive and prompt stimulating power of free caloric, there can be no question. The principle here evolved, which answered so perfectly the imperious demand and so immediately suspended the power of the disease, is the very principle dictated by its pathology. Stronger and better evidence of the utility of a prompt and diffusive stimulant, permanent in its character and influence, cannot be furnished; one that will act kindly, without violence and without any disturbance to any organ or tissue, to injure or delay the return of immediate and perfect health after the disease is subdued. Such we affirm to be the principle demanded in the successful treatment of the epidemic cholera.
Considering the general principle of treatment, and the nature of the remedy so clearly suggested by the pathology of the disease to be fully established, it now remains for us to point out some of those curative agents which may be employed to advantage. It may be here observed, that among the few that can be confidently recommended, there is no single remedy yet discovered which seems to possess all the properties necessary to meet the complex condition presented in a malignant case of cholera. Yet it is believed we have simple remedies, which, when properly combined, will prove successful. Among the number that seem best adapted to meet and fulfill the indications, may be named chloroform, as the leading remedy on which we may reasonably hope for success. This may be united with spirits of camphor, the tincture of xanthoxyli fraxinifolii bacca, the compound fluid extract of rhubarb and potassa,[XVII.] and the oil of monarda punctata, and a very valuable and reliable remedy obtained. The following formula exhibits the mode of combination, which may be varied and adapted to suit any emergency: