puberty. This is in part hereditary,
but bad associations may be a cause of this early menstruation.

Treatment.--The cause, if possible, should be removed. The nerves should
be kept quiet by rest and, if needed, general tonics like iron, arsenic,
and nux vomica prescribed and given.

[WOMAN'S DEPARTMENT 505]

DELAYED MENSTRUATION.--This is often caused by slow development of the
generative organs. The girl may not come around until seventeenth to
nineteenth year.

Causes.--It may be due to heredity. Lack of proper nourishment and proper
exercise are the most important causative factors.

MOTHERS' REMEDIES.--l. Obstruction of Monthly Flow.--An herb
combination for.

Poplar Bark 2 ounces
Ginger 1/2 ounces
Bayberry 1 ounce
Cinnamon 1/2 ounce
Anise Seed 1/2 ounce
Golden Seal 1/4 ounce

Mix well and give a teaspoonful in a cup of boiling water sweetened with
sugar two or three times a day. Excellent in obstructions of the monthly
periods, debility, loss of appetite, etc. This combination is fine when
used as a tonic. It is stimulating and has been known to cure many severe
cases.

2. To Promote the Menses, Smartweed for.--"Smartweed is good to promote
the menses. Always steep in cold water; never boil. Dose.--Two
teaspoonsful every hour. Be sure to take warm."

VICARIOUS MENSTRUATION (In place of).--When menstruation is absent or
suppressed, bleeding sometimes occurs periodically, from the ear, nose,
any existing raw surface, leg, ulcer, and from the respiratory (breathing)
tract, and also from the bowels.

AMENORRHEA.--This is absence of menstruation.

Causes.--Delayed puberty, anemia (want of proper blood) chlorosis (green
sickness). diabetes, malaria, tuberculosis and acute illness may cause it.
Sometimes change of climate causes it and nursing baby too long.

Symptoms.--If it is associated with atresia, that is, want of the normal
outlet, of course no signs of flowing can show, but colicky, cramp-like,
monthly pains appear in the lower abdomen. These increase in severity as
the retained blood distends the womb.

Treatment.--If there is no opening for the vagina or cervix one must be
made, by operation. If it is due to anemia or chlorosis, Blaud's pills
will benefit. The following is the formula:

Dried Sulphate of Iron 2 drams
Carbonate of Potash 2 drams
Syrup--Sufficient quantity to make forty-ei