, without the dish of water. Then
place the patient on the chair, as in the vapor bath, and let him remain
until a gentle and free perspiration is produced. This bath may be taken
from time to time, as may be deemed necessary.
2. While remaining in the hot-air bath the patient may drink freely of cold
or tepid water.
3. As soon as the bath is over the patient should be washed with hot water
and soap.
4. The hot-air bath is excellent for colds, skin diseases, and the gout.
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THE SPONGE BATH.
1. Have a large basin of water of the temperature of 88 or 95 degrees. As
soon as the patient rises rub the body over with a soft, dry towel until it
becomes warm.
2. Now sponge the body with water and a little soap, at the same time
keeping the body well covered, except such portions as are necessarily
exposed. Then dry the skin carefully with a soft, warm towel. Rub the skin
well for two or three minutes, until every part becomes red and perfectly
dry.
3. Sulphur, lime or salt, and sometimes mustard, may be used in any of the
sponge baths, according to the disease.
THE FOOT BATH.
1. The foot bath, in coughs, colds, asthma, headaches and fevers, is
excellent. One or two tablespoonfuls of ground mustard added to a gallon of
hot water, is very beneficial.
2. Heat the water as hot as the patient can endure it, and gradually
increase the temperature by pouring in additional quantities of hot water
during the bath.
THE SITZ BATH.
A tub is arranged so that the patient can sit down in it while bathing.
Fill the tub about one-half full of water. This is an excellent remedy for
piles, constipation, headache, gravel, and for acute and inflammatory
affections generally.
THE ACID BATH.
Place a little vinegar in water, and heat to the usual temperature. This is
an excellent remedy for the disorders of the liver.
* * * * *
A Sure Cure for Prickly Heat.
1. Prickly heat is caused by hot weather, by excess of flesh, by rough
flannels, by sudden changes of temperature, or by over-fatigue.
2. TREATMENT--Bathe two or three times a day with warm water, in which a
moderate quantity of bran and common soda has been stirred. After wiping
the skin dry, dust the affected parts with common cornstarch.
* * * * *
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Digestibility of Food.
Article of Food. Condition. Hours Required.
Rice Boiled
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