There seem then to be six separate and distinct explanations of the cure of these Arthritic diseases. There are six different modes of operation by which the same beneficial result may follow the employment of Nitro-hydrochloric acid, free Alkalies, Lemon juice, Colchicum, Mercury and Quinine.
So that if it should be proved, which is not unlikely, that the chemical theory propounded above for the purpose of accounting for the production of these disorders in the blood is a correct view of the case, then this explanation of the action of the various remedies used in such diseases would acquire an additional probability. But at present the idea is purely hypothetical, because depending upon a number of things which, although they seem likely, are far from being proved as yet.
All that we can affirm with any degree of certainty is that a number of blood-medicines are applied with advantage to the treatment of these kindred disorders, tending to counteract the morbid conditions by which they are severally produced. These Antiarthritics must operate, then, on the Catalytic principle.
A number of varieties and masked forms of these disorders are grouped together under the general title of Dyspepsia. The depraved condition of the blood which tends to the production of arthritic symptoms may, when controlled and disturbed by various causes, simply manifest itself by causing acidity of the stomach, flatulence, impairment of digestive power, and general lassitude. Different Antiarthritic remedies are applicable in different cases. Colchicum or Nitro-hydrochloric acid are serviceable when this condition of the system is of long standing. Small doses of Mercury are often efficacious. Tonics, and a Purgative occasionally, may be recommended in milder forms of the disorder.
These are remedies which are useful in the counteraction of Scurvy and Purpura. In these disorders there is a thin and poor condition of the blood, together with a deficiency in the amount of albumen, fibrine, and the solids generally; a tendency to hæmorrhages and ulcerations, consequent on this condition of the blood; and great general depression and debility.
There is no doubt that these changes in the blood are due to a certain morbid action. It seems that there are some kinds of food which are able to prevent the occurrence of this morbid action, or to control it when it has been set up. The worst forms of Scurvy occur among sailors in long voyages, who have been deprived for some time of fresh vegetable food; and it is often observed that those who have been thus afflicted on land have been subjected to the same deprivation.