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Rh cold water) “before each meal will cause free secretion of gastric juice, particularly if it be given simultaneously with bitter substances which act as stimulants to the gastric mucosa…” —Practical Therapeutics—9th Edit. (Hare, page 669, 1902.)

Bicarbonate of Soda “either in solution or paste is a soothing application in erythema, urticaria, itching, burns and insect-bites.” —Materia Medica, Pharmacology and Therapeutics.

If food distresses the stomach, give a quarter of a teaspoonful of Bicarbonate of Soda in a wine-glass of milk. “The alkalies have an extended use in diseases of the stomach and intestines, especially the former. Although we do not fully understand all their effects, it is obvious that they can neutralize an excess of hydrochloric acid in the stomach.

“They are, therefore, indicated in all cases of hyperacidity and hypersecretion; but in the author’s experience they must be given in large doses.

“In hyperacidity they should, of course, be given after meals, preferably shortly before the time at which the patient expects disagreeable sensations arising from the hyperacidity, such as pyrosis (gas) and heartburn.” —Treatment of Internal Diseases. (Ortner)