Page:Willich, A. F. M. - The Domestic Encyclopædia (Vol. 1, 1802).djvu/226

198] saline, but considerably more of the earthy particles; while its water in the pump is also two degrees lower than that of the others. It is likewise now ascertained, that these springs do not exhibit the slightest traces of , though it was formerly believed, and erroneously supported on the authority of Dr., that the subtile aromatic balsam in the Bath waters was a sulphureous principle, entirely, dissimilar to common brimstone.

With regard to the medicinal effect of the Bath waters, we fully agree with the experienced Dr. (though we may differ from all the resident physicians), that much of their salubrious influence is owing to the natural degree of warmth peculiar to these springs; which, for ages, have preserved an admirable uniformity of temperature; that one of the most important uses, is their external application; and that, in this respect, they do not appear to differ from common water, when heated to the same temperature, and applied under similar circumstances.

According to Dr., the Bath water, when drunk fresh from the spring, generally raises, or rather accelerates the pulse, increases the heat, and promotes the different secretions. These symptoms, in most cases, become perceptible soon after drinking it, and will sometimes continue for a considerable time: it is, however, remarkable, that they are only produced in invalids. Hence we may conclude, that these waters not only possess heating properties, but their internal use is likewise attended with a peculiar stimulus, acting more immediately on the nerves.

One of the most salutary effects of the Bath water, consists in its action on the urinary organs, even when taken in moderate doses. Its operation on the bowels varies in different individuals, like that of all other waters which do not contain any cathartic salt; but, in general, it is productive of costiveness, an effect resulting from the want of an active stimulus to the intestines, and probably also from the determination this water occasions to the skin, more than from any astringency which it may possess. For, if perspiration be suddenly checked during the use of it, a diarrhœa is sometimes the consequence. Hence it appears that its stimulant powers are primarily, and more particularly exerted in the stomach, where it produces a variety of symptoms, sometimes slight and transient, but occasionally so considerable and permanent, as to require it to be discontinued. In those individuals with whom it is likely to agree, and prove beneficial, the Bath waters excite, at first, an agreeable glowing sensation in the stomach, which is speedily followed by an increase of both appetite and spirits, as well as a quick secretion of urine. In others, where the use of them is attended with head-ach, thirst, and constant dryness of the tongue, heaviness, loathing of the stomach, and sickness, or, if they are not evacuated, either by urine, or an increased perspiration, it may be justly inferred, that their farther continuance is improper.

To conclude: many patients and invalids are apt to desist from the internal use of the Bath water, as soon as they perceive that it raises the pulae, and excites a tural