Salvia Officinalis. (Sage.)

Preparation.—Prepare a tincture from the fresh plant when in flower ℥viij. to Alcohol 76° Oj. Dose from gtts. j. to gtts. xx.

The Sage exerts a specific tonic influence on the skin, and to a less extent upon the kidneys and mucous membranes. It is not an active remedy, and hence too much must not be expected from it. We employ it where the skin is soft and relaxed, with an enfeebled circulation and cold extremities. In the treatment of colliquative perspiration it answers an excellent purpose, if the condition above is maintained. If, however, the night sweat is preceded with hectic fever, and a dry, harsh skin, it will be useless.

It will prove a good remedy in increased secretion of urine of low specific gravity; in such cases it may be associated with Belladonna. It may also be associated with the bitter tonics in all cases in which there is atony and increased secretion from mucous membranes.

Specific Medication and Specific Medicines, 1870, was written by John M. Scudder, M.D.