Chilblains

( Originally Published 1907 )

Chilblains are still more to be feared than chapping. A feeble temperament and bad nourishment are often the causes of this affection. One should walk a great deal, use the hands freely, rub the chilblain parts which are not bleeding with alcoholic preparations, and keep hands and feet very warm.

One would suppose the hands less delicate and less in need of covering than the face. However, everyone knows the necessity of protecting them from the biting cold of frost or wind.

In damp and mild winters chilblains are most painful. There are many remedies for this trouble, which is not dangerous, but the cause of great suffering, and which will deform the prettiest hands in the world.

First.-Pound the bulbs of lilies and place them in a vase containing nut oil. Apply this liniment on the sore places, and cover with a soft cloth. (This is excellent.)

Second.-Honey will cicatrize open chilblains. Anoint the parts affected, and cover with a soft white cloth.

Third.-Poultice the hands at night; rub with the following mixture in the morning : Tincture benzoin, sixty grammes; honey, thirty grammes; water, 210 grammes. Mix well.

Fourth.-Wash ulcerated chilblains with tincture of myrrh diluted with warm water.