p. 285 | How to Use Hot Water

International Tract and Missionary Society · Oakland, California · May 13, 1886

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 12, No. 18.

How to Use Hot Water.

ONE of the simplest and most effectual means of relieving pain is by the use of hot water, externally and internally, the temperature varying according to the feelings of the patient.

For bruises, sprains, and similar accidental hurts, it should be applied immediately, as hot as can be borne, by means of a cloth dipped in the water and laid on the wounded part, or by immersion if convenient, and the treatment kept up till relief is obtained. If applied at once, the use of the hot water will generally prevent the bruised flesh from turning black.

For pains resulting from indigestion, and known as wind colic, etc., a cup of hot water taken in sips will often relieve at once. When that is insufficient a flannel folded in several thicknesses, large enough to fully cover the painful place, should be wrung out of hot water and laid over the seat of the pain. It should be as hot as the skin can bear without injury, and be renewed every ten minutes, or oftener if it feels cool, till the pain is gone.

The remedy is simple, efficient, harmless, and within the reach of every one, and should be more generally used than it is. If used along with common sense it might save many a doctor's bill and many a course of drug treatment as well.—Sel.