TON'IC (from Gk. rov1sr5c, tonikos, relating to tone, from raves-, tonos, tone, sound, tension, strength, cord). A medicine which acts upon the nutrition of the various tissues so as to re store lost tone, not by increasing their contractil ity, but by increasing their power. They are to a certain degree stimulant, hut their effect is more permanent, and without produeing excitation or elation. They do not rouse forces existing, but by increasing nutrition increase power. Most tonics act primarily through the nervous system, their effects upon the muscular system being Sec ondary. They are of .special value during conva lescence, but are useless, if not harmful, during inflammatory reaction. Among the tonics in the matcria medics are the simple bitters, including quassia, simaruba, gentian, nectandra, barberry, calumba, honeset, goldthread, centaury, dog:vood, and salicin; the peculiar bitters, including wild cherry. cinchona, quinine, and picric acid; the
aromatic bitters, including chamomile, snakeroot, eascarilla, and angostura; the true aromatics, in cluding cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, allspice, carda mom, ginger, black pepper, red pepper, cajeput, and eucalyptus; and the mineral tonics, includ ing iron, sulphuric acid, nmriatic acid, nitric acid, nitromuriatic acid, lactic acid, and phos phorus. Most of these drugs are considered under their own titles. Digestive power is increased principally by the bitters, the aromatics, and the acids. Nutrition is improved especially by iron. Besides drugs, baths and massage are valuable adjutants in acquiring strength and vigor. Shower baths, cold sponge baths, sea bathing, and out-of-door exercise arc very decided tonics.