Neurasthenics often derive much benefit from climatic influences. Here the great desideratum is to obtain a climate in which the maximum amount of sunlight can be secured, where daily interests are such as to lead to healthful activity of the mind of the patient, and where freedom and absence from the haunts of men can be obtained. In the treatment of many neurasthenic conditions the assistance of a well-managed sanatorium is not to be disre garded, for helpful and sympathetic suggestion on the part of a well-trained physician who has devoted his best energies to this type of work is of para mount importance in the treatment of many neurasthenic states. These patients often do very well at the seashore. There the bathing, the interest in the ocean, and the general mildness of the atmosphere all contribute to bring about conditions of quiet and rest. Many also do well in moder ately high altitudes, particularly after the acute stages of the illness have passed ; but, as a rule, high altitudes arc disadvantageous to pronounced neurasthenics.
In the treatment of many kidney-diseases it is highly desirable that a warm, medium moist, and extremely equable climate be sought ; a climate in which moderate skin-activity is stimulated, thus relieving the kidneys of a certain portion of the burden of excretion. Climates in which sudden, abrupt changes of temperature are prevalent are to be especially avoided by sufferers of kidney-trouble ; but, as in the case of tuberculosis, and also of neurasthenia, the rules laid down are to be interpreted in the most general manner.
For chronic heart conditions it has been generally taught that high alti tudes are undesirable, although there is no doubt that a number of heart affections do well in relatively high altitudes. As a general rule, however,
such patients feel more comfortable at lower altitudes, and in climates which are comparatively balmy, moderately moist, and with plenteous sunshine. A rolling, dry country, with moderate hill-climbing, and careful dietary, are particularly advisable.
As to the general problem of climate resorts or hotels, it is hardly within the province of a work of this kind to discuss. So many other factors, financial, social and otherwise, enter into the availability or non-availa bility of the different places, that the patient who feels himself in need of a climatic change should consult his physician in order to bring about the desired result.
CLOVES.—The unexpanded flowers of the Eugenia aromatica, a tree growing in the Molucca Islands, and cultivated in India, Ceylon, etc. Like other spices it is used largely for flavouring purposes, and for its stimulating and warming effect in colic, flatulence, and distention. It is sometimes given in consumption, and is said to control the cough and expec toration to some extent. Toothache may often be relieved by placing a pledget of cotton soaked in oil of cloves in the cavity of a decayed tooth. It is a good local application for crab-lice, and is sometimes used as a liniment. The dose of oil of cloves is about five drops, usually given in a capsule. Its active principle is a phenol (eugenol), found also in cinnamon oil.