Indications for cannabis, 1907

" The dried flowering tops of the pistillate plants of Cannabis sativa Linne (Fain. Moracece), grown in the East Indies and gathered while the fruits are yet undeveloped, and carrying the whole of their natural resin." U. S. " The dried flowering or fruiting tops of the female plant of Cannabis sativa, Linn., grown in India; from which the resin has not been removed."...

"Uses.—Extract of hemp is a powerful narcotic, causing- exhilaration, intoxication, delirious hallucinations, and, in its subsequent action, drowsiness and stupor, with little effect upon the circulation. It is asserted also to act as a decided aphrodisiac, to increase the appetite, and occasionally to induce the cataleptic state. In overdoses it may produce poisonous effects. In morbid states of the system it has been found to cause sleep, to allay spasm, to compose nervous disquietude, and to relieve pain. In these respects it resembles opium; but it differs from that narcotic in not diminishing the appetite, checking the secretions, or constipating the bowels. It is much less certain in its effects, but may sometimes be preferably employed, when opium is contraindicated by its nauseating or constipating effects, or its disposition to produce headache, and to check the bronchial secretion. The complaints in which it has been specially recommended are neuralgia, gout, rheumatism, tetanus, hydrophobia, epidemic cholera, convulsions, chorea, hysteria, mental depression, delirium tremens, insanity, and uterine hemorrhage. Alexander Christison of Edinburgh, affirms that it has the property of hastening and increasing the contractions of the uterus in delivery, and has employed it with advantage for this purpose. It acts very quickly, and without ansesthetic effect..."

"The strength of the extract varies much as found in commerce, and therefore no definite dose can be fixed. When it is of .good quality, half a grain or a grain (0.032 to 0.065 Gm.),will affect the system,while some apparently good extracts are practically inert. The proper plan is to begin with one-quarter grain (0.016 Gin.), repeated at intervals of two, three, or four hours, and gradually increased until its influence is felt... The Br. tincture is prepared by dissolving an ounce of the extract in a pint (Imp. meas.) of alcohol..."