THE OIL BATH.

Marlborough Express, Volume XLIII, Issue 142, 14 June 1909, Page 6

THE OIL BATH.

I The ancient Greeks owed much of their physical beauty, suppleness of r limb and strength of constitution to j the iise of oil as a lotion. ■ Of late years the great value of oil 1 rubbing has been recognised by the I medical fraternity, and is used by i them in treatment of many diseases j with the most satisfactory results, i By its use infants, if delicate-, are strengthened >md nourished; if they have bowel trouble, oil rubbed on the abdomen assists in remedying the disorder, relieves pain and soothes the child. If oil is rubbed on the skin of persons in fever, it prevents the surface becoming parched, also strengthens and nourishes the patient as it is absorbed, so acts as food. _ If a person has a cold in the head, oil rubbed on the nose and forehead loosens the cold, and freer breathing is the result. If the cold is on the lungs, oil rubbed on the chest soon relieves the suffocating feeling, and the- cough is less harsh. Oil rubbed on the sides; back, and chest, is one of the most helpful things that can be done for a consumptive. It loosens the cough, rand helps build up the tissue. Physicians say "a consumptive's case is hopeful as long as he retains his flesh. This the oil aids in doing. Nothing equals in its efficacy an oil bath for a new-born babe, the oil being well rubbed over the flesh, then rubbed off with a soft, cashmere cloth. And, finally, the woman that wishes to keep her complexion fresh and skin free from wrinkles patiently rubs oil on the face. Almond oil is considered the best for the face; cocoanut or olive oil for all other purposes. If these are not available, lard will answer. For the oil rub, .take- a small portion and rub it thoroughly into the flesh.