PLASTERS.

New Zealand Graphic, Volume XVII, Issue XXII, 28 November 1896, Page 127

PLASTERS.

Plasters, according to text-books on medicine, are solid compounds intended for external application, adhesive at the temperature of the body, and of such consistency as to render the aid of heat necessary in spreading them. Most plasters have as their basis a compound of oliveoil and lead, while others owe their consistency and adhesiveness to resins or a mixture of these with wax and fats.

Plasters are mainly employed on souml skin as counter-irritants to draw inflammation to the surface, or upon cuts, etc., to draw the edges of the wound together. Rarely, if ever, are plasters used at present upon ulcerated surfaces, since they have been found to interfere with the process of healing. All medicated plasters which are to exert a local effect should be made porous, to prevent excessive irritation bv checking the natural perspiration of the skin. Although about seventeen kinds of plaster are listed in medicine, only a few of them are in extensive use. and these are usually kept prepared by the druggist. Probably the kind which is most often resorted to is the belladonna plaster. In many cases of muscular pain and weakness, especially in that form of rheumatism or neuralgia which attacks the loins, a plaster made of belladonna, either with or without the addition of cayenne pepper, is of decided benefit. Plasters of gum ammoniac were at one time much in use as a remedy for swollen glands and enlarged joints. The action of the drug is slightlv stimulating. Capsicum, or cayenne pepper, plasters are of great value as counter-irritants, as the action of the drug is prolonged, and yet sufficiently mild to ensure onlv a healthy result. Of the other plasters in common use. we may mention those made of opium and tar. For blistering, soap plaster, as it is called, will be found safe. The surgeon’s plaster, used to draw together the edges of wounds, is made up with lead which has slightlv antiseptic properties. It is needless to add that a correct recognition of the nature of the trouble must be arrived at before the proper form of plaster can be applied.