A Full and Accurate Account of the New Method of Curing Dyspepsia…
first edition
1830. · New York:
by Halsted, O.
12mo, original boards with tan spine and paper label on top cover, 155 pp. Binding is worn a bit at the extremities, back hinge a little cracked, but still firm, some staining and soiling to covers, worm hole in first few leaves, not affecting text, partially uncut, foxing throughout, but more in the first and last leaves; still a tight copy, and about very good. Halsted suffered from a digestive disorder for 25 years, and when he failed to get relief from dyspepsia through traditional medical practices he took matters into his own hands. He studied the affects of his disorder, and came up with a cure that involved diet and exercise. Considered a quack by some, he nevertheless claimed to find a cure. Part of his method was to get the stomach muscles to relax, one of his suggestions for achieving this end was to cover the abdomen "with a common bread and milk poultice" about three times a day. He also advises one to eat slowly, moderately and at regular intervals. Halsted indicates exercising regularly, which pumps more blood into the muscles, and improves there condition, was crucial to promoting better digestive health. (Inventory #: 199954)