Ringgold Record
Mount Ayr, Ringgold County, Iowa
circa 1900 (no date on clipping)

A correspondent of the Stockton (Cal.) Herald, writes as follows: I here with append a recipe, which has been used to my knowledge in hundreds of cases. It will prevent or cure the small-pox though the pittings are filling.

When JENNER* discovered cow-pox in England, the world of science hurled a most scientific school of medicine in the world - that of Paris - published this recipe as a panacea for small-pox, it passed unheeded. It is as unfailing as fate, and conquers in every instance. It is harmless when taken by a well person. It will also cure scarlett fever.

Here is the recipe as I have used it to cure the small-pox; when learned physicians said the patient must die, it cured:

"Sulphate of zinc one grain, foxglove (digitalis) one gram, half a spoonful of sugar, mix with two tablespoonfuls of water. When thoroughly mixed, add four ounces of water. Take a spoonful every hour. Either disease will disappear in twelve hours. For a child, smaller doses, according to age."

If counties would compell their physicians to use this, there would be no need of pest houses. If you value advice and experience, use this for that terrible disease.

* Edward JENNER (1749-1823), an English country doctor who pioneered vaccination. He discovered in 1796 that inoculation with cow-pox gave immunity to small-pox. This was an immense medical breathrough which saved countless lives.

Transcription by Sharon R. Becker, April of 2010