Cox’s Companion to the Family Medicine Chest and Compendium of Domestic Medicine, published in 1887 by Simpkin, Marshall & Co., serves as a practical guide for individuals and families to manage health concerns in the absence of immediate medical assistance. This work is particularly tailored for heads of households, ship captains, missionaries, and colonists, offering straightforward instructions for the use of medicines, their properties, and dosages. The book aims to provide a reliable reference for those residing in remote areas or undertaking long journeys, where access to professional medical care is limited.
The compendium includes detailed descriptions of common ailments and their treatments, encompassing a wide range of conditions from minor injuries to more serious diseases. It also provides guidance on administering remedies to infants and children, addressing the unique challenges of pediatric care in domestic settings. Additionally, the text offers instructions on restoring suspended animation and counteracting the effects of poisons, which were critical skills for individuals in isolated environments.
An appendix in the book focuses on cod-liver oil, detailing its purity, preparation methods, and administration. This inclusion reflects the period’s emphasis on cod-liver oil as a vital remedy for various ailments, particularly for its perceived benefits in treating rickets and other deficiencies. The comprehensive nature of the compendium underscores the importance of self-reliance in health matters during the 19th century, especially for those in colonial and maritime contexts.
Cox’s Companion to the Family Medicine Chest and Compendium of Domestic Medicine stands as a testament to the era’s approach to domestic healthcare. It embodies a blend of practical knowledge and medical understanding, aiming to empower individuals to manage health issues effectively in the absence of immediate professional medical support. The work reflects the period’s medical practices and offers valuable insights into the historical context of domestic medicine.