​”An Address Delivered at the Opening of the Southern Botanico-Medical College” by I.M. Comings, published in 1843, marks a significant moment in the history of botanical medicine. This address, delivered at the inauguration of the Southern Botanico-Medical College, reflects the aspirations and principles of the institution dedicated to the study and practice of herbal medicine. The college aimed to provide an alternative to conventional medical practices by emphasizing the use of natural remedies derived from plants.​

In his address, Comings articulates a vision for a medical education system rooted in the understanding and application of botanical knowledge. He underscores the importance of aligning medical practices with the natural laws and the healing properties inherent in plants. The address emphasizes the need for a curriculum that integrates the study of botany with medical training, preparing physicians to utilize herbal remedies effectively. Comings advocates for a medical approach that is both scientifically grounded and respectful of traditional healing methods.​

The address also highlights the broader context of medical reform during the 19th century, where there was a growing interest in alternative medical systems. Comings positions the Southern Botanico-Medical College as a response to the limitations of orthodox medicine, promoting a more holistic and patient-centered approach. He calls for a medical practice that is accessible, affordable, and in harmony with nature, reflecting the democratic ideals of the time. The college’s establishment represents a commitment to expanding medical knowledge and improving public health through the study of botanical medicine.​

Comings’ address serves as a foundational document for the Southern Botanico-Medical College, outlining its mission to integrate botanical studies into medical education. It reflects a period of transformation in medical thought, advocating for a system that values natural remedies and traditional knowledge. The address encapsulates the spirit of innovation and reform that characterized the era, setting the stage for the college’s contributions to the field of herbal medicine.