​The Eclectic Practice of Medicine by Rolla L. Thomas, first published in 1907, serves as a comprehensive manual that encapsulates the principles and practices of Eclectic medicine. This medical approach, prominent in the United States during the 19th and early 20th centuries, emphasized individualized patient care, holistic treatment methods, and the use of botanical remedies. Thomas’s work is a revision of John Milton Scudder’s 1866 manual, reflecting the evolution and refinement of Eclectic medical thought over several decades.​

The book is meticulously organized into sections that cover a wide array of diseases and conditions. Part I delves into infectious diseases, detailing ailments such as typhoid fever, yellow fever, and smallpox, among others. Subsequent sections address diseases of the respiratory, circulatory, digestive, and urinary systems, as well as constitutional diseases, blood disorders, and conditions affecting the nervous system. Each chapter provides in-depth descriptions, symptomatology, and therapeutic approaches, underscoring the Eclectic emphasis on treating the individual rather than merely the disease.​

A distinctive feature of Thomas’s work is its focus on the ‘vital force’ or ‘life energy’ inherent in every individual. The text advocates for strengthening this vital force to combat illness, aligning with the Eclectic philosophy that effective treatment arises from supporting the body’s inherent healing capabilities. This perspective often contrasts with the more mechanistic approaches prevalent in contemporary medicine.​

While some of the medical knowledge and treatments described in the book may be outdated by modern standards, The Eclectic Practice of Medicine remains a valuable historical document. It offers insights into the medical practices and philosophies of the Eclectic movement, highlighting a time when medicine was deeply intertwined with botanical knowledge and a holistic understanding of health. For those interested in the history of medicine, herbal therapeutics, or alternative medical practices, Thomas’s work provides a thorough and enlightening exploration.