The Practice of Medicine on Thomsonian Principles, authored by J.W. Comfort in 1843, offers a comprehensive guide to the Thomsonian system of medicine, which was a significant alternative to the prevailing medical practices of the 19th century. This system, pioneered by Samuel Thomson, emphasized natural remedies and the body’s inherent ability to heal itself.​

Central to Thomsonian medicine is the belief that disease results from a loss of vital heat and the accumulation of toxins within the body. To counteract this, the system advocates for treatments that stimulate circulation and promote the elimination of impurities. Key practices include the use of steam baths to induce sweating, herbal teas to raise internal heat, and emetics like lobelia to expel toxins. Herbs such as cayenne pepper, ginger, and bayberry are commonly used for their stimulating and cleansing properties.​

Comfort’s work also provides a detailed materia medica, cataloging various herbs and their therapeutic uses. This section serves as a practical reference for practitioners, outlining the preparation and administration of herbal remedies. The emphasis is on simplicity and accessibility, aiming to empower individuals to manage their health without reliance on conventional medical professionals.​

The Thomsonian system was not merely a medical approach but a philosophical stance against the complex and often harmful treatments endorsed by mainstream medicine of the time. By promoting natural healing methods and self-reliance, it sought to democratize healthcare and restore a more holistic understanding of well-being. Comfort’s publication stands as a testament to this movement, preserving the principles and practices that challenged the medical orthodoxy of the 19th century.​