268
Selected Messages Book 2
The Lord has given some simple herbs of the field that at times
are beneficial; and if every family were educated in how to use these
herbs in case of sickness, much suffering might be prevented, and
no doctor need be called. These old-fashioned, simple herbs, used
intelligently, would have recovered many sick who have died under
drug medication.
One of the most beneficial remedies is pulverized charcoal, placed
in a bag and used in fomentations. This is a most successful remedy.
If wet in smartweed boiled, it is still better. I have ordered this in cases
where the sick were suffering great pain, and when it has been confided
to me by the physician that he thought it was the last before the close
of life. Then I suggested the charcoal, [
It is of interest to observe in
connection with the several E. G. White statements concerning the
value of charcoal, that as well as being a product of frequent medical
prescription, a 1,160-page professional work, Clinical Toxicology Of
Commercial Products (Williams and Wilkins, 1957, $16.00) advises as
an antidote for many known poisons and for all poisonous substances
of unknown ingredients a “Universal Antidote” of four parts, two of
which are activated charcoal.—Compilers
.] And the patient slept, the
turning point came, and recovery was the result. To students when
injured with bruised hands and suffering with inflammation, I have
prescribed this simple remedy, with perfect success. The poison of
inflammation was overcome, the pain removed, and healing went on
rapidly. The most severe inflammation of the eyes will be relieved by
a poultice of charcoal, put in a bag, and dipped in hot or cold water, as
will best suit the case. This works like a charm.
I expect you will laugh at this; but if I could give this remedy some
outlandish name that no one knew but myself, it would have greater
influence....But the simplest remedies may assist nature, and leave no
baleful effects after their use.—
Letter 82, 1897
(To Dr. J. H. Kellogg).
[295]
When Asked for Counsel, Simple Remedies Advised
There are many simple herbs which, if our nurses would learn the
value of, they could use in the place of drugs, and find very effective.
Many times I have been applied to for advice as to what should be
done in cases of sickness or accident, and I have mentioned some of
these simple remedies, and they have proved helpful.