ARACHNE.  COBWEB.

             This extraordinary article has been taken from empirical hands, and sanctioned by medical authority as a remedy in diseases. It has been said, however, that the web woven by a particular species of spider to be selected as the most efficacious, but we are unacquainted with the means of designating the genuine species. The web commonly to be met with has been employed, and with complete success, in various hands, in the cure of intermittent fevers. Dr. Robert Jackson, a distinguished English physician, in detailing his successful experiments with the spider’s web, in the cure of intermittents, goes on to say, that he can attest by living evidence, that cobweb diminishes morbid irritability, and calms irritations, both of body and mind, in a degree far exceeding any drug or medicine within his knowledge.  Other practitioners, induced by the evidence afforded of the virtues of this substance, have given it a trial, and are satisfied of its palliative and anodyne properties, producing the most delicious tranquility, resembling the effects of opium, and followed with no bad effect. Although few will be willing to swallow the disgusting animal itself, the delicate fabric which it forms may be received by the most squeamish stomach when enveloped in a mucilage of gum Arabic. About three or four grains of the web is given every few hours until the ague fits are subdued, and with the view of appeasing nervous irritations and mental inquietude, it may be taken in the form of pills of two grains, until relief is obtained. It were to be wished that cobweb may have a trial in delirium tremens. A more extensive experience will, we hope, develop the peculiar properties of this singular remedy.

Transcribed for this web site by Terri Nan Ahrens.

Courtesy of the Delaware County Historical Association Archives, 46549 State Hwy 10, Delhi, NY, 13753.

All materials on this website are for non-profit, educational use.