Galvanic or chemic electricity has certain properties not obtainable in the other forms. Comparatively speaking, it is a current of considerable quantity, but low electromotive force. The galvanic current passes always from the positive to the negative pole. It possesses the power to decompose various compounds, such as water, the tissues of the body, etc. This is called the electrolytic action, and may be used to destroy certain tumors, for the removal of superfluous hair, etc. Again this current has the power to convey certain substances in solution into the tissues. This is called cataphoresis, and is used to produce local anesthesia by the use of cocain applied to the positive pole. This is one of the best methods we possess of obtaining local anesthesia. The effect of iodin may be obtained by the use of a solution of potassium iodid, and the negative pole may be used to affect local swellings, etc. Muscular tissue may be made to contract by the application of the current, either when applied to the motor nerve supplying the muscle or when applied directly to the muscle. Upon sensory nerves the positive pole is sedative, and may be used to relieve pain in cases of neuralgias, etc. The negative pole is stimulating, and may be used in conditions requiring increased nutrition, etc. In using galvanism a good battery and outfit are essential. First, it is necessary to have a milliampere meter, an instrument to measure the strength of current used. The quantity of electricity used should be measured the same as the quantity or dosage of drugs prescribed. Another essential instrument is the rheostat, by which the current strength may be gradually increased or decreased without interrupting the current. The electrodes which are attached to the poles of the battery may be metal, metal covered with sponge, cotton, etc., preferably cotton, which may be renewed with each application, thus avoiding the possibility of infection, always present in the use of a sponge-covered electrode, which cannot be changed with each application.