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Chapter VII: The Skin.2137
accumulates and breeds abnormal conditions—this refers particularly to
the colon and the skin.
Considering the fifth-named function of the skin—that of the absorption
of substances presented to its surface—we shall not say much at this point. In
the chapters relating to the Wet Sheet Pack, and similar treatments, we shall
go into the subject of Osmosis, in its two phases of Exomosis, and Endomosis,
in order to explain the reason lying back of these forms of treatment. We
pass by the subject here, in order to avoid useless repetition.
Considering the sixth-named function of the skin—that of being the
accessory organ of breathing, we find that the pores of the skin act in the
same general way as do the lungs, although to a minor degree. The pores
absorb a small portion of oxygen, and give out a portion of carbonic acid
gas. Some authorities have estimated that the skin performs at least onefiftieth
part of the respiratory function. It is thought probable that the races
which go about naked, or partially so, use the skin in this way to a greater
extent than do the races which cover the body with clothing, in which latter
case Nature has adapted herself to the new conditions, and relieves the skin
of a portion of this work, thus throwing a greater amount on the lungs. It has
been noticed that when the naked races first begin to cover the skin with
clothing, many of them sicken and die, this tendency however becoming
less after a few generations.
In addition to the six functions, above named, the skin also performs a
function for its own well-being and preservation, in the direction of secreting
and using an oily fluid for the purpose of lubricating and preserving the skin
and the hair. In a natural state, or when the person is cleanly about the person,
this oil accomplishes its purpose and is rubbed off or evaporated from the
body. But in unnatural living, and uncleanly habits, this oil has a tendency
to accumulate and gum up the surface of the body, also taking to itself the
remains of the waste matter excreted by the perspiration, and thus forming
an unpleasant, unhealthy and abnormal obstruction and accumulation on