a thick, black, unctuous substance, obtained from old pines and fir-trees, by burning them with a close smothering heat: much used in coating and caulking ships, &c.

See the article Pitch.

Water impregnated with the more soluble parts of tar, proves, in consequence of this hot pungent oil, warm and stimulating: it sensibly raises the pulse, and quickens the circulation. By these qualities, in cold, languid, phlegmatic habits, it strengthens the solids, attenuates viscid juices, opens obstructions of the minute vessels, and promotes perspiration and the fluid secretions in general; whilst in hot bilious temperaments, it disposes to inflammation, and aggravates the complaints which it has been employed to remove.