&c.

that our errhines may have been of use in preventing apoplexy and palsy; which at least is to be attended to so far, that whenever any approach to these diseases is suspected, the drying up of the mucous discharge should be attended to, and if possible restored *. Cullen's Materia Medica, vol. ii. p. 35.

CLASS VII. SIALAGOGUES.

These are employed either to promote an increased flow of saliva, or to produce such an action on the gums, as shall indicate their having been received in sufficient quantity into the circulation. Under the former division are ranked several vegetable substances; under the latter are included only mercury and its preparations.

I. VEGETABLE PRODUCTS.

Daphne mezereum, mezereum. Amomum zingiber, ginger. Anthemis pyrethrum, pellitory of Spain. Piftacia lentiscus, mastich.

II. MINERAL PRODUCTS.

Hydrargyrum, mercury. Hydrargyrum purificatum, purified mercury. Submurias hydrargyri, submuriate of mercury. Murias hydrargyri, muriate of mercury. Submurias hydrargyri praecipitatus, precipitated submuriate. Pilulae hydrargyrae, mercurial pills. Oxidum hydrargyri cinereum, cinereous oxide of mercury. Unguentum hydrargyrum, mercurial ointment. Hydrargyrum calcinatus, red oxide of mercury. Acetis hydrargyri, acetate of mercury. Hydrargyrum sulphuratus ruber, red sulphurate of mercury. Sulphuretum hydrargyri nigrum, black sulphuret of mercury.

The vegetable fialagogues are commonly called ma- Ufes of fia- ficators, because they produce their effect by being lagogues. chewed in the mouth.* They are employed in similar cases with the errhines, more especially in toothach. The use of the mercurial fialagogues will be explained hereafter in our account of mercury.

CLASS VIII. EMOLLIENTS.

The medicines commonly called emollients consist ei- 164. Definition of emollients. ther of diluting liquors, formed of simple water, or certain vegetable infusions, or mucilaginous and oily matters that have the mechanical property of defending the parts to which they are applied, from the action of acriminous substances that pass over them; or of softening and relaxing the skin and other external parts. The first of these are commonly called diluents, the second demulcents, and the third simply emollients. We shall enumerate them together under the general term of emollients, referring an account of their particular uses for the individual articles.

I. ANIMAL PRODUCTS.

Accipenser huto, flurio, &c. ifanglofs. Ovis aries, mutton suet. Physeter macrocephalus, spermaceti. Sus scrofa, hog's-lard.

165 Table of emollients. Linimentum Linimentum simplex, simple liniment. Unguentum simplex, simple ointment. Unguentum adipsis suillae, ointment of hog's-lard. Unguentum spermatis ceti, spermaceti ointment. Unguentum cerae, wax ointment. Ceratum simplex, simple cerate. Ceratum spermatis ceti, spermaceti cerate.

II. VEGETABLE PRODUCTS. Cera alba et flava, white and yellow wax. Olea Europaea. Althea officinalis, marshmallow. Decoctum althaeæ officinalis, decoction of marshmallow. Syrupus althaeæ, syrup of marshmallow. Amygdalus communis, almonds and oil of almonds. Emulsi amygdali communis, almond emulsion. Oleum amygdali communis, oil of almonds. Astragalus tragacantha, gum tragacanth. Mucilago altragali tragacanthi, mucilage of tragacanth. Pulvis tragacanthi compositus, compound powder of tragacanth. Avena sativa, oat meal. Cocos butyracea, palm oil. Eryngium maritimum, eryngo root. Glycyrrhiza glabra, liquorice root, and extract. Trochifici glycyrrhizae, liquorice lozenges. Hordeum diftichon, barley. Decoctum hordei diftichon, barley water. Decoctum hordei compositum, compound decoction of barley. Lilium candidum, white lily root. Linum usitatissimum, linseed. Oleum lini usitatissimi, linseed oil. Malva sylvestris, common mallow. Decoctum pro enemate, decoction for catarrhs. Melissa officinalis, balm. Mimosa nilotica, gum arabic. Mucilago mimose niloticae, mucilage of gum arabic. Emulsi mimose niloticae, common emulsion. Trochifici gummosi, gum lozenges. Penea sarcocolla, sarcocolla. Pyrus cydonia, quince seed. Mucilago feminis cydonii mali, mucilage of quince jacea. Triticum hibernum, wheat and starch. Mucilago amylis, mucilage of starch. Trochifici amylis, starch lozenges. Vitis vinifera, raisins.

Diluents are chiefly employed to abate thirst in fever and inflammatory affections, or to promote the action of other remedies, particularly diaphoretics and diuretics. Demulcents are chiefly used in catarrh, pneumonia, dysentery, diarrhoea, gonorrhoea; and external emollients are employed chiefly in case of sprains and bruises, or to defend the surface of ulcers from the dressings and bandages.

CLASS IX. REFRIGERANTS.

Under this term are comprehended those remedies which are employed with a view to diminish the prematurely increased heat that takes place in the body during fevers and several inflammatory affections.

The following are the principal refrigerants enumerated by the various writers on the materia medica.

I. VEGETABLE PRODUCTS.

Acidum acetosum, acetic acid. Acetis potassii, acetate of potash. Aqua acetitis ammoniae, water of acetate of ammonia. Superataras potassii, superacetrate of potash. Tamarindus indica, tamarinds. Berberis vulgaris, barberry. Citrus medica, lemon. Syrupus citri medicæ, syrup of lemon juice. Citrus aurantium, orange. Cochlearia officinalis, scurvy grass. Succus cochleariae compositus, compound juice of scurvy-grass. Morus nigra, mulberry. Syrupus fructus mori, syrup of mulberry juice. Oxalis acetosella, wood sorrel. Conserva acetosellæ, conserve of sorrel. Ribes nigrum, black currants. Succus Ispilatus rubi nigri, inspissated juice of black currants. Syrupus succi ribis nigri, syrup of black currant juice. Ribes rubrum, red currants. Rosa canina, dog rose or hips. Conserva roseæ caninae, conserve of hips. Rubus idaeus, raspberry. Syrupus fructus rubi idæi, syrup of raspberry juice. Rumex acetosa, common sorrel. Veronica beccabunga, brooklime.

II. MINERAL PRODUCTS.

Sulphas zinci, sulphate of zinc. Nitratas potassii, nitrate of potash. Acidum nitrosum, nitrous acid. Spiritus ætheris nitrofi, spirit of nitrous ether. Trochifici nitratis potassii, nitre lozenges. Murias sodæ, muriate of soda. Acidum muriaticum, muriatic acid. Acidum sulphuricum, sulphuric acid. Acidum sulphuricum dilutum, diluted sulphuric acid. Plumbum, lead. Superacetas plumbi, superacetate or sugar of lead. Aqua lithargyri acetati, water of acetated litharge, or Gouldard's extract. Aqua lithargyri acetati composita, compound water of acetated litharge. Unguentum acetitis plumbi, ointment of acetate of lead. Ceratum lithargyri acetati compositum, compound cerate of acetated litharge. Aflusio of cold water.

Refrigerants appear to act chemically, but in what precise manner they diminish the heat of the human body, is not well understood. On this subject Mr Murray expresses himself in the following manner.

"Keeping in view the very inconsiderable action of those remedies, it may perhaps be possible from the consideration of the mode in which animal temperature Part II.

Therapeutics.

is generated, to point out how their trivial refrigerant effects may be produced.

"It has been sufficiently established, that the consumption of oxygen in the lungs is materially influenced by the nature of the ingesta received into the stomach; that it is increased by animal food and spirituous liquors, and in general by whatever substances contain a small quantity of oxygen in their composition. But the temperature of animals is derived from the consumption of oxygen by respiration. An increase of that must occasion a great evolution of caloric in the system, and increase of temperature, while a diminution in the consumption of oxygen must have an opposite effect. If, therefore, when the temperature of the body is morbidly increased, substances be introduced into the stomach containing a large proportion of oxygen, especially in a state of loose combination, and capable of being assimilated by the digestive powers, the nutritious matter received into the blood must contain a larger portion of oxygen than usual; less of that principle will be consumed in the lungs, by which means less caloric being evolved, the temperature of the body must be reduced; and this operating as a reduction of stimulus, will diminish the number and force of the contractions of the heart.

"It might be supposed that any effect of this kind must be trivial, and it actually is so. It is, as Cullen has remarked, not very evident to our senses, nor easily subjected to experiment, and is found only in consequence of frequent repetitions*."

Refrigerants are considered by Mr Murray as acting chemically, but we are not certain how far his opinion is correct. That some of them do operate in cooling the human body, merely as chemical agents, cannot be denied; but several seem to produce this effect by some particular action on the nervous system, that is not well understood.

Class X. ASTRINGENTS.

Astringents are defined by Dr Cullen to be such substances as when applied to the human body produce a condensation and contraction of the soft solids, and thereby increase their density and force of cohesion. If they are applied to longitudinal fibres, the contraction is made in the length of these; but if applied to circular fibres, the diameters of the vessels, or the cavities which these surround, are diminished.

The principal substances that act in this way are taken from vegetables, and consist of the barks of several trees, certain roots and inspissated juices; but a few of them are derived from minerals, especially the stronger mineral acids, a few metallic and earthy salts, and, according to some writers, alcohol. We shall enumerate the following.

I. VEGETABLE PRODUCTS.

Haematoxylum campechianum, logwood. Extractum ligni haematoxylis campechian, extract of logwood. Juglans regia, walnut. Eucalyptus resinifera, kino. Tinctura kino, tincture of kino. Mimosa catechu, catechu, or Japan earth. Infusum mimoseae catechu, infusion of catechu, Tinctura mimoseae catechu, tincture of catechu. Electuarium catechu, electuary of catechu. Polygonum biflora, bi-flort. Potentilla reptans, potentilla. Prunus spinosa, sloe. Conferva pruni sylvestris, conserve of sloes. Pterocarpus draco, dragon's blood, Punica granatum, pomegranate, balaslines. Quercus cerris, gall nut. Quercus robur, common oak. Rosa gallica, red rose. Infusum rose gallicae, infusion of roses. Conferva rose gallicae, conserve of red roses. Syrupus rose gallicae, syrup of red roses. Mel rose, honey of roses. Tormentilla erecta, tormentil root. Vitis vinifera, red Port wine.

II. MINERAL PRODUCTS.

Acidum sulphuricum, sulphuric acid. Acidum muriaticum, muriatic acid. Ferrum, iron. Tinctura muriatis ferri, tincture of muriated iron. Plumbum, lead. Superacetas plumbi, superacetae of lead. Sulphas cupri, sulphate of copper. Solutio sulphatis cupri, solution of sulphate of copper. Liquor cupri ammoniati, liquor of ammoniated copper. Sulphas zinci, sulphate of zinc. Aqua zinci vitriolati cum camphora, water of vitriolated zinc with camphor. Solutio aceti zinci, solution of acetate of zinc. Superfulphas aluminis et potassii, superfulphate of alumina and potash, or alum. Sulphas aluminis exsiccatus, dried sulphate of alumina. Pulvis sulphatis aluminis compositus, compound powder of sulphate of alumina. Aqua aluminis composita, compound alum water. Cataplasm aluminis, cataplasms of alum.

It is of some consequence that the precise meaning of the term astringent, used as a medicine, should be understood.

The usual method of detecting astringency is, by the Nature of corrugating of the tongue, and the peculiar rough and astringent harsh sensation communicated to the palate by the touch of an astringent substance; and in general, all bodies may be called astringents, that have the property of communicating these sensations. Most of the vegetable astringents have besides the property of striking a black colour when mixed with a solution of sulphate of iron, and this property has been constantly considered as one of the surest tests of astringency in vegetable substances. Now modern chemistry has shewn, that this property is owing to a peculiar acid, viz. the gallic, and not to tannin or the astringent principle properly so called. It so happens that in most vegetable astringents the gallic acid and tannin are found united; but in a few, especially catechu, the astringent principle exists without the gallic acid, and consequently no black colour is produced when a solution of catechu is mixed with a solution of iron. Hence the pharmaceutic chemist should be aware that the above property is not a sure test of vegetable astringency. A more certain chemical test is animal jelly; for, when a solution of this is added to a solution of vegetable astringent, a copious precipitate is produced, which in fact is leather.

Astringents appear to act nearly in a similar manner on the dead animal fibre as on the living solid, in both cases thickening and hardening: when applied to the living solid, they produce increase of tone and strength, refrain inordinate actions, and check excessive discharges from any of the vessels or cavities; and to the dead fibre occasion density, toughness, imperiousness to water in a greater or less degree, and insusceptibility to the common causes of putrefaction. See TANNING.

Astringents are largely employed in medicine, and their use is attended with considerable advantage. The cases in which they are most beneficial, and in which their effect seems most unequivocally owing to the astringent principle, are diarrhoeas, leucorhoea, and gleets. They have also been employed with success for restraining profuse evacuations where they could not be immediately applied to the affected part, as in the above cases; for example, in hemoptisis and epistaxis; but here their operation seems to be less attributable to their astringency than to their tonic power.

Such astringents as are employed externally to check hemorrhage from divided vessels, are usually called styptics.

CLASS IX. TONICS.

Tonics are those medicines which are suited to counteract debility, or to give strength and energy to the moving fibres. They are taken partly from vegetables, and partly from minerals.

I. VEGETABLE PRODUCTS.

Anthemis nobilis, chamomile flowers. Centaurea benedicta, holy thistle. Marrubium vulgare, horehound. Myrrha, myrrh. Pulvis myrrhae compositus, compound powder of myrrh. Dorstenia contrajerva, contrayerva. Pulvis contrayervae compositus, compound powder of contrayerva. Vitis vinifera. Vinum rubrum lusitanum, red port wine. Æsculus hippocastanum, horse-chestnut bark. Anguiflora, anguiflora bark. Chironea centaureum, lesser centaury. Cinchona officinalis, Peruvian bark. Infusum cinchonae officinalis, infusion of cinchona. Decoctum cinchonae officinalis, decoction of cinchona. Tinctura cinchonae officinalis, tincture of cinchona. Tinctura cinchonae composita, compound tincture of cinchona. Tinctura cinchonae ammoniata, ammoniated tincture of cinchona.

Extractum cinchonae officinalis, extract of cinchona. Cinchona caribea, Caribbean cinchona. Colomba, colomba root. Tinctura colomae, tincture of colomba. Croton eleutheria, caesariella bark. Tinctura caesariella, tincture of caesariella. Extractum caesariella, extract of caesariella. Gentiana lutea, gentian root. Infusum gentianae compositum, compound infusion of gentian. Tinctura gentianae composita, compound tincture of gentian. Vinum gentianae compositum, compound wine of gentian. Extractum gentianae, extract of gentian. Menyanthes trifoliata, marsh trefoil. Quassia excelsa, quassia. Quassia fimaruba, fimarouba. Salix fragilis, fragile willow bark. Salix alba, white willow bark. Swietenia mahagoni, mahogany tree bark. Swietenia febrifuga, febrifuge swietenia. Tanacetum vulgare, common tanfrey.

II. MINERAL PRODUCTS.

Sulphas cupri, sulphate of copper. Ammoniaretem cupri, ammoniate of copper. Pilulae ammoniareti cupri, pills of ammoniate of copper. Zincum, zinc. Sulphas zinci, sulphate of zinc. Solutio sulphatis zinci, solution of sulphate of zinc. Oxidum zinci, oxide or flowers of zinc. Nitras potassa, nitrate of potash. Acidum nitrosum, nitrous acid. Ferrum, iron. Carbonas ferri, carbonate of iron. Carbonas ferri praecipitatus, precipitated carbonate of iron. Aqua ferri aerati, water of aerated iron. Sulphas ferri, sulphate of iron. Vinum ferri, wine of iron. Tinctura muriatis ferri, tincture of muriate of iron. Sulphas ferri exsiccatus, dried sulphate of iron. Oxidum ferri rubrum, red oxide of iron. Emplastrum oxidii ferri rubri, plaster of red oxide of iron. Ferri limaturae purificatae, purified filings of iron. Oxidum ferri nigrum purificatum, purified black oxide of iron. Murias ammoniae et ferri, muriate of ammonia and iron. Tinctura ferri ammoniacalis, tincture of ammoniacal iron. Tartras ferri et potassii, tartrate of iron and potash. Tinctura ferri acetati, tincture of acetated iron. Acidum sulphuricum, sulphuric acid. Acidum sulphuricum dilutum, diluted sulphuric acid. Acidum sulphuricum aromaticum, aromatic sulphuric acid.

Argentum, silver. Nitras argentii, nitrate of silver, or lunar caustic. Arsenicum, arsenic. Carbonas barytae, carbonate of baryta. Carbonas calcis, carbonate of lime or chalk. Solutio muriatis calcis, solution of muriate of lime. Sulphas barytae, sulphate of baryta. Murias barytae, muriate of baryta. Solutio muriatis barytae, solution of muriate of baryta. Aqua minerales ferrum continentes, chalybeate mineral waters.

III. GASEOUS PRODUCTS. Gas oxigenium, oxygen gas. Balneum frigidum, cold bath.

Equitatio, riding on horseback.

Most tonics act immediately on the stomach, and hence on the system at large. They increase the appetite, quicken digestion, and add vigour to the body. Hence they are useful in most cases of debility; but when used improperly or for too long a time, they predispose to apoplectic and paralytic disorders.

CLASS XII. STIMULANTS.

Most of the articles of the Materia Medica might, in an extended sense, be called stimulants; but this term is, by the general consent of physicians, restrictively applied to those medicines which possess the power of sustaining or increasing the vital energies—of raising and invigorating the action of the heart and arteries—and of restoring to the muscular fibre, when affected with torpor, its lost sensibility and power of motion. Hence the use, under proper regulations, of the various articles belonging to this class in cases of gout, palsy, and malignant typhoid fever: but let it be repeated, under proper regulations; for we cannot but remark that medicines which give additional activity to the circulation, and which augment the heat and sensibility of the system throughout, are often abusively employed, being administered too early, as well as too freely in the above-mentioned and some other similar disorders. In the beginning of typhous fever, in particular, it cannot be doubted that a hasty and lavish exhibition of such medicines has, in numerous instances, aggravated every symptom, and brought the patient, who would otherwise have had the disease in its mildest form, into considerable danger *.

The class of stimulants is exceedingly numerous, and might, perhaps, with advantage, be subdivided into sections; but as this subdivision would admit of much dispute from the different acceptation of the term stimulant, we shall here only give a table of stimulants distributed as usual into animal, vegetable, and mineral products.

I. ANIMAL PRODUCTS. Murias ammoniae, muriate of ammonia. Aqua ammoniae, water of ammonia. Alcohol ammoniatum, ammoniated alcohol.

Vol. XII. Part II.

Carbonas ammoniae, carbonate of ammonia. Aqua carbonatis ammoniae, water of carbonate of ammonia. Oleum ammoniatum, ammoniated oil. Linimentum ammoniae, liniment of ammonia. Linimentum volatile, volatile liniment. Alcohol ammoniatum aromaticum, aromatic ammoniated alcohol. Spiritus ammoniae succinatus, succinated spirit of ammonia. Muschus moschiferus, musk. Miifura moschata, musk mixture. Cervus elaphus, hart/born. Liquor volatilis cornu cervi, volatile liquor of hart/born. Sal cornu cervi, salt of hart/born. Lyttia vesicatoria, cantharides. Tinctura meloes vesicatorii, tincture of cantharides. Unguentum infusi meloes vesicatorii, ointment of infusion of cantharides. Unguentum pulveris meloes vesicatorii, ointment of powder of cantharides. Ceratum cantharidis, cerate of cantharides. Emplastrum meloes vesicatorii, plaster of cantharides.

II. VEGETABLE PRODUCTS. Sinapis alba, mustard seed. Cataplama finapios, mustard cataplasm. Allium sativum, garlic. Arum maculatum, wake-robin. Conferva ari, conserve of arum. Pimpinella anitum, anise seed. Oleum volatile pimpinellae anisi, volatile oil of anise seed. Styrax benzoin, benjamin. Acidum benzoicum, benzoic acid. Tinctura benzoae composita, compound tincture of benjamin. Alcohol. Æther sulphuricus, sulphuric ether. Æther sulphuricus cum alcohol, sulphuric ether with alcohol. Æther sulphuricus cum alcohol compositus, compound sulphuric ether with alcohol. Oleum vini, oil of wine. Acidum acetofum, vinegar. Acidum acetofum forte, strong acetous acid. Acidum acetofum camphoratum, camphorated acetous acid. Acetum aromaticum, aromatic vinegar. Ariflolochia serpentaria, snake-root. Tinctura ariflolochiae serpentariae, tincture of snake-root. Daphne mezereum, mezereum. Decoctum daphnes mezerei, decoction of mezereum. Guaiacum officinale, guaiacum. Decoctum guaiaci officinalis, decoction of guaiacum. Tinctura guaiaci officinalis, tincture of guaiacum. Tinctura guaiaci ammoniata, ammoniated tincture of guaiacum. Papaver somniferum, opium in small doses. Tinctura opii, tincture of opium. Tinctura opii camphorata, camphorated tincture of opium. Tinctura opii ammoniata, ammoniated tincture of opium.

Confectio opiata, opiate confection. Cochlearia armoracia, horse radish. Copaefera officinalis, balsam of copaiba. Pinus sylvestris, turpentine and resin. Pinus larix, Oleum volatile pini purissimum, purified oil of turpentine. Unguentum resini flavi, ointment of yellow resin. Ceratum resini flavi, cerate of yellow resin. Emplastrum cere, wax plaster. Unguentum picis, pitch plaster. Unguentum picis burgundice, ointment of burgundy pitch. Arnica montana, leopard's bane. Bubon galbanum, gallanum. Pilulae galbani compositae, compound pills of galbanum. Emplastrum galbani compositum, compound plaster of galbanum. Juniperus sabina, savine. Oleum juniperi sabine, oil of savine. Juniperus Lycia, olibanum. Pastinaca opoponax, opopanax. Veratrum album, white hellebore. Unguentum hellebori albi, ointment of white hellebore. Decoctum hellebori albi, decoction of white hellebore. Acorus calamus, calamus aromaticus, or sweet flag. Amomum zingiber, ginger. Syrupus amomi zingiberis, syrup of ginger. Tinctura amomi zingiberis, tincture of ginger. Amomum repens, lesser cardamom seeds. Tinctura amomi repentis, tincture of cardamom. Tinctura cardamomi composita, compound tincture of cardamom. Amyris gileadensis, balm of gilead. Amyris elemifera, gum elemi. Unguentum elemi, elemi ointment. Anethum fœniculum, sweet fennel seed. Oleum volatile fœniculi dulcis, oil of fennel. Aqua fœniculi dulcis, fennel water. Anethum graveolens, dill seed. Aqua anethi, dill water. Angelica archangelica, angelica. Apium petroselinum, parsley root and seed. Arbutus uva urfi, whortle berry. Artemisia maritima, sea wormwood. Conserva abinthii maritimi, conserve of sea wormwood. Decoctum pro fomento, decoction for fomentation. Canella alba, white canella. Capsicum annum, capsicum, Cayenne pepper. Carum carvi, caraway seeds. Oleum carvi, oil of caraway. Spiritus cari carvi, spirit of caraway. Cistus creticus, ladanum. Emplastrum ladani, ladanum plaster. Citrus aurantium, Seville orange peel. Oleum volatile citri auranti, essence of orange peel. Aqua citri aurantii, orange peel water. Tinctura aurantii corticis, tincture of orange peel. Syrupus citri aurantii, syrup of orange peel. Conserua citri aurantii, conserve of orange-peel. Coriandrum sativum, coriander seed. Crocus sativus, saffron. Syrupus croci, syrup of saffron. Tinctura croci, tincture of saffron. Cuminum cyminum, cummin seed. Cataplasmum cumini, cummin cataplasm. Emplastrum cumini, cummin plaster. Curcuma longa, turmeric. Daucus carota, wild carrot seed, carrot root. Dianthus caryophyllus, clove Julyflower. Syrupus caryophylli rubri, syrup of cloves. Eugenia caryophyllata, cloves. Oleum volatile caryophylli aromatici, oil of cloves. Hypericum perforatum, St John's wort. Inula helenium, elecampane root. Kaempferia rotunda, zedoary. Lavandula spica, lavender flower. Oleum volatile lavandulae spicæ, oil of lavender. Spiritus lavandulae spicæ, spirit of lavender. Spiritus lavandulae compositus, compound spirit of lavender. Laurus cinnamomum, cinnamon. Oleum volatile lauri cinnamomi, oil of cinnamon. Aqua lauri cinnamomi, cinnamon water. Spiritus lauri cinnamomi, spirit of cinnamon. Tinctura lauri cinnamomi, tincture of cinnamon. Tinctura cinnamomi composita, compound tincture of cinnamon. Pulvis aromaticus, aromatic powder. Electuarium aromaticum, aromatic electuary. Laurus cassia, cassia bark. Aqua lauri cassiae, cassia water. Laurus nobilis, bay tree. Lobelia syphilitica, blue cardinal flower. Melaleuca leucadendron, eucalypt oil. Mentha viridis, spearmint. Oleum menthae sativae, oil of mint. Aqua menthae sativae, mint water. Spiritus menthae sativae, spirit of mint. Mentha piperita, peppermint. Oleum volatile menthae piperitae, oil of peppermint. Aqua menthae piperitae, peppermint water. Spiritus menthae piperitae, spirit of peppermint. Mentha pulegium, pennyroyal. Oleum volatile menthae pulegii, oil of pennyroyal. Aqua menthae pulegii, pennyroyal water. Spiritus menthae pulegii, spirit of pennyroyal. Myristica moschata, nutmeg. Spiritus myristici moschatae, spirit of nutmeg. Myroxylon Peruvianum, balsam of Peru. Tinctura balsami Peruvianae, tincture of balsam of Peru. Myrtus pimenta, pimento, or Jamaica pepper. Oleum volatile myrti pimentae, oil of pimento. Aqua myrti pimentae, pimento water. Spiritus myrti pimentae, spirit of pimento. Origanum vulgare, origanum. Oleum origani, oil of origanum. Panax quinquefolium, ginseng. Parietaria officinalis, pellitory of the wall. Pinus balsamea, balsam of Canada. Piper nigrum, black pepper. Piper cubeba, cubeb. Piper longum, long pepper. Pistacia terebinthus, Chio turpentine. Rhus toxicodendron, poison oak. Styrax officinalis, storax. Styrax purificata, strained storax. Tolouifera balsamum, balsam of Tolu. Tinctura toluiferae balsami, tincture of balsam of Tolu. Syrupus toluiferae balsami, syrup of balsam of Tolu. Trigonella foenum graecum, fenugreek seed. Urtica dioica, stinging nettle. Wintera aromatica, winter's bark.

III. MINERAL PRODUCTS.

Hydrargyrum, mercury. Unguentum oxidii hydrargyri rubri, ointment of red oxide of mercury. Unguentum nitratis hydrargyri, ointment of nitrate of mercury. Unguentum nitratis hydrargyri mitius, milder ointment of nitrate of mercury. Nitras potash, nitrate of potash. Acidum nitrosum, nitrous acid. Acidum nitricum, nitric acid. Unguentum acidi nitroli, ointment of nitrous acid. Sapo Hispanus, Castile soap. Tinctura saponis, tincture of soap. Tinctura saponis et opii, tincture of soap and opium. Ceratum saponis, soap cerate. Emplastrum saponis, soap plaster. Murias sodae, muriate of soda. Murias sodae exsiccatas, dried muriate of soda. Acidum sulphuricum, sulphuric acid. Acidum arsenum, arsenious acid. Bitumen petroleum, petroleum. Oleum petrolei, oil of petroleum. Subboras sodae, subborate of soda, or borax. Subacetas cupri, subacetate of copper, or verdigrise. Oxymel aeruginis, oxymel of verdigrise. Unguentum acetitis cupri, ointment of subacetate of copper. Calx, quicklime. Linimentum aquae calcis, liniment of lime water.

IV. GASEOUS PRODUCTS.

Gas oxygenium, oxygen gas. Gas oxidum azotii, gaseous oxide of azote. Electricatio et galvanizatio, electricity and galvanism.

Balneum calidum, the hot bath.

The substances enumerated in the above table have been variously denominated, according to their real or supposed medical virtues. Of the internal stimulants, most have been called cordials, from the effect they have in raising the spirits; some have been termed carminatives, (see carminative), under which head rank most of the aromatic herbs, roots, and seeds. Of the external stimulants many are called rubefacients, from the effect they have in irritating and consequently reddening the skin; and of these the principal are mustard, cantharides, and the stinging nettle.

CLASS XIII. ANTISPASMODICS.

Those medicines which have been found by experience to put a stop to convulsive motions, or spasmodyc contractions of the muscular fibres, are called antispasmodics. Most of them are stimulants, some narcotics, and some are considered as specific antispasmodics.

TABLE of ANTISPASMODICS.

I. ANIMAL PRODUCTS.

Murias ammoniae, muriate of ammonia. See table of Stimulants. Mofchus moschiferus, musk. Mitura moschata, musk mixture. Cervus elaphus. Oleum animale, animal oil. Castor fiber, castor. Tinctura castorei, tincture of castor. Tinctura castorei composita, compound tincture of castor.

II. VEGETABLE PRODUCTS.

Cephælis ipecacuanha, ipecacuanha. Nicotiana tabacum, tobacco smoke. Ferula asafetida, asafoetida. Alcohol ammoniatum fetidum, fetid ammoniated alcohol. Pilulae asafetidæ compositæ, compound pills of asafoetida. Emplastrum asafetidæ, asafoetida plaster. Alcohol. Æther sulphuricus, sulphuric æther. Laurus camphora, camphor. Emulgio camphorata, camphorated emulsion. Mitura camphorata, camphorated mixture. Tinctura camphorae, tincture of camphor. Linimentum camphoræ compositum, compound liniment of camphor. Papaver somniferum, opium. Tinctura opii, tincture of opium. Tinctura opii camphorata, camphorated tincture of opium. Tinctura opii ammoniata, ammoniated tincture of opium.

Electuarium opiatum, opiate electuary. Pilulae opii, opium pills. Bubon galbanum, galbanum. Tinctura galbani, tincture of galbanum. Pilulae galbani compositae, compound pills of galbanum. Vitis vinifera. Vinum rubrum lusitanum, red Port wine. Citrus aurantium, orange leaves. Artemisia absinthium, common wormwood. Sub-carbonas potassae impuras, impure subcarbonate of potash. Aqua potassae, water of potash, or soap ley. Cardamine pratensis, Indies fennock. Conium maculatum, hemlock. Succus spissatus conii maculati, inspissated juice of hemlock. Fuligo ligni combusti, wood foot. Hyoscyamus niger, henbane. Succus spissatus hyoscyami nigri, inspissated juice of henbane. Valeriana officinalis, valerian. Tinctura valerianae, tincture of valerian. Tinctura valerianae ammoniata, ammoniated tincture of valerian. Extractum valerianae sylvestris resinosum, resinous extract of wild valerian.

III. MINERAL PRODUCTS.

Hydrargyrum, mercury. For most preparations of mercury, see table of Sialagogues. Bitumen petroleum, petroleum. Oleum petrolei, oil of petroleum. Succinum, amber. Oleum succini, oil of amber. Oleum succini purissimum, purified oil of amber. Sal succini, salt of amber. Spiritus ammoniae succinatus, succinated spirit of ammonia.

All those substances which, whether introduced into the body or applied to its surface, have been found by experience to put a stop to convulsive movements or rigid contractions of the muscular fibres, are termed antispasmodics. Of these substances there are many which differ from each other very widely, both in respect of sensible qualities and chemical composition; which indeed is not surprising, when it is considered that spasmodic affections occur in various and even opposite states of the body; a circumstance which calls for nice discrimination on the part of the practitioner in the use of these remedies. Some of them being considerably stimulant in their operation, aggravate rather than alleviate spasm, when associated with plethora or obfuration. It is therefore of great importance to attend carefully to the state of the patient's body, previously to the exhibition of these medicines; to premise and accompany their use in epilepsy, chorea, and hysteria, by proper evacuations; and to select from the great variety of articles which this class contains, such as are best adapted to the particular form of spasm which it is our business to cure.

CLASS XIV. NARCOTICS.

This term has been usually applied to those remedies which are calculated to relieve pain and procure sleep, or narcotics. They have also been termed anodynes and hypnotics, and most of them were formerly ranked in the class of sedatives.

TABLE OF NARCOTICS.

I. VEGETABLE PRODUCTS.

Nicotiana tabacum, tobacco. Vinum nicotianae tabaci, tobacco wine. Aconitum neomontanum, aconite. Succus spissatus aconiti napelli, inspissated juice of aconite. Papaver somniferum, opium; white poppy heads. Tinctura opii, tincture of opium. Tinctura opii camphorata, camphorated tincture of opium. Syrupus opii, syrup of opium. Extractum papaveris somniferi, extract of white poppy heads. Pulvis opiatus, opiate powder. Electuarium opiatum, opiate electuary. Pilulae opii, opium pills. Rhododendron chryanthum, yellow flowered rhododendron. Digitalis purpurea, foxglove. Tinctura digitalis purpureae, tincture of foxglove. Arnica montana, leopard's bane. Rhus toxicodendron, poison oak. Conium maculatum, hemlock. Succus spissatus conii maculati, inspissated juice of hemlock. Hyoscyamus niger, henbane. Succus spissatus hyoscyami nigri, inspissated juice of henbane. Tinctura hyoscyami nigri, tincture of henbane. Atropa belladonna, deadly nightshade. Datura stramonium, thorn-apple. Humulus lupulus, hop. Lactuca virosa, wild lettuce. Papaver rhoas, wild poppy. Syrupus papaveris erratici, syrup of wild poppy. Sium nodiflorum, creeping skerrit.

There is no class of medicines in the administration of which more judgment and discrimination are requisite than in the administration of those which are termed narcotics. When given in full doses, much good or much mischief is sure to follow, according as they are prudently or mistakingly prescribed. What a common practice it is to give them whenever a patient complains of pain, without duly investigating the cause of that pain; whether it be the consequence of high inflammatory action, of a plethoric condition, or of a suppression of some periodical or habitual discharge! In these cases to prescribe any of the medicines belonging to this class, clas, in a full or considerable dose, before the remedies suited to remove inflammation, plethora, and obstruction had been resorted to, would only serve to aggravate the disease. And even where there is no condition of the body which contraindicates the use of narcotics, it is of great importance to adapt the doses not only to the age and constitution of the patients, but likewise to the particular form of the disease. For instance, in tetanus, hemicrania, and colica pitum, opium, and other narcotic medicines, may be given in large doses with excellent effect; but in phthisis pulmonalis, typhus fever, and some other states of debility, small doses, repeated at proper intervals, are found to answer best.

In the administration of narcotics, it is moreover proper to consider whether in the particular case in which they appear to be indicated, they should be prescribed alone, or in combination with other medicines; and if in the manner last mentioned, with what sort of adjuncts. Thus, in cases of synochus, acute rheumatism, and the early stage of dysentery, they should be given in combination with calomel and antimonials; in cases of asthma and phthisis pulmonalis, with ammoniacum, squill, and other expectorants; in cases of cholera, with diluents and demulcents; in cases of diarrhoea, with astringents and aromatics; in hemorrhagic cases, with sulphate of zinc and other styptics; in hysteria, with the volatile alkali, ether, and fetids; in convulsive affections, especially such as occur in children, with magnesia and other antacids*.

CLASS XV. ANTHELMINTICS.

Those medicines which are employed with a view to expel worms from the bowels, are called anthelmintics.

TABLE of ANTHELMINTICS.

I. ANIMAL PRODUCTS.

Murias ammoniae, muriate of ammonia. Aqua carbonatis ammoniae, water of carbonate of ammonia.

II. VEGETABLE PRODUCTS.

Anthemis nobilis, chamomile flowers. Extractum anthemidis nobilis, extract of chamomile. Nicotiana tabacum, tobacco in elysters. Olea europaea, olive oil in elysters. Allium sativum, garlic. Ferula afaestida, afaestida in elysters. Convolvulus jalapa, jalap. Convolvulus scammonia, scammony. Pulvis scammonii compositus, compound powder of scammony. Helleborus foetidus, stinking hellebore. Rheum palmatum, rhubarb in small doses. Ricinus communis, castor oil. Stalagmitis cambogioides, gamboge. Ruta graveolens, rue. Oleum volatile ruteae, oil of rue. Juglans regia, walnut rind. Tanacetum vulgare, tanfey. Valeriana officinalis, valerian. Artemisia fantonica, worm-feed. Dolichos pruriens, cowhage. Geoffroea inermis, cabbage-tree bark. Polypodium flix mas, male fern root. Spigelia marilandica, Carolina pink.

III. MINERAL PRODUCTS.

Hydrargyrum, mercury. Subhumas hydrargyri, submuriate of mercury. Murias fodiæ, muriate of soda. Ferrum, iron. Carbonas ferri, carbonate of iron. Sulphas ferri, sulphate of iron. Ferri limatura purificatae, purified iron filings. Tartris ferri et potash, tartrate of iron and potash. Calx, lime. Aqua calcis, lime water in elysters. Stannum, tin. Stanni pulvis, powder of tin.

Of the medicines which belong to this class, some Effects and destroy the different species of worms which breed in the alimentary canal, by their chemical, others by their mechanical action upon those animals; but by far the greater number of anthelmintic or vermifuge medicines operate in no other manner than as drastic purges, bringing away the morbid accumulation of slime from the intestines, and with the slime, the worms which were lodged in it. After the worms have been brought away by these remedies, the bowels should be strengthened by bitters and other tonic medicines; and the use of green vegetables, or much garden stuff of any kind, and of malt liquor, should be forbidden.

CLASS XVI. CHEMICAL REMEDIES.

Several of the substances that have been enumerated Chemical' in the foregoing tables, act also on the animal system merely as chemical re-agents, either by counteracting acidity, dissolving calculous concretions, destroying fungous excrescences, &c. We shall here enumerate all the substances that may be considered as chemical remedies, and shall afterwards clas them according to their particular action.

TABLE of CHEMICAL REMEDIES.

I. ANIMAL PRODUCTS.

Murias ammoniae, muriate of ammonia. Aqua ammoniae, water of ammonia. Carbonas ammoniae, carbonate of ammonia. Aqua carbonatis ammoniae, water of carbonate of ammonia.

Sal cornu cervi, salt of hart/born. Cervus elaphus, hart/born. Phosphas calcis, phosphate of lime. Cornu cervi utum preparatum, burnt hart/born. Cancer alticus, crabs eyes. Cancer pagurus, crabs claws. Chelae cancrorum praeparate, prepared crabs claws. Pulvis è chelis cancrorum compositus, compound powder of crabs claws. Gorgonia nobilis, red coral. Corallium rubrum praeparatum, prepared red coral. Ostrea edulis, oyster shells. Testae ostreæ praeparatae, prepared oyster shells. Spongia officinalis, sponge. Spongia uta, burnt sponge.

II. VEGETABLE PRODUCTS. Carbonas potassae, carbonate of potash. Aqua potassæ, water of potash, or caustic ley. Potassa, potash. Potassa cum calce, potash with lime. Carbonas potassae, carbonate of potash. Carbonas potassae purissimus, purified carbonate of potash. Aqua carbonatis potassæ, water of carbonate of potash. Aqua supercarbonatis potassæ, water of carbonate of potash.

III. MINERAL PRODUCTS. Sulphas cupri, sulphate of copper. Sulphuretum antimonii, sulphurate of antimony. Murias antimonii, muriate of antimony. Sulphur sublimatum, flowers of sulphur. Sulphuretum potassæ, sulphuret of potash. Hydro-sulphuretum ammoniæ, hydro-sulphuret of ammonia. Nitras potassæ, nitrate of potash. Acidum nitrosum, nitrous acid. Acidum nitricum, nitric acid. Sapo hispanus, Castile soap. Murias sodae, muriate of soda. Acidum muriaticum, muriatic acid. Sulphas magnesiae, sulphate of magnesia. Carbonas magnesiae, carbonate of magnesia. Magnesia, magnesia. Trochisci magnesiae, lozenges of magnesia. Acidum sulphuricum, sulphuric acid. Acidum sulphuricum dilutum, diluted sulphuric acid. Superfulphas aluminae et potassæ, superfulphate of alumina and potash, or alum. Sulphas aluminae exficcatus, dried sulphate of alum. Argentum, silver. Nitras argentii, nitrate of silver. Oxidum arsenioliom, arsenious acid. Calx, quicklime. Aqua calcis, lime water. Bolus gallicus, French bole. Carbonas calcis, carbonate of lime, chalk. Carbonas calcis praeparatus, prepared carbonate of lime. Pulvis carbonatis calcis compositus, compound powder of carbonate of lime. Trochisci carbonatis calcis, lozenges of carbonate of lime. Potio carbonatis calcis, potion of carbonate of lime. Aqua aeris fixi, water of fixed air. Carbonas sodae impurus, impure carbonate of soda. Carbonas sodae, carbonate of soda. Aqua super-carbonatis iode, water of supercarbonate of soda.

Of the substances above enumerated, some act as antacids, correcting morbid acidity in the stomach and bowels; as most of the preparations of ammonia, burnt hartthorn, crabs eyes and claws, coral, egg shells, uses of the carbonates of potash and soda with their preparations, magnesia, lime, and carbonate of lime. These have been often called absorbents.

Several of the chemical remedies act in a greater or less degree as lithontriptics, or such medicines as are capable of dissolving urinary calculi. The principal uses of lithontriptics are, solutions of caustic potash, soap, sulphuric and muriatic acids, and carbonate of soda.

"From the exhibition of alkaline remedies," says Mr Murray, "the symptoms arising from a stone in the bladder are very generally alleviated; and they can be given to such an extent that the urine becomes sensibly alkaline, and is even capable of exerting a solvent power on these concretions. Their administration cannot, however, be continued to this extent for any considerable length of time, from the strong irritation they produce on the stomach and urinary organs. The use, therefore, of the alkalies as solvents, or lithontriptics, is now scarcely ever attempted; they are employed merely to prevent the increase of the concretion, and to palliate the painful symptoms, which they do, apparently by preventing the generation of lithic acid, or the separation of it by the kidneys; the urine is thus rendered less irritating, and the surface of the calculus is allowed to become smooth.

"When the alkalies are employed with this view, they are generally given saturated, or even super-saturated with carbonic acid. This renders them much less irritating. It at the same time diminishes, indeed, their solvent power; for the alkaline carbonates exert no action on the urinary calculi; but they are still equally capable of correcting that acidity in the prime vice, which is the cause of the deposition of lithic acid from the urine, and therefore serve equally to palliate the disease. And when their acrimony is thus lefened, their use can be continued for any length of time."* Murray's Elements, vol. i. p. 365.

See Foote's Successful Practice of Vapour Locomotion, 193

Several of the chemical remedies are employed externally as caustics or escharotics, to destroy fungous or callous parts of the body; to open an ulcer, or to change the diseased surface of a sore. The principal escharotics are, sulphuric and muriatic acid when concentrated; pure potash, nitrate of silver, muriate of antimony, sulphate and tetracetate of copper, corrosive muriate of mercury, and arsenious acid.

A few are employed both externally and internally, to check putrefaction, or to correct the unpleasant smell of particular secretions, or of ulcers. The principal of these are charcoal, and carbonic acid, though the mineral acids have also this effect. PART III. PRINCIPLES OF PHARMACY.

CHAP. I. General Operations of Pharmacy.

THE operations of pharmacy are either mechanical or chemical. By the first the various articles employed in medicine are reduced to a proper state for exhibition, by cutting, rasping, grinding, pounding, &c.; and by the second they are subjected to various complex operations, which produce certain chemical changes in their nature and properties.

To the first of these heads we may refer the collection and preservation of simples. This chiefly refers to those articles that are of a vegetable nature, and which are either used fresh, or in a dried state.

Vegetables should be gathered chiefly from those soils in which they naturally delight, or in which they are found most commonly to rise spontaneously; for though many of them may be raised, and made to grow with vigour in very different soils, their virtue generally suffers by the change. A variation of seasons occasions also differences considerable enough to require often an allowance to be made in the quantity; plants in general proving weaker, though more luxuriant, in rainy than in dry seasons. Herbs and flowers are to be gathered in a clear dry day, after the morning dew is gone off from them. Leaves, for the most part, are in their greatest perfection, when come to their full growth, just before the flowers appear: flowers, when moderately expanded; seeds, when they begin to grow dry, before they fall (spontaneously); woods and barks, as is supposed, in the winter; annual roots, before the stalks begin to rise; biennial roots, in the autumn of the first year: perennial roots, in the autumn after the leaves have fallen, or early in the spring before they begin to vegetate.

Of the vegetables which lose their virtue in being dried, the greater number, perhaps all, may be preserved for a considerable length of time, by impeding the exhalation of their natural moisture; for so long as they retain this, they seem to retain all their medical activity. Thus, roots have their virtue preserved by being buried in sand, which should be dry, that they may not vegetate; leaves and flowers, of a more corruptible nature than roots, by being beaten with about thrice their weight of fine sugar to prevent their corruption, and kept in a cloe vessel.

Plants which bear drying, are commonly hung in a warm airy place, defended from the sun. The colours of herbs and flowers are for the most part changed or destroyed in drying, by the sun's beams; but that their medicinal virtue suffers a like diminution, does not appear. This much is certain, that the heat of a culinary fire, equal to that of the sun in summer, does them no injury in either respect; and that both flowers and leaves, when thus hastily dried by fire, preserve the liveliness of their colour, and their smell and taste, more perfectly than by slow drying. The leaves of moderately juicy plants are reduced, by drying, to about one-fourth of their original weight.

Some roots, and some other parts of vegetables, how thoroughly ever they have been dried, are liable, in keeping, to grow mouldy and carious. This inconvenience might probably be obviated by dipping them, when dried, in boiling spirit of wine, or exposing them to its vapour in a close vessel. It is said, that some of the oriental spices are made less perishable, by being dip in a mixture of lime and water*.

The drawers in which vegetable drugs are kept, should be made of such materials as are not likely to impart to them any unpleasant taste or smell; and the better to avoid this, they should be lined with paper. Such matters as are volatile, or which are likely to suffer from exposure to the air, or from insects, should be kept in glass vessels well stopped. Such fruits and oily seeds as are liable to become rancid, by being too warm, should be preserved in a dry cool place.

As most vegetable substances lose much of their sensible properties by long keeping, or acquire others which render them less proper for being used as internal medicines, they should be frequently replaced.

One of the most common operations to which dry Pulveriza-drugs are subjected, is that of being reduced to powder, by which they are rendered more efficacious, and are more conveniently exhibited. The pulverization of these matters is usually performed by means of pestles and mortars. These should be made of such materials as are not likely to impart to the powdered substance any noxious properties, and should at the same time be sufficiently hard, not to be broken or worn away during the operation. For the powdering of barks, roots, and similar substances, cast-iron mortars are the most convenient; and for such articles as are of a more brittle nature, mortars of glass or marble are commonly employed. All those made of copper, or any of its alloys, should be carefully avoided, as when the substance is very hard, or of such a nature as to act chemically on the metal, some portion of copper may be mixed with the medicine, and render it a virulent poison. For many purposes mortars made of common ironware answer very well; but the best mortars of this kind are those made of well-baked clay, commonly called Wedgewood's mortars. The bottom of all these mortars should be hollow on the inside, and flat on the outside, and their sides should be moderately inclined. Those which are employed for reducing to powder such substances as produce much dust, should be provided with covers, both to prevent the lighter parts of the powder from being lost, and to defend the operator from being injured by such substances as are of a corrosive or poisonous nature. In general, wooden covers that have a rim to prevent their sliding off, and a hole sufficiently large to admit of the introduction of the pestle, answer very well; but where it is of consequence that no part of the article should escape, it is better to tie round the mouth of the mortar, and round the pestle, a piece of pliable leather, sufficiently large to admit of the free motion of the latter. Where this is not done, it will be proper for the operator to cover his mouth and nose with a handkerchief. To avoid losing much of these light dry powders, a little spirit of wine, or oil, is sometimes put into the mortar, to prevent the lighter parts of the powder from rising. Care should, however, be taken, that the substance is of such a nature as not to be dissolved by the spirit, nor injured by the rancidity that the oil is likely to acquire; and in every case, as little as possible of either should be employed.

It is obvious that in reducing drugs to powder, too much of the article should not be put at once into the mortar.

Several substances require previous preparation before powdering; barks, woods, roots, should be perfectly dry, and should be either sliced or rasped before putting into the mortar; and such roots as are covered with a very fibrous bark, should be shaved after this has been removed, to take away such hairy filaments as are usually found between the bark and the wood. Gummy resinous substances, such as myrrh, which are liable to become soft when heated, should be powdered in very cold weather; and it is better, first to reduce them to a coarse powder, and expose this to the air for a day or two, before completing the pulverization, which will then be more easily effected. Some substances cannot be reduced to powder without the addition of some other matter; thus, camphor requires a little alcohol or oil; the emulsive feeds require the addition of some dry powder, and for aromatic oily substances, the addition of a little sugar is proper.

In order to separate the finer powder from the rest of the substance, apothecaries employ sieves of various forms. For such articles as require to be kept close, the sieve is composed of three parts; a middle part, which is properly the sieve for separating the finer part of the powder, a bottom for receiving the powder, and a top for preventing the escape of the finer dust.

When as much of the powder as is sufficiently fine, has passed through the sieve, the rest is to be returned into the mortar, and the pulverization continued and repeated, till as much as possible has passed the sieve. All the parcels of powder are then to be intimately mixed together, by rubbing them for a considerable time in the mortar.

Trituration consists in rubbing dry substances that are already pretty small in order to reduce them to a very fine powder, or to mix them intimately together. In the small way it is performed in the usual mortars; in the large way by means of a roller moved by water or by horses.

Levigation. When it is required to reduce dry substances to a very fine, or what is called an impalpable powder, recourse is had to the operation called levigation, which is nothing more than rubbing the substance for a long time in a broad flat mortar, or upon a hard stone, with a muller, adding from time to time a little water or alcohol, so as to reduce the substance operated on to a kind of paste. This paste is rubbed till it is as smooth as possible, and is then spread on a stone or flat cake of chalk, till it is sufficiently dried. Sometimes levigated powders are made up into little conical lumps, and dried in that form. The substances on which levigation is performed are chiefly earths and metallic oxides.

For the purpose of reducing metals into minute particles, they are either filed or granulated. It would not be improper that apothecaries should always prepare their own iron filings, as those procured from a smith's shop are generally very impure. The granulation of metals is effected by melting the metal, and either stirring it briskly with an iron rod till it is cold, or pouring it into water and stirring it as before; or lastly, by pouring it into a covered box, having its inside well rubbed with chalk, in which it is well shaken till cold, when the adhering chalk is to be washed away.

Another mode of procuring the finest particles of such substances as are not soluble in water, is by what is termed elutriation, which is performed by diffusing in water the powder or paste to which they have been reduced by pulverization or levigation, and after the coarser particles have subsided, pouring off the water that holds in suspension the finer parts. The operation of levigation and subsequent diffusion is repeated, till as much as is required of the fine powder is obtained. This is afterwards to be separated from the water, either by decantation or filtration.

When the powder is so heavy as readily to fall to the bottom of the vessel, it is most conveniently separated by decanting off the water, either by pouring it gently off as long as it comes over clear, or by means of a crooked glass syphon fixed in a board that goes over the mouth of the vessel to keep it steady, as represented at fig.

When the powder does not readily subside, it is best separated by filtration, which is performed by means of a cone of common blotting paper, inserted into a funnel, or by means of a cloth or flannel bag. After all the fluid has passed through the filter, the powder that remains on the paper is to be carefully dried.

Decantation and filtration are more commonly employed to obtain any liquor clear from the powdery or other matters with which it is mixed.

For obtaining the juices of vegetables or fruits, or the oils of seeds, &c. recourse is had to expression. The plants or fruits are put into bags or wrappers made of haircloth, and subjected to strong pressure by means of a screw press, the plates of which should be made of wood or tin, and by no means of lead. The pressure employed should at first be gentle, and should be increased gradually. The oily seeds or nuts are pressed between iron plates, which are usually warmed; but when used cold, the oil is milder and not so liable to become rancid.

Besides the mortars mentioned above, there are several other instruments employed in the operations of pharmacy, on which it is proper to make a few remarks.

Funnels ought to be made of tinned iron, or of glass; or of the same sort of baked earth or clay as the mortars, or of silver or of block tin.

Vessels used for preparing infusions, or for evaporating liquors, or for putting decoctions or other liquors into, to cool, ought to be made either of porcelain, or of stoneware, or of baked clay, or of earth such as the mortars are made of, or of glass; or such vessels as are not acted upon either by acid or alkaline liquors. Part III.

For the same reasons, measures of all sorts, from the dram to the quart, ought to be made of tinned iron, or of stoneware, or of the baked earth or clay, or of glass; silver might be employed for the smaller measures of drams and ounces, and if taken care of, would in the end prove cheaper than the others: if other metallic vessels are used, the metal ought to be of such a sort as not to be affected by acid or alkaline, or other liquors; and they ought at all times to be kept extremely clean.

In distilling, in melting, and in calcining different bodies, no vessels ought to be employed which may be acted upon by, and give a noxious quality to, the substances to be prepared.

Most colleges of physicians in Europe formerly directed, that both weights and measures should be employed for dispensing medicines, ordering solid substances to be prepared by weight, fluid by measure; and they gave tables of the weights and measures they wished should be used, in the beginning of their different dispensatories: but it having been found that the promiscuous use of weights and measures gave sometimes occasion to mistakes, the colleges of Edinburgh and of Stockholm have, in the last edition of their pharmacopeias, rejected entirely the use of measures, and ordered both fluid and solid substances to be prepared by weight. It is to be wished that all the colleges in Europe would follow their example.

Measures made to contain a certain determined weight of water are certainly very useful in pharmacy; but if such are allowed they ought to be employed only for measuring watery liquors, as the specific gravities of other fluids differ so much from one another.

In every country, all weights and measures used for the preparation of medicines ought to be made according to the directions of the college of physicians; standards of them ought to be kept in proper places, and all those ought to be stamped, to shew that they were made according to the standard.

The principal chemical operations of pharmacy may be arranged under the following heads.

1. The infusing certain substances in cold or in hot water, or in wine, to extract their saline or light gummy parts, together with some of their fine volatile principles, which are miscible with water.

2. The boiling them in water to extract the same principles, together with others that are more fixed, or which are capable of being dissolved by heat, and afterwards of being kept suspended by the gummy and mucilaginous parts which have been dissolved in the water; thus a certain proportion of resin is found to be suspended in decoctions of the bark, of opium, and of other drugs.

3. The evaporating watery infusions and decoctions, and the expressed juices of many vegetables, to obtain their fixed parts which have been dissolved in a watery menstruum. In this manner jellies, robs, and extracts, are prepared.

4. The infusing or digesting certain vegetable substances in pure vinous spirit to extract their fine volatile oils and their resinous parts; or in spirit mixed with water, called proof-spirit, to extract along with those principles, some of their gummy parts.

5. The evaporating of such tinctures to obtain their resinous and more fixed parts; in which way resinous extracts, &c got from bark, jalap, from opium, and from other substances.

6. The distilling fragrant vegetable substances with water, in order to procure their fine volatile principles, which come over with the water into the vessels placed to receive it. In this manner the simple distilled waters (as they are called), which have the flavour and taste of the substances from which they are distilled, are prepared; and the fine essential oils of the plants which have been distilled are found either floating on the top of the water, or sunk to the bottom of it, according as they are specifically lighter or heavier than water.

7. The distilling of the same substances in vinous spirit to obtain the same fragrant volatile parts, intimately united with the spirit; in which manner are made the spirituous liquors improperly called spirituous waters.

In distilling, care ought to be taken to make the vapours which arise condense properly in the vessels set to receive them when they have assumed the form of a liquor; which is to be effected, 1. By regulating the fire, and never raising the degree of heat beyond what is necessary; and, 2. By making the vapours pass through such a cool medium, as will condense them into a liquid.

1. The degree of heat is regulated by the figure of the furnace in which the fire is placed, and by the quantity of wood or of coal that is used. Where a great degree of heat is wanted, the vessels are put in an open fire, placed in a reverberatory furnace. Where a less degree of heat is sufficient, they are put into fand contained in an iron pot, below which the fire is lighted in a common furnace. Where a still smaller degree is required, the vessel is put into a pot with fand, and a lamp in place of coals fixed below it. At other times the retort, or vessel with the liquor to be distilled, is put into a vessel full of water or other liquor, set over a fire, so that it cannot be heated beyond a certain degree.

2. The condensation of vapours arising from substances subjected to distillation is effected, as before observed, by making the vapour pass through such a cool medium, as will condense it into a liquor before it reaches the bottom of the vessels set to receive it.

In distilling medicated waters or spirits, the herbs or other vegetable substances, and the water or the spirit, are put into a still placed in a proper furnace, on which is fixed a large head, with a long crane-necked or curved tube coming from the top of it, which after descending and going off a little to one side, enters into the upper end of a long spiral pipe, called a worm, which is fixed in a large cask, called the worm-tub or refrigeratory, with its two ends piercing the cask; and to its lower end is fixed a proper vessel for receiving the distilled liquor. The worm-tub, which has a cock at the lower part of it for letting out water occasionally, is filled with cold water before the distillation begins, and is renewed in the course of the distillation if it begins to heat, by drawing it off by means of the cock, and pouring fresh cold water into the worm-tub. After every thing is fitted, the fire is lighted, and the distillation is continued so long as the water comes over sufficiently impregnated with the vegetable substances put into the still.

In the distillation of vegetable or animal substances 1. That there ought to be put into the still such an additional quantity of water as will prevent the solid substances which are subject to the distillation from being burnt, as this additional water does not at all weaken the produce; for the most volatile parts of the subject rise first, and impregnate the liquor which first comes over, and the water remains behind in the still. 2. That a gentle fire, such as is just capable of keeping the liquor boiling, is preferable to a strong fire, particularly towards the end of the process. 3. That the distillation is to be continued so long as the liquor comes over fully impregnated with the volatile parts of the vegetable substances which are the subjects of the distillation; but is to be put an end to, so soon as it is perceived to become weak, which is known by tasting from time to time the liquor which comes over.

8. The distilling of vegetable or animal substances in retorts without water, in order to make them rise, and bring over by the force of fire, their watery parts, an acid, or volatile alkaline salt, according to what nature the substances are of, and an empyreumatic oil, into the receiver; and to get the more fixed, earthy, and oily parts, which are left behind in the retort.

In distilling substances which require a greater degree of heat to raise their volatile parts, than the liquors above mentioned, or which are of such a nature as to act upon, and corrode the vessels employed in these processes just mentioned, it is necessary to use the vessels made of glass or of earth, which have been called retorts, from their neck being bent on one side. Such retorts are employed in pharmacy for distilling the mineral and the vegetable acids, and the preparations made from them; in distilling animal and vegetable substances by themselves to procure their watery, saline, or oily parts; for purifying quicksilver, and preparing the muriate of antimony, &c. and they may be used as subliming glases for making mercurial and other preparations.

In distilling with retorts, the matter to be distilled is put into the retort which is commonly placed in sand, contained in an iron pot, fixed above a furnace, into which the fire is put; but on some particular occasions, where only a small degree of heat, not exceeding that of boiling water, is wanted, the retort is placed in a water bath.

After the retort containing the matter to be distilled is fixed, the end of it is either put immediately into the mouth of another long-necked vessel called a receiver (from its being placed to receive the distilled liquor), and the two vessels are luted together by means of a proper cement; or it is first put into the end of a long glass tube called an adopter, which is luted to it, and the other end of the tube is put into the mouth of the receiver, and fixed to it by means of a cement.

The receivers are either made round like a decanter, without any other opening than the mouth; or they are made with a tube coming out from their bottom, or from the side near it, to which another receiver may be fixed, and when they are thus made they are called tubulated receivers, and are very convenient for performing processes where the matter put into the retort yields products of different kinds, as in the distillation of spirit with the mineral acids; for the receiver or bottle fixed to the tube may be changed as the different products come over, so that each of them may be obtained separately. And in distilling substances which yield very volatile products, one tubulated retort may be put after another so as to enlarge the space for the condensation of vapours; and in distilling these very volatile substances it is sometimes necessary to make a small puncture into the lutes between the retort and the receiver, to allow some of the vapour to escape to prevent its bursting the vessels.

The use of the long intervening tube called an adopter, which is put often between the retort and the receiver, is to increase the distance from the retort (that is immediately exposed to heat) to the receiver; so that the receiver may be in less danger of being heated, and that the vapour may be cooled in its passage through this tube, and condense more readily in the receiver. It is likewise of another use, which is to give us an opportunity of seeing the vapour in its passage from the retort to the receiver, so that we may know how the distillation is going forward, and when it is proper to change the receivers, when the different liquors come over from materials which yield products of different kinds.

9. The burning vegetable substances in an open vessel to obtain a fixt alkaline salt.

10. The burning the bones of animals, or the shells of fishes, to procure their earthy parts; in which manner the calcined hartshorn, the powder of crabs claws, and of oyster shells, are procured.

11. The mixing acid and alkaline salts in a fluid Neutral-Flate, to form the neutral salts, which may be separated from the water either by evaporating, with a slow heat, such a quantity of the water as to allow the salts to throt into crystals when set in a cool place, or by continuing the evaporation till the salts become dry.

12. The dissolving certain metallic substances, or certain earths, in acid liquors, for obtaining metallic and earthy salts, which may be got in a solid form in the same manner as the neutral salts.

13. The evaporating the purified expressed juices of certain vegetable substances to the consistence of a cream; and then setting them by for months, in a cool place, to allow the essential acid salts to concrete into crystals. See Crystallization.

14. The distilling in proper vessels vitriol or other substances which contain the sulphuric acid, in order to get it separate from them; and the burning of sulphur mixed with a small portion of nitre, under particular vessels, so contrived, and so placed, as to collect the same acid.

15. The distilling nitre, or sea salt, mixt with a certain portion of the sulphuric acid, in order to obtain pure the nitric or muriatic acid.

16. The subliming certain substances that become Sublimable by the application of heat, into proper vessels; and either to unite two of them together for the formation of a third, as is done in the preparation of the corrosive sublimate of mercury, when the muriatic acid is united to the quicksilver, or to separate the volatile parts of any substance from the fixt, as is done in the sublimation of volatile alkaline salts and of the acid of benjamin.

17. The melting by the force of fire such substances Melting as become fluid by the application of heat, so that they may be separated from or united to other bodies. Thus Part III.

Principles of Pharmacy. By particular management and the addition of certain substances, metals are separated from their ores. And rosin and bees-wax are intimately united together; or they are dissolved in fluid oils, for the preparation of plasters, ointments, liniments, &c. And sulphur is united to quicksilver for the making of a black or red sulphuret.

18. The applying of heat to metals, either to oxidate them, or to separate certain volatile substances with which they are combined, or to purify them from more oxidable metals with which they are alloyed. Thus mercury is reduced to a red oxide merely by the continued application of heat and air; the sulphuret of antimony is deprived of its sulphur by roasting, and silver is separated from lead by being exposed to such a heat, as, while it only fuses the silver, reduces the lead to an oxide. See Chemistry.

Chap. II. Of the principal forms in which Medicines are exhibited.

The principal official preparations of the simple medicines, for the making of which directions are given in the Pharmacopoeias, consist of powders, pills, trochers, electuaries, infusible juices, extracts, infusions, decoctions, mucilages, emulsions and mixtures, syrups, tinctures, wines, for internal exhibition; and cataplasm, liniments, ointments, cerates, and plasters, for external application.

The form of powder is one of the most simple, and very convenient for the exhibition of a variety of medicines. It is of course adapted only to such substances as are easily reduced to powder, and such as are not too bulky to be taken in a moderate dose. Hence emollient and mucilaginous herbs and roots are improperly ordered in the state of powder, as they are too bulky; alkaline salts, whether fixed or volatile, are improper, as they in general either deliquesce in the air, or evaporate. Such articles as are of a very disagreeable taste, or offensive odour, are also more conveniently given in some other form.

In preparing compound powders, care should be taken that the several ingredients should be intimately mixed together. Some of them may in general be most properly powdered separately, but it is often of advantage to powder them together. They should be kept in a closely stopped phial, and such as are apt to lose part of their virtue by long keeping, should be prepared in small quantities.

The dose of powders should be so regulated as seldom to exceed a dram. The substance in which they are to be taken should be of such a nature as to mix properly with them, so that they neither float at the top, nor sink too rapidly to the bottom of the vessel.

The form of pill is most convenient for such articles as do not require to be given in a large dose, and are fo unpleasant in taste or smell, that they cannot be conveniently given in the form of powder. As many patients can swallow pills, who cannot take medicines in a less solid form, those substances which are usually ordered in powder, are not unfrequently formed into pills, when their bulk is not so great as to render the pills too numerous for a single dose.

The most usual substances that enter into the composition of pills are resins, gum-resins, extracts, and similar medicines. Deliquescent salts are usually im- proper except in small quantity, and then they should be combined with some gummy powder. Such salts as are efflorescent, as carbonate of soda, may enter into the composition of pills; but they should be previously exposed to the air, so as to fall into powder. The liquid substances employed to form the pills into a proper mass, must be varied according to the nature of the more solid ingredients. Powders require syrup, mucilage, ballams, soap, conserve, or honey. Gum resins and extracts are sometimes sufficiently left without any addition; but when this is required, a little spirit or wine is the most proper. When the mass is to be composed of a mixture of gum resins and powders, the former should be first moistened with the prescribed liquid, then the powders added, and the whole beaten well together, till they are reduced into a uniform plastic mass.

A dram of the pilular mass is generally divided into about twelve pills, so that each pill may weigh about five grains.

The masses for pills should be kept in bladders, these should be moistened now and then, either with a little wine, or with some of the same liquid that was employed in forming the mass.

Troches or lozenges are hard, round, flat cakes, formed of such substances as are intended to be gradually dissolved in the mouth, and thus pass by degrees into the stomach, or in their passage thither act on the throat or larynx. They should be formed of such substances as are soluble in the saliva, and are not of a disagreeable taste. They usually contain a great deal of sugar, and some gummy matter to render them coherent.

Electuaries are less solid than pills, being of such a consistency that they may be rolled up into a bolus, so as to be easily swallowed. They are chiefly composed of powders mixed up with syrup or honey. The substances that enter into the composition of electuaries are chiefly the milder alterative medicines, or gentle laxatives. The stronger cathartics, emetics, and such substances as are of an unpleasant taste, such as bitters, the fetid gum-resins, and very heavy powders, are improper. The liquid employed to form electuaries is usually syrup or honey, the proportion of which is regulated by the nature of the more solid ingredients, but is usually of nearly equal weight.

Confections are now considered as synonymous with electuaries, as they differ from ordinary electuaries in nothing but being composed of more aromatic ingredients.

Conferves may be considered as electuaries formed of only two ingredients, one of which is sugar, and the other the pulp of some fruit, the petals of flowers, or the outer rind of Seville oranges.

Extracts and resins are pharmaceutical preparations, Extracts and resins. the rationale of which is very little understood. Dr Andrew Duncan junr. has given an excellent account of them, which we shall here copy.

"Extract in pharmacy has long been used, in the common and true acceptation of the term, to express a thing extracted, and therefore it was applied to substances of all kinds which were extracted from heterogeneous bodies, by the action of any menstruum, and again reduced to a consistent form, by the evaporation Principles of that menstruum. Lately, however, extract has been used in a different and much more limited sense, as the name for a peculiar principle, which is often indeed contained in extracts, and which before had no proper appellation. It is in the former sense that we employ it here, and in which we with it to be only used, while a new word should be invented as the name of the new substance. Till a better be proposed, we shall call it extractive.

"Extracts are of various kinds, according to the nature of the substances from which they are obtained, and the menstruum employed; but they commonly consist of gum, sugar, extractive tannin, cinchonin, gallic acid, or resin, or several of them mixed in various proportions. The menstrua most commonly employed are water and alcohol. The former is capable of extracting all the substances enumerated, except the resin, and the latter all except the gum. Wine is also sometimes employed, but very improperly; for as a solvent it can only act as a mixture of alcohol and water, and the principles which it leaves behind on evaporation are rather injurious than of advantage to the extract.

"Water is the menstruum most commonly employed in making extracts, as it is capable of dissolving all the active principles except resin, and can have its solvent powers assisted by a considerable degree of heat.

"Watery extracts are prepared by boiling the subject in water, and evaporating the strained decoction to a thick consistency.

"It is indifferent with regard to the medicine, whether the subject be used fresh or dry; since nothing that can be preserved in this process will be lost by drying. With regard to the facility of extraction, however, there is a very considerable difference; vegetables in general giving out their virtues more readily when moderately dried than when fresh.

"Very compact dry substances should be reduced into exceedingly small parts, previous to the infusion of the menstruum.

"The quantity of water ought to be no greater than is necessary for extracting the virtues of the subject. This point, however, is not very easily ascertained; for although some of the common principles of extracts be soluble in a very small proportion of water, there are others, such as tannin, of which water can dissolve only a small proportion, and cannot be made to take up more by any length of boiling; besides we have no very good method of knowing when we have used a sufficient quantity of water; for vegetable substances will continue to colour deeply successive portions of water boiled with them, long after they are yielding nothing to it but colouring matter. Perhaps one of the best methods is to boil the subject in successive quantities of water, as long as the decoctions form a considerable precipitate with the test which is proper for detecting the substance we are extracting, such as a solution of gelatin for tannin, of alum for extractive, &c.

"The decoctions are to be depurated by colature, and afterwards suffered to stand for a day or two, when a considerable quantity of sediment is usually found at the bottom. If the liquor poured off clear be boiled down a little, and afterwards suffered to cool again, it will deposit a fresh sediment, from which it may be decanted before you proceed to finish the evaporation. The decoctions of very resinous substances do not require this treatment, and are rather injured by it, the resin sub-fiding along with the active dregs.

"We would advise the decoctions to be evaporated after they have been filtered boiling hot, without any further depuration; because some of the most active principles of vegetable substances, such as tannin, are much more soluble in boiling than in cold water, and because almost all of them are very quickly affected by exposure to the atmosphere. Therefore, if a boiling decoction, saturated with tannin, be allowed to cool, the greatest part of the very principle on which the activity of the substance depends will separate to the bottom, and according to the above direction, will be thrown away as sediment. The same objection applies more strongly to allowing the decoction to cool, and deposit fresh sediment, after it has been partially evaporated. Besides, by allowing the decoctions to stand several days before we proceed to their evaporation, we are in fact allowing the active principles contained in the decoction to be altered by the action of the air, and to be converted into substances, perhaps inactive, which also are thrown away as sediment.

"The evaporation is most conveniently performed in broad shallow vessels; the larger the surface of the liquor, the sooner will the aqueous parts exhale. This effect may likewise be promoted by agitation.

"When the matter begins to grow thick, great care is necessary to prevent its burning. This accident, almost unavoidable if the quantity be large, and the fire applied as usual under the evaporating bason, may be effectually prevented, by carrying on the infusions, after the common manner, no farther than to the consistence of a syrup, when the matter is to be poured into shallow tin or earthen pans, and placed in an oven, with its door open, moderately heated; which acting uniformly on every part of the liquid, will soon reduce it to any consistence required. This may likewise be done, and more securely, by setting the evaporating vessel in boiling water; but the evaporation is in this way very tedious.

"Alcohol is by far too expensive to be employed as a menstruum for obtaining extracts, except in those cases where water is totally inadequate to the purpose. These cases are,

"1. When the nature of the extract is very perishable when dissolved in water, so that it is liable to be decomposed before the evaporation can be completed, especially if we cannot proceed immediately to the evaporation.

"2. When water is totally incapable of dissolving the substance to be extracted, and

"3. When the substance extracted can bear the heat of boiling alcohol without being evaporated, but would be dissipated by that of boiling water; that is, when it requires a heat greater than \(176^\circ\), and less than \(212^\circ\), for its vaporization.

"In the last case, the alcohol must be perfectly free from water, because the heat necessary to evaporate it at the end of the process would frustrate the whole operation. Hence, also, the subject itself ought always to be dry; those substances which lose their virtue by drying, lose it equally on being submitted to this treatment with the purest alcohol.

"In this way the alcoholic extract of some aromatic substances, Part III.

Principles of substances, as cinnamon, lavender, rosemary, retain a considerable degree of their fine flavour.

"In the second case, the alcohol need not be so very strong, because it is still capable of dissolving resinous substances, although diluted with a considerable proportion of water.

"In the first case, the alcohol may be still much weaker, or rather, the addition of a small proportion of alcohol to water will be sufficient to retard or prevent the decomposition of the decoction.

"The alcohol employed in all these cases should be perfectly free from any unpleasant flavour, lest it be communicated to the extract.

"The infusition should be performed, from the beginning, in the gentle heat of a water-bath. We need not suffer the alcohol to evaporate in the air; the greatest part of it may be recovered by collecting the vapour in common distilling vessels. If the distilled spirit be found to have brought over any flavour from the subject, it may be advantageously reserved for the same purpose again.

"When diluted alcohol is employed, the distillation should only be continued as long as alcohol comes over; and the evaporation should be finished in wide open vessels.

"Pure resins are prepared, by adding to spirituous tinctures of resinous vegetables, a large quantity of water. The resin, incapable of remaining dissolved in the watery liquor, separates and falls to the bottom; leaving in the menstruum such other principles of the plant as the spirit might have extracted at first along with it.

* Duncan's But this is only practised for the purpose of analysis.*

New if Of infusions and decoctions it is unnecessary for us to make any farther remarks, after what was observed in No 200. and 201.

Mucilages

Mucilages are solutions of the pure gums, or of similar substances, in water. They should not be made too thin, as they are then more readily decomposed on exposure to the air.

Mixtures are liquid preparations composed of substances that are not soluble in water, as various powders, barks, roots, &c. Emulsions differ from mixtures in being composed of oily or resinous ingredients, suspended in water by means of yolk of egg, honey, or mucilage. Both these preparations should be made as they are required, as few of them keep well.

Syrups are solutions of sugar, either in plain water, in the juice of some fruit, or in some vegetable infusion or decoction. They are employed chiefly to render mixtures or other liquid medicines more palatable, or to mix up powders and other solid ingredients into pills, electuaries, or troches. The proportion of sugar employed in the making of syrups should be so regulated, as to preserve the syrup in the same state as when first made. If too little sugar has been employed, the syrup will suffer decomposition, and ferment; if too much, part of the sugar will separate in crystals, leaving the remainder too weak.

Formerly the term tincture was employed to denote any transparent solution, whether in water or spirit, that was coloured. At present it is commonly applied to solutions made by digestion in alcohol, or in proof spirit, though it is frequently extended to solutions in ether, or in ammoniated alcohol. For the action of alcohol as a menstruum, see CHEMISTRY.

In making alcoholic tinctures, we must observe that the virtues of recent vegetable matters are very imperfectly extracted by spirituous menstrua. They must therefore be previously carefully dried, and as we cannot affix the solution by means of heat, we must facilitate it by reducing the solvent to a state of as minute mechanical division as possible. To prevent loss, the solution is commonly made in a close vessel, and the heat applied must be very gentle, lest it be broken by the expansion of vapour.

The action of tinctures on the living system is always compounded of the action of the menstruum and of the matters dissolved in it. Now, these actions may either coincide with, or oppose each other; and as alcohol is at all times a powerful agent, it is evident that no substance should be exhibited in the form of a tincture, whose action is different from that of alcohol, unless it be capable of operating in so small a dose, that the quantity of alcohol taken along with it is inconsiderable.

Tinctures are not liable to spoil, as it is called, but they must nevertheless be kept in well closed phials, especially when they contain active ingredients, to prevent the evaporation of the menstruum.

They generally operate in doses so small, that they are rarely exhibited by themselves, but commonly combined with some vehicle. In choosing the latter, we must select some substance which does not decompose the tincture, or at least separate nothing from it in a palatable form.

The London college directs all tinctures, except that of muriate of iron, to be prepared in close phials.

The Dublin college explain, that when any other sublactates are to be digested, they mean it to be done with a low degree of heat; and when they are to be macerated, it is to be done with a degree of heat between 6° and 90°.

Medicated wines and medicated vinegars differ from tinctures in nothing but the menstruum.

Of the external applications, the preparations of Cataplasms, which are given in the Pharmacopoeias, cataplasms or poultices may be considered as extemporaneous, being never kept ready made.

Liniments, ointments, and cerates, are compositions of fatty matters, either animal or vegetable, or both, ointments, employed as external emollients. They differ only in consistency, liniments being very soft, or nearly fluid; ointments sufficiently hard not to melt in the ordinary temperature of the atmosphere; and cerates being of such a consistence as to be readily spread on cloth, &c. without the assistance of heat. These last commonly contain a considerable proportion of wax, whence their name.

Plasters are more solid than cerates, and usually require the aid of heat to spread them on the proper substance for application, which is usually leather. Plasters sometimes contain powders in their composition, and in preparing these it is proper first to melt the fatty ingredients, and sprinkle in the powder when the melted matter is beginning to cool. PART IV. A BRIEF ACCOUNT OF THE ARTICLES OF THE MATERIA MEDICA, WITH THEIR OFFICINAL PREPARATIONS.

CHAP. I. Animal Substances.

1. PHOSPHORUS, see Chemistry Index.

Some daring practitioners have lately ventured to recommend the internal use of this active inflammable in the advanced stage of typhus, in palsy and other cases of great debility. Taken into the stomach in a moderate quantity (below a grain) it produces heat in that organ, accelerates the pulse, promotes perspiration, and is said to give unusual vigour to the body. In larger quantity it produces inflammation of the stomach and bowels, followed by gangrene and death. Dose one-eighth to one-fourth of a grain in ether, or incorporated with mucilage.

The internal use of this substance appears to us to be more than doubtful; but we think we have experienced some benefit from it externally, when dissolved in oil, in paralytic and rheumatic cases.

2. MURIATE OF AMMONIA, E. SAL AMMONIACUS, L. D. Muriate of ammonia. Sal ammoniac (D).

The purest muriate of ammonia of commerce is that prepared by sublimation, and which is formed of large convexo-concave cakes, firm and elastic, not easily broken, and difficult to be cut. It is of a yellowish white colour, of little smell, and of a very sharp saline taste.

It is found native in the neighbourhood of volcanoes; but is usually prepared for medical purposes either from the dung of animals that feed on salt marshes; or by decomposing sulphate of ammonia by muriate of soda, or by immediately combining ammonia with muriatic acid.

Internally it is sometimes given as a stimulant in typhus fevers in doses of 20 or 30 grains mixed with camphorated mixture; but it is principally employed externally in lotions and embrocations, either as a refrigerant to cool the surface in sprains and inflammations, or as a stimulant to disperse tumors or morbid accumulations of fluids, or to quicken the circulation, as in chilblains, &c.

Officinal Preparations.

a. AQUA AMMONIAE, E. AQUA AMMONIAE PURÆ, L. LIQUOR ALKALI VOLATILIS CAUSTICUS, D. Water of ammonia. Water of pure ammonia. Caustic solution of volatile alkali. Strong spirit of sal ammonia.

This is prepared by decomposing muriate of ammonia by means of quicklime with the addition of water, and afterwards distilling off the strongest portion with a gentle heat. The preparations of the different colleges vary a little, the Edinburgh Pharmacopoeia ordering one pound of muriate of ammonia to one pound and a half of quicklime; the London one pound to two pounds; and the Dublin 16 ounces to two pounds. No great quantity of water is necessary. The lime is first flaked with part of the water, and after it is cold, the salt and rest of the water are added, and the distillation carried on in well closed vessels. The Edinburgh college directs Woolf's apparatus to be employed as a receiver, and orders all the separate liquors to be mixed together.

The solution of ammonia should be perfectly limpid and transparent, should have an extremely pungent odour, should not effervesc with acids, and should produce no precipitate on the addition of alcohol or lime water. It should be kept in small bottles well stopp'd with ground stoppers, and should stand in a very cool place.

This preparation is a very powerful stimulant, irritating and inflaming the skin and nostrils, when applied externally or sniffed up the nose. Hence its use as a rubefacient in rheumatism, cynanche, paralysis, and as a general stimulus in syncope, hysteria, &c. It is scarcely used internally. See below.

b. ALCOHOL AMMONIATUM, E. SPIRITUS AMMONIÆ, L. SPIRITUS ALKALI VOLATILIS, ed alcohol. D. Ammoniated alcohol. Spirit of ammonia. Spirit of volatile alkali.

This, as prepared by the Edinburgh Pharmacopoeia, is merely a solution of ammonia in alcohol, and is prepared by decomposing eight ounces of muriate of ammonia by 12 ounces of quicklime, with the addition of eight ounces of water and 32 ounces of alcohol, and distilling off the alcohol. The preparation of the London and Dublin colleges is made by mixing four ounces of muriate with six ounces of potash and three pints of alcohol. The latter therefore contains much carbonate of ammonia, and is not so strong as the former.

c. CARBONAS AMMONIAE, E. AMMONIA PREPARATA, L. ALKALI VOLATILE MITE, D. Carbonate of ammonia. Prepared ammonia. Mula niæ volatile alkali.

This is prepared by mixing together one pound of muriate of ammonia, and twelve pounds of pure carbonate of lime or chalk, after being reduced to powder separately, and afterwards subliming.

This preparation, as it occurs in the shops, is composed of irregular masses of a very white, nearly opaque salt, of a strong pungent odour, and sharp alkaline taste. It requires to be kept closely stopp'd from the air, by the action of which it crumbles into powder, and its volatile part is dissipated. When pure, it should be entirely volatilizable by heat, but if any thing remains,

(D) The letters E. L. D. affixed to the articles in this part denote that they are articles of the Edinburgh, London, or Dublin Pharmacopoeias. maine, there is reason to suppose that carbonate of potash or of lime is mixed with it; and those impurities are most likely to be present if it is purchased in the form of a powder.

Carbonate of ammonia in its medical properties resembles the solution of ammonia, but it is not so strong. It is chiefly employed for smelling bottles, which are used in cases of hysteria or syncope, and is often formed into a neutral salt with the juice of lemons, (citrate of ammonia) and given as a gentle diaphoretic. It is sometimes given alone, or mixed with aromatics, in the form of a bolus, as a diaphoretic or stimulant. Dose five to ten grains.

d. AQUA CARBONATIS AMMONIAE, E. AQUA AMMONIAE, L. LIQUOR ALKALIVOLATILIS MITIS, D. Water of carbonate of ammonia. Liquor of mild volatile alkali.

This is merely a solution of carbonate of ammonia in water, and might be properly prepared by dissolving a certain proportion of that salt in distilled water. The colleges of Edinburgh and Dublin direct it to be made by mixing together 16 ounces of muriate of ammonia, and the same quantity of carbonate of potash, pouring upon them two pounds of water, and distilling to dryness. In the London Pharmacopoeia, the proportions are one pound of the muriate, a pound and a half of potashes, and four pints of water, drawing off two pints by distillation with a slow fire.

This solution should be transparent and colourless; should produce a strong coagulum on the addition of alcohol, and should effervescence with acids.

It is often employed in medicine, both internally and externally. Internally it is given, first as an emetic, in a dose of from 1 to 2 drams; secondly, as a diaphoretic; dose about 50 drops; thirdly, as a stimulant, 20 drops to a dram; fourthly, as an antispasmodic, in a similar dose; fifthly, as an antacid; and sixthly, as an anthelmintic combined with oil into an emulsion.

e. AQUA ACETITIS AMMONIAE, E. AQUA AMMONIAE ACETATIÆ, L. LIQUOR ALKALIVOLATILIS ACETATI, D. SPIRITUS MINDERERI. Water of acetite of ammonia. Water of acetylated ammonia. Liquor of acetylated volatile alkali. Mindererus's spirit.

This is a secondary salt, formed by neutralizing carbonate of ammonia with distilled acetic acid.

It forms a tolerably transparent solution, commonly of a greenish cast, of little smell, and of a weak saline taste. It should shew no signs of effervescence on the addition of either acetic acid or carbonate of ammonia.

This medicine acts as a gentle diaphoretic, of considerable use in low fevers, and several inflammatory complaints. It may be given in a dose of 3—6 drams, in the form of a draught or julep. It should be assisted by warm clothing, and warm diluent liquors.

f. HYDROSULPHURETUM AMMONIAE, E. Hydrofulphuret of ammonia.

This preparation has been newly introduced into medical practice, by the Edinburgh college, who direct it to be prepared by subjecting 4 ounces of water of ammonia to a stream of gas arising from a mixture of 4 ounces of sulphuret of iron, and 8 ounces of muriatic acid, previously diluted with 2½ pounds of water.

This preparation forms a solution of a dark green colour and very fetid odour. It should more properly be called sulphuretted hydrogenet of ammonia. It acts powerfully on the living system. It induces vertigo, drowsiness, nausea, and vomiting, and lessens the action of the heart and arteries. It therefore seems to be a direct sedative. According to the doctrine of the chemical physiologists, it is a powerful disoxygenezing remedy. It has only been used in diabetes by Dr Rollo and others, under the name of hepaticized ammonia, in doses of five or ten drops twice or thrice a day*.

g. OLEUM AMMONIATUM, E. LINIMENTUM AMMONIAE, L. D. LINIMENTUM VOLATILE. Ammoniated oil. Liniment of ammonia. Volatile liniment.

Ammoniated oil is properly a soap, formed by combining a solution of ammonia, or of carbonate of ammonia, with olive oil. The Edinburgh college directs it to be prepared by mixing together two ounces of olive oil and two drams of water of ammonia. The London college has two preparations of this kind; a stronger, formed of one ounce of water of pure ammonia, mixed with two ounces of olive oil; and a weaker, of half an ounce of water of ammonia and one ounce and a half of oil.

This preparation is seldom kept ready made, as by standing it becomes thick, and is diminished in strength. It is of a light yellow colour.

Ammoniated oil is a useful external application in cases of cynanche and rheumatism, being either rubbed on the affected part, or applied to it spread on flannel, and changed occasionally.

h. ALCOHOL AMMONIATUM AROMATICUM, E. SPIRITUS AMMONIAE COMPOSITUS, L. SPIRITUS ALKALIVOLATILIS AROMATICUS, D. Aromatic ammoniated alcohol. Compound spirit of ammonia. Aromatic spirit of volatile alkali. Sal volutile.

This is a composition of ammoniated alcohol with various aromatic oils. In the Edinburgh Pharmacopoeia it is prepared by dissolving one dram and a half of oil of rosemary, and one dram of oil of lemon peel, in eight ounces of ammoniated alcohol; by the London college we are directed to prepare it of two pints of spirit of ammonia, and two drams of oil of lemen, and of oil of cloves; and by that of Dublin, of two pounds of spirit, and of oil of lemon and oil of nutmeg, each two drams.

It is of a light amber colour, and of a very fragrant smell. It is more palatable and less acrimonious than the other preparations of ammonia, and is well suited to spasmoid complaints, faintness, and weakness of the stomach. Dose from twenty drops to a dram.

i. LINIMENTUM VOLATILE, D. Volatile Liniment of the Dublin college.

A compound of one part of the above preparation and two parts of the Dublin soap liniment, of which hereafter. A stimulating external application.

k. SPIRITUS AMMONIAE SUCCINATUS, L. Succinated spirit of ammonia. This is prepared by dissolving a scruple of rectified oil of amber, and ten grains of soap, in an ounce weight of alcohol, and then adding four measured ounces of water of pure ammonia.

It is at first of a milky colour, but gradually becomes more or less transparent by standing. It is considered as much the same with the French eau de luce.

It is an useful antispasmodic, whether sniffed up the nose or rubbed on the temples.

1. ALCOHOL AMMONIATUM FOETIDUM, E. SPIRITUS AMONNIÆ FOETIDUS, L. SPIRITUS ALKALI VOLATILIS FOETIDUS, D. Fetid ammoniated alcohol. Fetid spirit of volatile alkali.

A solution of asafoetida in spirit of ammonia, which is prepared according to the Edinburgh college by digesting half an ounce of asafoetida in eight ounces of spirit of ammonia for 12 hours, and distilling off the spirit. The London college directs fix pints of proof spirits, a pound of sal ammoniac, four ounces of asafoetida, and a pound and a half of potash, to be mixed together, and five pints to be distilled off with a slow fire,

An excellent antispasmodic, particularly suited to hysterical cases. Dose from 30 drops to a dram.

Particular Animal Substances.

CLASS MAMMALIA. Order GLIRES.

3. CASTOR FIBER, E. The beaver. CASTOREUM, L. D. Castor.

This is a substance secreted in a follicle situated near the anus of the beaver, perhaps the inguinal gland. It is of a dark brown colour, friable, of a pungent bitter taste, and a very strong unpleasant smell. It is contained in a roundish or flattened membranous bag. Bouillon la Grange has found by analysis, that it consists of mucilage, bitter extract, resin, a peculiar volatile oil, and a flaky crystalline substance resembling adpocire. Its volatile parts come over by distillation with water, and great part of the substance is soluble in alcohol.

The best castor comes from Russia, but a great deal is brought from Canada. The Russian castor is in larger, rounder bags, and is of a much stronger smell than the Canadian.

Castor is one of our most established antispasmodics, and was much esteemed and extolled by Dr Cullen. It is chiefly prescribed in hysteria, but seldom alone or in substance. Dose from 10 to 30 grains in a bolus.

Officinal Preparations.

a. TINCTURA CASTOREI. Tincture of castor.

The London and Dublin colleges direct two ounces of powdered Russian castor to be digested ten or seven days in two pints (London), or two pounds (Dublin), of proof spirit. According to the Edinburgh formula, an ounce and a half of Russian castor is to be digested for seven days in a pound of alcohol, and the tincture strained through paper.

This tincture is of a dark brown colour, and possesses all the valuable properties of the simple drug. Dose from 30 drops to a dram. It is sometimes used as an external application in ear-ach; equal parts of this and tincture of opium being dropped into the ear.

b. TINCTURA CASTOREI COMPOSITA, E. Compound tincture of castor.

This is prepared by digesting an ounce of powdered Russian castor, and half an ounce of asafoetida, in a pound of ammoniated alcohol, for seven days, filtering the liquor through paper.

A more powerful antispasmodic than the former; dose from 20 to 40 drops.

4. MOSCHUS MOSCHIFERUS, E. The musk animal. Musk. MOSCHUS, L. D. Musk.

Musk is a resinous matter secreted in a receptacle situated near the navel of the musk animal. See MAMMALIA Index.

This substance is, when dry, of a reddish brown or ruddy black colour, somewhat unctuous, and of a more or less granulated appearance: it has a bitterish and rather acid taste; a fragrant smell, agreeable at a distance, but so strong as to be highly unpleasant when felt near to. So violent indeed is the smell of musk, when fresh taken from the animal, or from quantities put up by the merchants for sale, that it has been known to force the blood from the nose, eyes, and ears, of those who have imprudently inhaled its vapours; and we are assured by Chardin, that whenever he engaged in the purchase of musk, he found it always necessary to cover his face with several folds of a handkerchief, in order to be sufficiently secure against the sudden effects of the smell.

As musk is an expensive drug, it is frequently adulterated by various substances; and we are assured that pieces of lead have been found in some of the receptacles, inserted in order to incr-ase the weight. The most usual mode of adulterating it is by taking the musk from the bag, and mixing it with dried blood coarsely powdered. This may in general be detected by observing that the bag has been opened; by the fetid smell which the substance emits when heated, and by the smell of ammoniacal gas which is perceived when the adulterated musk is rubbed with potash.

This substance is particularly efficacious, and there is scarcely any substitute for it in particular cases. When properly administered it sometimes succeeds in the most desperate cases. It raises the pulse without producing much heat; it removes spasmodic affections, and is found to have considerable effect on the nervous system, increasing the powers of thought, sensation, and voluntary motion.

It may be employed in all cases of typhus fevers; in particular, where there is much delirium, subfultus tendinum, &c. It is also employed in febrile eruptions, and in many spasmodic diseases, as the chincough, epilepsy, tetanus, &c.

Officinal Preparations.

a. TINCTURA MOSCHI, D. Tincture of musk.

This is prepared by macerating two drams of musk in a pound of rectified spirit of wine for seven days, and straining the liquor.

The tincture of musk may be given in doses of a dram Part IV.

History of dram or two. It is best mixed with honey or syrup, as simple and the addition of water renders it turbid.

b. MISTURA MOSCHATA, L. Musk mixture.

This is directed by the London college to be made by rubbing two scruples of musk, first with one dram of double refined sugar, then with the addition of the same quantity of powdered gum arabic, and fix ounces of rose water, added by degrees.

The musk must be well rubbed with the sugar and gum, before the rose water be added, otherwise a fermentation will take place. It is best to make this preparation only when required, as it does not keep well.

Musk mixture is given in most of the cases in which the simple drug is indicated. Dose, an ounce or an ounce and a half.

c. CERVUS ELAPHUS, E. the Stag. CORNU CERVINUM, L. D. Hart/horn.

The horn of the stag differs little from bone, except in containing more cartilage. It was formerly employed in the preparation of ammonia, whence that alkali was denominated hart/horn, and at present there are two or three modifications of ammonia that are directed to be prepared from this substance. It is also burnt to form pure phosphate of lime.

Official Preparations.

a. PHOSPHAS CALCIS, E. CORNU CERVI, VEL CERVINUM USTUM, L. D. Phosphate of lime. Burnt hart/horn.

The Edinburgh college directs this to be prepared by burning pieces of hart/horn till they become perfectly white, and then reducing them to a fine powder.

Burnt hart/horn was formerly given as an antacid; but its efficacy in that way appears to be trifling, as the phosphoric acid is not easily separated from the lime, and of course the latter will not neutralize the acid morbidly secreted in the alimentary canal. Of late pure phosphate of lime has been recommended as a remedy for rickets, with the view of supplying solid matter to the bones. Dose about ten grains.

b. LIQUOR VOLATILIS CORNU CERVI, L. D. Volatile liquor of hart/horn. Spirit of hart/horn.

c. SAL CORNU CERVI, L. D. Salt of hart/horn.

d. OLEUM CORNU CERVI, L. D. Oil of hart/horn.

These are all made from one chemical operation. A quantity of hart/horn is put into a retort, and submitted to a heat that is gradually increased. First the volatile liquor comes over, then the salt, and lastly the oil. After the salt and oil are separated from the liquor, this is distilled again two or three times with a moderate heat, by which it is rendered more pure.

The salt is purified by mixing it with an equal weight of prepared chalk, and then subliming.

The volatile liquor and salt of hart/horn differ little from the water of carbonate of ammonia, and the solid carbonate, except in containing a quantity of empyreumatic oil. They are in fact less pure than the above-mentioned preparations of ammonia, and might be entirely let aside. They are chiefly used to smell to in cases of fainting or hystera.

These preparations may be made from the bones or horns of any animal, where hart/horn cannot be conveniently procured.

c. OLEUM ANIMALE, L. OLEUM CORNU Animale oil. CERVINI RECTIFICATUM, D. Animal oil. Rectified oil of hart/horn. Dippel's oil.

This is made by distilling the oil of hart/horn that rises in the preceding operation, twice or three times, either by itself, or with the addition of water.

Animal oil was formerly much employed as a powerful antipathodmic. Dose 15—30 drops. When given fix hours before the accession of a paroxysm of an intermitting fever, on an empty stomach, it is said to have kept off the paroxysm.

6. OVIS ARIES, E. the Sheep. SEVUM OVIL. Mutton fat.

Mutton fat is employed in the preparation of several ointments and cerates, which will be mentioned hereafter.

Order 6. BELLÆ.

7. SUS SCROFA, E. the Hog. ADEPS SUILLUS, Hogs lard. L. D. Hogs lard.

Used also in the preparation of liniments, ointments, &c. and sometimes employed alone as an external emollient.

Order 7. CETE.

8. PHYSETER MACROCEPHALUS, E. Spermaceti Whale. Sperma Ceti, L. D.

This is a white flaky substance, that is found in certain cells in the head of the spermaceti whale. See CETOLOGY, No 66, and CHEMISTRY, No 2860.

As an emollient, spermaceti is employed both internally and externally. Internally it is given in the form of emulsion mixed with mucilage or yolk of egg, or mixed with syrup into a linctus, in cases of catarrh, ardor urinae, &c. As an external application, it enters into the composition of the following

Official Preparations.

a. UNGUENTUM SPERMATIS CETI, L. D. Spermaceti ointment.

This ointment is prepared by melting together fix drams of spermaceti, two drams of white wax, and three ounces of olive oil, over a slow fire, stirring them constantly till they are cold.

b. CERATUM SPERMATIS CETI, L. D. CERA-TUM SIMPLEX, E. Spermaceti cerate. Simple Cerate. White Cerate.

In the preparations of this cerate, the proportions of the Edinburgh pharmacopoeia differ from those directed by the colleges of London and Dublin. The former orders fix parts of olive oil, three of white wax, and one of spermaceti; the two latter, half an ounce of spermaceti, two ounces of white wax, and four ounces History of oil. They are made in a similar manner with the simple and official ointment.

These preparations are used principally for dressing ulcers, or to form more compounded ointments or cerates.

CLASS II. BIRDS. Order 1. ANSERES.

9. ANAS ANSER, the goose. ADEPS ANSERINUS, D. Goose greafe.

This fat is now rarely used in medicine, as it seems to possess no superior properties to hog's lard, which is more conveniently procured.

Order 2. GALLINÆ.

10. PHASIANUS GALLUS, the domestic fowl. OVUM EJUSQUE PUTAMEN. Egg, and egg-shells.

The yolk of egg is employed in pharmacy for rendering oils and resins miscible with water. For this purpose it is scarcely preferable to common vegetable mucilage, and has the disadvantage of sooner becoming putrid, and the white is used in making alum cataplasm. Egg-shells prepared, i.e. levigated, are sometimes employed as an antacid, but they do not seem better in that respect than common carbonate of lime, or magnesia.

CLASS IV. FISHES. Order 6. CHONDROPTERYGII.

11. ACCIPENSER HUSO, E. Ilinglafis fith. ICHTHYOCOLLA, L. D. Ilinglafis. See the article ICHTHYOCOLLA.

Employed as an emollient, and said to be the principal substance used in making court plasters.

CLASS V. INSECTS. Order 1. COLEOPTERA.

12. LYTTA VESICATORIA. MELOE VESICATORIUS, E. CANTHARIS, L. D. Cantharides. Spanish flies.

For the natural history of this insect, see Entomology, p. 169; and for its chemical analysis, see Chemistry, No 2875.

Cantharides are stimulant and virulent to so great a degree, that their internal exhibition requires to be conducted with the utmost caution, otherwise inflammation in the stomach, intestines, or urinary passages, may be the consequence. When taken in considerable quantity, they produce inflammation and ulceration of the stomach and bowels, attended with mucous or purulent stools, fetid breath, violent pains in the belly; and these symptoms, if not timely relieved, are followed by faintings, giddiness, and death. Applied externally, they inflame and excoriate the skin, and if continued for a sufficient time, produce a large vesication, filled with acid serum. Their external application is not unfrequently followed by distressing strangury.

Internally they have been exhibited as a diuretic in dropical cases, in a dose from half a grain to a grain. They are frequently employed in weakness of the urinary organs: in incontinence of urine proceeding from paralysis vehæ, in gleets, fluor albus, diabetes, and other diseases of the urinary passages, originating in, or connected with debility. Not only in the incontinency of urine which accompanies a palsy of the lower extremities, but also in that which is occasioned by an over-diffusion of the bladder, these flies have been administered internally with evident relief. The same beneficial effects have followed their use in ichuria vesicalis, or suppression of urine from over-diffusion of the bladder. They are recommended as an excellent remedy in gleets by Mead and Werlhof, and the last-mentioned physician preferred them in cases of hydrophobia.

The internal use of cantharides in gleets and leucorrhœa has of late been much extended by Dr John Robertson; but for an account of the circumstances which led him to such a free use of this medicine, and for his mode of exhibiting it, we must refer to his late work on the subject, and a paper published by him in the second volume of the Edinburgh Medical Journal.

When these stimulants are administered internally, they are prescribed either in powder or in tincture. The dose in substance (which is the most certain form of internal exhibition) is from half a grain to one or two grains every sixth hour, made into pills. Of the tincture, the dose is from 10 to 30 drops. During the use of either, the patient should be directed to drink of mucilaginous decoctions, emulsions, &c. Camphor is thought by some practitioners to moderate the too stimulating action of cantharides, and is accordingly combined with them or their tinctures whenever they are given internally. Others join nitre with them, as well as camphor.

Of the external use of cantharides by way of blister, we shall speak presently under the preparations that are employed for that purpose.

Officinal Preparations.

a. Tinctura Meloes vesicatorii, E. Tinctura RA CANTHARIDIS, L. T. CANTHARIDUM, D. Tinctorium of cantharides.

The Edinburgh tincture is directed to be made, by digesting for seven days a dram of powdered cantharides in a pound of diluted alcohol; and that of the Dublin college is prepared with the same proportions. The London tincture is made by digesting two drams of bruised cantharides, and half a pound of powdered cochineal, in a pint and a half of proof spirit for eight days.

These tinctures differ a little in point of strength. When given internally, the dose of the Edinburgh or Dublin tincture may be from 20 to 30 drops; that of the London tincture from 10 to 20 drops. They are employed externally as a rubefacient in cases of palsy, angina, gastritis, &c.

b. Ceratum Cantharidis, L. D. Cerate of cantharides.

This cerate is prepared by mixing a dram, or four scruples, of powdered cantharides, with six drams, or an ounce, of 'permaceti cerate.

It is chiefly employed to promote the running of ulcers.

c. Emplastrum Meloes vesicatorii, E. EM. Plaster of PLASTRUM CANTHARIDIS, L. EMP. CAN. THARIDUM, D. Plaster of cantharides. Blistering plaster.

According to the Edinburgh college, this plaster is Part IV.

History of to be prepared by first melting together equal weights Simple and of mutton suet, yellow wax, and white rosin; and Official when these are removed from the fire, sprinkling in an Medicines. equal proportion of powdered cantharides. The proportions of the London and Dublin colleges are 1 pound of finely powdered cantharides, 2 pounds of wax plaster, and half a pound of hog's lard, and the ingredients are mixed in a similar manner.

d. Emplastrum Meloes Vesicatorii Compositum, E. Compound plaster of cantharides.

This is made of Burgundy pitch, Venice turpentine, cantharides, each 12 parts; yellow wax, 4 parts; sub-acetate of copper, 2 parts; mustard seed and black pepper, each 1 part. Having first melted the pitch and wax, the turpentine is to be added, and while these ingredients are still fluid, the other articles in fine powder are to be mixed with them, and the whole constantly stirred till cold.

This last-mentioned plaster of Spanish flies is too compound, and being of a corrosive quality, is rarely prescribed. The other more simple forms of cantharides plaster are in frequent use for exciting vesications in various acute and chronic diseases, particularly in internal inflammations and pains, as well as in many spasmodic affections. Blistering has been recommended by some physicians in the advanced and sinking stage of typhus fever; but the propriety of such a practice is extremely questionable. We would further remark, that in the febrile disorders of children, a good deal of caution is requisite in the application of blisters; a spreading erythematous inflammation, and even gangrene, being sometimes the consequence. In some of the above-mentioned disorders much benefit is obtained by keeping the blistered part open, or in an ulcerated state for a considerable length of time. This is done by any of the following ointments.

e. Unguentum Cantharidis, L. UNG. CANTHARIDUM, D. Ointment of cantharides.

This is prepared by taking pulverized Spanish flies, two ounces; distilled water, eight ounces; ointment of yellow resin, eight ounces. The Spanish flies being boiled in the water, this is reduced to half the original quantity, the liquor is strained, and the ointment of yellow resin added. The mixture is then placed in a water bath, saturated with sea salt, and evaporated to the consistence of an ointment.

f. Unguentum Infusi Meloes Vesicatorii, E. Ointment of infusion of cantharides.

To prepare this ointment, the Edinburgh college directs one part of cantharides to be macerated for a night in four parts of boiling water; the express and strained liquor to be boiled with two parts of hogs lard till the water is evaporated, then one part of yellow wax, and the same proportion of white rosin to be added; and when the whole is melted, and removed from the fire, two parts of Venice turpentine are to be mixed with it, and the whole stirred till cold.

g. Unguentum Pulveris Meloes Vesicatorii, E. Ointment of cantharides powder.

This is prepared by mixing together seven parts of resinous ointment, and one part of powdered cantharides.

All these ointments, besides being used for keeping open blisters, are occasionally employed for influe ointments.

For more on the subject of blisters, the reader is referred to Percival's Essays, vol. i. and Withers on the use and abuse of Medicines.

Order 2. Hemiptera.

13. Coccus Cacti, E. COCCINELLA, L. D. Cochineal. Cochineal. See Entomology Index.

This is employed in medicine merely as a colouring matter.

Order 5. Hymenoptera

Apis Mellifica. The bee.

14. MEL. Honey.

Besides being used as an article of diet, honey is often employed medicinally, either for the preparation of electuaries, or for making a kind of syrups, called oxymels or medicated honeys. It generally proves gently laxative, but is apt to disagree with the stomach, producing sickness and griping. It might probably be entirely superceded by sugar, which is not attended with those unpleasant effects.

Officinal Preparations.

a. MEL DESPUMATUM. Clarified honey. For the purpose of clarifying honey, the colleges of London and Dublin direct that it should be melted in a water bath, removing the scum as it rises. In this way the honey is rendered more beautiful to the eye, but is scarcely less liable to disagree with weak stomachs.

b. MEL ACETATUM, L. OXYMEL SIMPLEX. Acetated honey. Simple oxymel.

Two pounds of clarified honey are boiled in a glass vessel over a gentle fire, with one pound of distilled vinegar, till they are reduced to the consistence of a syrup.

This is a useful remedy, diluted with water and employed as a gargle, in coughs and sore throats.

Order 7. APTERA.

15. Oniscus asellus, E. MILLEPEDA, L. Millepedes. D. Millepedes or Woodlice.

Formerly employed as a diuretic in the form of pills, that were made either of the living animals, or of these killed by spirit of wine and powdered.

16. Cancer astacus, E. The craw-fish. Con-cerorum lapilli. Crabs eyes. See Chemistry, No 2882.

Officinal Preparation.

a. Cancrorum Lapilli Praeparati, E. Prepared crabs eyes. Formerly Formerly much employed as an antacid, though not at all superior to common carbonate of lime.

17. CANCER FAGURUS, E. The black-clawed crab. CHELÆ CANCRORUM, L. Crabs claws.

Officinal Preparations.

283 Prepared crabs claws. Prepared crabs claws.

a. CHELÆ CANCRORUM PRÆPARATÆ, L. Prepared crabs claws.

Reduced to powder like the former, by levigation, diffusion, filtration, and drying. Of similar properties.

b. PULVIS CHELARUM CANCRI COMPOSITUS, L. Compound powder of crabs claws.

A mixture of one pound of prepared crabs claws, with three ounces of prepared chalk, and the same proportion of prepared red coral.

CLASS VI. WORMS. Order 2. MOLLUSCA.

18. HIRUDO MEDICINALIS. Medicinal leech. See HELMINTHOLOGY Index.

Order 3. TESTACEA.

19. OSTREA EDULIS, E. OSTREA, L. D. Oyster. See CONCHOLOGY Index. TESTÆ OSTÉARUM. Oyster shells. See CHEMISTRY, No 2883.

Officinal Preparation.

287 Prepared oyster shells. Prepared oyster shells.

a. OSTREARUM TESTÆ PRÆPARATÆ, L. Prepared oyster shells.

Prepared in the same way as crabs claws, possessing similar properties.

Order 4. ZOOPHYTA.

20. GORGONIA NOBILIS. ISIS NOBILIS, E. CORALIUM RUBRUM, L. D. Red coral. See CHEMISTRY, No 2886.

Officinal Preparation.

289 Prepared red coral. Prepared red coral.

a. CORALLIUM RUBRUM PRÆPARATUM. Prepared red coral.

As above.

21. SPONGIA OFFICINALIS, E. SPONGIA, L. D. Sponge. See HELMINTHOLOGY Index.

In its natural state, sponge is employed by surgeons, for cleansing wounds and ulcers, for making tents, and for stopping hemorrhages from small divided blood vessels.

Officinal Preparation.

291 Burnt sponge. Burnt sponge.

Sponge is burnt in a clofe iron vessel, after being cut into small pieces and bruised to free it from earthy and stony matter. The burning is continued till the sponge becomes black and friable, and it is then reduced to a fine powder.

Burnt sponge has been long employed as a remedy in scorfulous affections. It seems to owe its beneficial operation (mostly slight and uncertain) in these different orders, partly to its alkaline and partly to its carbonaceous nature. Perhaps the first mentioned may contribute to the solution and diffusion (in the human body) of its coaly matter. It is given (made into a bolus, or lozenge) in doses of a scruple, or half a dram, twice a day.

It is likewise said to be a remedy for the broncheccele, in which cases it has been administered with success in the following manner. The stomach and bowels having been duly cleansed by a vomit and purge taken two days before, the patient, on going to bed, is to place a bolus consisting of half a dram of burnt sponge, and as much honey as is necessary, in the mouth, under the tongue, and as it gradually dissolves to swallow it. This bolus is to be repeated for fix nights. A bitter powder made of five grains of chamomile flowers, gentian root, and the lesser centaury tops, is to be taken every seventh day during the use of the bolus, and on the eighth day the purge is to be repeated. Others have employed sponge in these cases in the form of a lozenge, which is certainly more conveniently held in the mouth than a bolus *.

* Thesaurus Medicamentorum.

CHAP. II. Vegetable Substances.

SECT. I. Vegetable products that are procured from plants in general, or from such as are imperfectly known.

22. CARBO LIGNI, E. Charcoal. See CHEMISTRY Index.

For medical purposes charcoal should be fresh burned, or should be kept carefully excluded from the air. Its chief use is as an antiseptic, correcting putridity; hence it is employed as a tooth-powder, either alone or mixed with astringents and aromatics, and is sometimes given internally in diarrhoea and dysentery, where the matters evacuated are very offensive. It is also said to act as a gentle laxative.

23. FULIGO LIGNI COMBUS TI. Wood foot. Wood foot.

This differs from charcoal in containing a considerable quantity of empyreumatic oil, to which the properties attributed to it as an antispasmodic are to be ascribed. It is now seldom used.

24. ALCOHOL, E. SPIRITUS VINO SUS RECTIFICATUS, L. SPIRITUS VINI RECTIFICATUS, D. Alcohol. Rectified spirit of wine.

For the usual preparation, history and chemical properties of alcohol, see CHEMISTRY, Chap. xi, sect. i.

The only certain mode of ascertaining the purity of alcohol and its preparations is by taking their specific gravity, for the manner of doing which see HYDRODYNAMICS. The specific gravity of rectified spirit should be 835.

Alcohol is one of the most violent stimuli with which we are acquainted. Applied externally it corrugates the solid parts of the body, and coagulates all the albuminous and gelatinous fluids with which it comes in contact. By violently contracting the smaller vessels, it checks Part IV.

History of checks passive hemorrhages, and by destroying the sensibility of the extremities of nerves it alleviates pain, and in some cases removes palpam. Taken undiluted into the stomach, it acts in a similar manner, contracting the solids, and destroying nervous sensibility. If the quantity is considerable, it brings on apoplecty and palsy, followed by death. Sufficiently diluted alcohol acts as a tonic and gentle stimulus, exhilarating the spirits, increasing the appetite, and promoting digestion; but a too frequent use of ardent spirits is attended with dangerous consequences. See No 102. It is a useful application to recent burns and scalds, preventing vesication.

It must be remarked, that what the Edinburgh college have called alcohol is not pure alcohol.

Officinal Preparations.

a. ALCOHOL, L. D. Alcohol.

The process for obtaining pure alcohol given by the London college is somewhat different from that of the Dublin college. The former directs a gallon of rectified spirit of wine to be mixed with an ounce of pure kali, and afterwards a pound of hot prepared kali to be added. The mixture is to be well shaken and let by for 24 hours, when the spirit is to be poured off, mixed with half a pound more prepared kali, and distilled in a water bath. The distilled alcohol should have the specific gravity of 815.

The process of the Dublin pharmacopoeia is as follows. Five pounds of rectified spirit are mixed with one ounce of caustic vegetable alkali, and then with one pound of pearl-ashes dried over the fire and full warm. This mixture is digested for three days, shaking it frequently; and then the spirit is poured off, and distilled till three pounds have come over. The Dublin alcohol has the specific gravity of 820, and is consequently weaker than that of the London pharmacopoeia.

Pure alcohol is not employed in medicine, and therefore the college of Edinburgh have given no formula for its preparation.

b. LIQUOR ÆTHEREUS VITRIOLICUS, D. Vitriolic etheral liquor.

This is prepared by putting 32 ounces of rectified spirit of wine into a retort that is capable of supporting a sudden heat, and pouring on it in a continued stream 32 ounces of sulphuric acid, mixing them gradually; then placing the retort in heated sand, and distilling off 16 ounces into a cool receiver, taking care so to regulate the heat that the mixture may boil as soon as possible. The specific gravity should be about 753.

In a similar manner is prepared the

SPIRITUS ÆTHERIS VITRIOLICI, L. Spirit of vitriolic ether.

This preparation is an impure ether, and, when purified, as directed below, it forms the officinal sulphuric ether.

It is employed as a stimulant in low fevers and febrile eruptions. Dose from 60 to 100 drops.

c. ÆTHER SULPHURICUS, E. ÆTHER VITRIOLICUS, L. D. Sulphuric ether. Vitriolic ether.

The colleges of London and Dublin direct their sulphuric ether to be prepared by rectifying the former preparation by means of potash. According to the former, two pounds of spirit of vitriolic ether are to be mixed with one measured ounce of water of pure kali, and the mixture distilled with a gentle heat, till 14 measured ounces have come over. In the Dublin formula 16 ounces of vitriolic etheral liquor are mixed with two drams of powdered caustic vegetable alkali; and 10 ounces are distilled off.

The Edinburgh college direct 32 ounces of alcohol, and the same quantity of sulphuric acid, to be mixed together in a proper retort, and 16 ounces to be distilled over from a sand heat suddenly applied. To the distilled liquor are then to be added two drachms of potash, and from a very high retort 10 ounces are to be distilled with a gentle fire.

On the chemical nature and properties of sulphuric ether, see CHEMISTRY, Chap. XI. Sect. II. Its specific gravity should be about 739.

The medical uses of ether are thus described by Dr Duncan. "As a medicine taken internally, it is an excellent antispasmodic, cordial, and stimulant. In catarrhal and asthmatic complaints, its vapour is inhaled with advantage, by holding in the mouth a piece of sugar, on which ether has been dropt. It is given as a cordial in nausea, and in febrile diseases of the typhoid type, as an antispasmodic in hysteria, and in other spasmodic and painful diseases; and as a stimulus in soporific and apoplectic affections. Regular practitioners seldom give so much as half an ounce, much more frequently only a few drops, for a dose; but empirics have sometimes ventured upon much larger quantities, and with incredible benefit. When applied externally, it is capable of producing two very opposite effects, according to its management; for if it be prevented from evaporating, by covering the place to which it is applied closely with the hand, it proves a powerful stimulant and rubefacient, and excites a sensation of burning heat. In this way it is frequently used for removing pains in the head or teeth. On the contrary, if it be dropt on any part of the body exposed freely to the contact of the air, its rapid evaporation produces an intense degree of cold; and this is attended with a proportional diminution of bulk in the part to which it is applied: in this way it has frequently facilitated the reduction of strangulated hernia *."

d. ÆTHER SULPHURICUS CUM ALCOHOLE, E. Sulphuric ether with alcohol.

This is prepared by mixing together one part of sulphuric ether, and two parts of alcohol. In nature and properties it agrees with the spiritus etheris vitriolici of the London Pharmacopoeia.

e. OLEUM VINI, L. Oil of wine.

This preparation is made by mixing together one part of alcohol, and the same quantity of sulphuric acid, and distilling, taking care that no black froth passes into the receiver. The oily part of the distilled liquor is to be separated from the volatile acid; and to the former is to be added as much water and pure kali, as is sufficient to correct the sulphureous smell. Then a gentle heat is to be applied to distil off the little ether that History of that the liquor contains; and the oil that floats on the simple and remaining fluid is to be separated and preserved for use.

This is employed chiefly as an ingredient in the following preparation; though it is sometimes given alone as a stimulus, in a dose from 10 to 20 drops.

f. SPIRITUS ÆTHERIS VITRIOLICI COMPOSITUS, L. Compound spirit of vitriolic ether.

Prepared by mixing two pounds of spirit of vitriolic ether, and three drams of the oil of wine.

It is employed as an antispasmodic in similar cases, and doses, as sulphuric ether.

g. LIQUOR ÆTHEREUS OLEOSUS, D. LIQUOR HOFFMANNI ANODYNUS. Oily ethereal liquor. Hoffmann's anodyne liquor.

Made by distilling to one half the liquor that remains after preparing the Dublin vitriolic ether.

Similar in its properties to ether, but weaker. It is much the same as the former.

h. ÆTHER SULPHURICUS CUM ALCOHOLE AROMATICUS, E. Aromatic sulphuric ether with alcohol.

This is prepared by digesting, for seven days, an ounce of bruised cinnamon, an ounce of bruised lesser cardamom seeds, and two drams of powdered long pepper, in two pounds and a half of sulphuric ether with alcohol.

A powerful stimulant and tonic. Dose 30 drops to a dram.

25. ALCOHOL DILUTUM, E. SPIRITUS VINOSUS TENUIOR, L. SPIRITUS VINI TENUIOR, D. Diluted alcohol. Weaker spirit of wine. Proof spirit.

This is rectified spirit lowered with water to what is called proof strength, having a specific gravity of about 935. In all its essential properties it resembles common spirits, and either whisky or British spirit may be used for it. The proof spirit of commerce is usually distilled either from molasses or grain.

In pharmacy it is employed as a menstruum for making various tinctures.

26. ACIDUM ACETOSUM IMPURUM. ACETUM VINI, D. ACETUM, L. Impure acetic acid. Vinegar.

As the vinegar commonly met with is made from other fermented liquors besides the juice of the grape, we have inserted it here among the vegetable principles. On the production and properties of vinegar, see Chemistry, No 649 and 2310. Common vinegar, besides diluted acetic acid, contains tartaric acid, tartrate of potash, luperatartrate of potash, and mucilage. It should be transparent, of a pale yellow colour, fragrant pungent smell, and an agreeable sharp taste. It is seldom employed in medicine before it is purified by distillation or other processes to be immediately mentioned. Vinegar is a good family remedy as a refrigerant in fevers, as a stimulant external application in bruises, sprains, &c. and vinegar whey made by coagulating warm milk by means of good vinegar, is one of the best auxiliary diaphoretics with which we are acquainted.

a. ACIDUM ACETOSUM DISTILLATUM, E. ACETUM DISTILLATUM, L. D.

The Edinburgh college directs eight pounds of common acetic acid to be distilled in a glass vessel with a gentle heat, setting aside the first two pounds that come over, and preferring the next four pounds. The Dublin college directs 10 pounds of vinegar to be put into the still, and fix pounds to be drawn off at once; and the London college, from five pounds, directs that there should be distilled off as much as comes over free from empyreuma.

Distilled vinegar is freed from the salts and mucilage contained in common vinegar, and therefore is purer and keeps better; but it is much weaker than good vinegar. If it has been distilled in glass vessels it can have acquired no metallic impregnation; but it is sometimes, as well as common vinegar, adulterated with sulphuric acid to make it appear stronger. This fraud may be detected by adding muriate of baryta, which will produce a white precipitate if sulphuric acid be present.

It is employed for gargles, for preparing various acetates, and other officinal medicines. It is also given as a refrigerant diluted with water in feverish disorders, and is applied externally.

b. ACIDUM ACETOSUM FORTE, E. ACIDUM A- CETOSUM, L. Strong acetic acid. Radical vi- negar. Acetic acid.

By the Edinburgh process, a pound of dried sulphate of iron is to be rubbed with 10 ounces of acetate of lead; the mixture is then to be put into a retort, and distilled as long as any acid comes over. The London college directs two pounds of coarsely-powdered verdigris, well dried by means of a water bath, saturated with sea salt, to be put into a retort and distilled, repeating the distillation with the liquor that comes over.

On the production and properties of this acid, see Chemistry, No 652, et seq. Its specific gravity should be about 1060. It is sometimes contaminated with sulphurous acid or with lead. The former may be discovered by the unpleasant tickling cough it then occasions when sniffed up the nose; and the latter by adding sulphuret of ammonia, by which, if lead be present, the liquor will be tinged of a dark brown.

This preparation is employed chiefly as a stimulant to be sniffed up the nose in syncope, hysteric, and similar affections: externally it acts as a rubefacient. Both this and the two following may be used as fumigations to correct the bad smell of sick rooms.

c. ACETUM AROMATICUM, E. Aromatic vinegar. Aromatic Vinegar of the four thieves.

Made by macerating four ounces of dried rosemary tops, four ounces of dried sage leaves, two ounces of dried lavender flowers, and two drams of cloves, in eight pounds of distilled acetic acid for seven days, and straining.

Sometimes given as a stimulus, diluted with water in typhus. Part IV.

History of Simple and Officinal Medicines.

d. ACIDUM ACETOSUM CAMPHORATUM, E. Camphorated acetic acid.

Prepared by dissolving half an ounce of camphor, reduced to powder by being rubbed with alcohol, in six ounces of strong acetic acid.

This should be kept in glass phials with ground stoppers. It is an excellent stimulus for snuffing up the nostrils.

e. SYRUPUS ACIDI ACETOSI, E. Syrup of acetic acid.

This is prepared by boiling together two pounds and a half of acetic acid (common vinegar), and three pounds and a half of double refined sugar.

Used in the same cases as acetated honey, (see No 277.) to which it is preferable.

f. ACETAS POTASSÆ, E. KALI ACETATUM, L. ALKALI VEGETABLE ACETATUM, D. SAL DIURETICUS. Acetate of potash. Acetated kali. Acetated vegetable alkali. Diuretic salt.

This salt is made by boiling any quantity of subcarbonate of potash with distilled acetic acid, first using about five times its weight, and, during the boiling, gradually adding more till all effervescence ceases, slowly evaporating to dryness, fusing the dry salt, then dissolving it in water, and slowly evaporating the solution till there remains a dry white saline mass, which is to be kept well stopt from the air, in which it deliquesces. See Chemistry, No 987.

Acetate of potash is employed as a diuretic in a dose of from one to four scruples, and in a dilute solution as a refrigerant in fevers, &c.

312 Impure subcarbonate of potash.

27. SUBCARBONAS POTASSÆ IMPURUS. CARBONAS POTASSÆ IMPURUS, E. CINERES CLAVELLATI, L. ALKALI FIXUM VEGETABILE, D. Impure subcarbonate of potash. Potash ashes. Pearl ashes. Fixed vegetable alkali.

For the production and nature of this alkaline substance, see Chemistry, Chap. XII. Sect. I. It is seldom employed in pharmacy, except as the basis of some officinal preparations.

313 Subcarbonate of potash.

a. SUBCARBONAS POTASSÆ. CARBONAS POTASSÆ, E. KALI PRÆPARATUM, L. ALKALI VEGETABLE MITÉ, D. Subcarbonate of potash. Carbonate of potash. Prepared kali. Mild vegetable alkali.

This is usually prepared from the former substance, which is purified by burning it in a crucible, then dissolving it in water, filtering and evaporating to dryness in a clean iron pot, stirring the mass as it dries, to prevent its coalescing into one cake.

This salt appears in small white grains of scarcely any perceptible smell, but of a hot alkaline taste. When pure, it should dissolve entirely in cold water, and should deliquesce in moist air into a limpid transparent fluid.

As usually made, it contains a considerable proportion of sulphate of potash, which may be separated from it by mixing it with its own weight of water, and allowing it to stand till cold, when most of the sulphate of potash is separated in crystals.

This alkaline carbonate is employed as a diuretic, mixed with infusion of chamomile and spirit of juniper, in a dose of about a scruple repeated occasionally; and as an antacid. It is also employed in combination with citric acid, to relieve nausea and check vomiting.

b. AQUA KALI PRÆPARATI, L. LIXIVIUM MITÉ, D. Water of prepared kali. Mild ley.

This is made by allowing subcarbonate of potash to deliquesce in a moist atmosphere, and straining it; or, by dissolving it in an equal weight of water.

It possesses the same properties as the dry carbonate, and is employed chiefly for decomposing other salts.

c. AQUA CARBONATIS POTASSÆ. AQUA SUPER-CARBONATIS POTASÆ, E. LIQUOR AL-KALI VEGETABILIS MITISSIMI, D. Water of carbonate of potash. Solution of mildest vegetable alkali.

This is properly a neutral salt, and is prepared by dissolving subcarbonate of potash in water, and saturating it with carbonic acid, by passing through it a stream of this gas, arising from the decomposition of carbonate of lime by diluted sulphuric acid.

On the nature of this salt, see Chemistry, No 109, 174.

By this means the alkaline carbonate is better adapted for internal use, as it is rendered not only more pleasant to the taste, but is less apt to offend the stomach. Indeed it is the only form in which we can exhibit potash in sufficient doses, and for a sufficient length of time, to derive much benefit from its use in calculous complaints. It has certainly been frequently of advantage in these affections, but probably only in those instances in which the stone consists of uric acid, or urate of ammonia; for though super-saturated with carbonic acid, yet the affinity of that acid for potash is so weak, that it really operates as an alkali.

Six or eight ounces may be taken two or three times a-day. It in general proves powerfully diuretic, and sometimes produces inebriation. This last effect is ascribed to the carbonic acid.

d. AQUA POTASSÆ, E. AQUA KALI PURI, L. Water of LIXIVIUM CAUSTICUM, D. Water of potash, potash. Water of pure kali. Caustic ley.

The following is the Edinburgh process for obtaining a solution of pure potash.

Take of newly prepared lime, eight ounces; carbonate of potash, fix ounces. Put the lime into an iron or earthen vessel, with 28 ounces of warm water. After the ebullition is finished, instantly add the salt, and having thoroughly mixed them, cover the vessel till they cool. When the mixture has cooled, agitate it well, and pour it into a glass funnel, whose throat must be obstructed with a piece of clean linen. Cover the upper orifice of the funnel, and insert its tube into another glass vessel, so that the water of potash may gradually drop through the rag into the lower vessel. As soon History of soon as it ceases to drop, pour into the funnel some ounces of water, but cautiously, so that it may swim above the mother. The water of potash will again begin to drop, and the affusion of water is to be repeated in the same manner, until three pounds have dropped, which will happen in the space of two or three days; then mix the superior and inferior parts of the liquor together by agitation, and keep it in a well-stopped phial.

From this process those of the London and Dublin colleges do not materially differ. For other methods of procuring pure potash, see Chemistry, No 905, &c.

This preparation was formerly much employed in calculus disorders. From 10 to 40 drops were given in gruel, milk, or broth, twice or thrice a day; but even in these doses it has often proved highly injurious, when long continued, to the organs of digestion. Hence it has been justly superseeded by the solution of carbonate of potash above mentioned.

e. Potassa, E. KALI PURUM, L. ALKALI VEGETABLE CAUSTICUM, D. LAPIS INFERNALIS. Potash. Pure kali. Caustic vegetable a kali. Common stronger caustic.

This is made by evaporating any quantity of the solution of potash in a very clean covered iron vessel, till on the ebullition ceasing, the saline matter flows like oil, which happens before the vessel becomes red. The mass is then to be poured out on a smooth iron plate, till it be divided into small pieces before it hardens, when it must be deposited in a well-stopped phial.

This has been long employed by surgeons as a caustic; but its use in this way is inconvenient, as from its rapid deliquescence it is not easily confined.

f. POTASSA CUM CALCE, E. CALX CUM KALI PURO, L. CAUSTICUM MOLLUS, D. Potash with lime. Lame with pure kali. Milder caustic.

Made by evaporating in a covered iron vessel any quantity of solution of potash till it is reduced to a third, and then gradually adding as much newly flaked or powdered lime as is sufficient to form a thick mass, which is to be kept in a closely stopped vessel. This is employed as a caustic, and is milder in its operation, and more manageable than the last.

28. Cera. Bees wax.

Though wax is generally obtained from honeycombs, we have here introduced it as a vegetable principle, since modern chemistry has shown that it may be obtained by certain processes from most vegetables. See Chemistry, No 2432.

Two varieties of wax are employed in medicine, cera flava, yellow wax, which is the wax as it is naturally procured from the comb, and cera alba, white wax, bleached by art. They do not differ in their sensible properties, and the white wax is only preferable to the yellow, from its making ointments, &c. of a more delicate colour.

Wax is seldom employed internally, though it is sometimes administered as an emollient by way of emulsion in diarrhoea and dysentery. It is used chiefly for preparing ointments, liniments, and cerates.

Officinal Preparations.

a. LINIMENTUM SIMPLEX, E. Simple liniment. Made by melting together one part of white wax, and four of olive oil.

b. UNGUENTUM SIMPLEX, E. Simple ointment. This differs from the last, only in its proportions, being composed of two parts of white wax, and four of olive oil.

c. UNGUENTUM CEREUM, L. D. Wax ointment. Made by melting together four ounces of white wax, three ounces of spermaceti, and a pint of olive oil.

d. EMPLASTRUM SIMPLEX, E. EMPLASTRUM CERAE, D. EMPLASTRUM CERÆ COMPOSITUM, L. Simple plaster. Wax plaster. Compound wax plaster.

The Edinburgh preparation is composed of three parts of yellow wax, and of mutton suet and white rosin each two parts; that of London and Dublin colleges is formed from yellow wax and mutton suet, each three pounds, and yellow rosin one pound.

29. AMMONIACUM. Gum ammoniacum. This is a common concrete, gummy, resinous juice from the East Indies, generally in large masses, composed of little lumps or tears, of a milky whiteness: the external parts of the mass are commonly yellowish or brownish, and the white tears change to the same colour on being exposed for some time to the air. Of the plant from which it is extracted, we have no further knowledge, than what is learnt from the seeds found among the tears, which resemble those of dill, except that they are larger, and apparently belong to a plant of the umbelliferous kind.

Ammoniacum has a strong smell, and a nauseous sweetish taste, which is followed by a bitter one. It is frequently made use of in asthma, in menstrual suppressions, and cachetic indispositions. In obstructions of the breast it is accounted the most effectual of the aperient gums: in hysterical cases, some of the others are preferred or joined to it, on account, chiefly, of their more powerful smell. It is most commodiously taken in the form of pills; the dose is a scruple or half a dram every night or oftener: in larger doses, as a dram, it generally loosens the belly. Applied externally, it is supposed to disperse hard indolent tumours.

Officinal Preparations.

a. AMMONIACUM PURIFICATUM. Purified gum ammoniac. Ammoniacum is purified by melting it in hot water, squeezing it through linen, and evaporating to a proper consistence.

b. LAC AMMONIACI, L. D. Emulsion of gum ammoniac. Made by triturating two drams of ammoniac with half a pint of distilled water till an emulsion is formed. Given in most cases where ammoniac is used as an expectorant. Dose an ounce or two, repeated occasionally. c. Emplastrum Gummosum, E. Gum plaster. Made by melting together eight parts of platter of semivitrified oxide of lead, one part of gum ammoniac, and the same proportion of galbanum and yellow wax. Employed to form adhesive plasters.

30 Myrrh. Myrrh. Myrrh is a gum resin brought from the East Indies, or from Abyssinia. The best myrrh is in the form of tears. It should be of a yellow, or reddish yellow colour, becoming redder when breathed on, light, brittle, of an unctuous feel, pellucid, shining, presenting white semicircular striae in its fracture; of a very bitter aromatic taste, and a strong, peculiar, not unpleasant odour. It is not good if whitish, dark-coloured, black, resinous, ill-smelled, or mixed with impurities, which is too commonly the case.

Neumann ascertained that water and alcohol are both of them capable of taking up the whole of the taste and smell of the myrrh, the extract made by either after the other being infipid. The alcohol distilled from the tincture elevated none of the flavour of the myrrh; but during the infipitation of the decoction a volatile oil arose, containing the whole of the flavour of the myrrh, and heavier than water, while the extract was merely bitter. From 7680 parts of myrrh he got 6000 watery extract, 180 volatile oil, and 720 alcoholic; and inversely, 2400 alcoholic, and 4200 watery. Dr Duncan junior has observed that the tincture is transparent, and when poured into water, forms a yellow opaque fluid, but lets fall no precipitate, while the watery solution is always yellow and opaque; and that myrrh is not soluble, and is difficultly inflammable. Mr Hatchett found it soluble in alkalies.

Myrrh is a heating stimulating medicine. It frequently occasions a mild diaphoresis, and promotes the fluid secretions in general. Hence it proves serviceable in cachectic diseases, arising from inactivity of the system, and is supposed to act especially upon the uterine system, and to resist putrefaction.

It is exhibited in substance; in the form of powder, or made up into pills, in doses of 10 to 60 grains; dissolved in water, as in Griffith's famous, but un-Duncan's chemical, myrrh mixture; and dissolved in alcohol *.

Official Preparations.

a. Tinctura Myrrhae. Tincture of myrrh. This tincture is made by digesting three ounces of powdered myrrh in about 20 ounces of alcohol, mixed with 10 ounces of water, according to the Edinburgh process; half a pint of alcohol, with a pint and a half of proof spirit, according to the London college; or two pounds of alcohol according to that of Dublin, for seven or eight days.

Tincture of myrrh is seldom given internally, its principal use being as an external application, either as a gargle, or as a lotion for cleaning foul ulcers, and promoting the exfoliation of carious bones.

b. Pulvis Myrrhae compositus, L. Compound powder of myrrh. Made by rubbing together into a powder equal

parts of myrrh, dried savine, dried rue, and Russian castor. Given as a stimulus in uterine obstructions. Dose from a scruple to a dram several times in the day.

31. Sagapenum. See Chemistry, No 2495. Sagapenum is employed as a stimulant and antispasmodic, chiefly in combination with other gum resins, to be mentioned hereafter.

32. Angustura. Cortex Angusturae. Angustura bark. This bark was some years ago introduced into this country from the West Indies. It is not certainly known of what tree it is the produce, but it is probable that it is a species of cinchona. It is thus described by Mr Brande. "There is a considerable variety in the external appearance of the angustura bark, owing, however, probably, to its having been taken from trees of different sizes and ages, or from various parts of the same tree, as the taste and other properties perfectly agree. Some parcels (says Mr Brande), which I have examined, consist chiefly of slips torn from branches which could not have exceeded the thickness of a finger. These are often smooth, three feet or more in length, and rolled up into small bundles. In others, the pieces have evidently been, for the greater part, taken from the trunk of a large tree, and are nearly flat, with quills of all sizes intermixed.

"The outer surface of the angustura bark, when good, is in general more or less wrinkled, and covered with a coat of a grayish-white, below which it is brown, with a yellow cast: the inner surface is of a dull brownishyellow colour. It breaks short and resinous. The smell is singular and unpleasant, but not very powerful; the taste intensely bitter, and slightly aromatic; in some degree resembling bitter almonds, but very laiting, and leaving a sense of heat and pungency in the throat. This bark, when powdered, is not unlike the powder of Indian rhubarb. It burns pretty freely, but without any particular smell *."

It is employed as a tonic, generally in substance; dose from 15 to 30 grains. It may also be given in the form of infusion, decoction, tincture, or extract. It is well adapted to cases of debility of the alimentary canal.

* See Brande on the Angustura Bark.

33. Colomba. Radix Colombae. Columbo root. This root is brought from Columbo, a town in the island of Ceylon, to which it was originally transplanted from the continent of India. It is called by the Portuguese Rajis de Moambique. We are as yet unacquainted with the vegetable of which it is a part.

Columbo root comes to us in circular pieces, which are from half an inch to three inches in diameter, and from two inches to a quarter of an inch in length. The sides are covered with a thick wrinkled bark, of a dark brown colour externally, but of a light colour within. The surfaces of the transverse sections appear very unequal, highest at the edges, with a concavity towards the centre. On paring off this rough surface, the root is seen to consist of three laminae, the cortical, ligneous, and medullary. This last is much the softest, and, when chewed, seems very mucilaginous. A number of small fibres run longitudinally through it, and appear History of on the surface. The cortical and ligneous parts are divided by a circular black line. All the thicker pieces have small holes drilled through them, for the convenience of drying.

This root has an aromatic smell, but is disagreeably bitter and pungent to the taste, resembling mustard seed long kept.

This is an excellent bitter tonic, useful in debilities of the stomach and intestinal canal, in bilious diarrhoeas, in bilious fevers, in which it sometimes agrees when Peruvian bark fails; in the nausea and vomiting attending pregnancy. It is usually given in substance, in a dose from 15 grains to half a dram, or by way of infusion.

Official Preparation.

TINCTURA COLOMBÆ, E. L. Tincture of Columbo.

The Edinburgh college direct this tincture to be made, by digesting for eight days two ounces of columbo root in two pounds of diluted alcohol. The London tincture is stronger than this, being made with two ounces and a half of the root to two pints of proof spirit. This tincture may be given in a dose of a dram or two.

For some valuable observations on the nature and use of columbo root, see Percival's Effays, vol. ii.

SECT. II. Medicinal Vegetables, arranged according to the System of Linnaeus.

CLASS I. MONANDRIA. Order 1. MONOGYNIA.

34. KAMPFERIA ROTUNDA. ZEDOARIA, L. Round zedoary root.

This is a spicy root brought from the East Indies, in pieces about an inch long, rather rough on the surface, and commonly terminating in a point. It is seldom employed except as an ingredient in an aromatic electuary to be afterwards mentioned.

35. CURCUMA LONGA. CURCUMA, L. Turmeric root.

This is brought from the East Indies, where it is employed as a spice. The roots are tuberous, long, knotty, and wrinkled; of a pale yellow colour externally, and a thinning saffron brown within; of a weak aromatic smell, and a warm, slightly bitter taste.

Seldom employed in this country as a remedy, but much used in the composition of curry powder.

36. AMOMUM ZINGIBER, E. ZINGIBER, L. D. Ginger root. See BOTANY, p. 76.

This is the least acrimonious of all the foreign aromatics. It may be taken in considerable quantities, either with food or as a medicine. It is an excellent stimulant, peculiarly suited to the constitution of those whose stomachs are subject to flatulency, atonic gout, and other disorders marked by want of energy in the organs of digestion. In these cases it may be given either by itself, or combined with bitters and other tonics. It is also joined with antacids. It is a common and useful addition to cathartic medicines, particularly to infusions and tinctures of the vegetable cathartics, serving to moderate their irritating action on the bowels. The pulverized root may be given in doses from 10 to 30 grains. It has sometimes been used with advantage as a mafficator in humours affections of the tonsils. It is often prescribed in the form of a watery infusion, made by steeping two ounces of the bruised root in one pint of boiling water. A small wine glass full of such an infusion, taken warm three or four times a day, has afforded great relief in many cases of goaty dyspepsia.

Official Preparations.

a. TINCTURA ZINGIBERIS, L. Tincture of ginger.

This is made by digesting two ounces of powdered ginger in two pounds of proof spirit, for eight days. It may be given in a dose of two or three drams, mixed with water.

b. SYRUPUS AMOMI ZINGIBERIS, E. 'SYRUPUS ZINGIBERIS, L. Syrup of ginger.

The Edinburgh syrup is made by macerating three ounces of beaten ginger in four pounds of boiling water for 24 hours in a covered vessel, and then forming the syrup by adding seven pounds and a half of double refined sugar. The syrup of the London college is made with four ounces of bruited ginger to three pints of boiling distilled water, adding a sufficient quantity of double refined sugar to make a syrup.

A useful addition to stimulating mixtures, and employed in pharmacy as a constituent in several electuaries and pills.

37. AMOMUM ZEDOARIA, D. Long zedoary root. Long zedoary root.

A spicy root brought from the East Indies, especially from Ceylon, much resembling the kampferia in properties, but rather stronger.

38. AMOMUM CARDAMOMUM. AMOMUM RE. PENS, E. CARDAMOMUM MINUS, L. D. Lesser cardamom seeds.

It is uncertain whether these seeds are the produce of the amomum cardamomum or repens. They are brought from the East Indies, and form a very grateful aromatic, frequently employed in practice as a stimulant. They are brought to us in little whitish, roundish, triangular, pointed pods. The seeds are of a dark brown colour, of a fragrant smell, and pungent, rather falsith taste. The husks are separated from the rest by beating them in a mortar.

Official Preparations.

a. TINCTURA AMOMI REPENTIS, E. TINCTURA CARDAMOMI, L. D. Tincture of cardamom seeds.

The Edinburgh tincture is made by digesting for seven days, four ounces of bruited cardamom seeds in two pounds and a half of diluted alcohol. In the London formula, three ounces of the seeds are digested for eight days in two pints of proof spirit. Dose two or three drams.

b. TINCTURA CARDAMOMI COMPOSITA, L. D. Compound tincture of cardamom seeds.

Made by digesting two drams of lesser cardamom seeds powdered, the same quantity of powdered caraway Part IV.

History of Simple and Officinal Medicines

raway seeds (and in the London formula, of cochineal) half an ounce of bruised cinnamon, and four ounces of stoned raisins, in two pints, (or according to the Dublin college, two pounds), of proof spirit for 14 days.

A very grateful aromatic tincture, sometimes given alone as a cordial, in a dose of three or four drams, but more commonly added to stimulant draughts and juleps, to which it gives a fine rich colour.

39. MARANTA GALANGA. GALANGA. Galangal root.

Sometimes employed as a warm aromatic, in a dose of about a scruple.

Class II. DIANDRIA. Order I. MONOGYNA.

40. OLEA EUROPEA, E. OLIVA, L. D. The olive tree. OLEUM OLIVÆ. Olive oil.

Pure olive oil should have a fine rich greenish yellow colour, with scarcely any perceptible taste or smell; should be perfectly transparent, and should congeal at about 35° of Fahrenheit. It is brought to us from the south of France, from Italy, and the Levant. The best is supposed to come from Florence.

Olive oil is chiefly employed as an emollient, both externally and internally. Internally it is sometimes employed as a gentle laxative, and to moderate the action of acrid substances, especially poisons. It has been given as an anthelmintic, either alone or formed into an emulsion with ammonia.

41. GRATIOLA OFFICINALIS, E. GRATIOLA, L. Hedge hyssop.

This plant, when dried, is sometimes employed as a drastic purgative and anthelmintic, given in substance, in a dose of from 20 to 30 grains, or by way of infusion, to the extent of 3 drams. Its use requires caution.

42. ROSMARINUS OFFICINALIS, E. ROSMARINUS, L. D. Rosemary.

The tops of rosemary are used as a stimulant, and form an ingredient in some tinctures. Rosemary owes its stimulating powers to its essential oil, which is very similar to camphor.

Officinal Preparations.

a. OLEUM VOLATILE RORISMARINI OFFICINALIS, E. OLEUM RORISMARINI, L. Volatile oil of rosemary.

This oil, like most of the other volatile oils of aromatic plants, is obtained by distilling the plant with a sufficient quantity of water to prevent burning, and separating the oil that floats on the surface of the distilled liquor, by means of a funnel with a long capillary tube.

Oil of rosemary is seldom employed alone, but it may be given in a dose of a few drops as a stimulant.

b. SPIRITUS RORISMARINI OFFICINALIS, E. SPIRITUS RORI-MARINI, L. Spirit of rosemary.

Made by distilling 2 pounds, or, according to the London college, a pound and a half, of rosemary tops, with a gallon of diluted alcohol, and a sufficient quantity of water to prevent burning, distilling off a gallon.

Chiefly employed to form some compound tinctures, or as an external stimulant, in which way it is commonly used under the name of Hungary water.

43. SALVIA OFFICINALIS, E. SALVIA, L. D. Sage. Sage leaves.

An infusion of sage leaves is sometimes employed as a refreshing drink in fevers, and has been recommended as a tonic in nervous debilities and dyspepsia. It forms a good substitute for Chinese tea.

44. VERONICA BECABUNGA. BECABUNGA, L. D. Brooklime. See BOTANY, p. 84.

A common succulent plant that has been recommended as an excellent antiscorbutic.

Order 3. TRIGYNA.

45. PIPER NIGRUM. Black pepper.

This is brought from the East Indies, being cultivated chiefly in Java and Malabar. White pepper is the same fruit, with the black bark taken off.

Pepper is one of the most heating spices, and is said sometimes to act violently on the kidneys, so as when taken in large quantities to excite nephritis. It is not frequently given internally as a stimulant, especially in the form of powder. A few grains of white pepper swallowed whole, are recommended by some practitioners, as a remedy in the debility of the digestive organs.

46. PIPER CUBEBA. CUBEBA, L. Cubebs.

These are scarcely to be distinguished by the eye from common pepper, except in being furnished with a long slender stalk. They are brought from Java. In stimulating properties they resemble pepper, but are much weaker, and are seldom used.

47. PIPER LONGUM. Long pepper.

Long pepper appears in small round grains, disposed spirally in a long cylindrical head. It is extremely pungent, and has a kind of salutary taste. It is employed chiefly as an ingredient in an aromatic electuary and tincture.

Class III. TRIANDRIA. Order I. MONOGYNA.

48. VALERIANA OFFICINALIS, E. VALERIANA SYLVESTRIS, L. D. Valerian root. Valerian root.

This root consists of a number of strings or fibres, of a pale brownish colour, proceeding from a common stock, and matted together. It has a very strong, unpleasant smell, and a warm, bitterish, acrid taste. It imparts its smell to water distilled from it, and most of its properties may be imparted to alcohol. Valerian grows commonly in Britain, and the best is that which grows in high, dry situations. The roots should be taken up in autumn or winter.

Valerian is a valuable antispasmodic, and is properly ranked among the most powerful of that class of remedies. It has been found efficacious in epilepsy, in which it should be given in substance, in large doses, to the History of extent of a dram or two several times a day. It is simple and useful in hysteria; and in cases of great nervous sensibility. It is sometimes united with cinchona in the form of an electuary. The usual dose is from 15 to 30 grains. Its unpleasant flavour is most effectually concealed by the addition of a little mace.

Officinal Preparations.

a. Tinctura Valerianii, L. Tincture of valerian.

This is made by digesting four ounces of valerian root in coarse powder in two pints of proof spirit for eight days, with a gentle heat.

This tincture is given in the same cases in which valerian is useful, in tubstance, in a dose of from two to four drams; but it is not so efficacious as the powder, or the following tincture.

b. Tinctura Valerianii Ammoniata, L. D. Ammoniated tincture of valerian.

Made by digesting for eight days, in a closely covered vessel, four ounces of powdered valerian root in two pints of compound spirit of ammonia.

This is perhaps the best form in which valerian can be given, as its antispasmodic virtues are much improved by the addition of ammonia. Dose a dram or two, which is best taken in water a little warmed.

c. Extractum Valerianii Sylvestris Resinosum, D. Resinous extract of wild valerian.

This extract is made by digesting for four days a pound of powdered valerian in four pounds of rectified spirit of wine; then pouring off the tincture, and boiling the residuum in 12 pounds of water to two pounds. The two liquors are to be strained separately; the decoction is to be boiled, and the tincture distilled, till both are sufficiently thick, and they are then to be mixed together.

Of the effects of this extract we have had no experience; but we believe an extract made by inspissating the ammoniated tincture, has been given with success in the form of pills.

49. Crocus Sativus, E. CROCUS, L. D. Saffron.

Saffron is made from the stigmata of the above species of the crocus, which is cultivated for that purpose in some parts of England, especially in Essex. Saffron is also brought from abroad, but that of our own produce is considered as the best. See BOTANY, p. 100.

Officinal Preparations.

a. Syrupus Croci, L. Syrup of saffron.

This is made by infusing an ounce of saffron in a pint of boiling distilled water for 12 hours, and boiling the strained infusion with a sufficient quantity of double refined sugar to form a syrup.

Syrup of saffron is chiefly used as a pleasant addition to draughts and juleps, to which it imparts a fine yellow colour.

b. Tinctura Croci, E. Tincture of saffron.

Made by digesting an ounce of English saffron cut into shreds, in 15 ounces of diluted alcohol for seven days, and straining the tincture.

By some practitioners this is considered as a good remedy in chronic weakness, and is given in the dose of a table spoonful undiluted, every morning.

50. Iris Florentina, E. IRIS, L. Florentine orris.

This is brought from Italy in white, flattish, knotty pieces, that are very difficult to break or powder. It has an agreeable fragrant smell, and a slightly bitter taste. It is employed chiefly as a perfume.

51. Iris Pseudacorus, IRIS, D. Water flag. See BOTANY, p. 100.

Order 2. DIGYNA.

52. Saccharum Officinarum. Sugar. CHARUM NON PURIFICATUM, E. L. CHARUM RUBRUM, D. Brown sugar. CHARUM PURIFICATUM, L. D. RUM PURISSIMUM, E. Refined sugar.

On the chemical properties of sugar, see CHEMISTRY. Brown sugar is sometimes employed as a gentle laxative, especially in clysters. Refined sugar is used chiefly in making syrups and conserves, and in giving an agreeable taste.

Officinal Preparation.

a. Syrupus simplex, E. Simple syrup.

Made by dissolving 15 parts of double refined sugar in 8 of water, by a gentle heat.

53. Avena sativa, E. AVENA, L. Oats.

Oats are employed in medicine chiefly to form gruel, which is made either from groats or oatmeal, and is an useful diluent in febrile and inflammatory affections, and is also used in clysters as an emollient. Poultices are sometimes made of oatmeal, mixed with other substances according to the nature of the case.

54. Triticum {ÆSTIVUM, D. } HIBERNUM, L. FARINA. Flour. AMYLM. Starch.

Flour and starch are sometimes used as emollients, especially the latter, in the form of clysters or troches, in cases of diarrhoea, dysentery, &c.

Officinal Preparations.

a. Mucilago Amyli, E. L. Mucilage of starch.

Made by triturating half an ounce of starch with one pound of water, and then boiling the liquor till it be sufficiently thick.

b. Trochisci Amyli, L. Troches of starch.

Composed of an ounce and a half of starch, six drams of extract of liquorice, half an ounce of powdered Florentine orris root, and one pound and a half of double refined sugar, made into a mass for troches, with mucilage of gum tragacanth.

These troches are employed as demulcents, to allay the irritation of tickling coughs. 55. Hordeum distichon, E. D. Hordeum, L. Common barley.

Common barley freed from the husks, and formed into what is called pearl barley, is used in medicine as an emollient in the form of decoction, or barley water.

Officinal Preparations.

a. Decoctum Hordei distichi, E. Decoctum Hordei, L. Decoction of barley.

The making of barley water requires more nicety than is usually supposed. The following is the method directed in the Edinburgh Pharmacopoeia.

Take of pearl barley two ounces; water five pounds.

First wash off the mealy part which adheres to the barley with some cold water; then extract the colouring matter by boiling it a little with about half a pound of water. Throw this decoction away, and put the barley thus purified into five pounds of boiling water, which is to be boiled down to one-half, and strain the decoction.

b. Decoctum Hordei compositum, L. Compound decoction of barley.

Made by boiling two pints of the decoction of barley, two ounces of sliced figs, half an ounce of liquorice root sliced and bruised, two ounces of stoned raisins, in one pint of distilled water, boiled to two pints and strained.

These decoctions may be used as common drink, in pneumonia, and similar affections of the breast.

Class IV. Tetrandria. Order I. Monogynia.

56. Penae sarcocolla. Sarcocolla, L. Sarcocoll. See Chemistry, No 2493.

57. Rubia tinctorum, E. Rubia, L. D. Madder root.

This root has been long reputed a specific in uterine obstructions, but we believe without any good foundation. It is recommended in the atrophy of children, given in substance, in doses of a scruple or half a dram several times a-day. Its property of tingling the bones of animals has been already mentioned.

58. Dorstenia contrajerva, E. Contrayerva, L. Contrayerva root.

The root of this plant is knotty, an inch or two long, about half an inch thick, of a reddish brown colour externally, and pale within. From all sides of it there shoot out long, rough, slender fibres, generally loaded with knots. It has a peculiar kind of aromatic smell, and its taste is somewhat astringent and bitterish, with a light sweetish kind of acrimony, when chewed for a considerable time. The fibres have little or no taste or smell, therefore the tuberous parts alone should be chosen.

This plant is perennial, and grows in South America and some of the Caribbee islands.

Contrayerva has been employed as a stimulant diaphoretic, in typhus fever, given in substance, in a dose of from 30 to 40 grains; and a decoction of it, used as a gargle, has been recommended in purulent sore throat.

Officinal Preparation.

a. Pulvis Contrayervae compositus, L. Compound powder of contrayerva.

This is made by mixing together five ounces of powdered contrayerva, and one pound and a half of powder of crabs claws. Dose about a dram, repeated every three or four hours.

Class V. Pentandria. Order I. Monogynia.

59. Anchusa tinctoria, E. Anchusa, D. Alkanet root.

This root is employed merely to give colour to an ointment.

60. Spigelia marylandica, E. Spigelia, L. D. Carolina pink root.

From 10 to 20 grains of the root of this plant have been given twice a-day to children between 2 and 12 years of age, when troubled with worms. It generally operates as a purgative; but when it does not produce this effect in a sufficient degree, proper doses of rhubarb, jalap, or calomel, should be given with it. As the spigelia may be easily overdosed, and in that case produces alarming symptoms, it should perhaps be erased from the catalogue of vermifuge medicines, of which there is a sufficient number without it, that are at least equally efficacious, and much safer in their operation.

61. Menyanthes trifoliata, E. Trifolium paludosum, L. D. Marsh trefoil.

This plant operates by purging and vomiting, in a dose of a dram. It has been recommended in fevers and intermittents, but is seldom employed.

62. Convolvulus scammonia, E. Scammony, L. D. Scammony.

This is a gum resin which is brought from Syria, Myria, and Cappadocia. The roots of this plant, which are very long and thick, when fresh contain a milky juice. To obtain this, the earth is removed from the upper part of the roots, and the tops of these are cut obliquely off. The milky juice which flows out, is collected in a small vessel sunk in the earth at the lower end of the cut. Each root furnishes only a few drams, but it is collected from several vessels, and dried in the sun. This is the true and unadulterated scammony. It is light, of a dark gray colour, but becomes of a whitish yellow when touched with the wet finger, is shining in its fracture, has a peculiar nauseous smell, and bitter acid taste, and forms with water a greenish milky fluid, without any remarkable sediment. In this state of purity it seldom reaches us, but is commonly mixed with the expressed juice of the root, and even of the stalks and leaves, and often with flour, sand, or earth. The best to be met with in the shops comes from Aleppo, in light spongy masses, having a heavy disagreeable smell; friable, and easily powdered; of a shining ash colour, verging to black; when powdered History of a light gray or whitish colour. An inferior sort is simple and brought from Smyrna in more compact ponderous pieces, not so friable, with less smell, and less easily powdered, of a darker colour, not so resinous, and full of sand and other impurities*. See Chemistry, No 2488.

Scammony is one of the most drastic purgatives, and as such is sometimes given in drophy, in a dose of from 5 to 15 grains. It is also one of the most common anthelmintics; but in this latter case is generally combined with a mercurial.

Official Preparations.

a. PULVIS SCAMMONIÆ COMPOSITUS, L. E. D. Compound powder of scammony.

The London powder is composed of scammony, hard extract of jalap, of each two ounces; ginger, half an ounce; powdered separately, and then mixed together.

This powder in the Edinburgh Pharmacopoeia is directed to be composed of scammony, supertrartrite of potash, equal parts rubbed together to a fine powder. The Dublin formula directs of scammony and virrinated vegetable alkali, each two ounces, and ginger half an ounce, powdered separately, and then mixed together.

As the strength of these powders is different, their doses must vary: from 10 to 30 grains of the Edinburgh powder, and from 8 to 15 of the others, may be given for a dose.

b. PULVIS SCAMMONII COMPOSITUS CUM ALOE, L. Compound powder of scammony with aloes.

This is composed of six drams of scammony, hard extract of jalap, focotrine aloes, of each one ounce and a half, of ginger half an ounce, powdered separately and mixed together.

Dose from 5 to 15 grains.

c. PULVIS SCAMMONII CUM CALOMELANE, L. Powder of scammony with calomel.

This is composed of scammony half an ounce, calomel, double refined sugar, of each two drams, powdered separately and then mixed together.

This is well suited to cases of worms, and may be given from 12 to 20 grains.

d. ELECTUARIUM SCAMMONII, L. D. Electuary of scammony.

Prepared of an ounce and a half of powdered scammony, cloves, ginger, of each six drams, essential oil of caraway half a dram, and syrup of roses or orange peel, a sufficient quantity to form an electuary.

A brisk warm purgative, dose from 15 to 30 grains.

63. CONVOLVULUS JALAPA, E. JALAPIUM, L. JALAPA, D. Jalap root.

The botanical and medical history of this simple has been already sufficiently detailed under the article Botany, p. 132. It remains here only to notice the

Official Preparations.

a. PULVIS JALAPÆ COMPOSITUS, E. Compound powder of jalap.

This is prepared by grinding together one part of powdered jalap and two parts of supertrartrate of potash into a fine powder.

The supertrartrate of potash in this preparation is useful chiefly for afflicting in reducing the jalap to a finer powder, and thus rendering its operation milder. Dose from half a dram to one dram.

b. EXTRACTUM CONVOLVULI JALAPÆ, E. EXTRACTUM JALAPII, L. EXTRACTUM JALAPÆ, D. Extract of jalap.

This extract, according to the Edinburgh process, is made by digesting one pound of powdered jalap in four pounds of alcohol for four days; pouring off the liquor, and boiling the residuum for 15 minutes in five pounds of distilled water, filtering the decoction while boiling hot through linen. This decoction is to be repeated with the same quantity of water, and both decoctions, when filtered, are to be boiled to the consistence of honey. In the mean time the spirit is to be drawn off from the tincture by distillation, till this also becomes thick, when it is to be mixed with the watery extract, and both evaporated in a bath of boiling water saturated with muriate of soda, till there is formed a mass of a proper consistence for making pills.

This extract is a powerful purgative; it may be given in a dose of from 5 to 15 grains.

c. TINCTURA CONVOLVULI JALAPÆ, E. TINCTURA RA JALAPII, L. TINCTURA JALAPÆ, D. Jalap. Tincture of jalap.

This tincture is made by digesting three ounces (according to the Edinburgh college) or eight ounces according to the colleges of London and Dublin, of powdered jalap, in 15 ounces (or two pints London, or two pounds Dublin), of diluted alcohol, for seven or eight days, and straining the liquor through paper.

The dose of the Edinburgh tincture may be from three to six drams; that of the others from two to four drams.

64. DATURA STRAMONIUM, E. STRAMONIUM, Thorn apple. See Botany, p. 137.

65. HYOSCYAMUS NIGER, E. HYOSCYAMUS, Black henbane. D. Black henbane.

This plant grows commonly on dunghills and uncultivated places in several parts of Britain. It produces large, dark-coloured, woolly, jagged leaves, of a very strong and peculiar smell, sparkling when burnt, as if impregnated with nitre. These leaves are the principal part employed in medicine, acting as a narcotic. The seeds are also employed, and when smoked like tobacco, are said to be an excellent remedy in toothache.

Wherever an anodyne is wanted, and opium disagrees, this herb, and the preparations from it, may be preferred. It is especially suited to spasmodic and colic affections, and to cases of chronic rheumatism and arthritis. Part IV.

History of Simple and Official Medicine.

arthritis. Instances are also recorded of its beneficial effects in mania and melancholy; but in the last-mentioned disorders, it has at least as often failed as it has succeeded, and is, on the whole, a doubtful remedy in diseases belonging to the order of venae. It does not occasion coliciveness like opium, and forms one of the best substitutes for this expensive narcotic. Given in large doses, it produces great debility, delirium, remarkable dilatation of the pupils of the eyes, convulsions, and death. It is usually given in the form of extract, but the leaves are sometimes applied fresh by way of cataplasm to ichorous tumors and cancerous ulcers.

Officinal Preparations.

391 Infusited juice of henbane.

a. SUCCUS SPISSATUS HYOSCYAMI NIGRI, E. Infusited juice of henbane.

This is made by bruising the fresh leaves, and putting them into a hempen bag, in which they are strongly compressed till the juice is extracted. This is evaporated in flat vessels heated with boiling water, saturated with muriate of soda, till it becomes of the consistence of thick honey; and after the mass has become cold, it is put into glazed earthen vessels sprinkled with alcohol, and closely covered.

Dose from two grains to 15 or 20, on extraordinary occasions; but if these large doses occasion unpleasant effects, as headache, vertigo, vomiting, or purging, the medicine must be discontinued.

392 Tincture of henbane.

b. TINTURA HYOSCYAMI NIGRI, E. Tincture of henbane.

Made by digesting one ounce of the dried leaves of henbane in eight ounces of diluted alcohol for seven days, and straining. Dose from half a dram to a dram.

393 Tobacco leaves.

66. NICOTIANA TABACUM, E. NICOTIANA, L. D. Tobacco leaves. See BOTANY, p. 137.

Besides its ordinary narcotic virtue, the smoke of tobacco thrown up the bowels by way of clyster, has proved an effectual remedy in obstinate colic.

Officinal Preparations.

394 Tobacco wine.

a. VINUM NICOTIANÆ TABACI, E. Tobacco wine.

Made by macerating one ounce of the dried leaves of tobacco in one pound of Spanish white wine for seven days, and draining the liquor.

This has been sometimes employed as a diuretic. Dose from 30 to 60 drops.

395 Lesser centaury.

67. CHRONIA CENTAURIUM, E. CENTAURIUM MINUS, L. D. Lesser centaury.

A strong bitter, sometimes employed as a tonic in the form of an infusion of the tops.

396 Nux vomica.

68. STRYCHNOS NUX VOMICA. Nux vomica. The kernel.

The taste of this kernel is extremely bitter; it has little or no smell, and is so hard, that it cannot be reduced into powder by beating.

This nut is a very powerful narcotic, inducing even death by its sedative power, as, on direction, no marks of inflammation, or local affection, are to be discovered in the stomach.

As a narcotic, it has scarcely been used, though it has been recommended in mania, epilepsy, hysterics, &c. Simple and official medicine. It has been given in dysentery and intermittent fever, medicines in a dose of five grain twice a day; but it does not possess any superior medicinal powers *.

69 CAPSICUM ANNUUM, E. PIPER INDICUM, vol. i. L. D. Capsicum. Indian or Cayenne pepper. See 397 Botany, p. 138.

It has been given with manifest advantage in cases of gouty dyspepsia, in some hydropic affections joined with paralytic symptoms, and in the advanced and sinking stage of typhus and the malignant endemic fever of the West Indies; also in the malignant sore throat, in which it has a good effect, both when taken into the stomach, and when used as a gargle. Bergius relates, that he prescribed the seeds with success in obstinate agues. Of the dried and pulverized capsules, the dose, internally, is from one to three grains. In the advanced stage of the yellow fever, double the last mentioned quantity has been given at a time. The gargle is prepared by macerating the powder first in warm vinegar, and afterwards adding a proper quantity of hot water, and continuing the maceration for a sufficient length of time. The proportions, two drams of the capsicum to half a pound of each menstruum *.

70. SOLANUM DULCICARUM, DULCAMARA, D. Bitter sweet. See Botany, p. 138.

71. ATROPA BELLODONNA, E. BELLADONNA, D. Deadly nightshade. See Botany, p. 138.

The whole plant is poisonous, and the berries, from their beautiful appearance, have sometimes proved fatal to children. The symptoms excited are, a dryness of the mouth, a trembling of the tongue, a very distressing thirst, a difficulty of swallowing, fruitless efforts to vomit, and great anxiety about the praecordia. Delirium then comes on, with gnashing of the teeth, and convulsions. The pupil remains dilated, and is not sensible even to the stimulus of light. The face becomes tumid, and of a dark red colour. The jaws are frequently locked. Inflammation attacks the oesophagus, stomach, and intestines, sometimes extending to the mesenteries, lungs, and liver, accompanied with violent pains in the abdomen. The stomach is very insensible to stimulus, and the peristaltic motion of the intestines is destroyed. General relaxation, palsy, especially of the lower extremities, convulsions, vertigo, blindness, coma, and death succeed. The body loom putrefies, swell, and becomes marked with livid spots; blood flows from the nose, mouth, and ears, and the breath is insufferable. On dissection the blood is found to be fluid, the intestines are inflated and inflamed, or eroded and gangrenous. The best method of cure is to excite vomiting as soon as possible, by emetics, and tickling the fauces; to evacuate the bowels by purgatives and clysters, and to give largely, vinegar, honey, milk and oil. In some children who recovered by this treatment, the delirium was succeeded by a profound sopor, accompanied with subulatus tendinum; the face and hands became pale and cold, and the pulse small, hard, and quick. Their recovery was slow, and the blindness continued a considerable time, but at last went off †.

* Murray's Elements. † Duncan's Dispensatory. A medicine capable of producing such powerful effects demands the utmost caution on the part of the prescriber. He should begin with the smallest doses, increasing them very gradually to a double, triple, or quadruple quantity (in which cases the intervals between the repetitions of the doses should be proportionably lengthened) and desisting as soon as dryness or irritation of the throat, or much diarrhoea, or great languor, with sickness and vomiting, or vertigo, and dimness of sight, come on.

It is best employed in substance, beginning with a grain for adults, and an eighth or a fourth of a grain for children.

It has been employed in a great variety of cases, as, 1. In several febrile diseases; in obstinate intermittents; and in the plague. 2. In inflammations; the gout. 3. In comatose diseases; in palsy, and loss of speech from apoplexy. 4. In spasmodic diseases; in chorea, epilepsy, chincough, hydrophobia, melancholy, and mania. 5. In cachetic affections; in dropsies, and obstinate jaundice. 6. In local diseases; in amaurosis, ophthalmia, in schirrhus, and cancer.

Official Preparations.

a. SUCCUS SPISSATUS ATROPE BELLADONNAE, E. Inspissated juice of deadly nightshade.

This is made in the same way as the inspissated juice of henbane. See No 391. Dose from one to five grains.

72. CINCHONA OFFICINALIS, E. CINCHONA, L. CORTEX PERUVIANUS. Cinchona bark. Peruvian bark. Jesuits bark.

The account of this valuable remedy already given under Botany, p. 133, and the article CINCHONA, has been so ample, that we shall add nothing to it in this place, but shall immediately proceed to notice the official preparations, referring our readers for further information on the simple, to Percival's Essays, the Synopsis Materiae Medicae, the Theaurus Medicaminum, and Dr Duncan's Dilpenatory.

Official Preparations.

a. INFUSUM CINCHONÆ OFFICINALIS, E. Infusion of cinchona bark.

This is made by infusing an ounce of powdered cinchona bark in a pound of water for 24 hours, and filtering.

Dose from two to four ounces.

b. DECOCTUM CINCHONÆ OFFICINALIS, E. DECOCTUM CORTICIS PERUVIANI, L. D. Decoction of cinchona bark.

Prepared by boiling an ounce of powdered cinchona bark in about a pound and a half of water for 10 minutes, and straining the liquor while hot.

This is scarcely so good a preparation as the infusion. The ordinary dose is three or four ounces.

c. TINCTURA CINCHONÆ OFFICINALIS, E. TINCTURA CORTICIS PERUVIANI, L. D. Tincture of cinchona bark.

Made by digesting four or six ounces of powdered cinchona bark in about two or two pounds and a half of diluted alcohol for seven or eight days, and straining the liquor through paper.

This is seldom given by itself, being generally added to the decoction or infusion. Dose three or four drams to an ounce.

d. TINCTURA CINCHONÆ COMPOSITA, L. D. Compound tincture of cinchona bark. Huxham's tincture of bark.

This is a very aromatic tincture of bark, made by digesting two ounces of powdered cinchona, from half an ounce to an ounce and a half of dried Seville orange peel, three drams bruised Virginian snake root, a dram of saffron, and two scruples of powdered cochineal, in 20 ounces or two pounds of proof spirit for 14 days, and straining.

Dose two or three drams.

e. TINCTURA CINCHONÆ AMMONIATA, L. Ammoniated tincture of cinchona.

Made by digesting four ounces of powdered cinchona in two pints of compound spirit of ammonia for 10 days in a clofe vessel.

As a preparation of cinchona bark, this is useless, and as a stimulus it is not preferable to the compound spirit of ammonia by itself.

f. EXTRACTUM CINCHONÆ OFFICINALIS, E. Extract of cinchona bark.

This is made in the same manner as extract of jalap, see No 387.

g. EXTRACTUM CINCHONÆ, L. Extract of bark.

The following is the process of the London college for making this extract.

Take of Peruvian bark, in coarse powder, one pound; distilled water, 12 pints. Boil for an hour or two, and pour off the liquor, which, while hot, will be red and pellucid, but, as it grows cold, will become yellow and turbid. The same quantity of water being again poured on, boil the bark as before, and repeat the boiling until the liquor, on becoming cold, remains clear. Then reduce all these liquors, mixed together and strained, to a proper thickness by evaporation. This extract must be prepared under two forms; one soft, and fit for making pills, and the other hard and pulverizable.

The Dublin college gives separate processes for making their hard and soft extract of cinchona; but they do not materially differ from the above.

All these extracts may be given in the form of pills, in a dose of from 10 to 20 grains, or by way of elixir in the quantity of a dram or two.

73. CINCHONA CARIBBEA, E. Cinchona of the Caribbean islands.

This is a species of cinchona introduced here by Dr Wright. In medical properties it resembles the former, and may be substituted for it.

74. LOBELIA SYPHILITICA, E. Blue cardinal flower. Blue cardinal flower. See BOTANY, p. 133. Part IV.

75. CEPHAELIS IPECACUANHA, E. IPECACUAN ANHA, L. D. Ipecacuan root.

A pretty full account of ipecacuan has been already given in the article BOTANY, under Pycotria Emetica, p. 135.

It appears that this drug, or something very similar to the common ipecacuan, is the produce of several vegetables, which are enumerated by Dr Duncan in his Dispensatory.

Ipecacuan is given as an emetic, in full doses of a scruple or 25 grains; as an expectorant, in doses of one grain, repeated every three or four hours; as a diaphoretic, given in combination with opium; and as an antipathmodic, given from three to fix grains.

When properly administered, it proves serviceable in the following diseases, viz. in intermittent fevers, a paroxysm of which has often been arrested by giving it as an emetic about an hour before the paroxysm was expected to come on; in continued fevers, given at the commencement as an emetic, and followed by a diaphoretic regimen; in several inflammatory diseases, as rheumatism, given as a diaphoretic; in pneumonia, exhibited to excite and keep up nausea without vomiting; in dysentery, in which it was formerly deemed a specific; in exanthematous diseases, especially where the eruption is disposed to recede; in hemorrhages, given in nauseating doses; in several spasmodic affections, as epilepsy, asthma, dyspnoea, chincough, chronic diarrhoea, hysteria; in mental alienation, as melancholia and mania, given in large doses; in some kinds of dropsy; in jaundice; in amaurosis.

Ipecacuan is best exhibited in substance; but it is often given in the form of a vinous infusion.

Officinal Preparations.

a. VINUM IPECACUANHÆ. Wine of ipecacuan.

This is made by digesting two ounces of bruised ipecacuan root in about two pounds of Spanish white wine, for about a week, and straining.

This preparation being more palatable than the ipecacuan in substance, is well suited to delicate and squeamish patients. It may be given from an ounce to two ounces.

b. PULVIS IPECACUANHÆ ET OPII, E. PULVIS IPECACUANHÆ COMPOSITUS, L. D. PULVIS DOVERI. Powder of ipecacuan and opium. Compound powder of ipecacuan. Dover's powder.

This powder is prepared by triturating eight parts of crystallized sulphate of potash, with one part of hard dry opium, and one part of powdered ipecacuan, till they are reduced to a very fine powder.

The crystallized salt in this process serves the purpose of reducing the opium and ipecacuan to a state of very minute division, and thus renders them more efficient. This is a valuable diaphoretic, and may be given from 10 to 20 grains; but where a long continued sweat is desired to be kept up, it is better to give 10 or 15 grains at first, and 10 or 5 grains more a few hours after.

76. RHAMNUS CATHARTICUS, E. SPINA CERVINA L. Buckthorn. See BOTANY, p. 139.

Official Preparation.

a. SYRUPUS RHAMNI CATHARTICI, E. SYRUPUS SPINÆ CERVINÆ, L. Syrup of buckthorn.

The Edinburgh college directs this to be made with Syrup of two parts of the depurated juice of ripe buckthorn berries, and one part of double refined sugar, boiled to the consistence of a syrup. The London process is more complex. It directs a gallon of the fresh juice of ripe buckthorn berries, an ounce of bruised ginger, an ounce and a half of powdered pimento, and seven pounds of double refined sugar. The juice is to be set aside for three days, and then strained from the faces. The ginger and pimento are to be macerated for four hours in a pint of the strained liquor. In the meantime the rest of the juice is to be boiled down to three pints; then the sugar and the pint of juice in which the spices had been macerated, are to be added, and the whole boiled to the consistence of a syrup.

This syrup is a good cathartic, but is seldom given alone, except to children. Dose from six drams to an ounce and a half.

77. VITIS VINIFERA. E. The vine. Wine.

The remedies drawn from the vine are wine, grapes, and supertartrate of potash.

The properties of wine as a stimulant and cordial, have been already mentioned. See No 100. The wines usually employed in medicine are,

Vinum album hispanum, white Spanish wine. Vinum album rhenanum, Rhenish wine. Vinum rubrum lusitanum, red Port wine.

The last, besides the stimulating power common to all wines, possesses much astringency, and is therefore better suited to cases of debility.

78. UVÆ PASSÆ. Raisins.

These are chiefly employed as emollients and demulcents.

79. SUPERTARTRAS POTASSÆ. SUPERTARTRIS POTASSÆ. TARTARI CRYSTALLI, L. D. Cremero TARTARI. Supertartrate of potash. Crysalts of tartar. Cream of tartar.

For the chemical nature of this salt, see CHEMISTRY.

This salt is employed in medicine chiefly as a gentle laxative and refrigerant. As a laxative, it may be given in the dose of from two drams to half an ounce, mixed with syrup or honey, or dissolved in a large quantity of barley water. In the latter way it has been found a good diuretic in dropsies. As a refrigerant, it is given in a diluted solution, sweetened with sugar, or some pleasant syrup.

Official Preparations.

a. TARTRAS POTASSÆ. TARTRIS POTASSÆ, E. Tartrate of KALI TARTARISATUM, L. ALKALI VE-potash. GETABILE TARTARISATUM, D. Tartrate of potash. Tartarifed kali. Tartarifed vegetable alkali. Soluble tartr. History of nate of potash, to neutralize the excess of tartaric acid. Simple and Official Medicines.

For this purpose it usually requires about one part of the alkaline carbonate to three parts of supertartrate of potash. After neutralization, the liquor is filtered, and set by to crystallize.

This salt forms an excellent cooling purgative, and may be given in doses of from half an ounce to an ounce. It forms a good addition to rhubarb.

Tartrate of potash and soda.

b. TARTRAS POTASSÆ ET SODÆ. TARTRIS POTASSÆ ET SOLÆ. E. NATRON TARTARISATUM, L. SAL RUPELENSIS, D. Tartrate of potash and soda. Tartarized natron. Rochelle salt.

Prepared by adding to a solution of supertartrate of potash, a sufficient quantity of carbonate of soda, to neutralize the excess of tartaric acid, filtering the liquor, and crystallizing.

This triple salt is a more agreeable laxative than the former, but is not so strong. Usual dose from one to two ounces.

Purest sub-carbonate of potash.

c. SUBCARBONAS POTASSÆ PURISSIMUS. CARBONAS POTASSÆ PURISSIMUS, E. SAL TARTARI. Purest subcarbonate of potash. Salt of tar-tar.

Prepared by burning all the tartaric acid from tar-tar, solution in water, filtration and crystallization.—Similar in its uses with No 313. which see.

Sweet violet.

80. VIOLA ODORATA, E. VIOLA, L. D. Sweet violet. See BOTANY, p. 141.

Official Preparations.

a. SYRUPUS VIOLÆ ODORATE, E. SYRUPUS VIOLÆ, L. D. Syrup of violets.

Made by macerating one pound or two pounds (L. D.) of the fresh petals of violets, in four pounds or five pints (L.) or fix pounds (D.) of boiling water for 24 hours, straining the liquor without expression, and boiling it with a sufficient quantity of double refined sugar, to make a syrup.

A gentle laxative for young children.

81. RIBES RUBRUM. Red currants.

The fruit of red currants is used as a refrigerant in febrile affections.

Black currants.

82. RIBES NIGRUM. Black currants.

Also employed as a refrigerant; and the following preparations form a good domestic palliative in inflammatory affections of the throat, and in tickling coughs.

Official Preparations.

a. SUCCUS SPISSATUS RIBIS NIGRI. Inspissated juice of black currants.

This is made by expressing and clarifying the juice of ripe black currants, and then evaporating it in a bath of water with muriate of soda, to a proper consistence.

b. SYRUPUS RIBIS NIGRI. Syrup of black currants.

Prepared by boiling the depurated juice of black currants with a sufficient quantity of sugar to make a syrup.

Order 2. DIGYNIA.

83. GENTIANA LUTEA, E. GENTIANA, L. D. Gentian root.

The root of gentian is moderately long, slender, branched, brownish on the outside, of a reddish yellow or gold colour within. It is perennial, a native of the mountainous parts of Germany, &c. whence the shops are generally supplied with the dried roots.

Among the gentian brought to London, some years ago, a root of a different kind was mixed, the use of which occasioned violent disorders, and in some instances, as is said, proved fatal. This root is externally of a paler colour than gentian, and its longitudinal wrinkles finer and closer; on cutting the two roots, the difference is more remarkable, the poisonous root being white without any degree of the yellow tinge which is deep in gentian, nor is its taste bitter, like that of gentian, but mucilaginous.

Gentian root is a strong flavourless bitter; in taste less exceptionable than most of the other common strong bitters, and hence among us most generally made use of. The flavour and aromatic warmth wanting to render it grateful, and acceptable to the stomach, are supplied by additions.

The root of this plant is a valuable substance, very successfully and very generally employed as a stomachic and strengthening medicine. It is particularly useful in various chronic affections connected with debility, such as dyspepsia, diarrhoea, hysteria, chlorosis, dropy. It has also been given with good effect in intermittent fevers, joined with the Peruvian bark; and in convalescencies from all fevers. In these and other cases it is combined with aromatics and chalybeates; sometimes with acids; at other times with alkaline salts, especially in dyspeptic and chlorotic affections, as also in certain disorders of the bowels; with absorbents and aromatics in cases of gout.

The use of this bitter, like that of many others, must not, however, be carried too far, as by weakening the energy of the nervous system, it predisposes to palsy and apoplexy.

Official Preparations.

a. INFUSUM GENTIANÆ COMPOSITUM, E. L. D. Compound INFUSUM AMARUM. Compound infusion of infusion of gentian. Bitter infusion.

The Edinburgh infusion is made by steeping half an ounce of sliced gentian root, one dram dried peel of Seville oranges, half a dram of coriander seeds bruised, first in four ounces of diluted alcohol for three hours, and then adding one pound of water; macerating without heat for twelve hours, and then straining.

This infusion, according to the London Pharmacopoeia, is made by macerating for an hour in boiling water, twelve ounces by measure, one dram of sliced gentian root, one dram and a half dried orange peel, half an ounce of fresh outer rind of lemons. The Dublin formula directs two drams of bruised gentian root, half an ounce fresh outer rind of lemons, one dram and Part IV.

History of a half of dry orange peel, four ounces of diluted alcohol, simple and hot, and twelve ounces of boiling water; and the infusion is to be made first by alcohol and afterwards with the addition of water, nearly as in the Edinburgh process.

These infusions form a good tonic remedy in debility of the alimentary canal. A glass of them may be given twice or thrice a-day, either alone, or with the addition of some aromatic tonic tincture.

b. Tinctura Gentianae composita, E. L. TINCTURA AMARA. ELIXIR STOMACHICUM. Compound tincture of gentian. Bitter tincture. Stomachic elixir.

The Edinburgh tincture is prepared by macerating two ounces of sliced and bruised gentian root, an ounce of dried and bruised Seville orange peel, half an ounce of bruised canella alba, and half a dram of powdered cochineal, in two pounds and a half of diluted alcohol for seven days. The tincture of the London college is made with two ounces of sliced and bruised gentian, one ounce of dried orange peel, half an ounce lesser cardamom seeds, husked and bruised, digested for eight days in two pints of proof spirit.

These tinctures are seldom given alone, but may be administered in a dose of two or three drams in a glass of water.

c. VINUM GENTIANÆ COMPOSITUM, E. VINUM AMARUM. Compound wine of gentian. Bitter wine.

Prepared of half an ounce of gentian root, one ounce of cinchona bark, two drams of Seville dried orange peel, one dram of canella alba, four ounces diluted alcohol, two pounds and a half of Spanish white wine. The diluted alcohol is first poured on the root and bark sliced and bruised, and after 24 hours adding the wine, then macerating for seven days and straining. Dose from two drams to half an ounce.

d. EXTRACTUM GENTIANÆ LUTEÆ, E. EXTRACTUM GENTIANÆ, L. D. Extract of gentian.

This is made by evaporating the saturated and strained decoction of the root to a consistence fit for being made into pills, under which form it is frequently prescribed in all those cases in which the infusion and tincture are employed. Dose of this extract from ten grains to half a dram. It is seldom given alone, but generally in combination with aromatic and aloetic powders, with myrrh, sulphate of iron, &c.

84. ULMUS CAMPESTRIS, E. ULMUS, L. D. Elm bark.

The inner bark of the elm is frequently employed in cutaneous eruptions, as an alterative, or gentle diaphoretic, in the form of decoction.

Officinal Preparation.

a. DECOCTUM ULMI, L. Decoction of elm bark.

Made by boiling four ounces of the fresh inner bark of elm bruised, in four pints of water to two, and straining. Dose about four ounces, repeated several times a-day.

This medicine probably does not deserve the reputation it has acquired.

85. ERYNGIUM MARITIMUM. ERYNGIUM, L. Eryngo D. Eryngo root. See BOTANY, p. 142.

86. DAUCUS CAROTA, E. DAUCUS SYLVESTRI, L. D. Wild carrot seed.

The seeds are sometimes employed as a carminative, and have been recommended as a diuretic. They are seldom used.

The grated roots of cultivated carrot are frequently applied as a poultice to cancerous and ill-conditioned ulcers.

87. CONIUM MACULATUM, E. CICUTA, L. D. Hemlock. Hemlock. See BOTANY, p. 145.

Hemlock has been employed chiefly in scrophulous and cancerous disorders, both internally and externally, and in many of these cases, with considerable benefit; in other instances, without any sensible relief, even after being continued for a great length of time. Like most propofers of new remedies, Stoerck has been too profuse in his encomiums on hemlock. It has been found useful in chronic rheumatism, and some cases of gout, where opium disagreed, and in that acutely painful complaint termed tic doloureux; as also in cases of the bones and bad venereal ulcerations. Dr Butler prescribed it with marked success in the hooping-cough, and being less stimulant than opium, and less liable to check expectoration, it generally answers better than the infusitated juice of the poppy, in cases of phthisis pulmonalis. The dried leaves may be given alone in doses of five to 15 grains. With the infusitated juice and powder are joined, according to the nature of the disorder in which they are given, calomel, guaiacum, ammoniacum, &c. In the administration of this, as of all other narcotic medicines, it is proper to begin with the smallest doses, afterwards gradually increasing them to as much as the patients can well bear. In this manner many instances are recorded where astonishing quantities of hemlock have been taken, in cancerous and other painful disorders, without disturbing the constitution. It is a sign that the medicine has been pushed to its utmost length, when it disorders the head, stomach, or bowels. For external use, fomentations, cataplasms, and plasters, are prepared from this vegetable*.

* Practical Synopsis, vol. ii.

Officinal Preparation.

a. SUCCUS SPISSATUS CONII MACULATI, E. SUC. SPISSATUS CICUTÆ, D. Infusitated juice of hemlock.

This is made by expressing hemlock which is gathered when the flowers are beginning to appear, and allowing the juice to stand fix hours until the feces subside, then reducing the decanted juice to dryness in a water bath. This extract may be given in a dose of two grains, increasing it gradually as long as seems prudent.

88. SIUM NODIFLORUM. SIUM, L. Creeping skirret. Formerly employed as an emmenagogue and lithontriptic, but now seldom used.

89. CUMINUM CYMINUM. CUMINUM, L. Cummin feed. See BOTANY, p. 146.

Officinal Preparations.

a. CATAPLASMA CUMINI, L. Cataplasm of cummin feed. This is made of cummin feed one pound; of bay berries, dried leaves of water germander, virginian snakeroot, each three ounces; cloves one ounce; rubbed together into a powder, and formed into a cataplasm with three times their weight of honey.

b. EMPLASTRUM CUMINI, L. Cummin plaster. This is composed of cummin seeds, caraway feeds, bay berries, each three ounces; Burgundy pitch three pounds, and yellow wax three ounces. The pitch and wax are first melted together, and the other ingredients in fine powder mixed with them. Both these preparations are intended for external application to the belly, in some disorders of the stomach and bowels, which require such a stimulus.

90. FERULA ASAFOETIDA, E. ASAFOETIDA, L. D. Asafetida. See BOTANY, p. 145. and CHEMISTRY, No 2499.

Officinal Preparations.

a. ASAFOETIDA PURIFICATA. Purified asafetida. Asafetida is purified in the same manner as gum ammoniac.

b. LAC ASAFOETIDE, L. Emulsion of asafetida. This is made in the same manner as the emulsion of gum ammoniac (See No 336.), and is given in similar doses.

c. TINCTURA FERULÆ ASAFOETIDÆ, E. TINCTURA ASAFOETIDÆ, L. D. Tincture of asafetida. This tincture is prepared by digesting four ounces of asafetida in two pounds and a half (E.), or two pounds (D.), or two pints (L.), of rectified spirit of wine, for about a week. This is a good preparation of asafetida, and may be given in doses of from 20 to 60 drops.

d. PILULÆ ASAFOETIDÆ COMPOSITÆ, E. Compound pills of asafetida. Made by beating together asafetida, galbanum, and myrrh, of each eight parts, and one part of rectified oil of amber, into a mass with simple syrup. Dose 15 grains, or a scruple, three or four times a-day. Chiefly in hysteria.

e. EMPLASTRUM ASAFOETIDÆ, E. Plaster of asafetida. Made by melting together plaster of semiflitrified oxide of lead, asafetida, of each two parts, and galbanum and yellow wax, of each one part. Applied to the belly in hysterica.

91. BURON GALBANUM, E. GALBANUM, L. D. Galbanum. Galbanum. See CHEMISTRY, No 2494. Galbanum is employed in similar cases as asafetida. It is seldom given alone.

Officinal Preparations.

a. GALBANUM PURIFICATUM. Strained galbanum. Purified galbanum. Galbanum is purified by melting it, inclosed in a bladder, by the heat of boiling water, and straining it through linen.

b. TINCTURA GALBANI, L. Tincture of galbanum. Tincture of galbanum. This is made by digesting two ounces of galbanum, cut into small pieces, in two pints of proof spirit, for eight days, with a gentle heat, and straining. Dose from one to two drams.

c. PILULÆ GALBANI COMPOSITÆ, L. Compound galbanum pills. Prepared of opoponax, myrrh, sagapenum, of each an ounce, asafetida half an ounce. Similar to the asafetida pills, and given in similar doses.

92. ANGELICA ARCHANGELICA, E. ANGELI-ANGELICA. CA, L. D. Angelica. An elegant aromatic, but seldom employed.

93. CORIANDRUM SATIVUM, E. CORIANDRUM. Coriander feeds. See BOTANY, p. 147.

94. CARUM CARUI, E. CARUON, L. CARUI, Caraway feeds. See BOTANY, p. 147.

Officinal Preparations.

a. OLEUM VOLATILE CARI CARUI, E. OL. CA-RUI, L. D. Volatile oil of caraway. Prepared by distillation in the same manner as the oil of rosemary. A very warm stimulant. Dose two or three drops.

b. SPIRITUS CARI CARUI, E. SPIRITUS CARUI, L. D. Spirit of caraway. Prepared by macerating half a pound of bruised caraway feeds in eight or nine pounds of proof spirit for a day or two, and then with the addition of a sufficient quantity of water to prevent burning, distilling off the spirit. A good dram, where drams are required, as in flatulent colic. Dose half an ounce to an ounce.

95. PASTINACA OPOPONAX. OPOPONAX, L. Opoponax. One of the gum-resins, brought from the East Indies and the Levant. It possesses properties similar to those Part IV.

History of galbanum and asafoetida, and is usually employed in combination with them.

96. ANETHUM GRAVEOLENS, L. Dill-seed.

This seed is of a nearly oval shape, convex on one side and flat on the other, of a yellowish colour, of a warm pungent taste, and aromatic smell. Employed sometimes as a carminative.

Official Preparation.

a. AQUA DISTILLATA ANETHI, L. Dill water.

A gallon of water distilled from a pound of bruised dill seeds.

97. ANETHUM FOENICULUM, E. FOENICULUM; L. D. Sweet fennel seeds. See BOTANY, p. 147.

Official Preparations.

a. AQUA DISTILLATA FOENICULI DULCIS, L. D. Sweet fennel water.

Prepared as dill water.

b. OLEUM VOLATILE FOENICULI DULCIS, D. Oil of sweet fennel seeds. Prepared as the oil of rosemary, &c.

98. APIUM PETROSELINUM, E. PETROSELINUM, L. Parsley.

The seeds of parsley are carminative, and the root is gently diuretic.

99. PIMPINELLA ANISUM, E. ANISUM, L. D. Aniseed.

This plant is cultivated in Asia, and in the south of Europe. The seeds have a peculiar grateful smell, and a sweet aromatic taste.

They are gently stimulant, carminative and expectorant.

Official Preparations.

a. OLEUM VOLATILE PIMPINELLÆ ANISI, E. OLEUM VOLATILE ANISI, L. D. Volatile oil of aniseed.

Prepared as the other volatile oils.

This oil freezes at no very low temperature. It is a powerful and grateful stimulant. Dose, a drop or two.

b. SPIRITUS ANISI COMPOSITUS, L. Compound spirit of aniseed.

From aniseed and angelica seed, of each half a pound, proof spirit a gallon, and enough water to prevent burning, a gallon of spirit is distilled.

A very agreeable cordial in cases of flatulence.

Order 3. TRICNYIA.

100. SAMBUCUS NIGRA, E. SAMBUCUS, L. D. Elder leaves, bark, and berries. See BOTANY, p. 148.

Official Preparations.

a. SUCCUS SPISSATUS BACCÆ SAMBUCI, L. D. Infusculated juice of elder leaves.

Prepared in the same way as the juice of black currants. See No 422.

b. UNGUENTUM SAMBUCI, L. UNG. SAMBUCI- NUM, D. Elder ointment.

Prepared by boiling four pounds of elder flowers in three pounds of mutton suet and a pint of olive-oil till they are crisp, and then straining.

101. RHUS TOXICODENDRON, E. Poison oak.

The leaves of this shrub, which is a native of North America, are very acrid, and have lately been introduced into practice by Dr Alderfon of Hull as a remedy for palsy. Dose half a grain or a grain. In Edinburgh it has been less successful than with Dr Alderfon. See Alderfon's "Essay on the Rhus Toxicodendron," and Duncan's Dispensatory.

102. LINUM USITATISSIMUM, E. LINUM, L. D. Linseed. Common flax. Lintfeed. See BOTANY, p. 149.

Official Preparations.

a. OLEUM LINI USITATISSIMI, E. Lintfeed oil. Lintfeed oil.

Expressed from the seeds by inclosing them in a hempen bag after beating them in a stone mortar. It should be expressed without heat.

Emollient. Has been given with success in some cases of hemoptysis, nephritis, colic, and some internal inflammations. Dose an ounce or two, made into an emulsion.

103. LINUM CATHARTICUM, D. Purging flax. See Purging flax. BOTANY, p. 149.

CLASS VI. HEXANDRIA. Order 1. MONOGYNYA.

104. BERBERIS VULGARIS. BERBERIS, D. Bar-Barberry. berry.

The fruit is employed as a refrigerant. See BOTANY, p. 159.

105. ALLIUM SATIVUM, E. L. D. Garlic. See Garlic. BOTANY, p. 156, where a long account is given of its nature and uses.

Official Preparations.

a. SYRUPUS ALLII, D. Syrup of garlic. Syrup of garlic.

Prepared by macerating a pound of sliced garlic in two pounds of boiling water in a clofe vessel for 12 hours, and then adding to the strained liquor four pounds of double refined sugar.

106. ALLIUM CEPA. CEPA, D. Onion. Onion.

A gentle diuretic when raw, but chiefly used roasted by way of a cataplasm.

107. ALOE PERFOLIATA, E. ALOE SOCOTO. Aloes. RINA, L. D. Aloes. So full an account of the several varieties of aloes and their uses in medicine has been given under Botany, p. 158, that it is necessary for us here only to notice its

Official Preparations.

a. Pulvis Aloes cum Canella, L. HIERA PIRCA. Powder of aloes with canella.

Prepared of a pound of socotrine aloes, and three pounds of white canella, powdered separately and then mixed together.

A warm stimulant cathartic. Dose 10 grains to 20. Best given in the form of pill.

b. Pulvis Aloeticus cum Guajaco, L. Aloetic powder with guaiacum.

Prepared by mixing together an ounce and a half of powdered socotrine aloes, an ounce of powdered resin of guaiacum, and half an ounce of aromatic powder. Dose as of the preceding.

c. Pulvis Aloeticus cum Ferro, L. Aloetic powder with iron.

Prepared of socotrine aloes, an ounce and a half, myrrh two ounces, dry extract of gentian and vitriolated iron, each an ounce, powdered separately, and mixed together.

This is considered as a good emmenagogue in a dose of 15 grains.

d. Pilulae Aloeticae, E.D. PILULÆ ALOES COMPOSITÆ, L. Aloetic pills. Compound pills of aloes.

The Edinburgh aloetic pills are prepared by beating together into a mass equal parts of powdered aloes and soap. Those of the London college are made of an ounce of powdered socotrine aloes, half an ounce of extract of gentian, two scruples of oil of caraway seeds, and enough syrup of ginger to form a mass. The Dublin pills are made of an ounce of Barbadoes aloes, with half an ounce of extract of gentian, and two drams of powdered ginger, formed into a mass with soap jelly.

Any of these compositions forms a good cathartic for sedentary people. Dose 10 to 20 grains.

e. Pilulae Aloes et Asafoetidae, E. Pills of aloes and asafoetida.

Prepared with equal parts of powdered aloes, asafoetida and soap, made into a mass with mucilage of gum arabic.

A good remedy in dyspepsia, especially in females. Dose about 10 grains, twice a-day.

f. Pilulae Aloes cum Colocynthide, E. Pills of aloes with colocynth.

These are formed of socotrine aloes, scammony, each eight parts, colocynth four parts, oil of cloves and sulphate of potash with sulphur, each one part. The aloes, scammony, and salt, are together reduced to powder, and mixed with the colocynth previously beat to a fine powder; then the oil is added, and the mass formed with mucilage of gum arabic.

A powerful purgative, well suited to melancholia and similar diseases. Dose 10 to 20 grains.

g. Pilulae Aloes et Myrrhae, E.L. PILULÆ RUFI. Pills of aloes and myrrh. Rufus's pills.

Prepared of four parts of socotrine aloes, two parts of myrrh, and two parts of saffron (one part L.), made into a mass with syrup of saffron.

A good laxative and stomachic. Dose 15 or 20 grains.

h. Extractum Aloes, C. Extract of aloes.

Extract of aloes.

Prepared as extract of gentian.

i. Tinctura Aloes Socotrinæ, E. TINCTU-RA ALOES, L.D. Tincture of aloes.

Made by digesting half an ounce of powdered socotrine aloes and an ounce and a half of extract of liquorice, in four ounces of alcohol and a pound of distilled water (E.), or in eight ounces of proof spirit with the same quantity of distilled water (L.), for a few days, with a gentle heat and frequent agitation. Dose about an ounce.

k. Tinctura Aloes et Myrrhae, E. TINCTU-RA ALOES COMPOSITA, L. Tincture of aloes and myrrh. Compound tincture of aloes and myrrh.

This tincture, according to the Edinburgh process, is prepared by first digesting two ounces of powdered myrrh in a pound and a half of alcohol mixed with half a pound of water, for four days; then adding an ounce and a half of powdered socotrine aloes, and an ounce of saffron; digesting for three days longer, and pouring off the tincture. The London tincture is made by digesting three ounces of socotrine aloes and the same quantity of saffron, in two pints of tincture of myrrh, for eight days, and straining it.

These tinctures differ in strength; the Edinburgh tincture may be given in a dose of half an ounce or six drams; the London one in half that quantity.

l. Tinctura Aloes ætherea, E. Ethereal tinc-ture of aloes.

This tincture is prepared by digesting socotrine aloes, and myrrh powdered, of each an ounce and a half, with an ounce of sliced saffron, in a pound of sulphuric ether with alcohol; first digesting the myrrh alone for four days, then adding the rest, digesting for four days longer, and straining.

More stimulating than the other tinctures. Dose two or three drams.

m. Vinum Aloes Socotrinæ, E. VINUM A-LOETICUM, D. VINUM ALOES, L. Wine of aloes. Aloetic wine. Sacred elixir.

The Edinburgh wine is prepared by digesting an ounce of powdered socotrine aloes, and lefier cardamom seed, and ginger bruised, of each a dram, in two pounds of Spanish white wine, for seven days, with occasional agitation and straining. The Dublin college directs four ounces of powdered socotrine aloes, and two ounces of powdered canella alba, in four pounds of Spanish white wine for fourteen days, with frequent agitation and then filtering. In the London process, the proportions are, eight ounces of powdered aloes, Part IV.

History of two ounces of powdered canella, fix pints of Spanish white wine, and two pints of proof spirit.

This appears from long experience to be a medicine of excellent service. The dose as a purgative is from one to two ounces. It may be introduced into the habit, so as to be productive of excellent effects, as an alterant, by giving it in small doses, at proper intervals: thus managed, it does not for a considerable time operate remarkably by flood; but at length proves purgative, and occasions a lax habit of much longer continuance than that produced by other common cathartics.

108. SCILLA MARITIMA, E. SCILLA, L. D. Squill. See BOTANY Index.

When the root of squill is taken in large doses, it produces a violent vomiting and purging, and sometimes strangury, bloody urine, and inflammation and erosion of the stomach or bowels; in moderate doses it proves emetic, without any further consequence, and in small doses, it is a good expectorant and diuretic. It is chiefly employed as an expectorant in asthma and peripneumony, and as a diuretic in droply.

Officinal Preparations.

a. SCILLA MARITIMA EXSICCATA, E. SCILLA EXSICCATA, L. SCILLÆ PREPARATÆ, D. Dried squill.

Squill is dried by first removing its outer coat, then cutting it transversely into thin slices, and drying these with a gentle heat.

The sign of its being properly dried is that it be rendered friable without losing its bitterness and acrimony. This is an excellent mode of preparing squill, where it is to be given in substance. The dose of dried squill, when reduced to powder and given as an expectorant or diuretic, is from one grain to three.

b. ACETUM SCILLÆ MARITIMÆ, E. ACETUM SCILLÆ, L. ACETUM SCILLITICUM, D. Vinegar of squill.

This is made by macerating dried squill in vinegar or distilled vinegar, with a proportion of proof spirit. The proportions of the different colleges vary. The Edinburgh college directs two ounces of squill to two pounds and a half of distilled acetous acid, and three ounces of alcohol; that of London a pound of squill, fix pints of vinegar, and half a pint of proof spirit; while the Dublin proportions are half a pound of squill, three pounds of vinegar, and four ounces of proof spirit. The squill is first macerated with the vinegar for some days with a gentle heat, then the liquor is expressed, and the spirit added to it. Dose from two drams to half an ounce, chiefly in composition.

c. SYRUPUS SCILLÆ MARITIMÆ, E. Syrup of squill.

This syrup is made with two pounds of vinegar of squill, and three pounds and a half of double refined sugar, dissolved in a gentle heat.

A good expectorant. Dose from half an ounce to an ounce.

d. OXYMEL SCILLÆ, L. Oxymel of squill.

Prepared by boiling three pounds of clarified honey, with two pints of vinegar of squill in a glass vessel, with a gentle heat, to the consistence of a syrup.

This is not so good a preparation as the syrup of Oxymel of squill, and is very apt to produce sickness. Dose three or four drams.

e. CONSERVA SCILLÆ, L. Conserve of squill.

This is made by beating together in a mortar, an ounce of fresh squill and five ounces of double refined sugar.

A very injudicious and nauseous preparation.

f. TINCTURA SCILLÆ, L. D. Tincture of squill.

This tincture is prepared by digesting four ounces of fresh dried squill, in two pints, or two pounds, of proof spirit, for seven or eight days, and pouring off the clear liquor.

This is a good preparation of squill, especially when it is intended as a diuretic. Dose twenty or thirty drops.

g. MEL SCILLÆ, L. MEL SCILLITICUM, D. Honey of squill.

Prepared by boiling together in a glass vessel, three pounds of clarified honey and two pints of the tincture of squill, to the consistence of a syrup. Dose, a dram or two.

h. PILULÆ SCILLÆ, L. PILULÆ SCILLITI- CÆ, E. D. Squill pills.

These, according to the London and Dublin colleges, are to be prepared by beating together a dram of fresh dried squill reduced to powder, three drams of powdered ginger, three drams of soap, and two drams of gum ammoniac, with a sufficient quantity of syrup of ginger, or jelly of soap, to form a mass fit for making pills. In the Edinburgh process a scruple of dried squill, in fine powder, a dram of gum ammoniac, a dram of powdered lesser cardamon seeds, and a dram of extracted liquorice, are beaten into a mass, with simple syrup.

This is a good form of squill, when intended as an expectorant. Dose from 10 to 15 grains.

109. LILIIUM CANDIDUM, LILIIUM ALBUM, D. White lily root. See BOTANY, p. 156.

110. ACORUS CALAMUS, E. CALAMUS AROMATICUS, L. Sweet flag. See BOTANY, p. 159.

Order III. TRIGYNYIA.

111. COLCHICUM AUTUMNALE, E. COLCHI-COLCHICUM, L. D. Colchicum, or meadow saffron. See BOTANY, p. 161.

Officinal Preparations.

a. SYRUPUS COLCHICI AUTUMNALIS, E. Syrup of colchicum.

Prepared by first macerating an ounce of fresh colchicum root, cut into thin slices, in 16 ounces of vine- gar, for two days, with occasional agitation, and then boiling the expressed liquor with 26 ounces of double refined sugar into a syrup.

Employed as a diuretic, in a dose of from a dram to an ounce or more.

502 Oxymel of colchicum.

b. OXYMEL COLCHICI, L. Oxymel of colchicum.

This is made in the same manner as the syrup, only that two pounds of clarified honey are used instead of sugar to the pint of vinegar of colchicum. It is given in similar doses with the former.

503 Sorrel.

112. RUMEX ACETOSA, E. ACETOSA PRA-TENSIS, L. ACETOSA, D. Sorrel. See BOTANY, p. 162.

CLASS VII. HEPTANDRIA. Order 1. MONOGYNYA.

504 Horse-chestnut.

113. Aesculus hippocastanum, E. HIPPOCASTANUM. Horse-chestnut bark and fruit.

The bark of horse-chestnut is a powerful astringent, and has lately been recommended as a substitute for cinchona. It is certainly a good tonic, and may be given in powder from half a dram to a dram; or a dram of the extract of it may be mixed with an ounce of cinnamon water, and given in the dose of a tea spoonful three or four times a day. A strong infusion of it, fumosed up the nose, has long been employed as an erthine.

CLASS VIII. OCTANDRIA. Order 1. MONOGYNYA.

505 Elemi.

114. AMYRIS ELEMIFERA, ELEMI, L. Resin of elemi. See BOTANY, p. 166.; and CHEMISTRY, No 2471.

Officinal Preparations.

a. UNGUENTUM ELEMI, D. UNG. ELEMI COMPOSITUM, L. Elemi ointment.

Prepared by first melting a pound of elemi with two pounds of mutton suet, and on removing them from the fire, immediately adding 10 ounces of turpentine, and two ounces of olive oil, and straining the mixture.

A stimulating ointment, in much reputation with some surgeons for cleansing ulcers.

115. AMYRIS GILEADENSIS, E. BALSAMUM GILEADENSE. Balsam or balm of Gilead. See BOTANY, p. 166.

508 Mezereon.

116. DAPHNE MEZEREUM, E. MEZEREUM, L. MEZEREON, D. Mezereon or spurge laurel. See BOTANY, p. 168.

Officinal Preparations.

a DECOCTUM DAPHNES MEZEREI, E. Decoction of mezereon.

Prepared by boiling with a gentle heat two drams of the bark of mezereon root, and half an ounce of bruised liquorice root, in three pounds of water to two pounds.

Much recommended as a diaphoretic and stimulant, in rheumatic affections and in cutaneous eruptions. Dose from four to eight ounces twice a-day.

117. POLYGONUM BISTORTA, E. BISTORTA, L. D. Great bistort or snakeweed. See BOTANY, Great bistort. p. 168.

CLASS IX. ENNEANDRIA. Order 1. MONOGYNYA.

118. LAURUS CINNAMOMUM, E. CINNAMOMUM, L. D. Cinnamon. The bark and its essential oil. See BOTANY, p. 170. and 174. See also the article CEYLON.

Officinal Preparations.

a. AQUA LAURI CINNAMOMI, E. AQUA CINNAMOMI, L. D. Cinnamon water. Barley cinnamon water.

A gallon of water distilled from a pound of bruised cinnamon.

An excellent cordial in a dose of two ounces.

b. SPIRITUS LAURI CINNAMOMI, E. SPIRITUS CINNAMOMI, L. D. Spirit of cinnamon.

A gallon of proof spirit distilled from a pound of bruised cinnamon.

Preferable to the former only where ardent spirits are required.

c. TINCTURA LAURI CINNAMOMI, E. TINCTURA CINNAMOMI, L. D. Tincture of cinnamon.

Made by digesting three ounces, or three ounces and a half of bruised cinnamon, in about two pounds of proof spirit, for about a week.

A better tonic than the spirit, as it contains the astringent as well as aromatic principle of cinnamon. Dose two or three drams.

d. TINCTURA CINNAMOMI COMPOSITA, E. L. TINCTURA AROMATICA, D. Compound tincture of cinnamon. Aromatic tincture.

Made by digesting an ounce (or fix drams, L. D.) of bruised cinnamon, an ounce (or two drams, D. or three drams, L.) of bruised cardamom seeds, two drams of powdered long pepper, (and two drams of powdered ginger, L. D.) in two pounds and a half (or two pounds, D. or two pints, L.) of proof spirit, for seven days.

A very hot tincture, useful in asthenic atony of the stomach. Dose two or three drams.

e. PULVIS AROMATICUS, E. L. D. Aromatic powder.

The Edinburgh aromatic powder is prepared of equal parts of cinnamon, lesser cardamom seeds, and ginger, beaten together to a very fine powder. The proportions of the other colleges are cinnamon two ounces, lesser cardamom seeds, ginger and long pepper, of each an ounce. Dose 10 grains to a scruple.

f. ELECTUARIUM AROMATICUM, F. D. CON- FECTIO AROMATICA, L. Aromatic electuary or confection. Cordial confection. The Edinburgh electuary is made by mixing one part of aromatic powder with two parts of syrup of orange peel. That of the Dublin college is prepared by mixing three ounces of conserve of orange peel with half an ounce of powdered cinnamon, half an ounce of powdered nutmeg, two drams of powdered ginger, and two drams of saffron, with an ounce of double refined sugar, and beating them together with a sufficient quantity of syrup of orange peel into an electuary. The London confection is made by first macerating half a pound of zedoary in coarse powder, and half a pound of saffron, in three pints of water for 24 hours, pressing out the liquor, and evaporating it to a pint and a half, and adding 16 ounces of compound powder of crabs claws, of cinnamon and nutmeg each two ounces, cloves an ounce, lesser cardamom seeds half an ounce, all in fine powder, and two pounds of double refined sugar, so as to form an electuary.

Of these compositions, the first is the best. Dose a scruple to half a dram.

119. LAURUS CASSIA, E. CASSIA LIGNEA, D. Cassia bark. See BOTANY, p. 173.

This is commonly employed instead of cinnamon, and though not so delicate, is as efficacious as that expensive drug. The buds of cassia are, we believe, stronger than the bark.

Official Preparation.

a. AQUA LAURI CASSII, E. Cassia water.

Distilled like cinnamon water, for which it is commonly substituted.

120. LAURUS CAMPHORA, E. The camphor tree. CAMPHORA, L. D. Camphor or Camphire. See BOTANY, page 172, and 174; and CHEMISTRY, N° 2441. See also the article CAMPHORA.

Internally camphor is administered as a diaphoretic in typhoid fevers, in rheumatism, in low eruptive fevers, in a dose of from five to 20 grains; and as an antispasmodic in hiccup, hysteria, epilepsy, and in mania and melancholia, especially in that maniacal affection that sometimes takes place in lying in women. It is applied externally in cases of gangrene, to discuss indolent tumors, and to disperse collections of milk in the breasts of women who are weaning their infants.

Official Preparations.

a. EMULSIO CAMPHORATA, E. Camphorated emulsion.

Prepared by first beating together two drams of blanched sweet almonds, and a dram of double refined sugar, then rubbing with these a scruple of camphor, and gradually adding fix ounces of water to make an emulsion. Dose two or three ounces.

b. MISTURA CAMPHORATA, L. Camphorated mixture.

Made by rubbing a dram of camphor, first with a little rectified spirit of wine, and then with half an ounce of double refined sugar, and adding gradually a pint of boiling distilled water, and straining off the clear liquor.

Scarcely so active as the foregoing. Dose much the fame.

c. TINCTURA CAMPHORÆ, E. SPIRITUS CAMPHORATIUS, L. D. Tincture of camphor. Camphorated spirit.

A solution of camphor in rectified spirit. The several colleges direct very different proportions, viz. the Edinburgh an ounce, or two or three ounces, of camphor, to a pound of alcohol; the London four ounces to two pints; and the Dublin college half an ounce to eight ounces.

d. OLEUM CAMPHORATUM, E. Camphorated oil. Camphorated oil.

A solution of camphor in oil olive, in the proportion of half an ounce of the former to two ounces of the latter, made by triturating them together in a glass or marble mortar.

e. LINIMENTUM CAMPHORÆ COMPOSITUM, L. Camphorat linimentum CAMPHORÆ, D. Compound'd liniment of camphor.

Made by first mixing fix ounces of water of pure ammonia (L.), or 10 ounces of water of carbonated ammonia (D.), with 16 ounces (or two pounds, D.) of spirit of lavender, and distilling off the spirit from a glass retort; then dissolving in the distilled spirit two ounces (L.) or three ounces (D.) of camphor.

These three last are intended for external application in the cases above mentioned, and the last is the most stimulating.

121. LAURUS NOBILIS, E. LAURUS, L. Bay. Bay. See BOTANY, p. 171, and 172.

The leaves, berries, and expressed oil of the berries, are employed in medicine.

122. LAURUS SASSAFRAS, E. SASSAFRAS, L. Sassafras. D. Sassafras wood, root, and bark. See BOTANY, p. 173.

Employed chiefly as a gentle diaphoretic or alternative in cutaneous eruptions, by way of decoction or infusion.

Official Preparation.

a. OLEUM VOLATILE LAURI SASSAFRAS, E. OLEUM SASSAFRAS, L. Oil of sassafras.

Distilled as the other volatile oils.

Order 2. TRIGYNA.

123. RHEUM PALMATUM, E. RHABARBARUM, Rhubarb. L. D. Rhubarb. See BOTANY, p. 175.

Official Preparations.

a. INFUSUM RHEI PALMATI, E. Infusion of rhubarb.

Made by macerating half an ounce of bruised rhubarb in eight ounces of boiling water for 12 hours; then adding an ounce of spirit of cinnamon, and straining. Dose half an ounce to an ounce and a half.

b. VINUM RHEI PALMATI, E. VINUM RHABARBARI, L. Rhubarb wine. The Edinburgh wine is prepared by infusing two ounces of sliced rhubarb and a dram of bruised canella alba in 15 ounces of Spanish white wine, and two ounces of diluted alcohol, for seven days, and straining through paper. The London formula directs two ounces and a half of sliced rhubarb, half an ounce of bruised lesser cardamom seeds, and two drams of saffron, to be digested in two pints of Spanish white wine, and half a pint of proof spirit, for 10 days.

The Edinburgh wine is the stronger, and may be given in the dose of an ounce. Dose of the London, about an ounce and a half, or a small wine glass full.

c. Tinctura Rhei palmati, E. TINCTURA RHABARBARI, L. D. Tincture of rhubarb.

Prepared by digesting three ounces (E.) or two ounces (L. D.) of sliced rhubarb, half an ounce (E.) or two drams (L. D.) of bruised cardamom seeds, (and two drams of saffron L. D.) in two pounds and a half (E.) or two pounds (D.) or two pints (L.), of proof spirit, for about a week, and straining.

As a purgative, this may be given in the dose of an ounce; as a stomachic from two to four drams.

d. Tinctura Rhabarbari composita, L. Compound tincture of rhubarb.

Prepared of two ounces of sliced rhubarb, half an ounce of bruised liquorice root, two drams of powdered ginger, and two drams of saffron, digested for 14 days in 12 ounces of proof spirit mixed with a pint of distilled water.

Uses and doses as of the preceding.

e. Tinctura Rhei et Aloes, E. Tincture of rhubarb and aloes.

Made by digesting 10 drams of sliced rhubarb, six drams of powdered socotrine aloes, and half an ounce of bruised cardamom seeds, in two pounds and a half of diluted alcohol, for seven days.

Dose half an ounce to an ounce.

f. Tinctura Rhei et Gentianae, E. Tincture of rhubarb and gentian.

Made by digesting two ounces of sliced rhubarb, and half an ounce of sliced gentian root, in two pounds and a half of diluted alcohol, for seven days, and straining.

A good stomachic. Dose two or three drams.

CLASS X. DECANDRIA. Order 1. MONOGY-NIA.

124. Myroxylon Peruferum, E. BALSAMUM PERUVIANUM, L. D. Balsam of Peru. See BOTANY, p. 182, and CHEMISTRY, No 2484.

(c) This volume is now drawing very near a close, and it is indispensable that the present article should not extend beyond it. It is therefore necessary that in the remaining part of the materia medica, we should be extremely concise, and should omit all the natural history, and much of the medical history, of the simple articles. Fortunately, in many cases, these circumstances have been anticipated under botany; and where this has not been Part IV.

&c.

Official Preparations.

a. INFUSUM SENNAE SIMPLEX, L. Simple infusion of senna.

Prepared by macerating an ounce and a half of senna, and a dram of powdered ginger, in a pint of boiling water, for an hour, in a covered vessel. Dose about two or three ounces.

b. INFUSUM SENNAE TARTARISATUM, L. Tartarized infusion of senna.

Instead of ginger, half an ounce of bruised coriander seeds and two drams of crystals of tartar are here added. Dose as of the above.

c. INFUSUM TAMARINDI CUM SENNA, E. Infusion of tamarinds with senna.

Prepared by macerating an ounce of preserved tamarinds, a dram (or two, three, &c. drams) of senna, half a dram of bruised coriander seeds, and half an ounce of brown sugar, in eight ounces of boiling water, for four hours, in a glass vessel.

An excellent laxative. Dose from two to four ounces, according to the quantity of senna.

d. TINCTURA SENNAE COMPOSITA, E. TINC-TURA SENNAE, L. D. Compound tincture of senna.

The Edinburgh tincture is made by digesting two ounces of senna, an ounce of bruised jalap root, and half an ounce of bruised coriander seeds, in three pounds and a half of diluted alcohol, for seven days, straining the tincture, and adding four ounces of double-refined sugar. The London and Dublin tinctures are made by digesting a pound of senna, an ounce and a half of bruised caraway seeds, half an ounce of bruised cardamom seeds, and 16 ounces of stoned raisins, in a gallon or nine pounds (D.) of proof spirit, for 14 days. Dose half an ounce to an ounce and a half.

e. ELECTUARIUM CASSII SENNAE, E. ELECTU-ARIUM SENNAE, L. D. Electuary of senna. Laxitive electuary.

The Edinburgh and London electuaries are composed of eight ounces of pounded senna, four ounces of powdered coriander seeds, three ounces of liquorice root, half a pound or a pound of figs, half a pound of pulp of tamarinds, half a pound of pulp of prunes (and half a pound of pulp of cassia (L.), and two pounds and a half of double refined sugar. That of Dublin is made of four ounces of powdered senna, a pound of pulp of French prunes, two ounces of pulp of tamarinds, a pound and a half of molasses, and two drams of essential oil of caraway. Dose about half an ounce.

f. EXTRACTUM CASSII SENNAE, E. EXTRAC-TUM SENNAE, L. D. Extract of senna.

Made like other extracts that have been mentioned. History of Dose 10 to 30 grains. Not much used.

g. PULVIS SENNAE COMPOSITUS, L. Compound powder of senna.

Composed of senna, crystals of tartar, each two ounces, cinnamon half an ounce, and ginger two drams. Powder of senna. Dose two or three scruples.

128. HEMATOXYLON CAMPECHIANUM, E. HÆ-Logwood. MATOXYLON, L. D. LIGNUM CAMPE-CHENSE. Logwood. See BOTANY, p. 183.

Official Preparation.

a. EXTRACTUM HEMATOXYLI, L. Extract of log wood. Extract of logwood.

Made by boiling logwood in successive portions of water, and evaporating the mixed liquors to a proper consistence. Dose a scruple to two scruples.

129. SWietenia Mahagoni, E. Mahogany tree bark. Mahogany bark.

130. SWietenia Febrifuga, E. Febrifuge Swi-Febrifuge etenia bark. swietenia.

These barks are good tonics, and may be used instead of the cinchona.

131. Guaiacum officinale, E. GUAIACUM, Guaiacum. L. D. Guaiacum wood, bark and resin. See BO-TANY, p. 181.; and for an excellent account of the nature and chemical properties of the resin, see Phil. Tranf. for 1806. p. 89.

Official Preparations.

a. DECOCTUM GUAIAICI COMPOSITUM, E. Com-pound decoction of guaiacum. Decoction of the woods. decoction of guaiacum.

Made by boiling three ounces of guaiacum rasps, cum, and two ounces of stoned resin, in ten pounds of water to five pounds; adding towards the end, of sliced sassafras and bruised liquorice root, each an ounce.

Given as a diet drink in cutaneous eruptions and rheumatism, to the extent of a pint in the day.

b. TINCTURA GUAIAICI OFFICINALIS, E. Tincture of guaiacum.

Made by digesting a pound of powdered resin of guaiacum in two pounds and a half of alcohol for ten days, and filtering.

A good diaphoretic. Dose, two or three drams mixed with honey or syrup.

c. TINCTURA GUAIAICI AMMONIATA, E. TINC-TURA GUAIAICI VOLATILIS, D. TINC. Ammoniated tincture of guaiacum. TINTURE GUAIAICI, L. Ammoniated tincture of guaiacum.

5 D 2

the cafe, we here make a general reference to Woodville's "Medical Botany," Lewis's "Experimental History," Duncan's "New Dispensatory," the "Practical Synopsis," and "Thesaurus Medicaminum." This is made by digesting four ounces of powdered resin of guaiacum in about one pound and a half of ammoniated alcohol for seven days (three days L.), and filtering.

More stimulant than the last. Dose one or two drams.

132. RUTA GRAVEOLENS, E. RUTA, L.D. Rue. See BOTANY, p. 182.

Officinal Preparations.

a. OLEUM VOLATILE RUTÆ, D. Volatile oil of rue.

Distilled as other volatile oils. Used chiefly as an anthelmintic. Dose from three to six drops.

b. EXTRACTUM RUTÆ GRAVEOLENTIS, E. EXTRACTUM RUTÆ, L.D. Extract of rue.

Made like other watery extracts. Dose about one scruple.

133. QUASSIA SIMARUBA, E. SIMAROUBA, L.D. Simarouba, or mountain damson bark.

Used as a tonic in dysentery, obstinate diarrhoea, indigestion, and intermittent fevers. Dose about a dram in substance, or two drams in the form of decoction, which is the better mode of exhibition.

134. QUASSIA EXCELSA, E. QUASSIA, L. Quassia wood, bark, and root.

A strong bitter, and good tonic, generally given by way of infusion, in the proportion of one to two drams to a pint of water.

135. RHODODENDRON CHRYSANTHUM, E. Yellow-flowered rhododendron. See BOTANY, p. 184. and Duncan's Dispensatory.

136. ARBUTUS UVA URSI, E. UVA URSI, L.D. Whortleberry. See BOTANY, p. 184.

137. STYRAX OFFICINALE, E. STYRAX, L. STYRAX CALAMITA, D. Storax. See BOTANY, p. 184. and CHEMISTRY, No 2481.

Officinal Preparation.

a. STYRAX PURIFICATA, L.D. Purified storax.

Storax is purified by dissolving it in rectified spirit, straining the solution, and reducing it to a proper thickness by a gentle heat.

Employed chiefly as an ingredient in a tincture to be mentioned immediately.

138. STYRAX BENZOIN, E. BENZOE, L. BENZOINUM, D. Benzoin or benjamin. See BOTANY, p. 184. and CHEMISTRY, No 2480.

Officinal Preparations.

a. TINCTURA BENZOES COMPOSITA, E.L. BALSAMUM TRAUMATICUM. Compound tincture of benzoin. Traumatic vulnerary, or friars balsam.

Prepared by digesting three ounces of powdered benzoin (two ounces of strained storax, L.) an ounce of balsam of Tolu, and half an ounce of powdered socote rine aloes, in two pounds of alcohol, for seven days (or three days, L.), and straining.

This tincture forms a good expectorant, made into an emulsion with honey; and it has been long, though perhaps undeservedly, celebrated, as an external application to wounds.

b. ACIDUM BENZOICUM, E. SAL BENZOINI, D. FLORES BENZOES, L. Benzoic acid. Salt acid of benzoin. Flowers of benjamin.

The Edinburgh process for obtaining this acid is, to triturate 24 ounces of benzoin with eight ounces of carbonate of soda; to boil this mixture in 16 pounds of water, constantly stirring, straining the decoction; repeat the boiling with fix pounds of more water, straining, mixing the two decoctions, and evaporating till only two pounds remain, filtering again, and dropping into the fluid diluted sulphuric acid as long as there is any precipitation; then dissolving the precipitated acid in boiling water, straining the solution through linen, and letting it abide to crystallize; and, lastly, washing the crystals with cold water, and drying them.

For other methods of procuring this acid, and for an account of its chemical properties, see CHEMISTRY, No 714 et seq.

Benzoic acid is employed as an expectorant, in a dose of a grain or two.

139. COPAIFERA OFFICINALIS, E. BALSAMUM COPAIVA, L. BALSAMUM COPAIBA, D. copaiva. Balsam of Copaiva. See BOTANY, p. 185.

Order 2. DIGYNIA.

140. DIANTHUS CARYOPHYLLUS, E. CARYO PHYLLUM RUBRUM, L.D. Clove julyflower, flower. See BOTANY, p. 196.

Officinal Preparations.

a. SYRUPUS DIANTHÆ CARYOPHYLLÆ, E. SYRUPUS CARYOPHYLLI RUBRI, L. Syrup of clove julyflower.

Made by macerating a pound or two of the petals of clove julyflowers fresh gathered, and freed from the heels, in four pounds or fix pints of boiling water for 12 hours in a glass vessel, straining the infusion, and adding of double refined sugar, seven pounds, or as much as is sufficient to form a syrup.

Order 4. PENTACYNIA.

141. OXALIS ACETOSELLA, LUJULA, L. A-wood for- CETOSELLA, D. Wood sorrel. See BOTANY, rel. p. 187.

Officinal Preparations.

a. CONSERVA ACETOSELLÆ, D. Conserve of wood forrel.

Made by heating the leaves of wood sorrel in a marble mortar with a wooden pestle, first by themselves, and then with three times their weight of double refined sugar, till they are thoroughly combined. Part IV.

&c.

History of Simple and Official Medicines.

CLASS XI. DODECANDRIA. Order I. MONOGYNIA.

142. ASARUM EUROPÆUM, E. ASARUM, L. D. Asarabacca. See BOTANY, p. 190.

Officinal Preparations.

a. PULVIS ASARI COMPOSITUS, E. L. D. Compound powder of asarabacca.

Prepared according to the London and Dublin processes, of equal parts of asarabacca, sweet marjoram, Syrian herb mastic, and lavender, dried and reduced together to a fine powder. In the Edinburgh formula there are used three parts of asarabacca, one of marjoram, and one of lavender.

Used as an errhine.

143. CANELLA ALBA, E. L. D. See BOTANY, p. 190.

CLASS XII. ICOSANDRIA. Order I. MONOGYNIA.

144. EUGENIA CARYOPHYLLATA. CARYOPHYLLUS AROMATICUS, E. CARYOPHYLLA AROMATICA, D. Clove tree, and its essential oil. See Woodville's Botany, and Duncan's Dispensatory.

145. MYRTUS PIMENTA, E. PIMENTO, L. D. Pimento, Jamaica pepper, or allspice. See BOTANY, p. 194.

Officinal Preparations.

a. AQUA MYRTÆ PIMENTÆ, E. AQUA PIMENTÔ, L. Pimento water.

A gallon of water distilled from half a pound of pimento. Dose, a small wine glass full.

b. OLEUM VOLATILE MYRTI PIMENTÆ, E. Volatile oil of pimento.

Distilled as other volatile oils. Given as a stimulus in a dose of two or three drops.

c. SPIRITUS MYRTI PIMENTÆ, E. SPIRITUS PIMENTO, L. D. Spirit of pimento.

A gallon of proof spirit distilled from half a pound of bruised pimento. Dose about an ounce.

146. PUNICA GRANATUM, E. GRANATUM, L. D. Pomegranate. See BOTANY, p. 195.

147. EUCALYPTUS RESINIFERA. KINO, E. L. D. Kino. See Duncan's Dispensatory.

Officinal Preparation.

a. TINCTURA KINO, E. D. Tincture of kino.

Prepared by digesting two ounces of powdered kino in a pound and a half of diluted alcohol, for seven days, and filtering. Dose from one dram to three, as an astringent.

148. AMYGDALUS COMMUNIS, E. AMYGDA. History of LÆ DULCES, L. D. AMYGDALÆ AMARÆ, Simple and Officinal Medicines. Sweet and bitter almonds. See BOTANY, p. 195.

Officinal Preparations.

a. OLEUM AMYGDALI COMMUNIS, E. OLEUM AMYGDALARUM, L. D. Oil of almonds.

Expressed in the usual manner. Given as an emollient, ad libitum.

b. EMULSIO AMYGDALÆ COMMUNIS, E. LAC AMYGDALÆ vel AMYGDALARUM, L. D. Almond emulsion.

Made by beating an ounce of blanched sweet almonds, or an ounce and a half, either by themselves, or with half an ounce of double refined sugar, and gradually pouring on them two pounds and a half or two pints of distilled water, to form an emulsion.

A grateful demulcent, that may be drunk in any quantity.

149. PRUNUS DOMESTICA, E. L. D. Prunes. Prunes. Used as a gentle laxative, chiefly in composition.

150. PRUNUS SPINOSA. PRUNUS SYLVESTRIS, Sloes. L. Sloes.

Employed as an astringent.

Officinal Preparation.

a. CONSERVA PRUNI SYLVESTRIS, L. Conserve of sloes.

Made by mixing any quantity of the pulp of sloes, obtained by boiling them in water till they are soft, and subsequent expression, with three times its weight of double refined sugar.

Order 4. PENTAGYNIA.

151. PYRUS CYDONIA. CYDONIA MALUS, L. Quince seeds. Quince feeds. See BOTANY, p. 197.

Officinal Preparation.

a. MUCILAGO SEMINUM CYDONII MALI, L. Mucilage of quince feed.

Made by boiling one dram of quince seeds in eight ounces of distilled water, with a slow fire for 10 minutes, and then squeezing the mucilage through linen.

Order 5. POLYGYNIA.

152. ROSA GALlica, E. ROSA RUBRA, L. D. Red rose buds. See BOTANY, p. 198.

Officinal Preparations.

a. INFUSUM ROSÆ GALlicæ, E. INFUSUM ROSÆ, L. INFUSUM ROSARUM, D. Infusion of red roses.

Prepared by infusing one ounce of the dried petals of red red roses, in about two pounds and a half of boiling water, in a glass or unglazed earthen vessel, till cold, then adding about half a dram of sulphuric acid, and about two ounces of double refined sugar.

A pleasant refrigerant and gentle astringent, given internally in hemorrhages, and much employed as a gargle.

b. SYRUPUS ROSÆ GALLICÆ, E. Syrup of red roses.

Made by macerating seven ounces of the dried petals of red roses in five pounds of boiling water for 12 hours, straining the liquor, and adding fix pounds of double refined sugar to make a syrup.

c. MEL ROSÆ, L. D. Honey of roses.

Made by macerating four ounces of dried petals of red rose buds in three pints of boiling distilled water, for six hours, then straining the liquor, and boiling it with five pounds of clarified honey to the consistence of a syrup.

d. CONSERVA ROSÆ RUBRÆ, L. CONSERVA ROSÆ, D. Conserve of roses.

Made by beating the fresh petals of red roses with three times their weight of double refined sugar till they are thoroughly mixed.

153. ROSA DAMASCENA, L. D. ROSA CENTIFOLIA, E. The damask rose. See BOTANY, p. 198.

Officinal Preparations.

a. AQUA ROSÆ CENTIFOLIÆ, E. AQUA ROSÆ, L. D. Rose water.

A gallon of water distilled from six pounds of the fresh petals of damask roses.

Chiefly employed as a perfume.

b. SYRUPUS ROSÆ CENTIFOLIÆ, E. SYRUPUS ROSÆ, L. Syrup of damask roses.

Made by macerating one pound (E.) or seven ounces (L.) of the fresh petals of damask roses, in four pounds or four pints of boiling distilled water, and adding to the strained liquor three pounds (E.) or fix pounds (L.) of double refined sugar, to make a syrup.

154. ROSA CANINA, E. CYNOSBATUS, L. Hips. See BOTANY, p. 198.

Officinal Preparation.

a. CONSERVA ROSÆ CANINÆ, E. CONSERVA CYNOSBATI, L. Conserve of hips.

Made by beating any quantity of the pulp of ripe hips with three times its weight of double refined sugar.

155. RUBUS IDÆUS, L. D. Raspberry. See BOTANY, p. 198.

Officinal Preparation.

a. SYRUPUS FRUCTUS RUBI IDÆI, L. Syrup of raspberry juice.

Made by boiling the juice of raspberry, with a sufficient quantity of double refined sugar to make a syrup.

156. TORMENTILLA ERECTA, E. TORMEN TILLA, L. D. Tormentil root. See BOTANY, p. 199.

157. POTENTILLA REPTANS. PENTAPHYLLUM, L. Common cinquefoil. See BOTANY, p. 199.

158. GEUM URBANUM. Avens or herb bennet. See BOTANY, p. 199. and the "Practical Synopsis." This is considered as a good substitute for cinchona.

CLASS XIII. POLYANDRIA. Order I. MONOGYNA.

159. PAPAVER RHŒAS. PAPAVER ERRATI-CUM, L. Common red poppy. See BOTANY, p. 204.

Officinal Preparation.

a. SYRUPUS PAPAVERIS ERRATICI, L. Syrup of red poppy.

Four pounds of the fresh flowers of red poppy are gradually mixed with four pints and a half of boiling distilled water in a water bath, constantly stirring them; they are then suffered to macerate for 12 hours, the juice is pressed out and boiled with double refined sugar into a syrup.

Generally added to narcotic draughts, juleps, &c.

160. PAPAVER SOMNIFERUM, E. PAPAVER ALBUM, L. D. White poppy. Opium. See BOTANY, p. 204.

To dilate on any article, however important, is now out of our power; we must therefore, besides the above reference, refer our readers for the best accounts of opium, to Dr Crumpe's "Inquiry," Dr Duncan's Dispensatory, the "Practical Synopsis," and Theaurus Medicinum.

Officinal Preparations.

a. OPIUM PURIFICATUM, L. D. Purified opium.

A pound of opium, cut into small pieces, is digested with 12 pints of proof spirit, with a gentle heat, till as much as possible of the opium is dissolved. The tincture is then filtered and distilled to a consistence proper for making into pills or beating to powder.

Purified opium is commonly considered as rather weaker than crude opium; two grains of the softer mass, and one grain and a half of the harder, being an ordinary dose.

b. PULVIS OPIATUS, E. L. Opiate powder.

By the London process this is formed by mixing together a dram of hard purified opium in powder, and nine drams of burnt and prepared hartshorn. The Edinburgh powder is prepared of one part of opium, and nine parts of prepared carbonate of lime, rubbed together to a very fine powder.

Ten grains of these powders contain one grain of opium; but the Edinburgh powder is rather the stronger. Part IV.

History of opium. They are useful when it is required to administer simple and opium in very small doses.

Official Medicines.

c. PILULÆ OPII, L. PILULÆ OPIATÆ, E. Opium pills. Opiate or thebaic pills.

The London pills are prepared of two drams of hard purified opium in powder, and one ounce of extract of liquorice, beaten together till they are perfectly united. The Edinburgh pills are formed of one part of opium, and seven of extract of liquorice, softened separately with diluted alcohol, beaten into a pulp and mixed, and then beaten with two parts of pounded Jamaica pepper into an uniform mass.

The London pills contain two grains of opium, and the Edinburgh one grain, in 10 of the mass.

Extract of opium.

a. EXTRACTUM OPII, D. Extract of opium.

Prepared by dissolving two ounces of purified opium in one pound of boiling water, straining the liquor, and adding, while warm, one pound of cold distilled water, exposing to the air for two days, filtering again, and evaporating to the proper consistence of an extract.

Troches of liquorice with opium.

e. TROCHISCI GLYCYRRHIZÆ CUM OPIO, E. TROCHISCI GLYCYRRHIZÆ COMPOSITI, D. Troches of liquorice with opium. Compound troches of liquorice.

The Edinburgh troches are formed by triturating two drams of opium, with half an ounce of tincture of tolu; then adding by degrees five ounces of extract of liquorice, softened in warm water, and eight ounces of common syrup; and lastly, five ounces of powdered gum arabic, and drying the mass till it is of a consistence to form troches, weighing ten grains each. The Dublin formula directs two drams of purified opium to be triturated with a dram of balsam of Peru, and three drams of tincture of myrrh, till they are intimately mixed; then to be added two drams of tincture of tolu, and nine ounces of extract of liquorice, softened in warm water; when the whole is to be well beaten together, and, with the addition of five ounces of powdered gum arabic, formed into troches, weighing ten grains each.

These troches are intended to allay irritation in tickling coughs. About seven and a half of the Edinburgh, and fix of the Dublin troches, contain about one grain of opium.

Opiate electuary.

f. ELECTUARIUM OPIATUM, E. CONFECTION OPIATA, L. Opiate electuary. Opiate confection.

The Edinburgh electuary is formed by mixing together six ounces of aromatic powder, three ounces of finely powdered snakeroot, half an ounce of opium, diffused in a sufficient quantity of Spanish white wine, and one pound of the syrup of ginger. The London confection is prepared of fix drams of hard purified opium in powder; of long pepper, ginger, and caraway seeds powdered, each two ounces; and syrup of white poppy boiled to the consistence of honey, three times the weight of the other ingredients. The opium is first mixed with the syrup, then the other powders added, and the whole intimately blended.

These are intended as stimulating compositions of opium. Thirty-six grains of the London, and 43 of the Edinburgh preparation, contain about one grain of opium.

g. ELECTUARIUM MIMOSÆ CATECHU, E. ELECTUARIUM CATECHU COMPOSITUM, D. Confection JAPONICA. Electuary of catechu. Japonic confection.

These electuaries are prepared of four ounces of extract of catechu powdered, three ounces powdered kino, one ounce of cinnamon, and the fame of nutmeg in powder, one dram and a half of opium, diffused in Spanish white wine, and two pounds and a quarter of syrup of red roses boiled to the consistence of honey (E.); or 14 ounces of syrup of ginger, and the fame of the syrup of orange peel, boiled to the consistence of honey (D.).

Powerful astringents, given in diarrhoeas. Ten scruples contain about one grain of opium, and the usual dose is a tea spoonful frequently repeated.

Tincture of opium. Thebaic tincture. Liquid laudanum.

The Edinburgh and Dublin tinctures are made by digesting two ounces of opium in two pounds of diluted alcohol, 14 days, and filtering. The London tincture is made by digesting ten drams of powdered purified opium in a pint of proof spirit for ten days.

These tinctures are considered as of nearly equal strength. Dose as narcotics, 25 or 30 drops; as antispasmodics, they are, like the solid opium, given in much larger doses.

i. Tinctura Opii camphorata, L. D. ELIXIR PAREGORICUM. Camphorated tincture of opium. Paregoric elixir.

Prepared by digesting one dram of hard purified opium, one dram of flowers of benzoin, two scruples of camphor, and one dram of essential oil of aniseeds, in two pints of proof spirit, for ten days.

Half an ounce of this tincture contains about one grain of opium. Usual dose about one dram or two.

k. Tinctura Opii ammoniata, Olim ELIXIR PAREGORICUM, E. Ammoniated tincture of opium.

Made by digesting three drams of benzoic acid, three drams of sliced saffron, two drams of opium, and half a dram of volatile oil of aniseeds, in ten ounces of ammoniated alcohol, seven days, in a close vessel.

An excellent antispasmodic, stronger than the last. Dose about one dram.

l. SYRUPUS OPII, D. Syrup of opium.

Made by dissolving 48 grains of extract of opium in three pounds of boiling water, and adding a sufficient quantity of double refined sugar to make a syrup.

An excellent narcotic for children. According to Dr Duncan, an ounce of it contains about two grains and a half of opium.

m. SYRUPUS PAPAVERIS SONNIFERI, E. SYRUPUS PAPAVERIS ALBI, L. Syrup of white poppies.

The Edinburgh syrup is made by macerating two pounds History of pounds of sliced white poppy heads, freed from the Simple and seeds, in 30 pounds of boiling distilled water for 12 hours, boiling it to a third, and pressing out the liquor, which is again boiled to one half, strained, and formed into a syrup with four pounds of double refined sugar. The proportions in the London process are, three pounds and a half of poppy heads, eight gallons of water, and six pounds of sugar.

A weak narcotic, not so certain as the last syrup.

625 Ladanum. 161. CISTUS CRETTICUS, LADANUM, L. Ladanum. See Chemistry, No 2466.

Officinal Preparation.

a. EEMPLASTRUM LADANI COMPOSITUM, L. Compound ladanum plaster.

Formed of three ounces of ladanum, one ounce of frankincense, powdered cinnamon and expressed oil of mace, each half an ounce, and one dram of essential oil of mint.

A warm stimulating plaster.

Order 3. TRIGYNIA.

627 Stavefacre. 162. DELPHINIUM STAPHISAGRIA. STAPHISAGRIA, L. D. Stavefacre.

Employed as an external application against vermin.

628 Blue monkshood. 163. ACONITUM NEOMONTANUM. ACONITUM NAPELLUS, E. ACONITUM, L D. Blue monkshood, or aconite. See Duncan's Dispensatory.

Officinal Preparations.

a. SUCCUS SPISSATUS ACONITI NAPPELLI, E. Infused juice of aconite.

Made from the fresh leaves of aconite in the usual manner. Dose from half a grain to three grains, twice or thrice a day.

Order 4. TETRAGYNIA.

630 Winter's bark. 164. WINTERA AROMATICA, E. Winter's bark. Similar to canella alba.

Order 6. POLYGYNIA.

631 Black hellebore. 165. HELLEBORUS NIGER, E. L. D. MELAMPODIUM. Black hellebore. See Botany, p. 210.

Officinal Preparation.

a. TINCTURA HELLEBORI NIGRI, E. L. D. Tincture of black hellebore.

Prepared by digesting four ounces of black hellebore, and about half a dram of powdered cochineal, in two pounds and a half (E.), or two pints (L.), or two pounds (D.) of diluted alcohol, for about a week.

Much celebrated as an emmenagogue. Dose about a tea spoonful.

633 Stinking hellebore. 166. HELLEBORUS FOETIDUS. HELLEBORASTER, L. Stinking hellebore. See Botany, p. 210.

Class XIV. DIDYNAMIA. Order 1. GYMNOSPERMIA.

167 HYSSOPUS OFFICINALIS, E. HYSSOPUS, D. Hyflop. See Botany, p. 216.

168 MENTHA VIRIDIS. MENTHA SATIVA, Spearmint, L. D. Spearmint. See Botany, p. 217.

Officinal Preparations.

a. AQUA MENTHÆ SATIVÆ, L. D. Mint water. A gallon of water distilled from a pound and a half of mint.

b. OLEUM VOLATILE MENTHÆ SATIVÆ, L. D. Vo-Oil of mint. Distilled as other volatile oils.

c. SPIRITUS MENTHÆ SATIVÆ, L. Spirit of mint. A gallon of spirit distilled from a pound and a half of mint.

169 MENTHA PIPERITA, E. MENTHA PIPER- IS, L. D. Peppermint. See Botany, p. 217.

Officinal Preparations.

a. AQUA MENTHÆ PIPERITÆ, E. AQUA MEN- THÆ PIPERITIDIS, L. Peppermint water. Pepper- mint water.

b. OLEUM VOLATILE MENTHÆ PIPERITÆ vel OLEUM PIPERITIDIS, E. L. D. Oil of peppermint.

c. SPIRITUS MENTHÆ PIPERITÆ vel PIPERITI- DIS, E. L. Spirit of peppermint.

All these are prepared in the same manner as similar preparations of mint, possessing similar properties, but rather stronger. Dose of the water, a wine glass full; of the oil, a drop or two; of the spirit, about an ounce.

170 MENTHA PULEGIUM, E. PULEGIUM, L. Pennyroyal D. Pennyroyal. See Botany, p. 217.

Officinal Preparations.

a. AQUA MENTHÆ PULEGII, E. AQUA PULE- GII, L. D. Pennyroyal water.

b. OLEUM VOLATILE MENTHÆ PULEGII, E. OLEUM PULEGII, L. D. Oil of pennyroyal.

c. SPIRITUS MENTHÆ PULEGII, E. SPIRITUS PULEGII, L. Spirit of pennyroyal.

Distilled in the same manner, and possessing similar properties with the preparations of mint.

171 LAVANDULA SPICA, E. LAVENDULA, L. D. Lavender flowers. See Botany, p. 216.

Officinal Preparations.

a. OLEUM VOLATILE LAVANDULÆ SPICÆ, E. O-LEUM Part IV.

LEUM VOLATILE LAVENDULÆ. Volatile oil of lavender.

Distilled as other volatile oils.

b. SPIRITUS LAVENDULÆ SPICÆ, E. SPIRITUS LAVENDULÆ, L. D. Spirit of lavender.

Two pounds of fresh flowering spikes of lavender to eight pounds of alcohol, and seven pounds drawn off, (E.). A pound and a half of lavender to a gallon (L.) or nine pounds (D.) of proof spirit, and five pints (L.) or five pounds (D.) drawn off.

A powerful stimulus, seldom employed internally, except in the following preparation.

c. SPIRITUS LAVANDULÆ SPICÆ COMPOSITUS, E. SPIRITUS LAVENDULÆ COMPOSITUS, L. TINCTURA LAVENDULÆ COMPOSITA, D. Compound spirit of lavender. Compound tincture of lavender.

Made by digesting an ounce (or half an ounce, L. D.) of bruised cinnamon, half an ounce of bruised nutmegs, (two drams of bruised cloves, E.) and three drams (or an ounce L.) of red fanders thavings, in three pounds (or three pints L.) of spirit of lavender, and a pound (or a pint L.) of spirit of rosemary, for about a week.

An excellent cordial in faintness or nausea. Dose from 20 drops to a dram.

172. TEUCRIUM MARUM. MARUM SYRIA-CUM, L. D. Syrian herb mastich. See BOTANY, p. 216.

173. TEUCRIUM SCORDIUM. SCORDIUM, L. Water germander. See BOTANY, p. 216.

176. MARURBUM VULGARE, E. L. D. White horehound. See BOTANY, p. 218.

177. ORIGANUM VULGARE. ORIGANUM, L. D. Origanum, or wild marjoram. See BOTANY, p. 218.

Officinal Preparation.

a. OLEUM ORIGANI, L. D. Oil of origanum.

Distilled as other volatile oils. Much used in tooth-ach.

178. ORIGANUM MAJORANA, E. MAJORANA, L. D. Sweet marjoram. See BOTANY, p. 219.

179. MELISSA OFFICINALIS, E. MELISSA, L. Balm. See BOTANY, p. 219.

Order 2. ANGIOSPERMIA.

180. DIGITALIS PURPUREA, E. DIGITALIS, L. D. Foxglove. See BOTANY, p. 221. See also Withering on Foxglove, Duncan's Dispensatory, the Practical Synopsis, and the Theatrum Medicinænum.

Dose of the digitalis in substance about one grain, gradually increased.

Officinal Preparations.

a. INFUSUM DIGITALIS PURPUREÆ, D. Infusion of foxglove.

Vol. XII. Part II.

Made by macerating a drain of the dried leaves of foxglove in eight ounces of boiling water, with an ounce of spirit of cinnamon, for four hours, and filtering.

Used principally in dropical complaints. Dose half an ounce, or one ounce, twice a-day.

b. TINTURA DIGITALIS PURPUREÆ, E. Tincture of foxglove.

Prepared by digesting an ounce of the dried leaves of foxglove in eight ounces of diluted alcohol, for seven days, and straining through paper.

Much recommended in haemoptysis, and the early stages of consumption, to diminish the frequency of the pulse. Dose from 10 to 20 drops, twice or thrice a day, gradually and cautiously increased.

Class XV. TETRADYNAMIA. Order 1. SILIQUOSÆ.

181. COCHLEARIA OFFICINALIS, E. COCHLEARIA HORTENSIS, L. ARIA, D. COCHLEARIA HORTENSIS, L. grafts. Garden scurvygrafs. See BOTANY, p. 225.

Officinal Preparation.

a. SUCCUS COCHLEARII COMPOSITUS, E. L. Compound juice of scurvygrafs.

According to the Edinburgh process, this is prepared by mixing juice of scurvygrafs, juice of water cresses, both fresh gathered, and juice of Seville oranges, of each two pounds, with half a pound of spirit of nutmeg; and after the sexes have subsided, straining the liquor. The London preparation is composed of two pints of juice of scurvygrafs, one pint of the juice of brooklime, and the fame of that of water cresses, and 20 ounces by measure of Seville orange juice, mixed and strained as before.

A celebrated remedy in the scurvy, and cutaneous eruptions. Dose from one to four ounces, twice or thrice a-day.

182. COCHLEARIA ARMORACIA, E. RAPHANUS HORSE-RUSTICANUS, L. D. Horse-radish root. See BOTANY, p. 226.

Officinal Preparation.

a. SPIRITUS RAPHANI COMPOSITUS, L. D. Compound spirit of horse radish.

Two gallons or 18 pounds (D.) of proof spirit distilled from fresh horse-radish root, and dried Seville orange peel, of each two pounds; fresh garden scurvygrafs four pounds, and bruised nutmegs an ounce.

Formerly much celebrated as an antiscorbutic, and stimulant. Dose from half an ounce to an ounce.

Order 2. SILIQUOSÆ.

183. CARDAMINE PRATENSIS, E. CARDAMINE, L. Ladies' ladies' smock. See BOTANY, p. 226.

183. SINAPIS ALBA, E. SINAPIS, D. White mustard feed.

184. SINAPIS NIGRA. SINAPIS, L. Common mustard feed. See BOTANY, p. 228.

&c.

Official Preparation.

a. CATAPLASMA SINAPEOS, L. CATAPLASMA SINAPIUM, D. Mustard cataplasm, or sinapifim. Prepared of equal parts of powdered mustard and crumb of bread, made into a proper consistence with vinegar. An excellent external stimulant application, in the low stage of acute diseases, and in other cases where slight external inflammation is indicated.

185 SISYMBRIUM NASTURTIUM, E. NASTURTIUM AQUATICUM, L. D. Water cressles. See BOTANY, p. 226.

CLASS XVI. MONADELPHIA. Order 1. TRIANDRIA.

186 TAMARINDUS INDICA, E. TAMARINDUS, L. D. Tamarinds. See BOTANY, p. 231.

Order 8. POLYANDRIA.

187 MALVA SYLVESTRIS, E. MALVA, L. Common mallow. See BOTANY, p. 233.

Official Preparation.

a. DECOCTUM PRO ENEMATE, L. Decoction for clystiers. Made by boiling one ounce of the dried leaves of mallow, and one ounce and a half of dried chamomile flowers, with a pint of water, and straining.

188 ALTHÆA OFFICINALIS, E. ALTHÆA, L. Marshmallow root. See BOTANY, p. 233.

Official Preparations.

a. DECOCTUM ALTHÆÆ OFFICINALIS, E. Decoction of marshmallow. Made by boiling four ounces of dried marshmallow root bruised, and two ounces of stoned raisins of the sun, in seven pounds of water to five pounds, straining, and when the feces have subsided, pouring off the clear liquor. A good emollient drink in inflammatory diseases.

b. SYRUPUS ALTHÆÆ OFFICINALIS, E. SYRUPUS ALTHÆÆ, L. Syrup of marshmallow. Made by boiling one pound of fresh marshmallow root, sliced or bruised, in ten pounds or a gallon of water, to one half, and adding four pounds of double refined sugar to make a syrup. A good emollient and demulcent in coughs, &c.

CLASS XVII. DIADELPHIA. Order 2. HEXANDRIA.

189 FUMARIA OFFICINALIS. FUMARIA, D. Common fumitory. See BOTANY, p. 237.

Order 3. OCTANDRIA.

190 POLYGALA SENEGA, E. SENEKA, L. D. Seneka root. See BOTANY, p. 237.

Official Preparation.

a. DECOCTUM POLYGALÆ SENEgae, E. Decoction of seneka. Made by boiling one ounce of seneka root in two pounds of water to 16 ounces, and straining. Used in drophy and rheumatic or arthritic complaints, and lately recommended in croup. Dose about two ounces, three or four times a-day.

Order 4. DECANDRIA.

191 PTEROCARPUS SANTALINUS, E. SANTA-LUM RUBRUM, L. D. Red sanders wood. Employed chiefly to give colour to a tincture.

192 PTEROCARPUS DRACO, E. SANGUIS DRA-CONIS, L. Dragon's blood. See CHEMISTRY, No blood. 2467. Employed as an astringent, but now seldom used.

193 SPARTIUM SCOPARIUM, E. GENISTA, L. D. Common broom tops. See BOTANY, p. 237.

Official Preparation.

a. EXTRACTUM GENISTÆ, L. Extract of broom. Employed as a diuretic.

194 DOLICHOS PRURIENS, E. DOLICHOS, D. Cowhage, or cow-itch. See BOTANY, p. 239.

195 ASTRAGALUS TRAGACANTHA, E. TRAGA-CANTHA, L. D. Gum tragacanth, or gum dragant. canth. This gum is a mere mucilage, and is employed as a demulcent.

Official Preparations.

a. MUCILAGO ASTRAGALI TRAGACANTHÆ, E. MUCILAGO TRAGACANTHÆ, L. MUCI-LAGO GUMMI TRAGACANTHÆ, D. Mucilage of gum tragacanth. Made by macerating one ounce of powdered gum tragacanth in eight ounces of boiling water (E.), or half an ounce in ten ounces (L.), or one dram in eight ounces (D.), and dissolving by subsequent trituration.

b. POLVIS TRAGACANTHÆ COMPOSITUS, L. Compound powder of tragacanth. Prepared of powdered gum tragacanth, gum arabic, and starch, of each half an ounce, rubbed into a powder with three ounces of double refined sugar. A demulcent powder, terviceable in tickling coughs, strangury, ardor urinae, violent mucous diarrhoea, and similar diseases.

196 GLYCYRRHIZA GLABRA, E. GLYCYRHIZA, root. Part VI.

RHIZA, L. D. Liquorice root and extract of liquorice. Used as an emollient and demulcent, in substance, in decoction, pills, electuaries, &c.

Official Preparation.

687 Extract of liquorice. a. EXTRACTUM GLYCYRRHIZÆ GLABRAE, E. EXTRACTUM GLYCYRRHIZÆ, L. D. Extract of liquorice. Prepared like other watery extracts.

688 Cabbage-tree bark. 197. GEOFFRÆA INERMIS, E. GEOFFRÆA, D. Cabbage-tree bark. Lately introduced into this country from the West Indies as an anthelmintic, in the form of decoction.

Official Preparation.

689 Decoction of cabbage-tree bark. a. DECOCTUM GEOFFRÆA INERMIS, E. Decoction of cabbage-tree bark. Made by boiling one ounce of powdered cabbage-tree bark with a gentle fire in two pounds of water to one pound, and straining. Dose to children a table spoonful, to adults four; giving castor oil, and diluting with acidulated drinks, if unpleasant symptoms should arise.

690 Fenugreek seed. 198. TRIGONELLA FOENUM GRECUM. FOENUM GRECUM, L. Fenugreek seed. See Botany, p. 241.

CLASS XVIII. POLYADELPHIA. Order 3. ICOSANDRIA.

691 Seville orange. 199. CITRUS AURANTIUM, E. AURANTIUM HISPALENSE, L. D. Seville orange juice, peel, and leaves. See Botany, p. 243.

Official Preparations.

692 Syrup of orange peel. a. SYRUPUS CITRI AURANTII, E. SYRUPUS CORTICIS AURANTII, L. D. Syrup of orange peel. Prepared by macerating six ounces, or eight ounces (L. D.) of the fresh outer rind of Seville oranges, with three pounds or five pints (L. D.) of boiling water, for 12 hours in a cloce vessel, and adding to the filtered liquor of double refined sugar four pounds, or enough to make a syrup. Used chiefly in composition.

693 Orange peel water. b. AQUA CITRI AURANTII, E. Orange peel water. Ten pounds of water distilled from two pounds of fresh orange peel, after due maceration. A pleasant cordial water. Dose two or three ounces.

694 Tincture of orange peel. c. TINCTURA AURANTII CORTICIS, L. D. Tincture of orange peel. Made by digesting three ounces of fresh orange peel in two pints or two pounds of proof spirit for three days. Dose three or four drams to an ounce.

d. CONSERVA CITRI AURANTII, E. CONSERVA AURANTII HISPALENSIS, L. CONSERVA CORTICIS AURANTII, D. Conserve of orange peel. Prepared by beating the fresh rind of Seville oranges first by itself, and then with three times its weight of orange peel, double refined sugar.

200. CITRUS MEDICA, E. LIMON, L. D. Le-Lemon, mon juice, peel, and essential oil. See Botany, p. 242.

Official Preparations.

a. AQUA CITRI MEDICÆ, E. Lemon peel water. Lemon peel water. A gallon of water distilled from two pounds of fresh lemon peel. A pleasant aromatic water, similar to orange water.

b. SYRUPUS CITRI MEDICÆ, E. SYRUPUS LI-MONIS SUCCI, L. D. Syrup of lemon juice. Made by dissolving five parts (E.) or five pounds (L.) or four pounds (D.) of double refined sugar, in three parts or two pints (L.) or two pounds (D.) of filtered lemon juice. A pleasant refrigerant syrup.

c. SUCCUS LIMONIS SPISSATUS, L. Inspissated le-mon juice. Inspissated lemon juice. Prepared in the same manner as the inspissated juice of elder berries. Employed chiefly as a refrigerant, especially in bilious or remittent fevers.

Order 4. POLYANDRIA.

201. MELALEUCA LEUCODENDRON, E. CAJEPUTA. Cajeput oil. Used as an external stimulant in cases of luxation, sprains, and rheumatic and gouty affections.

202. HYPERICUM PERFORATUM. HYPERICUM, L. St John's wort. See Botany, p. 243.

CLASS XIX. SYNGENESIA. Order 1. POLYGAMIA AEQUALIS.

203. LEONTODON TARAXACUM, E. TARAXA-CUM, L. D. Dandelion root and leaves. Reputed a diuretic, but scarcely employed in modern practice.

204. LACTUCA VIROSA, E. Wild lettuce. See Bo-TANY, p. 248. and Duncan's Difenatory. lettuce.

Official Preparation.

a. SUCCUS SPISSATUS LACTUcae VIROSE, E. In- spissated juice of wild lettuce. Prepared as other inspissated juices; employed as a tace. narcotic and diuretic, principally in droppies proceeding from viscerai obstructions. Dose at first about three History of Simple and Officinal Medicines.

205. ARCTIUM Lappa, E. BARDANA, L. D. Burdock root. Recommended as a diuretic, and given in the form of decoction in dropfies, &c.

206. CYNARA SCOLYmus, E. CINARA SCOLYMUS, E. D. Artichoke leaves. Employed as a diuretic.

Order 2. POLYGAMIA SUPERFLUA.

207. ARTEMISIA ABROTANUM. ABROTANUM, L. Southernwood. See BOTANY, p. 251.

Officinal Preparation.

a. DECOCTUM PRO FOMENTO, L. Decoction for fomentations. Prepared by boiling for a little, of the dried leaves of southernwood, the dried tops of sea wormwood, and dried chamomile flowers, each an ounce, with half an ounce of dried bay leaves, in fix pints of distilled water, and straining.

208. ARTEMISIA MARITIMA. ABSYNTHIUM MARITIMUM, L. D. Sea wormwood. See BOTANY, p. 251.

Officinal Preparation.

a. CONSERVA ABSYNTHII MARITIMI, L. Conserve of sea wormwood. Prepared by beating the fresh tops of sea wormwood with three times their weight of double refined sugar, into a conserve. Employed as a tonic and stomachic in hypochondriasis, epilepsy, &c. and as an anthelmintic. Dose two drams to half an ounce, twice or thrice a day.

Worm seed. 209. ARTEMISIA SANTONICA, E. SANTONICUM, L. D. Worm seed. Employed as an anthelmintic. Dose from half a dram to a dram, twice a-day, in powder.

Common wormwood. 210. ARTEMISIA ABSINTHIUM, E. ABSINTHIUM VULGARE, L. D. Common wormwood. See BOTANY, p. 251.

Tanfy. 211. TANACETUM VULGARE, E. TANACETUM, L. D. Tanfy, leaves and flowers. See BOTANY, p. 251. A good tonic and anthelmintic. Dose half a dram to four drams in substance, or a table spoonful of the expressed juice.

Leopard's bane. 212. ARNICA MONTANA, E. L. D. German leopard's bane. See BOTANY, p. 253, and Duncan's Dispensatory.

Elecampane. 213. INULA HELENIUM. INULA CAMPANA, L. D. Elecampane. See BOTANY, p. 253.

Golden rod 214. SOLIDAGO VIRGA AUREA. VIRGA AUREA, D. Golden rod. See BOTANY, p. 253.

Part IV. History of Simple and Officinal Medicines.

215. TUSSILAGO FARFARA, E. TUSSILAGO, L. D. Coltsfoot. See BOTANY, p. 252.

216. ANTHEMIS NOBILIS, E. CHAMÆMELUM, L. D. Chamomile flowers. See BOTANY, p. 254. An excellent tonic and anthelmintic. Dose in substance about a scruple in powder, or one dram in infusion. Used externally as an emollient and difcuitent, in the form of clyster or fomentation.

Officinal Preparations.

a. DECOCTUM ANTHEMIDIS NOBILIS, E. DECOC- TUM CHAMÆMELI, D. Decoction of chamo- mile. Prepared by boiling an ounce of chamomile flowers, and half an ounce of bruised caraway seeds, in five pounds of water (E.), or half an ounce of chamomile flowers with two drams of sweet fennel seeds, in a pound of water (D). Used as a carminative clyster, or stimulant fomentation.

b. EXTRACTUM ANTHEMIDIS NOBILIS, E. EX-TRACTUM CHAMÆMELI, L. Extract of cha- chamomile. Prepared as other watery extracts. Dose from a scruple to a dram, as a tonic and anthelmintic.

217. ANTHEMIS PYRETHRUM, E. PYRETHRUM, L. D. Pellitory of Spain. Used chiefly as a masticatory in toothach.

Order 3. POLYGAMIA FRUSTRANEA.

218. CENTAUREA BENEDICTA, E. CARDUUS BENEDICTUS, L. D. Blessed thistle. See BOTANY, p. 255.

Class XX. GYNANDRIA. Order 5. HEXANDRIA.

219. ARISTOLOCHIA SERPENTARIA, E. SERPEN-TARIA VIRGINIANA, L. D. Virginian snake root. See Duncan's Dispensatory, and the Synopsis Materie Medicea. Employed as a stimulant and tonic in low fevers, gangrene, &c. Dose in substance 10 grains to 30.

Officinal Preparation.

a. TINCTURA ARISTOLOCHIÆ SERPENTARIE, E. TINCTURA SERPENTARIE, L. D. Tincture of snake root. Prepared by digesting two ounces of bruised Virginian snake root, and a dram of powdered cochineal, in two pounds and a half of diluted alcohol, for seven days (E.), or three ounces of snake root in two pints (L.) or two pounds (D.) of proof spirit, for seven or eight days. Dose from two drams to half an ounce.

Order 10. POLYANDRIA.

220. ARUM MACULATUM. ARUM, L. D. Arum, Wake robin. Part IV.

&c.

a. CONSERVA ARI, L. Conserva of arum. Made by beating a pound and a half of the fresh root of arum bruised, with a pound and a half of double refined sugar, into a conserve. Dose about a dram.

CLASS XXI. MONOECIA. Order 1. MONOGYNIA.

221. MYRISTICA MOSCHATA, E. MYRISTICA, L. D. Nutmeg tree. 228. NUX MOSCHATA. Nutmeg. MACIS. Mace. OLEUM MAGIS. Oil of Mace. See Duncan's Dispensatory.

Officinal Preparations.

a. SPIRITUS MYRISTICÆ MOSCHATÆ, E. SPIRITUS NUCIS MOSCHATÆ, L. D. Spirit of nutmeg. A gallon of spirit distilled from two ounces of well-bruited nutmegs. A good cordial. Dose about half an ounce.

Order 4. TETRANDRIA.

222. BETULA ALBA, D. Birch juice. A gentle diuretic.

223. MORUS NIGRA. MORUS, L. Mulberries.

Officinal Preparation.

a. SYRUPUS SUCCI FRUCTUS MORI, L. Syrup of mulberry juice. Prepared in the same manner as the syrup of black currant juice. Employed as a refrigerant and demulcent.

224. URTICA DIOICA. URTICA, L. Common stinging nettles. Used as a rubefacient to paralytic limbs, which are whipped with nettles.

Order 8. POLYANDRIA.

225. QUERCUS ROBUR, E. QUERCUS, L. D. Oak bark. A powerful astringent, employed in passive hemorrhages, diarrhoea, leucorrhoea, and similar cases. Dose in substance 15 grains to half a dram of the powdered bark. Used externally by way of gargle, or lotion.

Officinal Preparation.

a. EXTRACTUM QUERCUS, D. Extract of oak bark. Prepared like other watery extracts. Dose 10 grains to a scruple.

226. QUERCUS CERRIS, E. L. D. GALLA. Gallnuts. See Duncan's Dispensatory. This is perhaps a more powerful astringent than oak bark, and is employed in similar cases.

227. JUGLANS REGIA. JUGLANS, L. Unripe walnuts. Employed as a tonic and anthelmintic.

Order 10. MONADELPHIA.

228. PINUS ABIES. The fir tree. PIX BURGUNDICA, E. D. Burgundy pitch.

Officinal Preparation.

a. EMPLASTRUM PICIS BURGUNDICÆ, D. EMPLASTRUM PICIS COMPOSITUM, L. Compound Burgundy pitch plaster. Prepared of two pounds of Burgundy pitch, one pound of ladanum (L.) or of galbanum (D.), four ounces of yellow wax, the same of yellow resin, and one ounce of expressed oil of mace. A stimulating plaster.

229. THUS, L. Frankincense.

Officinal Preparation.

a. EMPLASTRUM THURIS COMPOSITUM, L. Compound plaster of frankincense. Prepared of half a pound of frankincense, three ounces of dragon's blood, and two pounds of litharge plaster, adding the resins in powder to the melted litharge plaster.

230. PINUS BALSAMEA. Hemlock fir. BALSAMUM CANADENSE, E. L. D. Balsam of Canada.

231. PINUS LARIX. The larch. TEREBINTHINA VENETA, E. D. Venice turpentine. OLEUM VOLATILE PINI, E. OLEUM TEREBINTHINÆ, L. D. Oil of turpentine. The oil of turpentine is directed by the London college to be prepared by distillation from common turpentine.

Officinal Preparation.

OLEUM VOLATILE PINI PURISSIMUM, E. OLEUM TEREBINTHINÆ RECTIFICATUM, L. D. Purified oil of turpentine. Spirit of turpentine. Distilled with the addition of water in well luted vessels till the purest part of the oil has come over. Stimulant and diuretic. Dose from 10 to 30 drops. Mixed with an equal proportion of ether, it is much recommended in calculus. It is an excellent application to chilblains and recent burns.

232. PINUS SYLVESTRIS. A. PIX LIQUIDA, E. D. Tar.

Officinal Preparation.

a. UNGUENTUM PICIS, E. L. D. Tar ointment. Prepared by melting together equal parts of tar and mutton History of mutton suet (L. D.), or five parts of tar and two parts simple and of yellow wax (E.) Official. Esteemed a good application in cutaneous diseases, especially tinea capitii.

B. TEREBINTHINA VULGARIS, L. D. Common turpentine. turpentine. pentine.

This, like other turpentines, is a stimulant and diuretic.

C. RESINA FLAVA, L. RESINA ALBA, D. Yellow rosin. White rosin.

Employed chiefly in making stimulating ointments and plasters.

Officinal Preparations.

a. UNGUENTUM RESINOSUM, E. UNGUENTUM RESINÆ FLAVÆ, L. D. Resinous ointment. Yellow balsamum.

Prepared by melting together eight parts of hog's lard, five of white rosin, and two of yellow wax (E.); or by melting together, of yellow rosin and yellow wax, each one pound, over a slow fire, adding a pint or seven ounces of olive oil, and straining the mixture while hot (L. D.).

b. CERATUM RESINÆ FLAVÆ, L. D. Cerate of yellow rosin.

Prepared by melting together half a pound of the preceding ointment, and one ounce of yellow wax. These are intended as stimulating applications to ulcers that do not heal or suppurate properly.

c. EMPLASTRUM RESINOSUM, E. EMPLASTRUM LYTARGYRI CUM RESINA, L. EMPLASTRUM ADHESIVUM. Resinous plaster. Litharge plaster with rosin. Adhesive plaster.

Prepared by melting five parts (E.), or three pounds (L.), of plaster of semivitrified oxide of lead (litharge plaster), and adding one part (E.) or half a pound (L.) of white or yellow rosin powdered.

Employed, spread on linen, to form adhesive plasters, for keeping the edges of ulcers or recent wounds together; for giving mechanical support to ulcerated limbs, or keeping on other dressings.

Palma christi feeds. See Botany, p. 271.

233. RICINUS COMMUNIS, E. L. D. Palma christi christifeds. feeds. See Botany, p. 271.

Officinal Preparation.

a. OLEUM RICINI, L. Castor oil.

Expressed in the usual manner from the husked seeds.

Castor oil is seldom prepared in this country, being brought chiefly from the West Indies. When cold drawn, it is milder, and less subject to become rancid, but it requires a larger dose than the common oil. It is an excellent purgative, well suited to cases of colic and worms, given either by the mouth, or by way of clyster. Dose in the former case about one ounce, and in the latter about two ounces.

234. CROTON ELEUTHERIA, E. CASCARIL. History of LA, L. D. Cascarilla bark.

An excellent aromatic tonic. Dose about half a dram, or two scruples, two or three times a-day.

Officinal Preparations.

a. TINCTURA CASCARILLE, L. D. Tincture of cascarilla.

Prepared by digesting four ounces of powdered cascarilla bark in two pints or two pounds (D.) of proof spirit, for about a week, with a gentle heat. Dose about one ounce; best in composition with decoction or infusion of cinchona.

b. EXTRACTUM CASCARILLÆ, L. D. Extract of cascarilla.

Prepared in the usual way of making extracts. Dose from 10 to 30 grains.

Order 10. SYNGENESIA.

235. MOMORDICA ELATERIUM, E. CUCUMIS AGRESTIS, L. D. Wild cucumber. Wild cucumber.

Officinal Preparation.

a. SUCCUS SPISSATUS MOMORDICÆ ELATERII, E. ELATERIUM, L. Infusculated juice of wild cucumber. Elaterium.

This is prepared by slicing ripe wild cucumbers, expressing the juice very gently, and straining it through a very fine hair sieve; boiling it a little, and setting it by for some hours, till the thicker part has subsided. The supernatant fluid is then poured off, and separated by filtering from the thicker matter, which is to be dried and kept for use.

A violent cathartic, employed in dropfy. Dose half a grain to one grain.

236. CUCUMIS COLOCYNTHIS, E. COLOCYNTHIS, L. D. Colocynth or bitter apple. See Botany, p. 271.

Officinal Preparation.

a. EXTRACTUM COLOCYNTHIDIS COMPOSITUM, L. Compound extract of colocynth.

Prepared by digesting six drams of the pith of colocynth, cut small, in a pint of proof spirit, with a gentle heat for four days, then distilling in the expressed tincture one ounce and a half of powdered fomentorine aloes, and half an ounce of powdered scammony; and lastly drawing off the spirit, and adding to the infusculated extract, a dram of husked cardamom seeds in powder.

A strong cathartic and anthelmintic. Dose from 5 to 30 grains.

237. BRYONIA ALBA. BRYONIA, D. Bryony root. See Botany, p. 271. where it is described under the name of Bryonia dioica. Part IV.

&c.

CLASS XXII. DICECIA. Order 2. DIANDRIA.

238. SALIX FRAGILIS. SALIX, D. Crack willow bark. A good tonic, employed as a substitute for Peruvian bark. Dose about one dram.

Order 5. PENTANDRIA.

239. PISTACIA TEREBINTHUS. TEREBINTHINA CHIA, L. Chio turpentine. Not materially different from the other turpentines.

240. PISTACIA LENTISCUS, E. MASTICHE, L. Mattich. See BOTANY, p. 276, and CHEMISTRY, No 2464.

241. HUMULUS LUPULUS. Hop. A good narcotic, which has been found an excellent substitute for opium. See an Inaugural dissertation de Humulo Lupulo, lately printed at Edinburgh by Dr de Roches; and Kirby's Tables, p. 94.

Order 6. HEXANDRIA.

242. SMILAX SARSAPARILLA, E. SARSAPARRILLA, L. D. Sarsaparilla root. A slight diaphoretic, of little efficacy.

Officinal Preparations.

a. DECOCTUM SMILACIS SARSAPARILLÆ, E. DECOCTUM SARSAPARILLÆ, L. D. Decoction of sarsaparilla. Prepared by digesting fix ounces of sliced sarsaparilla root in eight pints of distilled water, for two hours, in a heat of about 195°; then taking out the root and bruising it, repeating the maceration; then boiling the liquor down to four pints, pressing it out, and straining the decoction.

b. DECOCTUM SARSAPARILLÆ COMPOSITUM, L. D. Compound decoction of sarsaparilla. Made by macerating fix ounces of sliced and bruised sarsaparilla root, one ounce of the bark of sassafras root, in ten pints of distilled water, for six hours; then boiling down to five pints, adding towards the end three drams of mezeron, and straining the decoction. A good diet drink, but scarcely superior to the compound decoction of guaiacum. Dose from four to eight ounces, three or four times a-day.

Order 12. MONADELPHIA.

243. JUNIPERUS COMMUNIS, E. JUNIPERUS, L. D. Juniper berries. See BOTANY, p. 278.

Officinal Preparations.

a. OLEUM VOLATILE JUNIPERI COMMUNIS, E. OLEUM JUNIPERI BACCÆ, L. OLEUM BACCARUM JUNIPERI, D. Oil of juniper berries. Distilled in the same manner as other volatile oils. Stimulant and diuretic. Dose from three to ten grains.

b. SPIRITUS JUNIPERI COMMUNIS COMPOSITUS, E. SPIRITUS JUNIPERI COMPOSITUS, L. D. Compound spirit of juniper. Nine pounds or a gallon of diluted alcohol distilled from one pound of well bruised juniper berries, one ounce and a half of bruised caraway seeds, and the fame of sweet fennel seeds. A good diuretic, but not superior to common gin.

244. JUNIPERUS LYCIA, E. OLIBANUM, L. D. Olibanum. See CHEMISTRY, No 2487.

245. JUNIPERUS SABINA, E. SABINA, L. D. Savine. Reputed a specific in uterine obstructions, but gradually losing its celebrity. Dose in substance from fifteen grains to two scruples. Applied externally as an echarotic to venereal warts and similar excretences.

Officinal Preparations.

a. OLEUM VOLATILE JUNIPERI SABINÆ, E. OLEUM SABINÆ, D. Volatile oil of savine. b. EXTRACTUM SABINÆ, L. D. Extract of savine. Extract of savine. Made like other extracts. Dose from 10 to 30 grains twice or thrice a day.

c. TINCTURA SABINÆ COMPOSITA, L. Compound tincture of savine. Prepared by digesting one ounce of extract of savine in a pint of tincture of castor, and half a pint of tincture of myrrh, till the extract is dissolved. Given as an emmenagogue, and as an antispasmodic in hypochondriac affections. Dose from 30 drops to a dram twice or thrice a day.

246. CISSAMPPELOS PAREIRA. PAREIRA BRAVA, L. Pareira brava root. See Duncan's Dispensatory.

CLASS XXIII. POLYGAMIA. Order 1. MONOECIA.

247. STALAGMITIS CAMBOGIOIDES. GAMBO-GAMBOGIA, E. L. D. Gamboge. See Duncan's Dispensatory. A violent cathartic and anthelmintic. Dose from 1 or 2 grains to 10 or 15 grains. The latter chiefly in cases of tenia.

248. VERATRUM ALBUM, E. HELLEBORUS ALBUS, L. D. White hellebore root. See BOTANY, p. 281.

Officinal Preparations.

b. DECOCTUM HELLEBORI ALBI, L. Decoction of white hellebore. Made by boiling an ounce of powdered white hellebore.

&c.

a. MUCILAGO MIMOSÆ NILOTICÆ, E. MUCILAGO ARABICI GUMMI, L. D. Mucilage of gum arabic. Prepared by dissolving one part of powdered gum arabic in about two of boiling water, and draining.

b. EMULSIO MINOSÆ NILOTICÆ, E. EMULSIO ARABICA, D. Arabic emulsion. Prepared, according to the Edinburgh process, in the same manner as almond emulsion, with the addition of two ounces of gum arabic, added while beating the almonds. The Dublin emulsion is composed of two drams of powdered gum arabic, half an ounce of large almonds, three drams of double refined sugar, and one pound of decoction of barley. Employed in the same cases as almond emulsion.

c. TROCHISCI GUMMOSI, E. Gum troches. Prepared of four parts of gum arabic, one of powdered starch, and 12 of double refined sugar, made into a mass for troches with water. Similar in uses to the lozenges of starch. See No 369.

251. PARIETARIA OFFICINALIS. PARIETARIA, L. Pellitory of the wall.

Order 2. DIOECIA.

252. FRAXINUS ORNUS, E. L. D. Manna-ash, Manna. A mild purgative, well suited to children, but requiring some gentle aromatic to prevent griping. Dose from a dram to half an ounce. Best in composition with senna.

Officinal Preparation. a. SYRUPUS MANNAE, D. Syrup of manna. Prepared by macerating half an ounce of fennel in one pound of boiling water for twelve hours in a covered vessel, straining the liquor, and adding one pound of manna, and one pound of double refined sugar, to make a syrup. This forms an excellent purgative for children.

253. PANAX QUINQUEFOLIUM. GINSENG, L. Ginseng root. A Chinese root, formerly much in repute as a stimulant, but now out of fashion.

Order 3. TRIOECIA.

254. FICUS CARICA, E. CARICA, L. D. Figs. Figs. See BOTANY, p. 282. A gentle laxative, used chiefly in composition.

CLASS XXIV. CRYPTOGAMIA. Order 1. FILICES.

255. POLYPODIUM FILIX MAS, E. FILIX, L. Male fern FILIX root. Part IV.

History of FILIX MAS, D. Male fern root. See BOTANY, Simple and Official Medicines. p. 285. This substance has been in great repute as an anthelmintic, especially in cases of tenia, given in doses of a dram or two, followed by a strong cathartic.

Order 3. ALGÆ.

256. LICHEN ISLANDICUS. Iceland liver-wort. This lichen has lately become a fashionable remedy as an emollient, in pulmonary consumption. It contains a great quantity of farinaceous and mucilaginous matter, and is therefore highly nutritious. See Synopsis Materiae Mediceæ, and Thesaurus Medicamminum.

Order 4. FUNGI.

257. BOLETUS IGNARIUS, E. AGARICUS. Female agaric. This substance has been much celebrated as a flyptic; and before ligatures were so much employed, was used to stop hemorrhage from the mouths of bleeding vessels during surgical operations. It is now out of fashion.

Appendix. PALMÆ.

258. Cocos BUTYRACEA. PALMA, E. Mackaw tree. Palm oil. See BOTANY, p. 289. A vegetable oily matter, employed as an external emollient.

CHAP. III. MINERAL SUBSTANCES.

SECT. I. Water.

259. AQUA. Water. Though simple water forms no part of the Materia Medica in the Pharmacopoeias, it is an article of so much importance, both in diet and medicine, that it ought not to be omitted here. We shall therefore make no apology for inserting the following neat account of it, given by Dr Duncan in the later editions of his Dispensatory. "The chemical properties of water have been already enumerated. (See CHEMISTRY, No. 384, et seq.) The purest natural water is snow or rain water collected in the open fields; that which falls in towns, or is collected from the roofs of the houses, is contaminated with foot, animal effluvia, and other impurities; although, after it has rained for some time, the quantity of these diminishes so much, that Morveau says that it may be rendered almost perfectly pure by means of a little barytic water, and exposure to the atmosphere. Rain water, after it falls, either remains on the surface of the earth, or penetrates through it, until it meets with some impenetrable obstruction to its progress, when it bursts out at some lower part, forming a spring or well. The water on the surface of the earth, either descends along its declivities in streams, which gradually wearing channels for themselves, combine to form rivers, which at last reach the sea; or remains stagnant in cavities of considerable depth, forming lakes or ponds, or on nearly level ground, forming marshes.

"The varieties of spring water are exceedingly numerous; but they may be divided into soft, which are sufficiently pure to dissolve soap, and to answer the purposes of pure water in general; the hard, which contain earthy salts, and decompose soap, and are unfit for many purposes, both in domestic economy, and in manufactories; and the saline, which are strongly impregnated with soluble salts. When spring waters possess any peculiar character, they are called mineral waters. River water is in general soft, as it is formed of spring water, which, by exposure becomes more pure; and running surface water, which, although turbid from particles of clay suspended in it, is otherwise very pure. Lake water is similar to river water. The water of marshes, on the contrary, is exceedingly impure, and often highly fetid, from the great proportion of animal and vegetable matters which is constantly decaying in them. "Mineral waters derive their peculiarity of character, in general, either from containing carbonic acid or waters, soda not neutralized, sulphurated hydrogen, purging salts, earthy salts, or iron; or from their temperature exceeding in a greater or less degree that of other surrounding bodies. The following are the most celebrated. "a. Warm Springs.—Bath, Bristol, Buxton, Matlock, Warm in England. Barege, Vichy, &c. in France. Aix-la-springs. Chapelle, Borset, Baden, Carlsbad and Toepitz in Germany; and Pifa, Lucca, Baia, and many others in Italy. "b. Carbonated Springs.—Pyrmont, Seltzer, Spa, Carbonated Cheltenham, Scarborough. "c. Alkaline.—Carlsbad, Aix-la-Chapelle, Barege, Toeplitz. "d. Sulphureous.—Enghien, Lu, Aix-la Chapelle, Sulphure Kelburn, Harrowgate, Moffat, and many in Italy. "e. Purging.—Sea water, Lemington Priors, Harrowgate, Lu, Carlsbad, Moffat, Toepitz, Epfom, Purging Sedlitz, Kelburn, and all brackish waters. "f. Calcareous.—Matlock, Buxton, and all hard wa-Calcareous. ters. "g. Chalybeate.—Hartfell, Denmark, Cheltenham, Chalybeate. Pyrmont, Spa, Tunbridge, Bath, Scarborough, Vichy, Carlsbad, Lemington Priors. "Medical use.—Water is an essential constituent in Medical the organization of all living bodies; and as it is continually expended during the process of life, that wafer must be allo continually supplied; and this supply is of such importance, that it is not left to reason or to chance, but forms the object of an imperious appetite. When taken into the stomach, water acts by its temperature, its bulk, and the quantity absorbed by the lacteals. Water about 60 degrees, gives no sensation of heat or cold; between 60 degrees and 45, it gives a sensation of cold followed by a glow and increase of appetite and vigour; below 45, the sensation of cold is permanent and unpleasant, and it acts as an astringent and sedative; above 60, it excites nausea and vomiting, probably by partially relaxing the fibres of the stomach, for when mixed with stimulating substances it has not these effects. In the stomach and in the intestines it acts also by its bulk, producing the effects arising from the diffusion of these organs; and as the intestinal gales consist of hydrogen gas, either pure, or carbonated, or sulphurated, or phosphorated, it is probably in part decomposed in them. It likewise dilutes the contents of the stomach and intestines, thus often diminishing minishing their acrimony. It is absorbed by the lacteals, dilutes the chyle and the blood, increases their fluidity, lessens their acrimony, and produces plethora ad molem. Its effects in producing plethora and fluidity are, however, very transitory, as it at the same time increases the secretion by the skin and kidneys. Indeed the effects of sudorifics and diuretics depend in a great measure on the quantity of water taken along with them.

"Mineral waters have also a specific action, depending on the foreign substances which they contain. It is, however, necessary to remark, that their effects are in general much greater than might be expected from the strength of their impregnations, owing probably to the very circumstance of their great dilution, by which every particle is presented in a state of activity, while the lacteals admit them more readily than they would in a less diluted state.

"Carbonic acid gas gives to the waters which are strongly impregnated with it, a sparkling appearance, and an agreeable degree of pungency. In its effects on the body it is decidedly stimulant, and even capable of producing a certain degree of intoxication. It is of great service in bilious complaints, atony of the stomach, nausea, and vomiting, and in all fevers of the typhoid type.

"Alkaline waters produce also a tonic effect on the stomach, but they are less grateful. They are particularly serviceable in morbid acidity of the stomach, and in diseases of the urinary organs.

"Sulphureous waters are chiefly used in cutaneous and glandular diseases. Their effects are stimulant and heating, and they operate by the skin or bowels.

"Purging waters derive their effects from the neutral salts they contain, especially the muriates of soda, lime, and magnesia, and the sulphates of soda and magnesia. They are much more frequently used for a length of time to keep the bowels open by exciting the natural action, than to produce full purging. Used in this way, instead of debilitating the patient, they increase his appetite, health, and strength.

"Chalybeate waters are used as tonics. They stimulate considerably, and increase the circulation; but as they also generally contain neutral salts, they act as gentle laxatives. They are used in all cases of debility, cachexia, chlorosis, fluor albus, amenorrhoea; and, in general, in what are called nervous diseases.

"The external use of water depends almost entirely on its temperature, which may be

"1. Greater than that of the body, or above 97° Fahr. The hot bath.

"2. Below the temperature of the body. a. From 97 to 85, the warm bath. b. From 85 to 65, the tepid bath. c. From 65 to 32, the cold bath.

"The hot bath is decidedly stimulant in its action. It renders the pulse frequent, the veins turgid, the face flushed, the respiration quick; increases animal heat, and produces sweat. If the temperature be very high, the face becomes bathed in sweat, the arteries at the neck and temples beat with violence, anxiety and a sense of suffocation are induced; and if persisted in, vertigo, throbbing in the heart, and apoplecty, are the consequences. It is very rarely employed in medicine, except where there are hot springs, as at Baden in Switzerland.

"The Russians and some other nations use the hot bath as an article of luxury.

"The effects of the diffusion of hot water have not been ascertained, and it is probable, that when the heat is not so great as to destroy the organization of the skin, the very transient application of the water would be more than counteracted by the subsequent evaporation.

"With regard to the action arising from their temperature, all baths below 97° differ only in degree, as they all ultimately abstract caloric from the surface, but with a force inversely as their temperature.

"The warm bath excites the sensation of warmth, partly because our sensations are merely relative, and bath partly because its temperature, though less than that of the internal parts of the body, is actually greater than that of the extremities, which are the chief organs of touch. But as water is a much better conductor of caloric than air, and especially than confined air, as much caloric is abstracted from the body by water, which is a few degrees lower than the external temperature of the body, as by air of a much lower temperature. The warm bath diminishes the frequency of the pulse, especially when it has been previously greater than natural; and this effect is always in proportion to the time of immersion. It also renders the respiration slower, and lessens the temperature of the body, relaxes the muscular fibre, increases the bulk of the fluids by abstraction, removes impurities from the surface, promotes the desquamation and renewal of the cuticle, and softens the nails and indurations of the skin.

"The stimulant power of the warm bath is therefore very inconsiderable, and its employment in disease will be chiefly indicated by preternatural heat of the surface, and frequency of the pulse, rigidity of the muscular fibre, and morbid affections of the skin. It has accordingly been found serviceable in many cases of pyrexia, both febrile and exanthematous, in many spasmodic diseases, and in most of the impetigines. It is contraindicated by difficulty of breathing, and internal organic affections, and should not be used when the stomach is full.

"The diffusion of warm water very generally produces Affusion of a considerable diminution of heat, a diminished frequency of pulse and respiration, and a tendency to repose and sleep; but its effects are not very permanent, and its stimulus is weak. It is recommended in febrile diseases, depending on the stimulus of preternatural heat, and in those attended with laborious respiration, and in the paroxysms of hectic fever.

"As the tepid bath and diffusion produce effects intermediate between those and cold water, it is unnecessary to enumerate them.

"The cold bath produces the sensation of cold, which gradually ceases, and is succeeded by numbness. It excites tremor in the skin, and shivering. The skin becomes pale, contracted, and acquires the appearance termed cutis anserina. The fluids are diminished in volume, the folds are contracted, the caliber of the vessels is lessened, and therefore numbness and paleness are induced, and the visible cutaneous veins become smaller. There is a fené of drowsiness and inactivity, the joints become rigid and inflexible, and the limbs Part IV.

History of are affected with pains and spasmodic contractions. Simple and The respiration is rendered quick and irregular, the Official pulse slow, firm, regular, and small; the internal heat Medicines. is at first diminished, but gradually and irregularly returns nearly to its natural standard; the extremities, however, continue cold and numb, or swollen and livid; the perspiration is suppressed, and the discharge of urine is rendered more frequent and copious. If the cold be excessive on its application, long-continued violent shiverings are induced, the pulse ceases at the wrist, the motion of the heart becomes feeble and languid; there is a sensation of coldness and faintness at the stomach, and a rapid diminution of animal heat; and, at last, delirium, torpor, and death, are the consequences. If the application of the cold bath be not carried to an excessive length, on emerging from the water the whole body is pervaded by an agreeable sensation of warmth, and the patient feels refreshed and invigorated.

"The primary action of the cold bath is stimulant, and the degree of this action is in proportion to the lowness of its temperature. This opinion is indeed directly opposite to a theory of cold which has been advanced with the confidence of demonstration. "Heat is a stimulus, cold is the abstraction of heat; therefore cold is the abstraction of stimulus, or is a sedative." To this we might oppose another theory, equally fallacious, and nearer the truth. Free caloric is a stimulus, cold is the sensation excited by the passage of free caloric out of the body; therefore cold is a stimulus. But, in fact, the action of cold is by no means so simple. It is complicated, and varies according to its intensity, duration, and the state of the system to which it is applied. It acts at first as a stimulant, in exciting sensation; then as a tonic, in condensing the living fibre; and, lastly, however paradoxical it may appear, as a sedative, by preventing that distribution of blood in the minute and ultimate vessels, which is necessary for the existence of sensibility and irritability, and by the abstraction of the stimulus of heat.

"The cold bath may be so managed as to procure any of these effects, by regulating the length of time for which it is applied.

"Cold affusion, or the pouring of cold water over the body, is a very convenient way of applying the cold bath in many cases. In this way cold is very suddenly applied to the surface, its operation is instantaneous and momentary; but may be continued by repeated affusions for any length of time, and so as to produce its extreme effects. Where the effects of cold affusion may be thought too severe, sprinkling the body with cold water, or water and vinegar, may be substituted.

"The application of cold may be employed in fevers and febrile paroxysms, when the heat is steadily above the natural standard, and in many diseases arising from relaxation and debility. It is contraindicated when the heat of the body is below 97°, when there is any notable perspiration from the surface; and when there is general plethora. Debilitated habits should be defended from the violence of its action, by covering the body with flannel.

"In yellow fever, especially in those cases in which the heat of the skin is excessive, it is particularly useful, and ought to be long continued. In phrenitis and other local inflammations, it promises to be of advantage. In gouts its effects are doubtful, being in some instances falutary, in others destructive. A criterion to enable us to determine when it ought or ought not to be referred to, is much wanted. In inflammatory rheumatism and rheumatic gout it is decidedly useful. It is of advantage in all the hemorrhages and exanthemata; in tetanus, colic, cholera, hysteria, mania, ichuria, and in burns; and, in general, in all those local diseases in which solutions of acetate of lead, of muriate of ammonia, &c. are usually employed; for the good effects of these depend entirely on the diminished temperature *."

For more respecting the utility of the cold affusion, see Currie's "Medical Reports;" and for an excellent account of the effects and uses of baths, see Marcard de la Nature et de l'Usage des Bains, and a Treatise on Cold and Warm Bathing, lately published at Edinburgh.

* Duncan's Dictiona- roy, 3d edit. p. 165.

Official Preparation.

a. AQUA DISTILLATA, E. AQUA DISTILLA-Distilled TA, L. D. Distilled water.

From 10 gallons of spring water, the London college directs four gallons to be drawn off, throwing away the first four pints that come over. The Dublin college directs 10 pounds to be distilled from 20 pounds, throwing away the first pound; while the college of Edinburgh directs water to be distilled in very clean vessels till two-thirds have come over.

SECT. II. Inflammable Substances.

263. SULPHUR SUBLIMATUM, E. L. D. FLORES SULPHURIS. Sublimed sulphur. Flowers of sulphur.

For an account of the chemical nature and properties of sulphur, see Chemistry, Chap. ix.

As a medicine, sulphur is employed both internally and externally. Internally it is given as a laxative, in the dose of a dram or two, and as a diaphoretic in smaller doses. Externally it is one of the most certain remedies for the itch, and some other cutaneous affections.

Official Preparations.

a. SULPHUR SUBLIMATUM LOTUM, E. D. FLO. Wafhed RES SULPHURIS LOTI, L. Wafhed sublimed sulphur. Wafhed flowers of sulphur.

Sublimed sulphur is freed from the sulphurous acid, which it has imbibed in the preparation, by boiling it for a little in four times its weight of water, and after pouring off the water in which it was boiled, washing it by repeated affusions of cold water, till it no longer imparts acidity to the water.

Sublimed sulphur should always be washed before being used internally, otherwise it is very apt to disorder the stomach and bowels.

b. OLEUM SULPHURATUM, E. L. Sulphurated oil. Sulphurat-ed oil.

Prepared by boiling one part of sublimed sulphur in eight of olive oil (E.), or one part to four parts (L.), in a large iron pot, till they are thoroughly united. Formerly much used as an expectorant in coughs, in a dose of from ten to 40 drops; but now seldom used, except as an external application to foul ulcers.

c. PETROLEUM SULPHURATUM, L. Sulphurated petroleum.

Prepared in the same manner as the last, with oil of petroleum, and used for the same purpose.

d. UNGUENTUM SULPHURIS, E. L. D. Ointment of sulphur.

Prepared by mixing half a pound (L.) or five ounces (D.) of ointment of hogs-lard, with four ounces (L.) or three ounces (D.) of flowers of sulphur; or four parts of hogs-lard, with one of sublimed sulphur, adding to each pound of the ointment, half a dram of volatile oil of lemons, or volatile oil of lavender (E.).

An excellent application in the itch. Ordinary quantity for an adult about four ounces, which should be rubbed in at once.

e. SULPHURETUM POTASSI, E. KALI SULPHURATUM, L. ALKALI VEGETABILE SULPHURATUM, D. HEPAR SULPHURIS. Sulphuret of potash. Sulphurated kali. Sulphurated vegetable alkali. Liver of sulphur.

For the preparation and chemical properties of this substance, see Chemistry, No 918.

Sulphuret of potash is seldom employed in medicine, except as a remedy in violent mercurial salivation, in which it is said to be very effectual*. It has lately been much recommended, diffused in lime water, as an effectual external application in tinea capitis.

f. SULPHUR PRÆCIPITATUM, L. D. Precipitated sulphur.

Prepared by dissolving six ounces (L.) or four ounces (D.) of sulphuret of potash, in one pound and a half of distilled water, and adding diluted sulphuric acid (L.), or diluted nitrous acid (D.), as long as there is any precipitation. The precipitate is then to be separated by the filter, and washed till it has lost all acidity, and then dried.

Similar in its nature to washed sublimed sulphur, but considered as rather milder.

261. SUCCINUM, E. L. D. Amber. See Chemistry, No 2476.

Amber in its natural state is not employed in medicine, except to make the following

Officinal Preparations.

a. ACIDUM SUCCINI, E. SAL SUCCINI, D. L. Succinic acid. Salt of amber.

b. OLEUM SUCCINI, E. L. D. Oil of amber.

For the preparation and chemical properties of these substances, see Chemistry, No 724, et seq.

c. SAL SUCCINI PURIFICATUS, L. Purified salt of amber.

The London college directs this acid to be purified by boiling half a pound of it in a pint of distilled water, and setting aside the solution to crystallize.

Succinic acid is now scarcely employed in medicine.

d. OLEUM SUCCINI PURISSIMUM, E. OLEUM SUCCINI RECTIFICATUM, L. D. Purified oil of amber.

The Edinburgh college directs oil of amber to be purified by distilling it in a glass retort with fix times its quantity of water, till two-thirds of the water have passed into the receiver; when the pure volatile oil comes over, it is to be separated from the water, and preserved in vessels closely stopped. The processes of the other colleges do not materially differ from this.

Oil of amber is a powerful stimulant and antispasmodic, useful in hysterical and similar disorders. Dose 10 or 12 drops. Used also externally in paralysis and rheumatism.

262. BITUMEN PETROLEUM, E. PETROLEUM, Petroleum. L. PETROLEUM BARBADENSE, D. Petroleum or rock oil. Bartadues tar.

Officinal Preparation.

a. OLEUM PETROLEI, L. Oil of petroleum. Prepared by distilling petroleum in a sand bath.

Employed as a stimulant and antispasmodic. Dose from 10 to 30 drops. Also used as an external stimulant in strains and rheumatisms.

SECT. III. Acids.

263. ACIDUM SULPHURICUM, E. ACIDUM VI-Sulphuric TRIOLICUM, L. D. Sulphuric acid. Vitriolic acid. Acid. Oil of vitriol.

For the preparation and chemical properties of sulphuric acid, see Chemistry, Chap. x. Sect. I.

Undiluted sulphuric acid is seldom employed in medicine, except as an external stimulant and rubefacient, in combination with fatty substances.

Officinal Preparations.

a. ACIDUM SULPHURICUM DILUTUM, E. ACIDUM Diluted ful-VITRIOLICUM DILUTUM, L. D. Diluted sulphuric acid. Diluted vitriolic acid. Spirit of vitriol.

One part of sulphuric acid mixed with seven of water (E.), or one ounce with eight ounces of water (L.), or two ounces, with 14 ounces of water, (D.).

Diluted sulphuric acid is employed as a refrigerant in fevers, astringent in hemorrhages, and tonic in dyspepsia. Dose from 20 drops to a dram.

b. ACIDUM SULPHURICUM AROMATICUM, E. -Aromatic sulphuric acid. Elixir of vitriol.

Prepared by first mixing two pounds of alcohol with fix pounds of sulphuric acid, by gradually dropping the acid into the alcohol; digesting this mixture with a very gentle heat in a close vessel, for three days; and adding one ounce and a half of bruised cinnamon, and one ounce of bruised ginger; digesting again in a Part IV.

History of Simple and Official Medicines

close vessel, for six days, and filtering the tincture through paper in a glass funnel.

An excellent stimulant and tonic, well suited to dyspeptic complaints. Dose from 15 to 40 drops.

838 Sulphate of potash.

c. SULPHAS POTASSÆ, E. KALI VITRIOLATUM, L. ALKALI VEGETABLE VITRIOLATUM, D. Sulphate of potash. Vitriolated kali. Vitriolated vegetable alkali. Vitriolated tartar.

For the nature and properties of this salt, see Chemistry, No 925, et seq.

The Edinburgh college directs this salt to be prepared by an immediate combination of sulphuric acid, diluted with fix times its weight of water, with as much pure carbonate of potash, dissolved also in fix times its weight of water, as is sufficient to neutralize the acid. The salt is procured from the solution by evaporation and crystallization. The other colleges obtain this salt by dissolving the saline mass that remains after the distillation of nitrous acid, filtering and crystallizing as before.

Sulphate of potash is a mild purgative, and may be given in a dose of four or five drams, but it requires a large quantity of water for its solution. It is employed chiefly to assist in the pulverization of opium, camomile, &c.

839 Sulphate of potash with sulphur.

d. SULPHAS POTASSÆ CUM SULPHURE, E. SAL POLYCHRESTUS. Sulphate of potash with sulphur. Sal polychrest.

Prepared by mixing together equal parts of powdered nitrate of potash and sublimed sulphur; injecting the mixture gradually into a red hot crucible; and, when the deflagration ceases, allowing the salt to cool, and putting it into a vessel that is to be closely stoppered.

Similar in its effects with the last, but more easily prepared.

SECT. IV. Alkalies and Alkaline Salts.

840 Impure carbonate of soda.

264. CARBONAS SODÆ IMPURUS, E. BARYLLA, L. D. Impure carbonate of soda. Barilla. Fixed mineral alkali.

Officinal Preparations.

a. CARBONAS SODÆ, E. NATRON PREPARATUM, L. ALKALI FOSSILE MITE, D. Carbonate of soda. Vitriolated natron. Mild fossil alkali.

Prepared by boiling impure carbonate of soda, bruised or powdered barilla, till all the salt is dissolved, then filtering the liquor, and setting it by to crystallize.

For an account of the nature and properties of this salt, see Chemistry, No 1085.

Employed in medicine chiefly as an antacid and lithontriptic. Dose from 10 to 30 grains.

b. AQUA SUPERCARBONATIS SODÆ, E. Water of supercarbonate of soda.

Prepared by passing a stream of carbonic acid gas through a solution of carbonate of soda, as was directed for preparing the water of carbonate of potash. See No 315.

This preparation is supposed to be a powerful lithontriptic, and the occasional use of it certainly appears to prevent the formation of uric acid. It may be drunk in the quantity of half a pint or a pint during the day.

c. PHOSPHAS SODÆ, E. Phosphate of soda.

For the preparation and nature of this salt, see Chemistry, No 1075, et seq.

An excellent laxative, preferable to most other saline cathartics, from its taste being but little unpleasant. Dose from one to two ounces, which is best taken dissolved in soup, beef tea, or gruel.

265. NITRAS POTASSÆ, E. NITRUM, L. D. Nitrate of potash. Nitre. Saltpetre. See Chemistry, potash. No 942, et seq.

Nitrate of potash is used in medicine as a diaphoretic, diuretic, and refrigerant. Dose from five to 20 grains.

Officinal Preparations.

a. NITRUM PURIFICATUM, L. Purified nitre. Purified nitre.

Purified by solution in boiling water, filtration, and crystallization.

b. ACIDUM NITROSUM, E. L. D. Nitrous acid. Nitrous acid. Fuming spirit of nitre.

Prepared by decomposing nitrate of potash by sulphuric acid, in the manner mentioned under Chemistry, Chap. x. Sect. 3.

It is in this state that the acid obtained from nitrate of potash is generally employed in medicine, though for certain purposes the nitric acid is to be preferred. These acids are employed as refrigerants and diuretics, largely diluted, and in small doses, viz. from five to 20 drops, and also as tonics and general stimulants, as mentioned below. Externally they act as stimulants or escharotics, according to their strength.

c. ACIDUM NITROSUM DILUTUM, E. L. D. Diluted nitrous acid. Aquafortis.

Prepared by mixing equal weights of nitrous acid and water, taking care to avoid the noxious fumes. Uses the same as of the last; but the diluted acid is better calculated for internal exhibition. Doses about double those of nitrous acid.

d. ACIDUM NITRICUM, E. Nitric acid. Nitric acid.

Prepared by redistilling nitrous acid in a retort with an adopted receiver, with a very gentle heat, till the red portion has passed over, and the remaining acid has acquired the state of nitric acid. See Chemistry as above.

This is the acid which has been so much recommended of late as a cure for syphilis, in which it is administered, diluted with water in the proportion of a dram to a pint, which is to be taken at intervals through the day, sucking it through a quill or glass tube, to avoid injuring the teeth, and gradually augmenting the quantity as far as the stomach will bear. Though the advantages of nitric acid in syphilitic complaints appear to have been overrated, it is no doubt a valuable succedaneum to mercury, and has, we believe, been of service in cases where mercurial preparations were inadmissible, or unsuccessful. Nitric acid, in its nascent state, History of state, as procured by an extemporaneous decomposition simple and of nitre by sulphuric acid, has been found of advantage as a fumigation in correcting putrid effluvia.

e. Unguentum Acidi Nitrosi, E. Ointment of nitrous acid. Oxygenated ointment.

Prepared by gradually mixing fix drams of nitrous acid with one pound of melted hog's lard, and continually agitating the mixture as it cools.

A good remedy in herpes, lepra, and some other cutaneous affections, and said to have succeeded as a substitute for mercurial ointment.

f. Spiritus Aetheris Nitrosi, E. L. LIQUOR AETHEREUS NITROSUS, D. Spirit of nitrous ether. Ethereal nitrous liquor. Sweet spirit of nitre.

About three parts of alcohol and one of nitrous acid, gradually mixed together, distilling over the spirit from a water bath.

Diuretic, stimulant, and tonic. Dose 20 drops to a dram.

Muriate of soda.

266. Murias Sodæ, E. SAL MURIATICUS, L. SAL COMMUNIS, D. SAL MARINUS. Muriate of soda. Sea salt. Common salt. See Chemistry, No 1046.

Muriate of soda is employed as a laxative and anthelmintic. In the former way it is usually administered in clysters; in the latter it is given by the mouth, in the dose of half a dram to an ounce or more. Externally, when dried by heat, it is used as a stimulant and rubefacient.

Officinal Preparations.

a. Murias Sodæ Exsiccatus, E. SAL COMMUNIS EXSICCATUS, D. Dried muriate of soda.

Muriate of soda is dried by roasting it over the fire in a wide iron vessel, with occasional agitation, till it ceases to decrepitate.

b. Acidum Muriaticum, E. L. D. Muriatic acid. Marine acid. Spirit of sea-salt.

Prepared by decomposing muriate of soda by sulphuric acid, in the manner described under Chemistry, Chap. x. Sect. 5.

Muriatic acid is used in medicine as a refrigerant, diuretic, and stimulant. Dose from 10 drops to 40 or 50. It is a good medicine in low fevers, largely diluted and sweetened with sugar. In its nascent state, as obtained by the extemporaneous decomposition of muriate of soda by sulphuric acid, it is an excellent fumigation, and in this respect is perhaps to be preferred to the nitric acid.

c. Sulphas Sodæ, E. NATRON VITRIOLATUM, L. ALKALI FOSSILE VITRIOLATUM, D. SAL GLAUBERI. Sulphate of soda. Vitriolated natron. Vitriolated mineral alkali. Glauber's salt.

Usually prepared by dissolving and neutralizing the acidulous salt remaining after the preparation of muriatic acid, filtering the liquor, evaporating, and setting it aside to crystallize. See Chemistry, No 1030.

A good purgative, but not suited to all stomachs. Dose from one to two ounces.

267. Subboras Sodæ. BORAS SODÆ, E. BO. RAX, L. D. Subborate of soda. Borax. See Chemistry, No 1067.

Sometimes given internally as a diuretic; but generally employed as a detergent to aphthous crusts and ulcerations in the mouth and fauces, either by way of lotion, or made into a linctus with syrup or honey.

SECT. V. Soaps.

268. SAPO HISPANUS. SAPO, E. Spanish or Castile soap. Castile soap.

The Edinburgh and London colleges particularize the soap that should be used in medicine, as prepared of olive oil and soda.

On the nature and properties of soap, see Chemistry.

Soap is employed both internally and externally. Internally it acts as a gentle laxative, and is supposed to possess lithontriptic powers. In this latter way it has been given in the quantity of from half an ounce to an ounce in the day. Excepting with this intention, it is seldom given alone. Externally it is used as a stimulant and detergent, under the various forms mentioned below.

Officinal Preparations.

a. Tinctura Saponis, E. LINIMENTUM SAPONIS COMPOSITUM, L. LINIMENTUM SAPONACEUM, D. Tincture of soap. Compound liniment of soap. Soapaceous liniment. Opodeldoc.

The Edinburgh tincture is prepared by digesting four ounces of soap shavings in two pounds of alcohol for three days; then adding to the filtered liquor two ounces of camphor, and half an ounce of volatile oil of rosemary, agitating them diligently. The London liniment is composed of three ounces of soap, one ounce of camphor, and one pint of spirit of rosemary; that of the Dublin college of two ounces of Castile soap, one ounce of camphor, eight ounces of alcohol, and the fame of water, and two scruples of essential oil of rosemary.

b. Tinctura Saponis et Opii, E. LINIMENTUM ANODYNUM. Tincture of soap and opium, Anodyne liniment.

Prepared in the same manner as the last, with the addition, from the beginning, of one ounce of opium.

These tinctures or liniments are excellent stimulant applications in cases of sprains, rheumatic pains, and similar affections; and the latter of them has been found useful when applied to the tumid belly of children that are threatened with rickets.

c. Ceratum Saponis, L. D. Soap cerate. Soapcerate.

Prepared by boiling one pound of powdered litharge with a gallon or eight pounds (D.) of vinegar, over a slow fire, with constant agitation, till the mixture combines and thickens; then adding eight ounces of soap, 10 ounces of yellow wax, and a pint or 14 ounces (D.) of olive oil, and continuing the heat and agitation till they are united to form a cerate.

d. Emplastrum Saponis, L. EMPLASTRUM SAPONACEUM, E. D. Soap plaster.

Prepared by mixing one part of soap with six of melted Part IV.

History of Simple and Official Medicines

melted litharge plaster (L. D.), or one part of sliced soap, with four of plaster of semiflitrified oxide of lead, and two parts of gum plaster melted together, (E.).

These are intended as difficult applications.

Sect. VI. Earths and Earthy Salts.

861 Sulphate of baryta. 269. SULPHAS BARYTÆ, E. TERRA PONDEROSA VITRIOLATA. BARYTES. Sulphate of Baryta. Vitriolated ponderous earth. Barytes. See Chemistry, No 1256, et seq.

Employed in medicine only for preparing the muriate of baryta.

862 Carbonate of baryta. 270. CARBONAS BARYTÆ, E. TERRA PONDEROSA. Carbonate of baryta. Heavy spar. See Chemistry, as above.

Official Preparations.

863 Muriate of baryta. a. MURIAS BARYTÆ, E. Muriate of baryta.

Prepared by dissolving carbonate of baryta broken into small pieces in a mixture of one part of muriatic acid and three of water, filtering the liquor, evaporating and crystallizing. Where the carbonate of baryta cannot be procured, this salt is obtained from the sulphate, by a very complex process, for which see Duncan's Dispensatory, and Chemistry as above.

864 Solution of muriate of baryta. b. SOLUTIO MURIATIS BARYTÆ, E. Solution of muriate of baryta.

Prepared by dissolving one part of crystallized muriate of baryta in three of water.

This has been recommended as a powerful stimulant and tonic, in a variety of diseases. We believe it has been of service in some cases of scrophula. Dose from five to ten drops, twice or thrice a-day.

865 Lime. 271. CALX, L. CALX VIVA, E. CALX REGENS USTÀ, D. Lime. Quicklime. See Chemistry, Chap. xiii. Sect. i.

Lime in substance is scarcely employed in medicine, except by way of caustic, mixed with soft soap or potash.

Official Preparation.

866 Lime-water. a. AQUA CALCIS, E. L. D. Lime-water.

This is a saturated solution of fresh burnt quicklime in water. After being made, it should be kept in vessels that are not too large, and carefully stopped, that it may not imbibe carbonic acid from the air.

Lime-water is employed as an antacid and astringent, a tonic, and an anthelmintic. Dose internally from two to four ounces. As an anthelmintic it is used in the way of clyster, to destroy arcariads. It is also employed externally as a stimulant and detergent.

b. LINIMENTUM AQUÆ CALCIS. OLEUM LINI CUM CALCE, E. Liniment of lime, or Lintseed oil with lime.

Prepared by mixing equal parts of lintseed oil and lime-water.

A useful application to recent scalds and burns.

272. CARBONAS CALCIS, E. Carbonate of lime. CARBONAS CALCIS MOLLIOR, E. CRETA, L. D. Chalk. CARBONAS CALCIS DURIOR, E. MARMOR. Marble. See Chemistry, No 1230, et seq.

Carbonate of lime in its soft state is much employed in medicine as an antacid, and when powdered or prepared, it is applied externally to scalds and burns, and to cancerous sores.

Official Preparations.

871 Prepared carbonate of lime. a. CARBONAS CALCIS PRÆPARATUS, E. CRETA PRÆPARATA, L. D. Prepared carbonate of lime. Prepared chalk.

This is chalk reduced to a very fine powder by trituration, levigation, diffusion in water, filtration, and drying. Ordinary dose, as an antacid, from 15 grains to a dram.

872 Chalk potion. b. POTIO CARBONATIS CALCIS, E. MISTURA CRETACEA, L. D. Chalk potion.

Prepared, according to the Edinburgh college, by triturating an ounce of prepared carbonate of lime with two ounces of mucilage of gum arabic, and half an ounce of double-refined sugar; then adding gradually two pounds and a half of water, and two ounces of spirit of cinnamon.

The London and Dublin mixture is prepared by mixing one ounce of prepared chalk, six drams of double-refined sugar, one ounce of powdered gum arabic, with two pints or 30 ounces (D.), of distilled water.

Employed as an antacid, especially in diarrhoea, accompanied by acidity in the intestinal canal. It may be taken ad libitum.

873 Troches of Troches of chalk. c. TROCHISCI CARBONATIS CALCIS, E. TROCHIS- CI CRETÆ, L. Troches of carbonate of lime, of lime.

Prepared of four ounces of carbonate of lime, one ounce of gum arabic, one dram of nutmeg, and fix ounces of double-refined sugar, powdered together, and formed into a mass with water, (E.); or, of four ounces of prepared chalk, two ounces of prepared crabs claws, half an ounce of cinnamon, and three ounces of double-refined sugar, powdered and made into a mass with mucilage of gum arabic (L.). Used as the preceding.

874 Compound powder of chalk. d. PULVIS CARBONATIS CALCIS COMPOSITUS, E. Compound powder of carbonate of lime. Compound powder of lime.

Prepared of four ounces of prepared carbonate of lime, half a dram of nutmeg, and half a dram of cinnamon powdered together (L.); or, of half a pound of prepared chalk, four ounces of cinnamon, three ounces of tormentil, and the fame of gum arabic, and half an ounce of long pepper powdered separately, and mixed together (L.).

Used as antacids and tonics, in debility of the intestinal canal. Dose from 15 to 30 grains.

875 Water impregnated with fixed air. e. AQUA AERIS FIXI, D. Water impregnated with fixed air. Prepared air. Prepared by passing a stream of carbonic acid gas arising from the decomposition of three ounces of powdered white marble, and one half pound of diluted vitriolic acid, mixed with an equal quantity of water, through fix pounds of pure spring water, in a Nooth's apparatus, with occasional agitation.

An excellent tonic, refrigerant, and anti-emetic.

f. Solutio Muriatis Calcis, E. Solution of muriate of lime.

Prepared by dissolving nine ounces of white marble broken to pieces, in fifteen ounces of muriatic acid, mixed with eight ounces of water; digesting for half an hour, pouring off the liquor, evaporating to dryness, dissolving the residuum in 15 times its weight of water, and filtering the solution.

An excellent tonic, useful in cases of scrophula and schirrus. Dose from 30 to 60 drops, twice or thrice a-day.

273. Sulphas Magnesiae, E. MAGNESIA VITRIOLATA, L. D. SAL CATHARTICUS AMARUS. Sulphate of magnesia. Vitriolated magnesia. Epson salt. See CHEMISTRY, Chap. xiii. Sect. 4.

Used as a purgative, in a dose of an ounce to an ounce and a half; as a tonic and gentle stimulant, in the dose of a dram or two diluted considerably, twice a-day.

Officinal Preparations.

a. Carbonas Magnesiae, E. MAGNESIA ALBA, L. D. Carbonate of magnesia. White magnesia.

Prepared by decomposing sulphate of magnesia by an equal weight of carbonate of potash, each previously dissolved in twice its weight of warm water, strained, and then mixed, instantly adding eight times their weight of warm water; then boiling the liquor for a little with agitation, and when the heat is a little diminished, straining the liquor through linen, and well washing the powder that remains on the filter with warm water, and drying.

An excellent antacid, and in cases of acidity, a laxative; also a good anti-emetic, where the sickness is accompanied with acidity. Dose from half a dram to a dram.

b. Magnesia, E. MAGNESIA USTA, L. D. Magnesia. Burnt or calcined magnesia.

This is pure magnesia, freed from carbonic acid, by keeping it in a red heat for two hours, and putting it up in closely stopped bottles.

Preferable to the former as an antacid, wherever the extraction of carbonic acid may be unpleasant, by producing flatulency, especially for children.

c. Trochisci Magnesiae, L. Troches of magnesia.

Prepared by triturating together four ounces of burnt magnesia, two ounces of double refined sugar, and a scruple of powdered ginger, and forming a mass for Substitute of troches, with mucilage of gum arabic.

274. SUPERSULPHAS ALUMINÆ ET POTASSÆ. SUL-

PHAS ALUMINÆ, E. ALUMEN, L. D. Super sulphate of alumina and potash. Alum. See CHEMISTRY, No 1418, et seq.

Alum is employed both externally and internally as an astringent and tonic. Internally it is given chiefly in haemorrhages; dose from ten grains to a scruple.

Officinal Preparations.

a. ALUMEN PURIFICATUM, L. Purified alum. Purified alum.

Prepared by boiling one pound of alum with one dram of chalk, in a pint of distilled water, straining and crystallizing.

b. SULPHAS ALUMINÆ EXSICCATUS, E. ALUMEN USTUM, L. Dried sulphate of alumina. Burnt sulphate of alumina.

Alum is freed from its water of crystallization by melting it over the fire in an earthen or iron vessel, and keeping it there till it ceases to boil.

Employed as an echarotic, to destroy fungous excrencences.

c. AQUA ALUMINIS COMPOSITA. L. Compound alum water.

Prepared by dissolving half a dram of alum, and the same of vitriolated zinc, in four ounces of distilled water.

Employed externally as a stimulant or astringent, especially in ophthalmia, and as an injection in leucorrhea.

d. PULVIS SULPHATIS ALUMINÆ COMPOSITUS, E. Compound PULVIS STYPTICUS. Compound powder of ful. powder of phosphate of alumina. Styptic powder.

Composed of four parts of sulphate of alumina, and one part of kino, rubbed together to a fine powder. Astringent. Dose from 15 to 30 grains.

e. CATAPLASMA ALUMINIS, L. COAGULUM ALUMINOSUM, D. Alum cataplasm. Alum curd.

Prepared by shaking any quantity of the white of egg with a piece of alum till a curd is formed.

A useful application to sore and watery eyes, spread on linen, and applied at bed-time.

275. BOLUS GALICUS, L. French bole. French bole.

A clayey earth, formerly employed as an antacid or absorbent.

SECT. VII. Metals and Metallic Preparations.

275. ACIDUM ARSENIOSUM. OXIDUM ARSE-NIÆ, E. Arsenious acid. Oxide of arsenic. White acid. Arsenic. See CHEMISTRY, No 1536, et seq.

For an excellent account of the effects of arsenic on the living body, the modes of obviating or counter-acting them, and of its medical use, see Duncan's Dispensatory.

This substance is employed as a tonic in intermittent fever, but we consider it as a dangerous remedy. For the mode of preparing and exhibiting it, see Duncan's Part IV.

History of Duncan's Dispensatory as above, and Thefaurus Medicinum.

Medicines.

S89 Sulphuret of antimony.

276. SULPHURETUM ANTIMONII, E. ANTIMONIUM, L. STIBIUM, D. Sulphuret of antimony.

For the natural history and chemical nature of this substance, see Mineralogy Index, and Chemistry, Chap. xiv. sect. 12.

In its natural state, sulphuret of antimony is not employed in human medicine, except to form the following

Officinal Preparations.

a. SULPHURETUM ANTIMONII PRÆPARATUM, E. ANTIMONIUM PRÆPARATUM, L. STIBIUM PRÆPARATUM, D. Prepared antimony.

Reduced to a very fine powder in the same manner as chalk, &c.

b. OXIDUM ANTIMONII CUM SULPHURE PER NITRATEM POTASSE, E. CROCUS ANTIMONII, L. STIBIUM NITRO CALCINATUM, D. Oxide of antimony with sulphur. Crocus of antimony.

Prepared by injecting into a red hot crucible equal weights of sulphuret of antimony and nitrate of potash, powdered separately, and well mixed; separating the reddish matter that remains after the deliquification is over, from the whitish crust above it, and reducing the former to powder, which is to be well washed with hot water till it is tasteless. Scarcely employed in medicine, except as the basis of other preparations.

c. OXIDUM ANTIMONII CUM SULPHURE VITRIFICATUM, E. ANTIMONIUM VITRIFICATUM, L. Vitrified oxide of antimony with sulphur. Vitrified antimony. Glass of antimony.

Prepared by gradually heating powdered sulphuret of antimony till it ceases to emit sulphurous fumes, and then melting it by an intense heat into a glass, which is to be poured out on a heated bras plate.

Employed by the London college as the basis of their antimonial wine.

d. OXIDUM ANTIMONII VITRIFICATUM CUM CERA, E. Vitrified oxide of antimony with wax.

Made by adding to one part of melted yellow wax, eight parts of vitrified oxide of antimony with sulphur, and roasting the mixture over a gentle fire with continual agitation for about a quarter of an hour, then pouring out the mixture, and, when cold, grinding it to powder.

This is similar to a medicine that was much esteemed by Sir John Pringle, as a remedy in dysentery. Dose from two or three to 20 grains, according to the age and strength of the patient.

e. SULPHUR STIBIATUM FUSCUM, D. KERMES MINERALIS. Brown antimonial sulphur. Kermes mineral.

For the preparations and nature of this substance, see Chemistry, No 1688.

f. SULPHURETUM ANTIMONII PRÆCIPITATUM, E. SULPHUR ANT. PRÆCIP. L. SULPHUR

STIBIATUM RUFUM, D. Precipitated sulphuret of antimony.

Prepared by dissolving two pounds of prepared sulphuret of antimony in four pounds of water of potash, mixed with three pounds of water, adding more, if necessary, in a covered iron pot, over a slow fire for three hours, frequently stirring with an iron spatula, straining the liquor while hot, and precipitating the sulphuret by diluted sulphuric acid; then washing and drying the precipitate. See Chemistry, No 1688.

Employed like the last as a diaphoretic. Dose two or three grains.

g. MURIAS ANTIMONII, E. ANTIMONIUM MURIATUM, L. STIBIUM MURIATUM CAUSTICUM, D. Muriate of antimony. Muriated antimony. Butter of antimony. See Chemistry, p. 638.

Employed sometimes as a caustic, and for preparing the following substance.

h. CALX STIBII PRÆCIPITATA, D. Precipitated calx of antimony. Powder of algaruth.

Prepared by adding eight ounces of muriated antimony to a filtered solution of eight ounces of mild vegetable alkali, in 40 pounds of water, washing and drying the precipitated powder.

i. OXIDUM ANTIMONII CUM PHOSPHATE CALCIS, E. PULVIS ANTIMONIALIS, L. PULVIS STIBIATUS, D. Oxide of antimony with phosphate of lime. Antimonial powder.

For the preparation and nature of this substance, see Chemistry, No 1686. It is considered as nearly the fame with James's powder.

An excellent diaphoretic. Dose from five to ten grains.

k. TARTRAS ANTIMONII ET POTASSI. TARTARISANTIMONII, E. ANTIMONIUM TARTARISATUM, L. TARTARUM STIBIATUM, D. Tartrate of antimony and potash. Tartrized antimony. Stibiated tartrar. Emetic tartrar or tartar emetic. See Chemistry, No 1687, and Duncan's Dispensatory.

The Edinburgh and London colleges direct this to be prepared by boiling together three parts of oxide of antimony with sulphur, (see No 891,) and four parts of super-tartrate of potash, for a quarter of an hour, in a glass vessel, straining the liquor, and setting it by to crystallize.

Emetic; dose two or three grains at once, or better half a grain or a grain at short intervals. Expectorant; dose half a grain, repeated at long intervals of two or three hours. Diaphoretic, in similar doses, combined with opium, &c. Alterative, in still smaller doses. Externally stimulant and rubefacient.

l. VINUM TARTRITIS ANTIMONII, E. VINUM ANTIMONII TARTARISATI, L. VINUM TARTARISTIBIATI, D. Wine of tartrite of antimony. Wine of tartrized antimony.

Prepared by dissolving tartrate of antimony and potash either immediately in Spanish white wine, or first in boiling water, and then adding the wine. The proportions History of portions of the colleges vary; those of Edinburgh being simple and being 24 grains of the salt to a pound of wine; of London and Dublin, 40 grains of salt to two ounces of boiling water, and eight ounces of wine; so that the former contains two grains in every ounce by weight, the latter four grains in every ounce by measure.

Doses of the Edinburgh wine as an emetic, an ounce, or an ounce and a half, or at intervals half an ounce; as an expectorant or diaphoretic, a dram or two. The London and Dublin wine may be taken in about half the above doses.

m. VINUM ANTIMONII, L. Antimonial wine.

Prepared by digesting an ounce of vitrified antimony in powder, in a pint and a half of Spanish white wine, for 12 days, with frequent agitation and draining through paper.

This preparation might be omitted, as it is neither so easily prepared nor so certain as the last.

n. ANTIMONIUM CALCINATUM, L. Calcined antimony. Diaphoretic antimony. See Chemistry, No 169c.

Formerly much employed as a diaphoretic in a dose of from five to 30 grains; but since the introduction of James's powder and the analogous preparations, nearly diluted.

o. PILULAE STIBII COMPOSITAE, D. PILULAE PLUMMERI. Compound antimonial pills. Plummer's pills.

Prepared by triturating together three ounces of precipitated sulphur of antimony, and the same of mild muriate of mercury; then adding a dram of extract of gentian, and the fame of hard Spanish soap, and forming a mass with soap jelly.

Formerly in great repute as an alterative.

277. HYDRARGYRUM, D. HYDRARGYRUS, E. L. ARGENTUM VIVUM. Mercury. Quicksilver.

For an account of the chemical nature and properties of mercury, and the modes of ascertaining its purity, see Chemistry, p. 642.

We shall first notice the several official preparations of mercury, and then subjoin a sketch of its uses and the cases to which it is best adapted.

Officinal Preparations.

a. HYDRARGYRUM PURIFICATUM, D. HYDRARGYRUS PURIFICATUS, E. L.

The Edinburgh process is to rub together four parts of quicksilver, and one part of iron filings, and distil from an iron vessel.

b. ACETAS HYDRARGYRI. ACETIS HYDRARGYRI, E. HYDRARGYRUM ACETATUM, D. HYDRARGYRUS ACETATUS, L. Acetate of mercury. Acetated mercury. See Chemistry, No 1749.

Scarcely employed at present, except as an external stimulant or detergent.

c. MURIAS HYDRARGYRI, E. HYDRARGYRUM MURIATUM CORROSIVUM, D. HY-

DRARGYRUS MURIATUS, L. Muriate of mercury. Corrosive muriated mercury. Corrosive sublimate. See Chemistry, No 1736.

Prepared by boiling two pounds of purified quicksilver in two pounds and a half of sulphuric acid, in a glass vessel, over a bath and to dryness, triturating the dried mass when cold with four pounds or dried muriate of soda, then subliming in a glass cucurbit with a heat gradually increased, and separating the sublimed matter from the lecorie.

Used as a fialagogue; dose one eighth to one-fourth of a grain; as an external stimulus or erector to vesical ulcers, chancres, and herpetic eruptions, in the proportion of about a grain or more to the ounce of liquid.

d. SUBMURIAS HYDRARGYRI, E. HYDRARGYRUM MURIATUM MITTE SUBLIMATUM, D. CALOMELAS, L. Submuriate of mercury. Sublimed mild muriate of mercury. Calomel. See Chemistry, No 1742, where the process is much the same as that of the Edinburgh college.

Given in most cases where mercury is indicated. Dose, as a diaphoretic or alterative, about a grain; as a cathartic or anthelmintic, three to 10 grains; as a fialagogue, one or two grains twice a-day.

e. SUBMURIAS HYDRARGYRI PRÆCIPITATUM, E. HYDRARGYRUM MURIATUM MITTE PRÆCIPITATUM, D. HYDRARGYRUS MURIATUS MITTE, L. Precipitated submuriate of mercury. Precipitated mild muriate of mercury.

Procured by adding to a solution of half a pound of purified quicksilver in the same weight of diluted nitrous acid, a solution of four pounds and a half of muriate of soda in eight pounds of boiling water; washing and drying the precipitate.

Much the same in its effects and doses as the foregoing.

f. CALX HYDRARGYRI ALBA, L. White calx of mercury. White precipitate.

Prepared by dissolving first half a pound of sal ammoniac, and then half a pound of muriated mercury, in distilled water, adding to the mixed solution half a pound of water of prepared kali, filtering and washing and drying the precipitate. See Duncan's Dispensatory.

g. UNGUENTUM CALCIS HYDRARGYRI ALBE, L. Ointment of white calx of mercury.

Prepared by mixing a dram of the foregoing with an ounce and a half of ointment of hog's lard.

Used to destroy vermin, and in some cutaneous eruptions.

h. OXIDUM HYDRARGYRI CINEREUM, E. PULVIS HYDRARGYRI CINEREUS, D. Cinereous oxide of mercury.

Prepared by dissolving four parts of purified quicksilver in five parts of diluted nitrous acid; then gradually adding 15 parts of distilled water, and pouring in a sufficient quantity of water of carbonate of ammonia to precipitate the whole of the oxide, which is to be washed and dried. Part IV.

A mild salagogue and alterative. Dose from one to five grains. Used also as a fumigation in syphilitic eruptions, &c.

i. Unguentum Oxidi Hydrargyri Cinerei, E. Ointment of cinerous oxide of mercury.

Composed of one part of the foregoing, and three parts of hog's lard. Used for mercurial inunction.

k. Hydrargyrum cum Creta, L. Quicksilver with chalk.

Prepared by triturating together three parts of purified quicksilver and five parts of prepared chalk, till the globules disappear.

A mild alterative. Dose from 10 to 30 grains.

l. Hydrargyrum Calcinatum, D. Hydrargyrum Calcinitus, L. Calcined mercury. See Chemistry, No 1709.

A violent salagogue. Dose half a grain to a grain.

m. Oxidum-Hydrargyri rubrum per Acidum nitricum, E. Hydrargyrum Nitratus Ruber, L. Hydrargyrum Subnitratum, D. Red oxide of mercury by nitric acid. Red nitrated mercury. Red precipitate. See Chemistry, No 1709.

Used as a stimulant or an escharotic in fungous ulcers, &c.

n. Unguentum Oxidi Hydrargyri Rubri, E. Ointment of red oxide of mercury.

Composed of one part of the foregoing reduced to fine powder, and eight parts of hog's lard.

o. Subsulphas Hydrargyri flavus, E. Hydrargyrum Subvitriolatum, D. Hydrargyrum Viatriolatus, L. Yellow sub-sulphate of mercury. Subviatriolated mercury. Turpeth mineral. See Chemistry, No 1720.

Employed chiefly as an erhinine, mixed with liquorice powder or cephalic snuff.

p. Sulphuretum Hydrargyri nigrum, E. Hydrargyrum Sulphuratum Nigrum, D. Hydrargyrum Cum Sulphure, L. Black sulphuret of mercury. Mercury with sulphur. Ethiops mineral.

Prepared by triturating together in a glass mortar with a glass pestle, equal weights of purified quicksilver, and sublimed sulphur, till the globules of the former disappear. See Chemistry, No 1712.

Employed chiefly as an alterative in cutaneous diseases and glandular affections. Dose from five or 10 grains to a dram or more.

q. Hydrargyrum Sulphuratum Rubrum, D. Hydrargyrum Sulphuratutus Ruber, L. Red sulphuret of mercury. Faithious cinnabar. Vermilion. See Chemistry, No 1713.

Used principally as a fumigation for venereal ulcers in the nose, mouth, and throat, and as an ingredient in an ointment for the itch.

r. Pilulae Hydrargyri, E. L. D. Mercury pills.

Prepared by triturating an ounce of purified quicksilver with the same weight of conserve of red roses in a glass mortar, till the globules completely disappear, adding occasionally a little mucilage of gum arabic, then adding two ounces of starch, and beating the whole with a little water into a mass, to be immediately divided into 480 equal pills (E). The London pills are composed of two drams of purified quicksilver, three drams of conserve of roses, and one dram of powdered liquorice; and the Dublin pills of three drams of quicksilver, the same of extract of liquorice, and a dram and a half of purified liquorice root.

Four grains of the Edinburgh mass, three of the London, and two and a half of the Dublin, contain about one grain of mercury, so that the last are nearly twice as strong as the first. Dose of the Edinburgh pills as a salagogue, from three to six, once or twice a day.

s. Unguentum Hydrargyri, E. Mercurial ointment. Blue ointment.

Prepared by triturating together one part of quicksilver with a little hog's lard, till the globules disappear; then adding one part of mutton suet, and as much hog's lard as, with the first quantity, is equal to three parts. Also formed with double or treble the quantity of mercury.

Used for mercurial inunction. Quantity to be used at once about four scruples or drams every other night, or every night.

t. Unguentum Hydrargyri Fortius, L. D. Stronger mercurial ointment.

Composed of two pounds of purified quicksilver, 23 ounces of prepared hog's lard, and an ounce of prepared mutton suet.

Quantity used at once, about two scruples or a dram.

u. Unguentum Hydrargyri Mitius, L. D. Mild or mercurial ointment. Trooper's ointment.

Formed of one part of the foregoing, and two of prepared hog's lard. Used chiefly to destroy vermin, or for some cutaneous affections.

v. Emplastrum Hydrargyri, E. Mercurial plaster.

Formed by melting one part of olive oil, and the same of white resin together; and when the mixture is cold, rubbing with it three parts of quicksilver till the globules disappear, afterwards adding by degrees fix parts of melted plaster of semivitrified oxide of lead, and mixing the whole carefully together.

w. Emplastrum Ammoniaci cum Hydrargyro, L. Plaster of gum ammoniac with mercury.

Prepared by triturating together three ounces of purified quicksilver, with about a dram of sulphurated oil, till the globules disappear, and then adding gradually one pound of strained gum ammoniac melted. x. EMLASTRUM LITHARGYRI CUM HYDRARGYRO, L. Litharge plaster with mercury.

Composed of three ounces of purified quicksilver, about a dram of sulphurated oil, and a pound of melted litharge plaster.

These three last are employed as resolvents and diffusents, in cases of venereal nodes and beginning indurations.

y. UNGUENTUM NITRATIS HYDRARGYRI, E. UNGUENTUM HYDRARGYRI NITRATI, L. D. UNGUENTUM CITRINUM. Ointment of nitrate of mercury. Citrine ointment.

Prepared by first dissolving one part of quicksilver in two of nitrous acid, and beating up the solution in a glass mortar, with nine parts of olive oil, and three of hog's lard, previously melted together (or with 12 parts of hog's lard, L. D.) till the whole is formed into an ointment.

A powerful stimulant and detergent ointment, useful in inflammation and ulceration of the eyelids, and in cutaneous affections.

z. UNGUENTUM NITRATIS HYDRARGYRI MITIUS, E. Milder ointment of nitrate of mercury.

Prepared in the same way as the last, except using three times the quantity of oil and lard.