PHARMACOLOGIA. (continued 3)

326CASTOREUM. L.E.D. Castor. (Castor Fiber. (Rossicus.) Concretum sui generis.)

This substance is secreted by the beaver, in bags near the rectum.^[454] Qualities. Odour, strong and aromatic. Taste, bitter, sub-acrid, and nauseous. Colour, reddish brown. Chemical Composition. Volatile oil, resin, mucilage, extractive, iron, and small portions of the carbonate of potass, lime and ammonia. It contains also, according to the analysis of Laugier, a small quantity of Benzoic acid. The Canadian variety is also stated by Laugier to contain benzoic acid both free and combined. Solubility. Its active matter is dissolved by alcohol, proof spirit, and partially by water; the tincture made with alcohol is the least nauseous, and the most efficacious; the spirit of ammonia is also an excellent menstruum, and in many cases improves its virtues. Forms of Exhibition. It may be given in substance, as a bolus, or in the form of tincture, but its exhibition in the form of extract or decoction is chemically incorrect. Dose, grs. x to ℈j, and, in clysters, to ʒj. Medicinal Uses. It is antispasmodic, and seems to act more particularly on the uterine system. It certainly proves beneficial as an adjunct to antihysteric combinations; it was highly esteemed by Van Swieten, De Haen, and many other German practitioners. Baglivi states that it counteracts the narcotic powers of opium, but this is not the case. Officinal Preparations. Tinct. Castorei.^[455] L.E.D. Adulter: It is sometimes counterfeited by a mixture of dried blood, gum ammoniacum, and a little real castor, stuffed into the scrotum of a goat; the fraud is detected by comparing the smell and taste with those of real castor; and by the deficiency of the subaceous follicles, which are always attached to genuine specimens. There are two kinds in the market, the Russian and Canadian, the former however, which is the best, has become extremely scarce; it may be distinguished from the latter, by being larger, rounder, heavier, and less corrugated on the outside.

CATECHU EXTRACTUM, L.E.D.

(Acacia Catechu, Extractum.)

Catechu; olim Terra Japonica.^[456] Japan Earth.

Qualities. There are two varieties of catechu in the market, the one of a light yellowish, the other of a chocolate colour; they differ only in the latter having a more austere and bitter taste. Chemical Composition. Tannin, a peculiar extractive matter, mucilage, and earthy impurities. 327Solubility. It is almost totally dissolved both by water and spirit. Incompatible Substances. Its astringency is destroyed by alkaline salts; and precipitates are produced by metallic salts, especially by those of iron; and with gelatine it forms an insoluble compound. Medicinal Uses. It is a most valuable astringent. Forms of Exhibition. In infusion, tincture, or powder. (Form. 51, 52, 58, 151.) In the form of a lozenge, from its gradual solution, it may be very advantageously applied in relaxed states of the uvula and fauces; I have found this remedy successful in cases where the sulphate of zinc was inefficient. From its great astringency it also forms an excellent dentifrice, especially when the gums are spongy; for this purpose I have employed equal parts of powdered catechu, and Peruvian bark, with one-fourth the quantity of the powder of myrrh. Dose, grs. x to ℈i. Officinal Prep. Infus. Catechu, Tinct. Catechu, L.E.D. Electuarium Mimosæ Catechu, E.D.

CENTAURII CACUMINA. L.E.D.

(Chironia Centaurium^[457] Cacumina.)

The flowering tops of the common Centaury.

Qualities. Odour, none; Taste, intensely bitter. Chemical Composition. Mucilage, resin, and bitter matter. Solubility. Alcohol and water dissolve all its active matter. Medicinal Uses. All its value depends upon its bitterness. It entered into the composition of the once celebrated Portland Powder for the gout, for an account of which see page 32. Dose, of an infusion, made in the proportion of ℥j to oj of boiling water, f℥ij; of the dry powder ʒi.

CERA. L.E.D. Wax.

It is admitted into the list of the Materia Medica under two forms, viz.

1. Cera Flava. Yellow or Unbleached Wax.

Qualities. Odour, faintly honey-like; it is brittle yet soft; when chewed, it does not, if pure, adhere to the teeth; it melts at 142°, and burns entirely away. Chemical Composition. It is the honey-comb of the bee melted with boiling water, pressed through cloth bags, and ultimately cast into round cakes for the market. Whether it be an animal product, or a vegetable substance merely collected by the bee, has been a question of dispute; the former opinion is probably correct, although wax is certainly produced as a secretion by many plants. The yellow wax contains a portion of pollen which imparts its colour to it, and increases its fusibility. Solubility. It is insoluble in water, and in cold alcohol or ether, but it is soluble in boiling alcohol and ether, in fixed oils, and in alkalies. Uses. It is chiefly employed in the composition of external applications. Adulterations. Earth or peas-meal may be suspected when the cake is very brittle, and the colour inclines to grey; Resin is detected 328by putting it in cold alcohol, which will dissolve the resinous part without acting on the wax. Tallow is discovered by the greater softness and unctuosity of the cake, and by its suffocating smell when melted; when this latter substance is employed, turmeric is added to disguise its paleness.

2. Cera Alba. White, Bleached, or Virgin’s Wax.

Qualities. This substance differs only from the former, in being colourless, harder, heavier, and less fusible. Uses. It is said to be demulcent, and very useful in dysentery, but it is rarely used. Forms of Exhibition. It may be formed into a mixture by melting it with one-third of its weight of soap, and then gradually adding to it any mucilaginous liquid. Adulterations. White Lead may be detected by melting the wax in water, when the oxide will fall to the bottom of the vessel; tallow may be suspected when the cake wants its usual translucency.

CERATA. L.E. Cerates.

These compositions are characterized by a degree of consistence, intermediate between that of plasters, and that of ointments. As this consistence is obtained from the wax which they contain, they very properly derive from that substance the generic appellation of Cerates.

Ceratum Calaminæ. L. (Ceratum lapidis Calaminaris. P.L. 1787. Ceratum epuloticum. P.L. 1745). Ceratum Carbonatis Zinci Impuri. E. Unguentum Calaminare. D.—These preparations have been long known under the name of Turner’s Cerate; they form the basis of many extemporaneous cerates, in some of which nitric oxide of mercury, in the proportion of ʒj of the oxide to ℥j of cerate, and in others, the liquor of sub-acetate of lead, are introduced. By the former combination we obtain a very useful application to indolent and ill-conditioned ulcers, a valuable stimulant for inducing an action conducive to the regeneration of parts. By the latter combination we derive a remedy highly extolled by our most experienced surgeons, in the cure of burns and scalds.

Ceratum Cantharidis. L. The basis of this preparation is spermaceti cerate six parts, to which is added, of powdered flies one part: as it is intended to promote a purulent discharge from a blistered surface, it may be reduced in strength according to circumstances.

Ceratum Cetacei. L. (Ceratum Spermatis ceti. P.L. 1787. Ceratum Album, P.L. 1745). Ceratum Simplex. E. It furnishes a soft and cooling dressing, and constitutes a convenient basis for more active combinations, as in the following instance.

Ceratum Plumbi acetatis. L. (Unguentum Cerussæ Acetatæ, P.L. 1787.) This is cooling for burns, excoriations, and inflamed surfaces.

Ceratum Plumbi Compositum. L. (Cerat: Lithargyri acetati compositum. P.L. 1787.) This is “Goulard’s Cerate” and is applicable to the same cases as the former cerate; the camphor which enters into its composition imparts a gently stimulating power to it; it proves extremely serviceable in chronic opthalmia of the tarsus, and for the increased secretion of tears, which so frequently affects the eyes of persons advanced in years.

Ceratum Resinæ. L. (Ceratum resinæ flavæ, P.L. 1787. Ceratum citrinum. 1745. Yellow Basilicon). Unguent: Resinosum, E. Unguent: 329Resinæ albæ. D. It is stimulant, digestive, and cleansing, and affords a very excellent application for foul and indolent ulcers.

Ceratum Sabinæ. L. Savine Cerate. It is intended to keep up a purulent discharge from a blistered surface; in practice however it is often found to fail from the difficulty of obtaining it good, since the acrid principle of the plant is injured by long boiling, and by being previously dried; the ointment also loses its virtue by exposure to the air.

Ceratum Saponis. L. This preparation was much used and recommended by the late Mr. Pott; in preparing it the greatest possible caution is required; the fire should never be too rapidly applied, the stirring should be uniform and incessant, and the heat should only be sufficient to keep the two compositions liquid at the time when they are united. The original intention of the cerate was to afford, when spread upon linen, a mechanical support to fractured limbs, and to keep the points of the bone in due apposition, while in consequence of the acetate of lead which is formed in the first stage of the process for its preparation, it possesses the virtues of a saturnine dressing. As a mechanical agent it may prove at once effectual and dangerous, for if it be applied before all inflammation and swelling have entirely disappeared, the inflamed vessels may be completely strangulated by its unrelenting pressure, and high erysipelatous inflammation, and a rapid state of gangrene may be the result.

Ceratum Simplex. A useful application to excoriations and sores.

Besides the above cerates, there are many magistral^[458] preparations, of great practical value, and I must refer the surgical student for an account of them to that very useful little manual, entitled “Pharmacopœia Chirurgica.”

CETACEUM. L.

(Physeter Macrocephalus, Concretum sui generis.)

Spermaceti. E.D.

Qualities. Form, flakes, which are unctuous, friable, and white. Odour and taste, scarcely perceptible. Sp. Grav. 9·433. It melts at 112°. Chemical Composition. It is a peculiar modification of fatty matter. Solubility. It is insoluble in water and cold alcohol, but soluble in hot alcohol, ether, and oil of turpentine, but it concretes again as the fluids cool; in the fixed oils it is completely soluble. The alkaline carbonates do not affect it, but it is partially dissolved in the pure alkalies, and with hot ammonia it forms an emulsion which is not decomposed on cooling. Uses. It is demulcent and emollient, but it possesses no advantages over the bland oils. Forms of Exhibition. It may be suspended in water 330by means of mucilage or yolk of egg. (Formulæ 76, 78, 79.) Officinal Preparations. Ceratum Simplex. E. Ceratum Cetacei. L. Unguent. Cetacei. L.D. From exposure to hot air, it becomes rancid; but it may be again purified, by being washed in a warm solution of potass.

CINCHONA. L.E.D. Bark. Peruvian Bark.

Jesuit’s Bark.

Notwithstanding the labours of the Spanish botanists, the history of this important genus is still involved in considerable perplexity, and owing to the mixture of the barks of several species,^[459] and their importation into Europe under one common name, it is extremely difficult to reconcile the contradictory opinions which exist upon the subject, nor indeed would such an investigation be consistent with the plan and objects of this work. Under the trivial name officinalis, Linnæus confounded no less than four distinct species of cinchona, and under the same denomination the British Pharmacopœias, for a long period, placed as varieties the three barks known in the shops; this error indeed is still maintained in the Dublin Pharmacopœias, but the London and Edinburgh colleges have at length adopted the arrangement of Mutis, a celebrated botanist, who has resided in South America, and held the official situation of Director of the exportation of bark for nearly forty years.

Cinchonæ Cordifoliæ Cortex. L.E. Cortex Peruvianus. D. Heart-leaved Cinchona Bark, commonly called Yellow Bark.

Cinchonæ Lancifoliæ Cortex. L.E. Cortex Peruvianus. D. Lance-leaved Cinchona Bark, common Quilled bark—Pale bark.

Cinchonæ Oblongifoliæ Cortex. L.E. Cortex Peruvianus. D. Oblong-leaved Cinchona Bark, called Red bark.

Qualities. The odour and taste of these three species are essentially the same, although they differ in intensity. They are all bitter, sub-astringent and aromatic, but the flavour of the Yellow bark is incomparably the most bitter, although less austere and astringent, whilst the red bark has a taste much less bitter, but more austere and nauseous than either of the other species. Chemical Composition. Few vegetable substances have been more frequently, or more ably submitted to chemical analysis than the Peruvian bark, and yet but few results of any great practical utility had been obtained previous to the recent experiments of Pelletier and Caventou, communicated to the Academy of Sciences at Paris, since the publication of the fourth edition of the present work.

Dr. Maton^[460] had several years ago observed, that an infusion of nutgalls produced a precipitate with the decoctions of Bark; a fact which necessarily produced considerable speculation. Seguin was induced to regard it as arising from the presence of gelatine, (see p. 56,) an opinion which Dr. Duncan proved to be erroneous, and shewed that it depended 331upon a new proximate principle, to which M. Gomez of Lisbon had previously assigned the name of Cinchonine. Besides which, bark was considered as containing resin, extractive, gluten, tannin, a small portion of volatile oil, and some salts with a base of lime; one of which however had been only found in Yellow bark, and had been discovered to contain a peculiar vegetable acid, denominated by Vauquelin Kinic, a name which Dr. Duncan very judiciously superseded by that of Cinchonic acid.

In the Red bark, Fourcroy detected also a portion of citric acid, some muriate of ammonia, and muriate of lime. Upon which of these principles the tonic and febrifuge virtues of bark depends, has ever proved a fruitful source of controversy. Deschamps attributed them to Cinchonate of Lime, and asserted that two doses of thirty-six grains each, would cure any intermittent. Westering considered Tannin as the active constituent; while M. Seguin assigned all the virtues to the principle which precipitates gallic acid, and which, as it has been before stated, he mistook for gelatine. Fabroni concluded from his experiments, that the febrifuge power of the bark did not belong exclusively and essentially to the astringent, bitter, or to any other individual principle, since the quantity of these would necessarily be increased by long boiling, whereas the virtues of the bark are notoriously diminished by protracted ebullition. This argument however will not go far, when we consider the chemical changes which the liquid is known to suffer during that operation, and by which a considerable portion of its matter is rendered insoluble. Such was the state of our knowledge respecting the composition of the Cinchona, when Pelletier and Caventou, guided by analogy, were led to infer the presence of an alkaline element of activity in its composition. The merit, belonging to the researches of these eminent chemists, does not so much consist in the discovery of new elements, as in the proofs which they have furnished of the well known principle, Cinchonine, being a salifiable base,^[461] and in demonstrating the peculiar states of combination in which it exists in the different species of Cinchona.

1. Cinchona Lancifolia.

Their analysis of the Pale Bark, furnished the following principles.

1.

Acidulous Kinate of Cinchonia.^[462]

2.

A green fatty matter.

3.

Red Colouring matter, slightly soluble.

4.

Ditto soluble. (Tannin.)

5.

Yellow colouring matter.

6.

Kinate of Lime.

7.

Gum.

8.

Starch.

9.

Lignin.

332Cinchonia, when obtained in an isolated form,^[463] is distinguished by the following characters and habitudes.

It is white, transparent, and crystallizes in the form of needles; it has but little taste, circumstance depending upon its comparative insolubility, as it requires no less than 7000 parts of cold water for its solution; in boiling water it is soluble in 2500 times its weight, but a considerable part separates, on cooling. In alcohol and the acids it is much more soluble, and imparts to such menstrua the characteristic bitter of the bark; it dissolves only in small quantities in the fixed and volatile oils, or in sulphuric ether. Cinchonia restores the colour of litmus which has been reddened by an acid. With acids it combines and forms neutral salts, of which the solubility and crystalline form vary with the acid employed.

Sulphate of Cinchonia, easily crystallizable and moderately soluble, has been found to consist of Cinchonia 100, Sulphuric acid 13·02.

Nitrate of Cinchonia, uncrystallizable, and sparingly soluble.

Muriate of Cinchonia, crystallizes in very beautiful needles, and is more soluble than the preceding salts.

Oxalate of Cinchonia, nearly insoluble; hence by pouring oxalic acid, or oxalate of ammonia into solutions of any of the soluble salts of cinchonia, we obtain a very white and abundant precipitate, which might be mistaken for oxalate of lime; it is however soluble in an excess of acid, and in alcohol.

Gallate of Cinchonia, equally as insoluble as the Oxalate, whence the precipitate occasioned by pouring an infusion of galls into the decoctions of genuine cinchona.

Cinchonia, when heated, does not fuse before decomposition. Its ultimate elements are oxygen, hydrogen, and carbon; the latter being predominant.

The Kinic acid, which exists in native combination with the Cinchonia, amongst several other peculiar properties, is convertible by means of heat into a substance (acide pyrokinique,) which is crystallizable, and capable of producing with iron a most beautiful green colour.

2. Cinchona Cordifolia.

In the Yellow Bark, these chemists discovered also a salifiable base, quite distinct however in its character and habitudes from Cinchonia; they accordingly have designated it by another name, viz. Quinine, but which we shall hereafter call Quina. In speaking of these two bases, the authors compare them, in point of dissimilarity, to the fixed alkalies, potass and soda. Quina is distinguished from Cinchonia by the following characters. 333It cannot, like this latter body, be crystallized by evaporation from its alcoholic solution, although it may be obtained in transparent plates. It is very soluble in æther; in water it is as insoluble as cinchonia, but its taste is much more bitter. The salts which it forms are different from those of cinchonia, both in the proportion of their elements, and in the properties which they possess, being generally much more bitter. In comparing their composition, Quina will appear to have less capacity of saturation^[464] than cinchonia.

Sulphate of Quina. It forms crystals quite remarkable for their satin-like and pearly lustre. It is soluble in cold water, a property which is very considerably increased by an excess of acid.^[465] It appears from the observations of M. Callaude, apothecary at Annecy, that Sulphate of Quina exposed to a gentle heat, becomes highly luminous; and M. Pelletier has since found that Sulphate of Cinchonia, when exposed in a capsule to the steam of boiling water, exhibits the same phenomenon, but that neither Quina nor Cinchonia, by themselves, nor their acetates, possess this phosphorescent quality. This appears to be the most efficient of all the salts of Bark, and is the one from which I have frequently derived much advantage. In its exhibition we must be careful not to combine it with substances that form insoluble compounds with it. The Infusum Rosæ compositum is objectionable as a vehicle, on account of the astringent matter which it contains, and which therefore precipitates the Quina from its solution. I have lately seen a prescription, in which the salt is directed to be rubbed with a few grains of Cream of Tartar, and then to be dissolved 334in mint water. This is obviously injudicious, since Tartaric acid decomposes the sulphate, and occasions an insoluble Tartrate, which is precipitated. The form in which I have usually prescribed it is in that of solution, with a small quantity of sulphuric acid, in the proportion of a minim to every grain of the salt. A Wine of Quina may be made by adding five grains of the sulphate to a pint of Sherry; a Tincture, by dissolving the same quantity in eight fluid-ounces of Rectified Spirit. The sulphate is to be preferred to the pure Quina in these cases, because, when the tincture is made by using the alkali, not saturated by an acid, a precipitate is formed on adding it to aqueous liquors. Dose of the Sulphate, gr. i.–v.

Acetate of Quina, very remarkable for the great facility with which it crystallizes, and for the pearly aspect and agreeable stellated grouping of the crystals; whereas the acetate of cinchonia crystallizes with difficulty, and simply in plates transparent, and devoid of lustre.

Quina forms with the oxalic, gallic and tartaric acids, salts as insoluble as those which the same acids form with Cinchonia.

3. Cinchona Oblongifolia.

The Red Bark upon analysis was found to contain a double basis, and to yield both Cinchonia and Quina, and, what is still more extraordinary, the quantity of each exceeded that which is known to exist in the grey and yellow barks.

The latest experiments, however, made on very large quantities of the bark, have shewn that Quina and Cinchonia exist simultaneously in all the three species; but the Cinchonia is, relatively to the Quina, in greater quantity in the grey bark; whilst, in the yellow bark, the Quina so predominates, that the presence of the Cinchonia might well have escaped notice when small quantities were operated on.

Having thus furnished a sketch of this curious discovery, we have next to enquire whether the alkaline bases in question do actually concentrate all the virtues of the barks in which they reside? M. Majendie^[466] informs us that Pelletier had very early after the discovery transmitted to him a portion of the new substances for trial, and that he has unequivocally determined that they do not possess any deleterious qualities,^[467] and are therefore essentially different from the principles of Nux vomica, (Strychnine,) Opium, (Morphia,) &c. According to the testimony of Dr. Double, as related in the same journal, they would seem to possess the medicinal properties of the cinchona.

In the third number of Majendie’s Journal we receive a report from M. le docteur Renauldin, of an intermittent cured by the Sulphate of Cinchonia, in doses of six grains.

As the discovery of an alkaline element in Opium led the way to the 335detection of salifiable bases in other active vegetables,^[468] it has seemed to me preferable that I should introduce those general observations which I wish to offer upon the subject of those bodies, under the history of that narcotic. It is only necessary in this place to caution the practitioner against the hasty generalizations of the too sanguine chemist; it has already been observed that those vegetable remedies, whose value has been established by the sober experience of ages, consist of different principles of activity, or, at least, owe a modified power to the compound effect of their several ingredients. (p. 154, note.)

Solubility of the Bark.^[469] Cold water extracts its bitter taste, with some share of its odour; when assisted by a moderate heat, the infusion is stronger, but becomes turbid as it cools; the infusion cannot be kept, even for a short time, without undergoing decomposition, and being spoiled; wine also extracts the virtues of bark, and is prevented by this substance from becoming sour, a fact which probably depends upon the avidity with which some of the principles of bark combine with oxygen, and which may throw some light upon the cause of its antiseptic virtues. The colouring matter of wine is precipitated by bark, as it is by charcoal, in the course of a few days. By decoction the active matter of cinchona is in a great degree extracted, but if the process be protracted beyond eight or ten minutes, it undergoes a very important chemical change, the precise nature of which is not well understood; the balance of affinities, however, by which the different elements are united, is evidently overthrown, and a considerable precipitation ensues; oxygen would also appear to have been absorbed; whether the Cinchonia becomes insoluble has not yet been ascertained, but experience has shewn that the general loss of solubility, produced by such a process, is accompanied with a corresponding loss of medicinal activity; on which account, the extract is necessarily a very inefficient preparation; if we attempt to redissolve it, not more than one half is soluble in water. Vinegar is a less powerful solvent than water; the active matter of bark is rendered more soluble by the addition of mineral acids, and by the earths and alkalies; these latter bodies deepen its colour, and precipitate the Cinchonia, for which reason, when they are employed, the decoction ought not to be filtered; see Form. 41, 42, and note thereon. Lime water has been recommended as a solvent, and it affords an excellent form for children and dyspeptic patients; for the same reason we obtain a stronger and perhaps a more 336efficient preparation, by triturating it with magnesia, previous to the process of infusion. Alcohol is a very powerful solvent, but the great activity of this menstruum so limits its dose that we are prevented from exhibiting a sufficient quantity of the bark in the form of tincture; it furnishes however an excellent adjunct to other preparations.

Incompatible Substances. Precipitates are produced by the salts of iron, sulphate of zinc, nitrate of silver, oxy-muriate of mercury, tartarized antimony, solutions of arsenic, &c. Any considerable portion of a tincture produces also a precipitation, which sometimes does not immediately take place, and the medicinal value of the bark is probably not impaired by it. As the infusions of nut galls and some other vegetable astringents precipitate the cinchonia from bark, it becomes a question how far such liquids are medicinally compatible; saline additions, as alum, muriate of ammonia, &c. have been frequently proposed, but in many such mixtures decompositions arise which must deceive us with regard to the expected effects. Forms of Exhibition. No form is so efficient as that of powder, a fact which would seem to argue against the exclusive value of the Cinchonia; even the ligneous fibre which the chemist pronounces to be inert and useless, may produce its share of benefit by modifying the solubility of the other ingredients, or by performing some mechanical duty which we are at present unable to understand or appreciate; but where the stomach rejects it, it must be administered in infusion or decoction, with the addition of its tincture. In cases where it is necessary to join cordials, an infusion of bark in Port wine^[470] is a popular and very useful form for its administration. Dose of the powder, gr. v to ʒij or more, of the infusion or decoction ℥ij. Medicinal Uses. It is powerfully tonic and antiseptic; it was introduced into practice for curing intermittent fevers, but since that period it has been generally used in diseases of debility, in fevers of the typhoid type, and in gangrene. It was first conjectured to be useful in gout by Sydenham, and Dr. Haygarth has strongly recommended its exhibition in acute rheumatism; when however it is used in these diseases, the greatest attention ought to be paid to the state of the bowels, and purgatives should be occasionally interposed. In Dyspepsia, the use of the purer bitters is to be greatly preferred to that of the bark. Officinal Preparations. Infus. Cinchonæ, L.E.D. Decoct. Cinchon. L.E.D. Extractum Cinchon. L.E. Extract. Cinchonæ resinosum. L.D. Tinct. Cinchonæ, L.E.D. Tinct. Cinchonæ comp. L.E.D. Tinct. Cinchon. Ammoniat. L. Magistral Formulæ, 31, 37, 40, 44, 127. Adulterations. The frauds committed under this head are most extensive; it is not only mixed with inferior barks, but frequently with genuine bark, the active constituents of which have been entirely extracted by decoction with water. In selecting cinchona bark, the following precautions may be useful; it should be dense, heavy and dry, not musty, nor spoiled by moisture; a decoction made of it should have a reddish colour when warm; but when cold, it should become paler, and deposit a brownish red sediment. When the bark is of a dark colour between red and yellow, it is either of a bad species, or it has not been well preserved. Its taste should 337be bitter, with a slight acidity, but not nauseous, nor very astringent; when chewed, it should not appear in threads, nor of much length; the odour is not very strong, but when bark has been well cured, it is always perceptible, and the stronger it is, provided it be pleasant, the better may the bark be considered. In order to give bark the form of quill, the bark gatherers not unfrequently call in the aid of artificial heat, by which its virtues are deteriorated; the fraud is detected by the colour being much darker, and upon splitting the bark, by the inside exhibiting stripes of a whitish sickly hue. In the form of powder, cinchona is always found more or less adulterated. During a late official inspection of the shops of apothecaries and druggists, the Censors repeatedly met with powdered cinchona having a harsh metallic taste, quite foreign to that which characterizes good bark.^[471] The best test of the goodness of bark is afforded by the quantity of Cinchonia, or Quina that may be extracted from it; and the manufacturer should always institute such a trial before he purchases any quantity, taking a certain number of pieces indiscriminately from the bulk. Much has been said of late concerning the probability of the genuine species of the cinchona tree becoming extinct; in consequence of which some succedaneum has been anxiously sought for; the bark of the broad-leaved willow, Salix Caprea, has been proposed for this purpose. Vogel recommends the root of Geum urbanum avens; others propose that of the Dastisca canabina.

The Cinchona Caribæa of the Edinburgh Pharmacopœia is said, by Dr. Wright, to whom we are indebted for our knowledge of it, to have satisfactorily answered in all cases where the Peruvian bark was indicated. The Geoffræa Intermis is often sold for it.

M. Ré, Professor of the Materia Medica at the Veterinary School at Turin, has announced that the Lycopus Europæus of Linnæus, called by the peasants of Piedmont the Herb China, is a complete succedaneum for Peruvian Bark.^[472] The success with which bark has been imitated by medicinal combination, has already been noticed in the first part of this work.

CINNAMOMI CORTEX. L.E.D (Laurus Cinnamomum.)

Cinnamon.

The qualities of Cinnamon depend upon the presence of an essential oil. Benzoic acid has been found in it. It is principally employed to cover the taste of nauseous medicines, and to correct the griping quality of different purgatives. It is, however, in itself, astringent and tonic, whence it has been found efficacious in the relief of alvine fluxes. Adulterations. It is sometimes intermixed with cinnamon from which the oil has been drawn; the fraud is detected by the weakness of the odour and taste of 338the specimen; sometimes it is mixed with cassia, but this is soon discovered, for cassia is thick and clumsy, breaks short, and smooth, and has a remarkable slimy taste, whereas the fracture of cinnamon is shivery, and its flavour warm and clean. Cinnamon ought not to leave a mawkish taste in the mouth; this circumstance denotes an inferior quality. There is an inferior kind imported into Europe from China, through the hands of private merchants; this is distinguished by being darker coloured, rougher, denser, and by breaking shorter; the taste is also harsher, more pungent, and ligneous, without the sweetness of Ceylon cinnamon. Dose of the cinnamon in powder is from grs. x. to ℈j. Officinal Prep. Aqua Cinnamomi, L.E.D, Spir Cinnamomi, L.E.D. Tinct. Cinnamomi, L.E.D. Tinct. Cinnamom. co. L. Pulv. Cinnamom. comp. L.E.

Cinnamomi Oleum. It is principally imported from Ceylon: it has a whitish yellow colour, a pungent burning taste, and the peculiar fine flavour of cinnamon in a very great degree.^[473] It should sink in water, and be entirely soluble in alcohol. It is one of the most powerful stimulants which we possess. Dose, ♏︎i to iij, on a lump of sugar.

COCCUS. L.E. (Coccus Cacti.) Coccinella. D.

Cochineal.

It is an insect imported from Mexico and New Spain, and has the appearance of a wrinkled berry or seed of a deep mulberry colour, with a white powder between the wrinkles. Uses. Its medicinal virtues are now entirely discredited, and it is only employed for the sake of its colouring matter, for the purpose of a dye; it was known to the Phœnicians, and was the tolu of the Jews. Its watery solution is of a violet crimson, its alcoholic of a deep crimson, and its alkaline of a purple hue; the colour of the watery infusion is brightened by acids, cream of tartar, and alum, and at the same time partly precipitated. Dr. John has given the name of Cochenelin to this colouring principle, which M. M. Pelletier and Caventou have lately obtained in a perfectly pure state, as a very brilliant purple red powder with a granular crystalline appearance; these chemists propose to call it Carmine, but as Mr. Children very justly observes, if we adopt the term, its termination should be altered, to avoid confounding the pure colouring matter with the pigment in common use. It may be called Carmina, a more harmonious name than Cochenelin, (Ann: de Chimie, vol. viii). Incompatible Substances. The colouring matter is decomposed by sulphate of iron, sulphate of zinc, and acetate of lead. Officinal Preparations. Tinct: Cardamom: comp: L.D. Tinct: Cinchon: comp: L.D. Tinct: Gentian, comp: E. Tinct: Cantharid: D. Adulterations. It is invariably adulterated with pieces of dough, formed in moulds, and coloured with cochineal. I understand that this fraud gives employment to a very considerable number of women and children in this metropolis. A cargo of the counterfeit article was some time since exported, in order to obtain the drawback; by throwing a suspected sample 339into water, we shall dissolve the spurious ones, and ascertain the extent of the adulteration.

COLCHICI RADIX, ET SEMINA. L.E.D.

Colchicum Autumnale.

The Bulb of the Meadow Saffron.

Qualities. When recent it has scarcely any odour, but its taste is bitter, hot and acrid. Chemical Composition. Its properties reside in a milky juice, and depend upon an alkaline principle; it contains also gum, starch, inulin, and extractive matter, which, when in solution, undergoes a chemical change, analogous, I apprehend, to that which takes place in the infusion of Senna, and it would appear with similar inconvenience. Sir Everard Home ascertained that this deposit, in the vinous infusion, excites nausea and griping, but that it may be removed without destroying the efficacy of the medicine. The alkaline element, similar to that of the Hellebore (Veratria), lately found in it, appears to exist in combination with gallic acid. (Annales de Chimie, tom. xiv. Mai, 1820.) This alkaline body would seem to display its greatest energies by its action upon mucous surfaces; in small portions it excites violent sneezing, and when applied to the membrane of the stomach, immediate vomiting and purging are the result.^[474] See Veratri radix. The virtues of the bulb of Colchicum are very variable, according to the place of growth and season of the year. Since the third edition of this work, I have been favoured with some valuable observations upon this subject by Mr. Alexander Gordon; he says that it is in its greatest perfection from the beginning of June until the middle of August.^[475] It is also necessary to extract the virtues of the bulb as soon as it is gathered, for although removed from the earth, the developing process of vegetation continues, and the substance undergoes a corresponding series of chemical changes, and finally becomes as inert as if it had remained in the ground. It is a problem of some importance to discover a method of destroying the vegetable life of the bulb, without at the same time injuring its virtues, for I apprehend that a want of attention to the above precaution frequently renders the vinous infusion inactive. The practitioner engaged in preparing this vegetable remedy will find some valuable directions in the third edition of Thomson’s Dispensatory. The flower of the meadow saffron is very poisonous to cattle. Solubility. Vinegar and wine^[476] are the best menstrua for extracting its 340active qualities; by decoction its essential oil is dissipated. Medicinal Uses. It has been much extolled on the continent as a remedy in dropsy, especially in hydro-thorax, and in humoral asthma; its operation however as a diuretic, is less certain than squill, although its modus operandi is analogous to it, as will be seen by referring to our new arrangement of Diuretic remedies. As a specific in gout its efficacy has been fully ascertained; it allays pain, and cuts short the paroxysm. It has also a decided action upon the arterial system, which it would appear to control through the medium of the nerves. Incompatible Substances. In my opinion, acids, and all oxygenated substances render the vinous infusion drastic; on the contrary, alkalies render its principles more soluble, and its operation more mild, but not less efficacious. Magnesia may judiciously accompany its exhibition. Dose of the saturated vinous infusion, the only form in which its successful operation can be insured, fʒss to fʒj, whenever the patient is in pain. See Vinum Colchici. Officinal Preparations. Acetum Colchici, L. Oxymel Colchici, D. Vinum Colchici, L. Spiritus Colchici Ammoniatus, L. Syrupus Colchici Autumnalis, E.

Colchici Semina. Dr. Williams of Ipswich has lately published an account of the efficacy of the Seeds of Colchicum, which he says possess all the virtues of the root, without its pernicious^[477] qualities; the form in which he administers them, is in that of vinous infusion.^[478] He also informs me that he has experienced considerable tonic effects from these seeds; and that unlike other narcotic remedies they do not appear to produce, or favour congestion in the head. The seeds ought not to be bruised, as their virtues reside chiefly in the husk, or cortical part.

COLOCYNTHIDIS PULPA. L.E.D.

(Cucumis Colocynthis.)

Colocynth. Coloquintida. Bitter Cucumber.

Qualities. The medullary part of this fruit, which is alone made use of, is a light, white, spongy body. Taste, intensely bitter and nauseous. Odour, when dry, none. Chemical Composition. Mucilage, resin, a bitter principle, and some gallic acid. Solubility. Alcohol and water alike extract its virtues, but the active principle resides both in the portion 341soluble in water, and in that which is insoluble. Medicinal Uses. It is a very powerful drastic cathartic, and was employed by the ancients in dropsical and lethargic diseases. Many attempts have been made to mitigate its violence, which is best effected by triturating it with gummy farinaceous substances, or the oily seeds; the watery decoction or infusion is much less severe, and has been recommended in worm cases, but it is rarely employed, except in combination with other purgatives. Thunberg informs us, (see his Travels, vol. ii, p. 171) that this article is rendered so perfectly mild at the Cape of Good Hope by being pickled, that it is absolutely used as food both by the natives and colonists. Mixed with paste or other cements, it is used to keep away insects, which it does by its extreme bitterness. Dose, grs. iv. to x. Incompatible Substances. The infusion is disturbed by sub-acetate, and acetate of lead; nitrate of silver; sulphate of iron, and by the fixed alkalies. Officinal Preparations. Extract. Colocynth. L. Extract. Colocynth. comp. L.D. Pil. Aloes cum Colocynth. D.E. (B) When the fruit is larger than a St. Michael’s orange, and has black acute pointed seeds, it is not good.

CONFECTIONES L. Confections.

Under this title the London College comprehends the conserves and electuaries of its former Pharmacopœias; but in strict propriety, and for practical convenience, the distinction between conserves and electuaries ought to have been maintained. Saccharine matter enters into each of these compositions, but in different proportions, and for different objects. In conserves it is intended to preserve the virtues of recent vegetables; in electuaries, to impart convenience of form. See Electuaria.

Confectio Amygdalarum. L. This preparation affords an expeditious mode of preparing the almond emulsion; it should be used in the proportion of a drachm to each fluid-ounce of distilled water.

Confectio Aromatica. L. Electuarium Aromaticum. E.D. This is a very useful combination of various aromatics, to which the London and Dublin colleges have added a carbonate of lime; this circumstance makes the preparation a judicious constituent for the exhibition of active salts, liable to be invalidated by the presence of acid in the stomach, but, at the same time, rendering it incompatible with acids, antimonial wine, &c. These observations do not of course extend to the aromatic electuary of the Edinburgh pharmacopœia. See Form: 15, 42, 49, 125, 126. Dose, ℈j to ʒj.

Confectio Cassiæ. L. The ingredients of this confection are manna, tamarind pulp, and syrup of roses. It is gently laxative, and from its agreeable flavour is well calculated for children. The pharmaceutist, in preparing it, must take care that he does not substitute the syrup of the red, for that of the damask rose; a substitution, as stated under the head of Syrupi, not very unusual. The confection does not ferment or become acescent. Dose, ʒj to ℥j.

Confectio Opii. L. Electuarium Opiatum. E. This is a combination of aromatics with opium, intended as a substitute for the Mithridate and Theriaca of the old pharmacopœias. It is highly useful in flatulent cholic and diarrhœa, and in all cases where a stimulant narcotic is indicated. One grain of opium is contained in grs. 36 of the London, and in grs. 43 of the Edinburgh preparation. Dose, grs. x to xxx.

342Confectio Piperis Nigri. L. This preparation has been introduced into the Pharmacopœia, on the suggestion of several eminent practitioners, who have experienced its utility in certain cases of Piles. It is intended to resemble Ward’s^[479] Paste, whose composition has been given in all the former editions of this work, and according to which Formula the committee have directed the present preparation. It is principally useful in those cases attended with considerable debility, in leucophlegmatic habits, and when piles arise from a deficient secretion in the rectum. On the other hand, the composition will as certainly prove injurious in those cases which are accompanied with erysipelatous inflammation, and which require cooling laxatives, and a total abstinence from all stimulants, for their cure.

Confectio Rosæ Caninæ, olim Conserva Cynosbati. Its acidity depends upon uncombined citric acid, a circumstance which it is essential to remember when we direct its use in combination. The hip, or fruit of this plant, beat up with sugar, and mixed with wine, is a very acceptable treat in the north of Europe.

Confectio Rosæ Gallicæ. Confection of the Red Rose. Principally used as a vehicle for more active medicines. It is sometimes brightened by the addition of a small proportion of sulphuric acid; this is a circumstance of great importance, where the confection is used for making the mercurial pill. See Pilulæ Hydrarg. It is a very common excipient for pills, see Form: 21, 59, 66, 73, 122, 160, 170.

Confectio Rutæ, Confection of Rue. The principal use of this preparation is as an ingredient in antispasmodic enemas.

Confectio Scammoneæ. L.D. Scammony, two parts, powdered cloves and ginger, of each, one part, to which are added a small portion of oil of carraway, and of syrup of roses, q. s. It is a stimulating cathartic, and may be given in the dose of ʒss to ʒj.

Confectio Sennæ. L.E.D olim Electuarium Lenitivum. The ingredients of this preparation are senna leaves, figs, tamarind pulp, cassia pulp, the pulp of prunes, coriander seeds, liquorice root, and refined sugar. It is gently laxative, and is an excellent vehicle for the exhibition of more powerful cathartics. (Form. 74, 93.) When properly made, it is an elegant preparation, not apt to ferment, nor to become acescent; the directions of the pharmacopœia are however rarely followed. Jalap blackened with walnut liquor, is frequently substituted for the more expensive article cassia; and the great bulk of it, sold in London, is little else than prunes, figs, and jalap. I understand that a considerable quantity is also manufactured in Staffordshire, into which unsound and spoilt apples enter as a principal ingredient. The preparation sold at Apothecaries’ Hall is certainly unique in excellence. Dose, ʒij or more.

The above are the principal confections which are employed in modern practice, for happily the shops are at length disencumbered of those nauseous insignificant conserves, unknown to the ancients, but which were ushered into use by the Arabian physicians, and which continued for so many years to disgrace our dispensatories and to embarrass our practice. 343The French, in their new Codex Medicamentarius, have limited their electuaries to a number not exceeding nine; they have however made up in complexity for deficiency in number; the Electuarium de croco, which is intended to answer the same ends as our confectio aromatica, has no less than twelve ingredients, although the force of the combination depends entirely upon carbonate of lime, cinnamon, and saffron; and so it is with the rest.

CONII FOLIA. L.E. (Conium Maculatum.)

Cicuta. D. Hemlock.

Qualities. The leaves, when properly dried, have a strong and narcotic odour, and a slightly bitter and nauseous taste: the fresh leaves contain not only the narcotic, but also the acrid principle: by exsiccation, the latter is nearly lost, but the former undergoes no change; the medicinal properties of the leaves are therefore improved by the operation of drying. Chemical Composition. The medicinal activity of the plant resides in a resinous element, which may be obtained in an insulated form, by evaporating an ethereal tincture made with the leaves, on the surface of water; it has a rich dark green colour, and contains the peculiar odour and taste of hemlock in perfection; a dose of half a grain will produce vertigo and head-ache. It may be distinguished by the name of Conein. The watery extract of this plant can therefore possess but little power, a fact which Orfila has fully established by experiment. No part of the plant is entirely destitute of efficacy, though the leaves possess the most activity. Solubility. Alcohol and æther extract its virtues. Incompatible Substances. Its energies are greatly diminished by vegetable acids; hence vinegar is its best antidote. Medicinal Uses. It is a powerful sedative, and has been deservedly commended for its powers in allaying morbid irritability: according to my own experience, it is, in well directed doses, by far the most efficacious of all palliatives, for quieting pulmonary irritation. It has been extolled also in the cure of schirrus and cancer, and it will without doubt prove in such cases a valuable resource, from its sedative influence. Externally, it will afford considerable relief in irritable ulcers, when applied in the form of fomentation or cataplasm, see Form. 17, 18. Forms of Exhibition. The dried leaves, powdered, and made into pills, (Form. 2, 17, 18.) The powder ought to have a fine lively green colour. Dose, gr. iij, gradually increased, until some effect is produced. Several different plants have been mistaken for, and employed in the place of hemlock, such as Cicuta Virosa, (the water hemlock,) Æthusa Cynapium, Caucalis anthriscus, and several species of Chærophyllum. Officinal Preparations. Extract. Conii. L.E.D.

CONTRAJERVÆ RADIX. L.E.

(Dorstenia Contrajerva, Radix.) Contrajerva Root.

The qualities of this plant are alike extracted by spirit and water; the watery decoction, however, is very mucilaginous; as it contains no astringent matter, the salts of iron do not affect it. Dose of the powdered root, gr. v. to ʒss, but it is rarely used. It is considered cordial, and diaphoretic. 344Has it any virtues? The Spanish Indians have long used it as an antidote to poisons; the Spanish word contrahiérba signifies antidote. Officinal Prep. Pulv. Contrajerv. co. L.

COPAIBA, L.E. (Copaifera Officinalis.)

Balsamum Copaibæ. D.

Copaiba, Copaiva, or Capivi Balsam.

Qualities. Consistence, that of oil, or a little thicker. Colour, pale golden yellow. Odour, fragrant and peculiar. Taste, aromatic, bitter, and sharp. Sp. Grav. 0·950. Chemical Composition. It is improperly denominated a balsam, for it contains no benzoic acid, but consists of resin and essential oil. Solubility. It is insoluble in water, but soluble in ten parts of alcohol, and in expressed and essential oils; with the pure alkalies it forms white saponaceous compounds which are soluble in water, forming opaque emulsions. Medicinal Uses. Stimulant, diuretic, and laxative; it seems to act more powerfully on the urinary passages than any of the other resinous fluids; hence its use in gleets and in fluor albus. Its use gives the urine an intensely bitter taste, but not a violet smell, as the turpentines do. By referring to the Synoptical arrangement of Diuretic remedies, it will appear that Copaiba is referred to Class I, 1. b. for there is reason to believe that its active principle undergoes absorption, and by coming in contact with the urinary organs, produces the medicinal effects for which it is so highly valued. Forms of Exhibition. Diffused in soft or distilled water by yolk of egg, or by twice its weight of mucilage, fʒss to every f℥j of water, forms an elegant mixture, or it may be given dropped on sugar, and in this latter form it is certainly more disposed to act on the urinary organs, than when exhibited in that of an emulsion. (Form. 156.) Dr. Chapman has proposed a new mode of exhibiting this medicine; he advises us to pour the Copaiba on half a wine-glassful of water, and afterwards to add slowly a few drops of a common bitter tincture, by which means the Copaiba will be collected in a small globule that may be easily swallowed, while its taste, so nauseous to most patients, will be entirely masked by the bitterness of the vehicle. In whatever form, however, this medicine is administered, it is extremely apt to derange the digestive organs, if long continued, and the unpleasant effects thus occasioned remain, in some cases, for a very long period.^[480] Adulterations. A considerable quantity sold in London is entirely factitious. A curious trial took place some time since, between the owner of certain premises that were burnt down, and the Governors of the Sun Fire Office, in consequence of the latter refusing to indemnify the proprietor for his loss, because the fire had been occasioned by his making Balsam of Copaiba. 345This article is also adulterated with mastiche and oil; M. Bucholz asserts that if it does not dissolve in a mixture of four parts of pure alcohol, and one of rectified æther, we may infer its adulteration; rape oil is also frequently mixed with it, in which case if dropped into water, the drops will not retain their spherical form, as they invariably will, if pure.

CORNUA. L.E.D. Cervus Elaphus.

Stag’s, or Hart’s Horn.

The horns of the stag differ only from bone, in containing less of the phosphate of lime, and a larger proportion of gelatine; by boiling, they yield a clear, transparent, and flavourless jelly, in quantity about one-fourth of the weight of the shavings employed; to obtain which we should boil ℥iv in f℥vij of water, until reduced to f℥vi. Adulterations. This article is often sophisticated with the shavings of mutton bone; the fraud is detected by their greater degree of brittleness. They were formerly so much used for the preparation of ammonia, that the alkali was commonly called Salt, or Spirit, of Hartshorn.

CORNUS FLORIDA.

(Common Dogwood.)

Cortex.

[The dogwood is a common forest tree, abundant in almost every part of the United States. It flowers in the months of May and June. The bark, which is the part used in medicine, yields by analysis tannin, gallic acid, resin, gum resin, bitter extractive, and mucilage. The dogwood is a powerful tonic, and by many practitioners has been used as a substitute for the Peruvian bark. The diseases in which it has been found serviceable are intermitting and remitting fevers, dyspepsia, general debility, &c. It may be given in substance, in doses of ʒj to ʒij—in extract, from 5 to 15 grs. or in infusion or decoction.]

CRETA PRÆPARATA. L.D.

Carbonas Calcis Preparatus. E. Prepared Chalk.

This is common chalk, the coarser particles of which have been removed by the mechanical operation of washing. It consists of carbonate of lime, with various earthy impurities. The Dublin Pharmacopœia directs a chemical process for obtaining a perfectly pure carbonate (Creta Præcipitata), but it appears to be an unnecessary refinement. Med. Uses. It is antacid and absorbent, on which account it is useful in acidities of the primæ viæ, and in diarrhœas, after removing all irritating matters by previous evacuation. (Form. 52.) From its absorbent properties, it is a good external application to ulcers discharging a thin ichorous matter. Dose, grs. x to ℈ij, or more. It is almost unnecessary to state that it must not be combined with acidulous salts; I have however seen a formula for a powder, intended as an astringent, in which chalk and alum entered as 346ingredients. Officinal Prep. Hydrargyrum cum creta. L. Pulvis cretæ comp. L.E. Pulv. Opiatus. E. (F) Mist. Cretæ. L.E. Trochisci Carbonatis Calcis. E. Confectio Aromatica. L.E. (G)

CROCI STIGMATA. L.E.

(Crocus Sativus.)

Crocus. D. Saffron.

Qualities. Form, cakes, consisting of the stigmata of the flower, closely pressed together. Odour, sweet, penetrating and diffusive. Taste, warm and bitterish. Colour, a rich and deep orange red. Chemical Composition. One hundred parts consist of sixty-two of extractive, the remaining parts are chiefly ligneous fibre, with small portions of resin and essential oil. Bouillon Lagrange and Vogel have examined this extractive matter very accurately, and from the circumstance of its watery infusion assuming different colours when treated with different agents, they have named it polychroite. Thus chlorine and light destroy its colour, sulphuric acid changes it to indigo, which gradually becomes lilac, and nitric acid gives it a green hue. Solubility. It yields its colour and active ingredients to water, alcohol, proof spirit, wine, vinegar, and in a less degree to æther; the watery infusion, and the vinous tincture soon grow sour, and lose their properties, and the solution in vinegar becomes quickly colourless. Med. Uses. It is now never employed but for the sake of its colour or aromatic flavour, as an adjunct to other substances. It is much used in foreign cookery to colour rice, &c. Officinal Prep. Syrup. Croci. L. Tinct. Croci sativi. E. Confect. Aromat. L.D. (O). Pil. Aloes cum Myrrha. L. (G). Tinct. Aloes comp. L.E.D. (O) Tinct. Cinchonæ comp. L.D. Tinct. Rhei. L. (O). Tinct. Rhei comp. L. (O). Adulterations. It is not unfrequently sophisticated with the fibres of smoked beef, or the petals of flowers, especially of the marigold, (Calendula Officinalis,) and of the safflower, (Carthamus Tinctorius.) The former of these fraudulent ingredients is indicated by the unpleasant odour which arises when the saffron is thrown upon live coals; the latter, by infusing the specimen in hot water, when the expanded stigmata may be easily distinguished from the other petals of substituted flowers; a deficiency of colour and odour in the infusion indicates that a tincture or infusion has already been drawn from the saffron, and that it has been subsequently pressed again into a cake. In the market is to be found saffron from Sicily, France, and Spain, besides the English; that which is imported from Spain, is generally spoiled with oil, in which it is dipt with the intention of preserving it. The cake saffron sold in some of the less respectable shops, consists of one part of saffron and nine of marigold, made into a cake with oil, and then pressed; it is sold in considerable quantities for the use of birds, when in moult.

347CUBEBA.^[481] L. (Piper Cubeba.) Baccæ.

Cubebs, or Java Pepper.

This Indian spice, a native of Java, formerly held a place in our materia medica, and entered into the composition of mithridate and theriaca, but being inferior in pungency and aromatic warmth to pepper, it fell into disuse. Lately, however, it has been ushered into surgical practice for the cure of gonorrhœa, with all the extravagance of praise which usually attends the revival of an old, or the introduction of a new medicine.^[482] It has been pronounced to be a specific in this complaint, if taken in the early stages, in the dose of a dessert-spoonful three times a day, in a sufficient quantity of water.^[483] The Indians have been long acquainted with the influence which cubebs exerts upon these organs; thus Garcias, “Apud Indos cubebarum in vino maceratarum est usus ad exitandam venerem.” Chemical Composition. M. Vauquelin has lately made a very accurate analysis of this pepper, from which its composition may be stated as follows: 1. A volatile oil, which is nearly solid.—2. A resin, resembling Balsam of Copaiba.—3. Another and coloured resin.—4. A coloured gummy matter.—5. An extractive principle, similar to that which is found in leguminous plants.—6. Some saline substances. He considers the resin resembling the Copaiba, to be the peculiar matter in which that property resides, which imparts to it the power of curing gonorrhœa. As the qualities of this spice do not reside in volatile elements, an extract made with rectified spirit will be found to possess the whole of its virtues. The French, in their new Codex Medicamentarius, have introduced the cubebs into their list of materia medica. There is a precaution, with respect to the exhibition of Cubebs, which it is important for the practitioner to remember—to keep the bowels thoroughly open; for where hardened fæces are allowed to accumulate, the spice insinuates itself into the mass, and produces excoriations in the rectum. Adulterations. The “Turkey Yellow Berries,” i. e. the dried fruit of the Rhamnus Catharticus, are often substituted for the Cubebs, and the similarity between them is so great, that the casual observer may be easily deceived.

CUMINI^[484] SEMINA. L. Cumin Seeds.

Qualities. Odour, strong, heavy, and peculiar; Taste, bitterish and warm. Chemical Composition. Gum, resin, and a yellow pungent 348oil, upon which the peculiar properties of the seeds depend. Solubility. Water does not extract more than their odour, but alcohol dissolves all the principles in which their virtues reside, and leaves upon evaporation a powerful extract. Medicinal Uses. Carminative and stomachic; they are however but rarely used, except as an ingredient in plasters.

CUPRI SULPHAS. L.E.D. Sulphate of Copper.

vulgo Blue Vitriol. Blue Copperas.

Qualities. Form, crystals, which are rhomboidal prisms. Colour, a deep rich blue. Taste, harsh, acrid, and styptic; they slightly effloresce; when treated with sulphuric acid, no effervescence occurs, a circumstance which at once distinguishes this salt from Œrugo. Chemical Composition. According to the latest experiments, it is an oxy-sulphate, consisting of one proportional of peroxide with two proportionals of sulphuric acid, and when crystallized, it contains ten proportionals of water; its beautiful colour depends on this last ingredient. Solubility. It is soluble in four parts of water at 60, and in less than two at 212°; the solution shews an excess of acid by reddening litmus. In alcohol it is insoluble. Incompatible Substances. Alkalies and their carbonates; sub-borate of soda; acetate of ammonia; tartrate of potass; muriate of lime; nitrate of silver; sub-acetate, and acetate of lead; oxy-muriate of mercury; all astringent vegetable infusions and tinctures. Iron immersed in the solution, precipitates copper in a metallic form; hence the exhibition of the filings of iron has been proposed as an antidote.^[485] Medicinal Uses. It 349is emetic from grs. ij to xv. tonic gr. 1/4; it is, however, but rarely used internally except as an emetic; externally it is employed as an escharotic; and, in solution, as a stimulant to foul obstinate ulcers.^[487] In the proportion of half a drachm to eight ounces of rose water, it forms a lotion which has been found very efficacious in phagedenic ulcers of the face, and in allaying itching when attended with erysipelatous inflammation about the anus and labia pudendi. It is also a styptic when applied in solution. Officinal Preparation. Solut. Cupri Sulphat. com. E. Cuprum Ammoniatum L.E.D. (I) (Form. 68.)

CUPRUM AMMONIATUM. L.D

Ammoniaretum Cupri. E. Ammoniated Copper.

Qualities. Form, a violet coloured mass, which on exposure to air becomes green, and is probably converted into a carbonate. Taste, styptic and metalline. Odour, ammoniacal. Chemical Composition. It is a triple salt, a sub-sulphate of oxide of copper, and ammonia. The Edinburgh College is certainly incorrect in calling it an ammoniuret. Solubility, f℥j; of water dissolves ℈j of this salt. Incompatible Substances; Acids; the fixed Alkalies; Lime water. Medicinal Uses. It is tonic and antispasmodic. Dr. Cullen first proposed its exhibition in epilepsy, and it has frequently been employed with evident advantage in that disease. It has been also given in chorea, after a course of purgatives. Brera considers it quite equal to Arsenic, in the cure of obstinate Intermittents; other physicians have commended it in cases of Hysteria. Forms of Exhibition. It may be formed into pills with bread; to 350which an addition of sugar has been recommended, to prevent them from becoming hard; but we must remember that recent experiments have shewn that sugar has the power of counteracting the operation of copper. Dose, gr. 1/4 cautiously encreased to grs. v. twice a day. Officinal Preparations. Liquor Cupri Ammoniati. L.

CUSPARIÆ CORTEX. L. (Cusparia febrifuga.)

Bonplandiæ Trifoliatæ Cortex. E.

Angustura, Cortex. D.

Cusparia, or Angustura Bark.

Qualities. Form, pieces covered with a whitish wrinkled thin epidermis; the inner surface is smooth, of a brownish yellow colour. Odour, not strong, but peculiar. Taste, bitter, slightly aromatic, and permanent. Chemical Composition. Cinchonia, resin, extractive, carbonate of ammonia, and essential oil. Solubility. Its active matter is taken up by cold and hot water, and is not injured by long decoction, but the addition of alcohol precipitates part of the extractive. Alcohol dissolves its bitter and aromatic parts, but proof spirit appears to be its most complete menstruum. Incompatible Substances. Sulphate of Iron; Sulphate of Copper; Oxy-muriate of Mercury; Nitrate of Silver; Tartarized Antimony; Sub-acetate, and Acetate of Lead; Potass; and perhaps the Mineral Acids, for they produce precipitates, as do also the infusions of Galls, and Yellow Cinchona. Medicinal Uses. Stimulant and tonic; it does not, like cinchona, oppress the stomach, but imparts a degree of warmth, expels flatus, and increases the appetite for food: with respect to its powers in the cure of intermittents, many doubts are entertained. Forms of Exhibition. In substance, infusion, decoction, tincture, or extract; its nauseous taste is best disguised by cinnamon. Dose of the powder, grs. v. to ℈j; of the infusion or decoction, f℥j; in large doses all the forms are liable to produce nausea. Form. 58. Officinal Prep. Infusum Cuspariæ. L. Tinct. Bonplandiæ Trifoliatæ. E. Tinct. Angusturæ. D. Adulterations. There is found in the market a particular bark, which has been called Fine Angustura, but which is of a different species, and is a very energetic poison. This bark is characterized by having its epidermis covered with a matter which has the appearance of rust of iron, and which, moreover, possesses certain chemical properties of this metal; for if water acidulated with muriatic acid be agitated in contact with its powder, it assumes a beautiful green colour, and affords with an alkaline prussiate, (Hydro-cyanate of Potass) a Prussian blue precipitate. Late researches have detected the presence of an alkaline element in this bark, on which the name of Brucia has been bestowed. When this alkali is dissolved in boiling alcohol, and crystallized by spontaneous evaporation, it yields colourless and transparent crystals in the form of oblique quadrangular prisms.

351DATURÆ STRAMONII HERBA. E.D.

The Herbaceous part of the Thorn Apple.

Qualities. Odour, fœtid and narcotic, occasioning head-ache and stupor; Taste, bitter and somewhat nauseous. Chemical Composition. Gum, resin, and carbonate of ammonia; the recent experiments of M. Brandes have also developed an alkaline element of activity, to which the name of Daturia has been assigned; it appears to exist in native combination with malic acid; when in an uncombined state it is nearly insoluble in water, and in cold alcohol, but boiling alcohol dissolves it. It has been obtained with difficulty in the form of quadrangular prisms. Solubility. The medicinal powers of the herb are alike extracted by aqueous and spirituous menstrua. Incompatible Substances. The infusion is precipitated by the salts of lead, silver, mercury, and iron; the mineral acids would also appear to produce some essential changes which may diminish its efficacy. Acetic acid increases its powers, although it relieves the effects of an overdose, if administered after the stomach has been emptied. This apparent anomaly is easily explained when we consider, that in the first case its operation is purely chemical, increasing the solubility of the active principle of the plant, while in the latter case it operates as a vital agent, restoring to the nervous system that energy which has been suspended by the narcotic influence of the vegetable. Medicinal Uses. It is narcotic, and has been regarded by many authors as eminently antispasmodic; Dr. Barton, an American physician, made very extensive trials of its efficacy in Mania, the result of which is highly favourable to its use. Dr. Marcet first noticed its salutary effects in chronic diseases attended with violent pain; he found it to lessen powerfully, and quickly, sensibility and pain, and to produce a sort of nervous shock, attended with a momentary affection of the head and eyes, with a degree of nausea, and with phenomena resembling those which are produced by intoxication. It seems to be more particularly beneficial in chronic rheumatism, sciatica, &c. Its root, smoked in the manner of tobacco, has been much extolled as a remedy in the paroxysms of spasmodic asthma; this practice however, is not unattended with danger;^[488] the same transient feelings of relief may be procured by smoking a mixture of opium and any aromatic herb. Forms of Exhibition. Some discrepancy of opinion has existed upon this point; the native practitioners in the Carnatic gave the powdered root; Hufeland recommends a tincture of the whole plant; in this country an extract of the leaves, or, more lately, of the seeds, has been preferred, and I have been recently informed by Sir Henry Halford, that he has found a tincture made with the seeds,^[489] a very efficient and unobjectionable preparation. Dr. Davy, at my request, has made a series of experiments upon the extracts prepared by Mr. Barry in vacuo, and his report upon the effects of that of Stramonium, will be found under the article Extract. Stramonii, which see. Dose. In the commencement, 352of the leaves powdered gr. i. of the seeds gr. ss. It is said that the Turks sometimes use the Stramonium instead of Opium, and the Chinese infuse the seeds in beer. Cataplasms of the fresh bruised leaves have been very successfully used in sores of a highly irritable and painful nature. Officinal Preparation. Extract. Stramonii.

DECOCTA. L.E.D. Decoctions.

These are solutions of the active principles of vegetables obtained by boiling them in water. To decide upon the expediency of this form of preparation, in each particular case, requires a knowledge of the chemical composition of the substance in question. In conducting the operation, the following rules must be observed.

1. Those substances only should be decocted, whose medicinal powers reside in principles which are soluble in water.

2. If the active principle be volatile, decoction must be an injurious process; and, if it consist of extractive matter, long boiling, by favouring its oxidizement, will render it insipid, insoluble, and inert.

3. The substances to be decocted should be previously bruised, or sliced, so as to expose an extended surface to the action of the water.

4. The substances should be completely covered with water, and the vessel slightly closed, in order to prevent, as much as possible, the access of air: the boiling should be continued without interruption, and gently.

5. In compound decoctions, it is sometimes convenient not to put in all the ingredients from the beginning, but in succession, according to their hardness, and the difficulty with which their virtues are extracted; and if any aromatic, or other substances containing volatile principles, or oxidizable matter, enter into the composition, the boiling decoction should be simply poured upon them, and covered up until cold.

6. The relative proportions of different vegetable substances to the water, must be regulated by their nature; the following general rule may be admitted; of roots, barks, or dried woods, from ʒij to ʒvj to every pint of water; of herbs, leaves, or flowers, half that quantity will suffice.

7. The decoction ought to be filtered through linen, while hot, as important portions of the dissolved matter are frequently deposited on cooling; care must be also taken that the filtre is not too fine, for it frequently happens, that the virtues of a decoction depend upon the presence of particles which are suspended in a minutely divided state.

8. A decoction should be prepared in small quantities only, and never employed, especially in summer, forty-eight hours after it has been made. It should be considered as an extemporaneous preparation, but introduced into the pharmacopœia for the purpose of convenience, and for the sake of abridging the labour of the physician.

It is very important that the water employed for making decoctions, should be free from that quality which is denominated hardness.

The officinal decoctions may be classed into simple and compound preparations.

3531. Simple.

Decoctum Cinchonæ. See Cinchona, and Form: 41, 42, 127. The codex of Paris directs a decoction of bark, “Decoctum Kinœ Kinœ,” which is only half the strength of ours, but contains an addition of a small quantity of carbonate of potass.

Decoctum Cydoniæ. The inner coats of the seeds of the Quince (Pyrus Cydonia) yield a very large proportion of mucilage, but as hot water extracts from them also fecula and other principles, the decoction very soon decomposes. It has been strongly recommended as an application to erysipelatous surfaces; and it would seem to be peculiarly adapted for such a purpose, since it is not so easily washed away from the part to which it is applied, as ordinary mucilage; for the same reason it has been preferred as an ingredient in injections, gargles, &c. It is stated by some practitioners to be a very useful application, when united with the acetate of lead, in cases of acute ophthalmia; such a combination, however, is extremely unchemical, and must invalidate the powers of the other ingredients. The native practitioners of India employ it as a cooling mucilaginous drink in gonorrhœa. An ounce of bruised Quince seed will make three pints of water as thick and ropy as the white of an egg; hence two drachms, the quantity directed by the College, is amply sufficient for a pint of the decoction. It is coagulated by alcohol, acids, and metallic salts.

Decoctum Digitalis. D. This is a very improper form for the exhibition of digitalis, being variable in strength.

Decoctum Dulcamaræ. L. In making this decoction we must take care that the operation of boiling is not continued too long. See Dulcamaræ Caules. Dose from f℥ss to f℥j.

Decoctum Lichenis. L.E.D. In this preparation we have the bitter principle of the plant united with its fecula. A portion of the former may be removed by macerating the lichen, and rejecting the first water. If ℥j of the mass be boiled for a quarter of an hour in f℥vj of water, we shall obtain mucilage of a consistence similar to that composed of one part of gum arabic and three of water. Its exhibition requires the same precaution as that of Mucilago Acaciæ. From the large proportion of fecula which this moss contains, it is perhaps as nutritive as any vegetable substance, the Cerealia of course excepted. See Lichen Island. Dose, a wine glass full occasionally.

Decoctum Papaveris. L. In making this decoction the whole of the capsule should be bruised, in order to obtain its mucilage and anodyne principle; the seeds should be also retained, as they yield a portion of bland oil which increases the emollient quality of the decoction. A large quantity of fixed oil is constantly in the market, which is derived from the seeds of the poppy. This decoction is a useful fomentation in painful swellings, &c.

Decoctum Quercus. L.E. Decoction is the usual form in which Oak Bark is exhibited, since all its active principles are soluble in water. Its astringent virtues depend upon gallic acid, tannin, and extractive. The decoction is disturbed by the following substances; the infusion of yellow cinchona; sub-acetate and acetate of lead; solutions of isinglass; the preparations of iron; oxy-muriate of mercury; and sulphate of zinc; all alkaline substances destroy its astringency, and are consequently incompatible 354with it. It is principally useful as a local astringent, in the forms of gargle, injection, or lotion. Its internal exhibition in obstinate diarrhœas, and alvine hemorrhages, has also proved highly beneficial. See Form: 51, 61. Dose, f℥ss to f℥j. Dr. Eberle states that in the Intermittents of very young children, he has in some cases used this decoction as a bath with efficacy.

Decoctum Sarsaparillæ. L.E.D. See Sarsaparilla. In making this decoction, it is rarely properly digested or boiled for a sufficient length of time to extract its virtues. The only salts which occasion precipitates in this decoction are, nitrate of mercury and acetate of lead; lime water has the same effect. Dose, f℥iv to f℥vj.

Decoctum Veratri. Stimulant and acrid; internally, it is cathartic, but too violent to be safely exhibited; it is useful as a lotion in scabies, and other cutaneous eruptions.

2. Compound Decoctions.

Decoctum Aloes Compositum. It resembles the well known Beaume de vie, although less purgative, and is a scientific preparation, constructed upon the true principles of medicinal combination. Aloes is the base, to which are added, 1st, sub-carbonate of potass, 2ndly, powdered myrrh, 3dly, extract of liquorice, 4thly, saffron, and after the decoction is made, 5thly, compound tincture of cardamoms. By the 1st ingredient the aloes is rendered more soluble; the 2d and 3d suspend the portion not dissolved, and at the same time disguise its bitterness; the 4th imparts an aromatic flavour, and the 5th not only renders it more grateful to the stomach, but prevents any spontaneous decomposition from taking place. Its taste is improved by keeping. It is a warm, gentle cathartic. Form: 80. Dose, f℥ss to f℥j. Its operation is different from that of simple aloes. See Aloes. The following substances are incompatible with it; strong acids, oxy-muriate of mercury; tartarized antimony; sulphate of zinc; and acetate of lead; and those salts which are decomposed by sub-carbonate of potass.

Decoctum Guaiaci Compositum. E. Commonly called Decoction of woods. This decoction has fallen into disuse, and deservedly, for it can possess but little power, except, as a diluent, or demulcent; the water takes up from the guaiacum only a small portion of extractive matter, and the virtues of sassafras, if any, must be dissipated. Dose, f℥ss to f℥j.

Decoctum Hordei Compositum.^[490] An elegant and useful demulcent, with an aperient tendency.

Decoctum Sarsaparillæ Compositum. L.D. This decoction, which is an imitation of the once celebrated Lisbon Diet Drink,^[491] differs materially from the Decoct: Guaiaci comp: from the addition of the mezereon root, which renders it diaphoretic and alterative, and useful in the treatment 355of secondary syphilis, and chronic rheumatism. Dose, from f℥iv to f℥vj three or four times a day.

DIGITALIS FOLIA. L.E.D. (Digitalis Purpurea.)

Foxglove.

Qualities. The leaves, when properly dried, have a slight narcotic odour, and a bitter nauseous taste, and when reduced to powder, a beautiful green colour. Chemical Composition. Extractive matter, and a green resin, in both of which the narcotic properties reside; they appear also to contain ammonia, and some other salts.^[492] Solubility. Both water and alcohol extract their virtues, but decoction injures them. Incompatible Substances. See Infusum Digitalis. Medicinal Uses. It is directly sedative, although some maintain the contrary opinion, diminishing the frequency of the pulse, and the general irritability of the system, and increasing the action of the absorbents, and the discharge by urine. The effects appear to be in a great degree connected with its sensible influence upon the body, which is indicated by feelings of slight nausea and languor; accordingly, every attempt to prevent these unpleasant effects, or to correct the operation of digitalis, by combining it with aromatic, or stimulant medicines, seems to be fatal to the diuretic powers of the remedy. Dr. Blackall, in his “Observations upon the cure of Dropsies,” has offered some remarks which bear upon this point, and to which I have before referred. See page 96 & 150.

Several of the formulæ introduced under the class of diuretics are combinations supported by high authority, but it is doubtful whether their adoption can be sanctioned upon principle; they are however well calculated to illustrate the nature of diuretic compounds, and this is the only purpose for which they were selected. See Form: 103. The French have introduced in their new Codex, an ethereal tincture, Tinctura Ætherea Digitalis purpureæ, in which the sedative influence of the plant must be entirely overwhelmed by the stimulant properties of the menstruum. Under the head of Diuretics, I have so fully considered the value of diuretic combinations, and the modus operandi of Digitalis, that it is unnecessary to dwell upon the subject in this place. Digitalis has considerable influence over the action of the heart; and in certain diseases, attended with inordinate motions of that organ, it proves eminently serviceable; I have employed it with great satisfaction in cases of palpitation connected with a state of general irritability, so frequently occurring in female disorders; and according to my observations where it succeeds, opium generally does harm. Form: 32. Forms of Exhibition. In substance, tincture, or infusion; the latter form is most efficient as a 356diuretic. Dose of the powdered leaves gr. j, in a pill, twice a day; the augmentation of the dose should proceed at the rate of one-fourth of the original quantity, every second day, until its operation becomes apparent, either on the kidneys, or on the constitution generally. If it produce such a disturbance in the primæ viæ as to occasion vomiting or purging, its diuretic powers will be lost; in such a case the addition of a small portion of opium, or opiate confection, may be expedient. The distressing effects of an overdose are best counteracted by tincture of opium in brandy and water, and by the application of a blister to the pit of the stomach. A London Surgeon has lately stated that he has prescribed the tincture of Digitalis, in the dose of twenty-five drops, three times a day, in barley-water, with great success in Gonorrhæa. Officinal Preparations. Infus: Digitalis. L.E. Tinct: Digital: L.E.D. Decoct: Digitalis: D. It is very important that the leaves of this plant be properly collected, and accurately preserved; they should be gathered when the plant is beginning to flower, and, as it is biennial, in the second year of its growth; the largest and deepest coloured flowers should be also selected, for they are the most powerful; they should be also carefully dried until they become crisp, or they will lose much of their virtue; the too common method of tying them in bundles, and hanging them up to dry, should be avoided, for a fermentation is produced by such means, and the parts least exposed soon become rotten. The powdered leaves ought to be preserved in opaque bottles, and kept from the action of light as well as of air and moisture; a damp atmosphere has, upon a principle already explained, a very injurious operation, by carrying off those faint poisonous effluvia with which its efficacy seems to be ultimately connected.

DULCAMARÆ CAULES. L.D.

(Solanum Dulcamara.)

The Twigs of Woody Nightshade, or Bitter-sweet.

The virtues of this plant are extracted by boiling water, but long coction destroys them; the usual and best form in which it can be administered is that of decoction or infusion. This plant is much more appreciated on the continent than in this country; we rarely use it except in cutaneous affections; Professor Richter of Gottingen states that he has employed it in Phthisis Pituitosa with very extraordinary success; and Sir A. Crichton says that in the few cases of chronic tubercular Phthisis in which he has given it, it appeared to increase the powers of the Sarsaparilla with which it was usually combined. Officinal Prep: Decoct: Dulcam: L.

ELATERII PEPONES. L.E.D.

(Momordica Elaterium.)

Wild, or Squirting Cucumber.

This plant appears from the testimony of Dioscorides and other writers, to have been employed by the ancient physicians with much confidence 357and success. All the parts of the plants were considered as purgative, although not in an equal degree; thus Geoffroy, “radicum vis cathartica major est quam foliorum, minor vero quam fructuum.” This question has very lately been set at rest by the judicious experiments of Dr. Clutterbuck,^[493] which prove that the active principle of this plant resides more particularly in the juice which is lodged in the centre of the fruit, and which spontaneously subsides from it; when this substance is freed from extraneous matter, it possesses very energetic powers, and appears to me to be entitled to consideration as a distinct proximate principle, which I shall venture to call Elatin. See Extractum Elaterii.

ELEMI. L.D. (Amyris Elemifera. Resina.) Elemi.

This substance is what is generally termed a gum-resin; that is, a compound consisting of gum, resin, and volatile oil: late researches however seem to shew that these bodies are compounds of a peculiar character, consisting of a volatile substance, something between essential oil and a constituent which possesses the properties of extractive rather than those of gum.

True Elemi has a fragrant aromatic odour, not unlike that of fennel-seeds, but more potent. Sp. gr. 1·0182. When powdered it mixes with any unguent; it also combines with balsams and oils, and by the aid of heat, with turpentine. Uses. It is only employed for forming the mild digestive ointment which bears its name, viz. Unguent: Elemi comp: L.D.

EMPLASTRA. L.E.D. Plasters.

The principles upon which this form of preparation is to be constructed are fully detailed at p. 207.

Emplastrum Ammoniaci. L. Ammoniacum reduced to a suitable consistence by distilled vinegar. It adheres to the skin without irritating it, and without being attended with any unpleasant smell.^[494] There is a peculiar disease of the knee, to which servant maids, who scour floors upon their knees, are liable, and for which this plaster is a specific. I have also found it particularly eligible in cases of delicate women with irritable skins.

Emplastrum Ammoniaci cum Hydrargyro. L.D. The mercury in this plaster is in the state of oxidation ad minimum. It is discutient and resolvent, and is applicable to indurated glands, and venereal nodes, and for removing indurations of the periosteum, remaining after a course of mercury; the addition of the ammoniacum increases the stimulating and discutient powers of the mercury, which gives this plaster a superiority over the Emplastrum Hydrargyri. It is also powerfully adhesive.

Emplastrum Assafœtidæ. E. Emplast. Plumbi and Assafœtida, of each two parts, galbanum and yellow wax, of each one part. I have seen it useful in flatulent cholic, when applied over the umbilical region.

358Emplastrum Cantharidis. L. Emplast: Cantharidis vesicatoriæ. E.D. A variety of substances has in different times been employed for producing vesication, but no one has been found to answer with so much certainty and mildness as the Lyttæ. All the others are apt to leave ill conditioned ulcers: true it is, that the emplastrum lyttæ will occasionally fail, but this is generally attributable to some inattention, or want of caution on the part of the person who prepares it; in spreading it, the spatula should never be heated beyond the degree of boiling water; the plaster also should be sufficiently secured on the part by slips of adhesive plaster, but it ought not to be bound on too tight; where the cuticle is thick, the application of a poultice for an hour, previous to that of the blister, will be useful, or the part may be washed with vinegar. In consequence of the absorption of the active principle of the Lyttæ, blisters are apt to occasion strangury and bloody urine; it has been a problem therefore of some importance to discover a plan by which such an absorption may be obviated, for this purpose, camphor has been recommended to be mixed with the blistering composition, and a piece of thin gauze has been interposed between the plaster and the skin; but it has been lately found, that ebullition in water deprives the Cantharides of all power of thus acting on the kidneys, without in the least diminishing their vesicatory properties: the ordinary time required for the full action of a blister is ten or twelve hours, but if it be applied to the head, double that period will be necessary. Children, owing to delicacy of skin, are more speedily blistered, the epispastic may therefore be removed earlier. In some cases the blistered parts, instead of healing kindly, become a spreading sore; whenever this occurs, poultices are the best applications; it may arise from a peculiar irritability of the constitution, although I apprehend that it not unfrequently depends upon the sophistication of the plaster with euphorbium. In cases where it is desirable to keep up the local irritation, it is still a question with some practitioners whether it be more advisable to encourage a discharge from the vesicated part by some appropriate stimulant, or to renew the vesication at short intervals by repeated blisters; the latter mode is perhaps to be preferred, as being more effectual, and certainly less troublesome to the patient: it has moreover been stated,^[495] that by a repeated application of this nature, the influence excited appears to extend much deeper, so as to derive a greater quantity of blood from the immediate neighbourhood of the vessels, or from the vessels themselves which are in a state of disease, than the influence excited by an application less stimulating upon the surface of a part already abraded. The character of the discharge would likewise appear essentially different; it being in the latter cast a purulent secretion from the superficial exhalants of the surface only; in the former, a copious effusion of serum, mixed with a large portion of lymph, produced from a deeper order of vessels.

Emplastrum Ceræ. L. Emplast: Simplex. E. This is the Emplast: Ceræ of P.L. 1787, the Emplast: Attrahens of 1745, so called because it was formerly employed to keep up a discharge from a blistered surface, and the Emplastrum de melilolo simplex of 1720.

Emplastrum Cumini. L. A valuable combination of warm and stimulant ingredients.

359Emplastrum Galbani Compositum. L.D. Emplast: Gummos. E. More powerful than the preceding plaster. In indolent glandular enlargements of a strumous character, in fixed and long continued pains in the neighbourhood of the joints, or in anomalous or arthritic pains of the ligaments, this plaster is said to be frequently beneficial.

Emplastrum Hydrargyri. L.E. The mercury in this plaster is in the state of oxidation ad minimum; each drachm containing about fifteen grains of mercury, (sixteen grains, Edinb.) It is alterative, discutient, and sometimes sialogogue; but it is inferior to the Emplast: Ammoniac: cum Hydrargyro.

Emplastrum Opii. L.E. This plaster is supposed to be anodyne, but it is very doubtful whether the opium can, in such a state, produce any specific effect. See Form: 5.

Emplastrum Picis Compositum. L. Emplast: Picis burgundicæ, P.L. 1787. It is stimulant and rubefacient, and is often employed as an application to the chest, in pulmonary complaints; the serous exudation however which it produces, frequently occasions so much irritation that we are compelled to remove it.

Emplastrum Plumbi. L. Emplast: Oxydi Plumbi semi-vitrei. E. Emplast: Lythargyri. P.L. 1787. Emplast: commune, 1745. Diachylon^[496] Simplex, P.L. 1720. This is a very important plaster, since it forms the basis of a great many others; under the name of Diachylon it has long been known, and employed as a common application to excoriations, and for retaining the edges of fresh cut wounds in a state of apposition, and at the same time for defending them from the action of the air; when long kept it changes its colour, and loses its adhesive properties, and by high temperature the oxyd of lead is revived.^[497]

Emplastrum Resinæ. L. Olim, Emplast: commune adhæsivum, P.L. 1745. Emplast: Resinosum. E. Emplast: Lithargyri cum Resina. D. It is defensive, adhesive, and stimulant.^[498]

Emplastrum Saponis. L.D. Emplastrum Saponaceum. E. The Soap Plaster is said to be a mild discutient application.

360EUPATORIUM PERFOLIATUM.

Boneset.

Herba et flores.

[The boneset is a plant indigenous to the United States, and is to be found in the neighbourhood of marshes and low situations. It is intensely bitter and somewhat astringent. According to the analysis of Dr. Andrew Anderson of New-York, it yields, 1. A free acid; 2. Tannin; 3. Extractive matter; 4. A gummy matter; 5. A resin; 6. Azote; 7. Lime, probably the acetate of lime; 8. Gallic acid, probably modified; 9. A resiniform matter, soluble in water and in alcohol, and which seems to contain a bitter principle. It also appears from this analysis that the free acid may be obtained from all parts of the plant—that tannin is obtained in much the largest quantity from the leaves, and least from the roots—that the extractive and gummy matter reside chiefly in the roots—that the leaves and flowers also contain a larger proportion of resin than the roots—and that azote exists in the flowers, leaves, and roots. The principal properties of the boneset are those of a tonic and diaphoretic. The diseases in which it has been prescribed with success are intermitting and remitting fevers, typhoid peripneumony and catarrh. It may be given in powder, infusion, or tincture. When given as a tonic, the tincture is the preferable form. The dose of the powder is from 20 to 30 grains. When used as a sudorific, it is to be taken in infusion, and in large quantities.]

EUPHORBIA IPECACUANHA.

American Ipecacuanha. Radix.

[This plant is peculiar to the United States. The root is perennial, and of a sweetish taste. By analysis it yields caoutchouc, resin, mucus, and fecula. In its medicinal properties it resembles, and perhaps equals, the common ipecacuanha. As an emetic the dose is from 15 to 25 grains.]

EUPHORBIÆ GUMMI-RESINA. L.

(Euphorbia Officinarum.) Euphorbium.

Qualities. This substance is imported from Barbary, in drops or irregular tears; its fracture is vitreous; it is inodorous, but yields a very acrid burning impression to the tongue. Chemical Composition. It is what is termed a gum resin, but its acrid constituent is exclusively in that portion which is soluble in alcohol, and which might be named Euphorbin; it appears to form as much as 37 per cent. to which are added of wax 19, malate of lime 20·5, malate of potass 2, and water 5. Solubility. Water by trituration is rendered milky, but dissolves only one-seventh part; and alcohol one-fourth of it. Uses. Internally administered, it 361proves very violently drastic, but it is never employed except as an errhine, cautiously diluted with starch, or some inert powder. The Indian practitioners administer it as a purge in obstinate visceral obstructions; and in those cases of costiveness which so often attend an enlargement and induration of the spleen and liver. Farriers use it for blistering horses, and there is good reason to believe that it is sometimes fraudulently introduced to quicken the powers of our Emplastrum Cantharidis. It enters as an ingredient into a plaster, which has been much celebrated by Cheselden and others, as a stimulating application, to relieve diseases of the hip-joint, and to keep up inflammation of the skin in chronic states of visceral inflammation; the following is its composition. ℞. Emplast: Picis comp: ℥iv.—Euphorbiæ gum-resinœ ʒss.—Terebinth: Vulgar, q. s. Caution, in pulverizing this substance, the dispenser should previously moisten it with vinegar to prevent its rising and excoriating his face.

EXTRACTA. L.E.D. Extracts.

These preparations are obtained by evaporating the watery or spirituous solutions of vegetables, and the native juices obtained from fresh plants by expression, to masses of a tenacious consistence. The London college does not arrange the extracts under the titles of watery and resinous, which is the arrangement of the Edinburgh Pharmacopœia, nor under those of simple and resinous, which is the division observed in that of Dublin, but rejecting all specific distinctions, includes, under the generic appellation of extract, both the species, as well as all the inspissated juices. Since however the former of these arrangements will afford greater facilities for introducing the observations which it is my intention to offer, it is retained in this work.

The chemical nature of extracts must obviously be very complicated and variable, depending in a great degree upon the powers of the menstruum employed for their preparation; although Fourcroy and Vauquelin considered that one peculiar principle was the basis of them all, which they called Extract, Extractive, or the Extractive Principle. It is distinguished by the following characters, viz.

It has a strong taste, varying in different plants; it is soluble in water, and in alcohol when it contains water, but is quite insoluble in absolute alcohol and æther; its aqueous solution soon runs into a state of putrefaction; by repeated solutions and evaporations, or by long ebullition, it acquires a deeper colour, and in consequence of its combination with oxygen it becomes insoluble and inert, a fact which is of extreme importance as it regards its pharmaceutical relations; it unites with alumine, and if boiled with its salts, precipitates it, hence wool, cotton, or thread, impregnated with alum, may be dyed of a fawn-colour by extractive; its habitudes with alkalies are very striking, combining most readily and forming with them compounds of a brownish yellow colour, which are very soluble in water; if to a colourless and extremely dilute solution of extractive, an alkali be added, a brown or yellowish tint is immediately produced, so that under certain circumstances I have found an alkali to be a serviceable test in detecting the presence of extractive matter. The usual brown hue of the liquor ammoniæ acetatis, is owing to the action of the ammonia upon traces of vegetable extractive contained in the distilled vinegar.

Much confusion has arisen from the word extract having been employed 362in this double meaning,—chemically to express a peculiar vegetable proximate principle, and pharmaceutically to denote any substance however complicated in its nature, which has been obtained by the evaporation of a vegetable solution or a native vegetable juice. It is in the latter sense that it is to be understood in the present article.

The different proximate principles of vegetable matter undergo various and indefinite changes with such rapidity, when acted upon by heat, that the process of extraction must necessarily more or less impair the medicinal efficacy of a plant, and not unfrequently destroy it altogether, and hence, says Dr. Murray, “with the exception of some of the pure bitters, as gentian, or some of the saccharine vegetables, as liquorice, there is no medicine perhaps but what may be given with more advantage under some other form;” this however is not exactly true, for when care is taken in the preparation, we are thus enabled to concentrate many very powerful qualities in a small space, and the process lately adopted of evaporating the solutions by the aid of steam, contributes very materially to obviate the failures which so frequently occurred from a too exalted temperature. There is, for instance, great reason to suppose that the black colour which so often characterises the extracts of commerce, is frequently owing to the decomposition and carbonization of the vegetable matter; the colour therefore of an extract becomes in some degree a test of its goodness. I have lately examined the extracts of commerce with some attention, and I find the presence of iron by no means an uncommon circumstance; when thus contaminated they afford a very dirty coloured solution, which rapidly becomes darker on exposure to air. The extracts mentioned in the preface as made by Mr. Barry, by evaporating in vacuo, deserve the attention of the profession; the principle is without doubt well calculated to secure the active matter of the plant from those changes to which it is constantly liable during the ordinary operation of inspissation. The extracts, thus prepared, are certainly more powerful in their effects, and some few of them appear also to possess properties which are not to be distinguished in the Extracts of Commerce; those of narcotic plants, as Hemlock, Hyoscyamus, &c. are decidedly more efficacious; where the practitioner directs their use, he should, to prevent any mistake, add the words in vacuo præp. as in Formula 4; for on account of the difference in the strength of these preparations, and of those prepared by the ordinary method, they cannot be indiscriminately employed. Dr. John Davy, at my request, has made trial of these extracts in the Military Hospital at Fort Pitt, and as his results coincide with those obtained in my own practice, I shall relate, under the history of each Extract, the comparative conclusions which have been obtained.