PHARMACOLOGIA. (continued 7)

SODA TARTARIZATA. L. Tartras Sodæ et Potassæ. E. Tartarus Sodæ et Kali. D. olim. Sal de Seignette. Sal Rupellensis, or Rochelle Salt.

Qualities. Form, a right prism, with rhombic terminations, very slightly efflorescent. Taste, rather bitter and saline. Chemical Composition. It is a triple salt, formed by neutralizing the excess of acid in super-tartrate of potass, with soda, and consisting of 2 atoms of acid + 1 of soda + 1 of potass. By a strong heat it is resolved into a mixture of carbonate of potass and carbonate of soda. Solubility. It is soluble in five parts of water at 50°. Incompatible Substances. Most acids, and acidulous salts (except the Super-tartrate of potass) which convert the tartrate of potass into bi-tartrate, or super-tartrate. The acetate and sub-acetate of lead; barytic salts, and the salts of lime are decomposed by it. Med. Uses. Similar to those of Potassæ Tartras. See Form. 77, and 86, the latter of which presents a very grateful and efficacious purgative. Dose, ʒij to ℥j as a purgative.

SODÆ CARBONAS. L.E. Carbonate of Soda.

This salt, when properly prepared, is a bi-carbonate, but so delicately are the affinities of its constituent parts balanced, that the application of a very moderate temperature is sufficient to subvert them, and to occasion partial decomposition. Mr. Phillips states that although he has seen what he believes to be real bi-carbonate in the state of the moist crystals, yet he has never met with any that was dry which had not lost one-fourth of its carbonic acid by exposure to heat; it is then a white gritty powder, less 476soluble in water than the sub-carbonate, like which it possesses an alkaline taste, and turns vegetable yellows brown, but both in a less degree. This salt, which is generally sold, as the carbonate of the pharmacopœia, and the bi-carbonate of chemists, Mr. Phillips considers as a compound of an atom of carbonate, (sub-carbonate) and an atom of bi-carbonate, combined with four atoms of water. It is therefore, according to the phraseology of some chemists, a Sesqui-carbonate,^[637] as being equal to an atom and a half of acid and one atom of base. The chemical habitudes of this salt, as connected with its medicinal applications, are similar to those of the carbonate of potass, which see. Med. Uses. As it is less nauseous, so is it more eligible than the sub-carbonate of the same alkali; in other respects its effects are the same; vide Sodæ Sub-carbonas. Dose, grs. x to ʒss.^[638] Adulterations. If the salt, after super-saturation with dilute nitric acid, give a precipitate with nitrate of baryta, it contains some sulphuric salt; and if with nitrate of silver, we may infer the presence of a muriate.

SODÆ MURIAS. L.E.

Sal Commune, Murias Sodæ. D.

Muriate of Soda. Common Salt.

Qualities. Form, that of regular cubes, which do not deliquesce unless contaminated with muriate of magnesia.^[639] Chemical Composition. 477It consists, according to Berzelius, of 46·55 of muriatic acid, and 53·45 of soda; according to the new theory, however, this salt must be considered as a true muriate of soda, only while it remains in aqueous solution; for when it is reduced to dryness, the muriatic acid and the soda become both decomposed, and the hydrogen of the former uniting with the oxygen of the latter, they pass off in the form of water, while the chlorine of the muriatic acid unites with the metallic base of the soda, to form chloride of sodium, which consists of an atom of each constituent. It is perhaps difficult to believe that the same salt should be chloride of sodium in the hand, and muriate of soda in the mouth! but it is not the less true, nor is it more incredible than the change which Sulphuret of potass undergoes by solution, the decomposition of which is rendered evident to the senses by the evolved sulphuretted hydrogen. Late researches have also detected both in rock and in other salt, the presence of muriate of potass, and muriate of magnesia.^[640] Solubility. It is equally soluble in cold and in hot water, one part of the salt requiring rather more than 2½ parts. Med. Uses. The effects of salt upon the animal and vegetable kingdoms, are striking and important,^[641] and have furnished objects of the most interesting enquiry to the physiologist, the chemist, the physician, and the agriculturist; it appears to be a natural stimulant to the digestive organs; and that animals are instinctively led to immense distances in pursuit of it; for proof of this fact the reader is referred to “Parkes on the repeal of the Salt Laws,” and to an interesting work by my late lamented friend, Sir Thomas Bernard, entitled, “Case of the Salt Duties, with Proofs and Illustrations.”^[642] Salt, when taken in moderate quantities, promotes,^[643] while in excessive ones, it prevents digestion; it is therefore tonic and anthelmintic, correcting that disordered state of the bowels which favours the propagation of worms. In Ireland, where, from the bad quality of the food, the lower classes are greatly infested with worms,^[644] a draught of salt 478and water is a popular and efficacious anthelmintic. Form: 162, is a prescription by Rush, who says that in this manner he has administered many pounds of common salt with great success in worm cases. In the first volume of the Medical Transactions we shall find an interesting account of a cure of this disease by salt, after the failure of other remedies; I beg also to refer the practitioner to another case illustrative of its anthelmintic powers, published by Mr. Marshall, (London Medical and Physical Journal, vol. xxxix. No. 231,) which is that of a lady who had a natural antipathy to salt, and was in consequence most dreadfully infested with worms during the whole of her life. In very large doses Salt proves purgative; it is also absorbed, and carried to the kidneys, but it undergoes no decomposition in transitu, nor does it appear to possess any considerable powers as a diuretic; its solution in tepid water, in the proportion of ℥ss-℥j in oj of water, forms the common domestic enema. Dose, when intended to act as a cathartic, from℥ss to ℥j very largely diluted; when to answer the other intentions, from grs. x. to ʒj.

SODÆ SUB-BORAS. L.D. Boras Sodæ. E.

Borax.

Qualities. Form, irregular hexahedral prisms, slightly efflorescent. Taste, alkaline and styptic; when heated it loses its water of crystallization, and becomes a porous friable mass (calcined borax). Chemical Composition. Boracic acid, 34—soda, 17—water, 49. Solubility. It is soluble in 20 parts of water at 60°, and in 6 parts at 212°. Incompatible Substances. It is decomposed by acids; potass; by the sulphates and muriates of the earths, and by those of ammonia. Medicinal Uses. It is only applied in the form of powder mixed with 8 or 10 parts of honey, as a detergent linctus in aphthæ, &c. The Chinese employ it in inflammatory sore throats; for which purpose they first reduce it to an extremely fine powder, and then blow it through a reed upon the inflamed surface. Officinal Preparations. Mel Boracis. L. Adulterations. Alum, and fused muriate of soda, are substances with which it is sometimes sophisticated; 479to discover which, dissolve it in distilled water, and after saturating the excess of the base with nitric acid, assay the solution with nitrate of barytes and nitrate of silver.

SODÆ SUB-CARBONAS. L.E.D.

Sub-carbonate of Soda.

Qualities. Form, octohedrons, truncated at the summits of the pyramids; it effloresces when exposed to the air, and at 150° Fah. undergoes watery fusion, its crystals containing as much as seven proportionals of water; Taste, mild, alkalescent. Chemical Composition. Soda 29·5—carbonic acid 20·7. Solubility. It is soluble in two parts of water at 60°, and in considerably less than its weight of boiling water; it is insoluble in alcohol. Incompatible Substances are enumerated under Potassæ Carbonas. Med. Uses, are similar to those of the sub-carbonate of potass, but it is preferable to it for internal use, as being more mild and less nauseous; and moreover Fourcroy states it as his opinion that soda is more eligible for medicinal purposes than potass, on account of its analogy with animal substances, which always contain it, while on the contrary, no portion of potass is found in them. Sir Gilbert Blane assumes an opposite opinion, and observes that, as far as he can judge of the comparative powers of the two fixed alkalies, he should greatly prefer Potass to Soda, as a remedy for gravel, one reason of which he thinks may be found in the fact that the Soda is an element of the animal fluids, since it enters largely into the composition of bile, so that it is more likely to be arrested in the course of the circulation and diverted from the urinary organs. A gentleman, says Sir Gilbert, who was subject to frequent fits of gravel, and in the habit of making experiments on the small concretions which he passed, found that Soda dissolved them, but that Potass did not; nevertheless he experienced sensible relief, and even temporary cure, from the internal use of the latter alkali, but no benefit from the former. Are then the absorbents more disposed to take up soda than potass? The results of experience do not appear to sanction such a conclusion. Forms of Exhibition. It may be administered in solution, in an electuary, or in pills; when exhibited in the latter form, it must be previously deprived of its water of crystallization, (Sodæ Sub-carbonas exsiccata. L.) or the pills will fall into powder as they dry; unless where the water of crystallization is essential to the formation of the pill, as to that of Pill: Ferri comp. Dose, gr. x to ʒj, twice or thrice a day. See Form. 28, 143, 144.

SODÆ SULPHAS. L.E.D.

Natron Vitriolatum, P.L. 1787. Sal Catharticus Glauberi. P.L. 1745.

Qualities. Form, transparent prismatic crystals, which effloresce; when exposed to heat, they undergo watery fusion, that is, they melt in their own water of crystallization. Taste, saline and bitter. Chemical Composition. Sulphuric acid 24·64,—soda 19·36—water 56. Solubility. f℥j of water at 60° dissolves ʒiiiss; in boiling water it is considerably more soluble; it is quite insoluble in alcohol. Incompatible Substances. The same as those which decompose sulphate of magnesia. 480Med. Uses. A common and useful purgative; its nauseous taste may be in a great degree disguised by the addition of a small quantity of lemon juice, or cream of tartar. Dose, ℥ss to ℥ij. In an effloresced state it is just equal in efficacy to double the weight of that which is in a crystalline form. It is rendered more active by being combined with other purgative salts, especially with sulphate of magnesia, and the compound is more soluble and less nauseous; (Form. 69, 72.) A portion of triple salt, a magnesio-sulphate of soda, probably results from the combination, a salt which may be frequently detected in parcels of sulphate of magnesia, and may be known by its crystals, which are regular rhomboids; it is also contained, according to Dr. Murray, in the brine or mother liquor of sea-water; and it constitutes the whole of that salt which was formerly sold under the name of “Lymington Glauber’s Salts”.^[645]

SPARTIUM. L.E. Genista. D.

Spartii Cacumina. L. Summitates. E.

The Tops of Broom.

Qualities. When bruised they yield an unpleasant odour, and a nauseous bitter taste. Solubility. Water and alcohol alike extract their 481active matter. Med. Uses. They certainly act as a powerful diuretic, and even prove so to animals that browse upon them. I have frequently exhibited them in the Westminster Hospital, with very great success in the form of decoction. By referring to my classification of diuretics, page 93, it will be seen that the Broom is placed under the second division of the first class; for analogy sanctions the theory, that the bitter element is separated by the powers of digestion, and carried to the kidneys by the medium of the circulation. (See Form. 113.) The ashes of this plant were extolled by Sydenham as a powerful diuretic, but the chemist has shewn that it is merely a fixed alkaline salt. Officinal Preparations. Extractum Cacuminum Genistæ. D.

SPIGELIA MARYLANDICA.

Pink Root. Radix.

[This is an herbaceous plant, growing native in the Southern states. It flourishes in rich, dry soils, and flowers from May to July. The root, which is composed of numerous slender fibres, when fresh, is of a yellowish colour, and has an insipid and nauseous taste. As it contains on analysis no resin, its proper menstruum is water. It is exclusively as an anthelmintic that the Pink Root is resorted to, and as such it possesses unquestionable power. When given to any extent it proves narcotic, and at the same time purgative. It is probably to this combination of properties that its efficacy as a vermifuge is to be attributed. It is chiefly against the Lumbrici that it has been used with success. It may be given in powder, in doses of from grs. x to xx, repeated every two hours. The more common and preferable mode of giving it, however, is that of infusion, made by putting ℥j of the root into a pint of boiling water. Of this, when cold, from ℥j to ℥iv may be given every two or three hours, according to the age of the patient. It should be recollected, that in its fresh state the Pink Root is much more active than when dried and kept for any length of time.]

SPIRÆA TRIFOLIATA.

Indian Physic. Radix.

[This plant abounds in the woods of hills and mountains, in every part of the United States. The root, which is the part used in medicine, is of a bitter taste, and yields by analysis extractive matter and resin. In its medicinal properties the Spiræa resembles the ipecacuanha of the shops. The full dose in powder is 30 grs.]

SPIRITUS. L. Spiritus Stillatitii.

Distilled Spirits.

These are solutions of the essential oils of vegetables in diluted alcohol or proof spirit; they are obtained by distilling spirit with recent vegetables; or, according to the recent directions of the Pharmacopœia, with their essential oils; sometimes however they are extemporaneously made by at once dissolving the oils in the spirit, without distillation. (See Spiritus 482Tenuior.) Med. Uses. Like the distilled waters, they serve as vehicles for the exhibition of more active medicines; they are also occasionally employed as grateful stimulants. It is unnecessary to dwell on each of these simple spirits, as their virtues are the same as those of the substances from which they are extracted, united to the stimulus of the alcohol. The following are officinal:—Spirit: Anisi. L. Spir: Anisi comp: L.D. Armoraciæ comp: L. Carui. L.E.D. Cinnamomi L.E.D. (Form. 5, 40.) Juniperi comp: L.D. Lavandulæ. L.E.D. Lavandulæ comp: L.E.D. Menth: Pip: L.D. Menth: Virid: L. Myristic: L.E.D. Pimentæ. L.D. Pulegii. L. Raphani comp: D. Rosmarini.^[646] L.E.D.

SPIRITUS AMMONIÆ. L.D.

Alcohol Ammoniatum. E.

Spiritus Salis Ammoniaci dulcis. P.L. 1745. Spiritus Salis Ammoniaci. P.L. 1720.

This is a solution of ammoniacal gas in spirit; in which a small portion of the sub-carbonate is also generally present. It is not easy to compare the strength of this preparation with that of the Liquor Ammoniæ, or Liquor Ammoniæ Sub-carbonatis, so as to give their medicinal equivalents, because the ammonia exists in a very different state of combination. The first is a mere solution of ammoniacal gas in water; in the second, as already stated, the ammonia exists as a sesqui-carbonate, while in the one now under consideration the alkali is in the state of a carbonate. This fact will explain the reason of the present preparation being superior in pungency to the Liquor Ammoniæ Sub-carbonatis. The Incompatibles are the same as those enumerated under the head of Ammoniæ Sub-carbonas. It is a powerful stimulant, but it is principally employed as the basis of the following compounds; viz. Spirit: Ammoniæ Aromat. L.E.D. Spirit: Ammoniæ Succinatus. L. Tinctura Castorei Comp: E. Tinct: Guaiaci comp: E. Tinct: Opii Ammoniat: E.

SPIRITUS AMMONIÆ AROMATICUS. L.D.

Alcohol Ammoniatum Aromaticum. E.

Spiritus Ammoniæ Compositus. P.L. 1785. Spiritus Volatilis Aromaticus. P.L. 1745. Spiritis salis volatilis oleosus. P.L. 1720.

This is a solution of several essential oils, (Cinnamon, Cloves, and Lemon. L.—Rosemary and Lemon. E. Lemon and Nutmeg. D.) in the spirit of ammonia. It is a valuable stimulant, and an agreeable adjunct, and efficacious corrective to other remedies, see Form. 42, 45. Dose, fʒss to fʒj. Incompatibles. Acids, Acidulous Salts, Earthy and Metallic Salts, and Lime Water. Officinal Prep: Tinct. Guaiac: Ammoniat: L.D. Tinct. Valerian: Ammoniat: L.D. Its ammoniacal pungency is rather inferior to that of the preceding preparations.

483SPIRITUS AMMONIÆ FŒTIDUS. L.D.

Tinctura Assafœtidæ Ammoniata. E.

This is a solution of the fœtid volatile oil of the Assafœtida in the spirit of ammonia; as little else than the odour and flavour of the gum-resin is taken up by the menstruum, it cannot be expected to possess many virtues. Dose, fʒss to fʒi.

SPIRITUS AMMONIÆ SUCCINATUS. L.

This preparation was probably introduced as a substitute of the Eau de luce. It is stimulant and antispasmodic. It will be found, if properly prepared, to retain its milkiness for a considerable time, a circumstance by which its value is appreciated. The substances enumerated under the head of Spir: Ammoniæ Aromat: are also incompatible with this preparation.

SPIRITUS COLCHICI AMMONIATUS. L.

We have in this preparation the specific virtues of the Colchicum, with the stimulant property of the Ammonia; a medicinal combination, which is frequently indicated in practice. Dose fʒss to fʒi, in some aqueous vehicle. The substances enumerated under the history of Spiritus Ammoniæ Aromaticus, are likewise incompatible with this spirit.

SPIRITUS ÆTHERIS AROMATICUS. L.

Æther Sulphuricus cum Alcohole Aromaticus. E.

Elixir Vitrioli dulce. P.L. 1745.

This preparation, which was excluded from the London Pharmacopœia of 1787, is now restored. It consists of Sulphuric Ether one part, rectified spirit two parts, impregnated with aromatics; the presence of spirit is necessary in this preparation, since the volatile oils would be insoluble in the æther without it. Med. Uses. A grateful stimulant.

SPIRITUS ÆTHERIS NITRICI. L.

Spiritus Ætheris Nitrosi. E.

Spiritus Æthereus Nitrosus. D.

Spiritus Nitri dulcis. P.L. 1745.

Qualities. A colourless fluid of the specific gravity ·850. Odour, extremely fragrant; Taste, pungent and acidulous; it is very volatile and inflammable. Chemical Composition. A portion of nitric æther and nitric acid, combined with alcohol. Solubility. It is soluble both in water and alcohol. Incompatible Substances. With a solution of green sulphate of iron it strikes a deep olive colour, owing probably to its 484holding a portion of nitrous gas in solution; with the tinctures of guaiacum it produces a green or blue coagulum. Med. Uses. When properly diluted, it is refrigerant and diuretic; and has been long employed as a grateful draught in febrile affections; as a diuretic, it frequently proves a valuable auxiliary in dropsy, (see Form. 113, 116.) Dose, ♏︎x to xl. in any aqueous vehicle. By age and exposure to the air, it is gradually decomposed, and gives rise to the reproduction of nitrous acid.

SPIRITUS ÆTHERIS SULPHURICI. L.

Æther Sulphuricus cum Alcohole. E.

Liquor Æthereus Sulphuricus. D.

Spiritus Ætheris vitriolici. P.L. 1787. Spirit. Vitrioli dulcis. 1745.

Qualities. A fluid of the specific gravity ·816, consisting of two parts (by measure) of rectified spirit, and one part of sulphuric æther. Med. Uses. It has all the properties of æther, but in an inferior degree. Dose, fʒj to fʒiij.

SPIRITUS ÆTHERIS SULPHURICI COMPOSITUS. L.

This is intended as a substitute for the Liquor Anodynus of Hoffmann, although its composition was never revealed by him. In addition to its stimulating properties, it is supposed to add those of an anodyne nature. Dose, fʒss to fʒij. See Form. 7.

SPIRITUS CAMPHORÆ. L.

Spirit of Camphor; vulgo, Camphorated Spirits.

This preparation is principally useful as an external application. As an embrocation to chilblains it is often of essential service; and it has been found useful when thus applied to parts affected with chronic rheumatism and paralytic numbness. It is instantly decomposed by water, which precipitates the camphor. It furnishes an easy mode of forming camphor mixture extemporaneously, and if a few drops be rubbed with mucilage, we are thus enabled to form a stronger preparation than by the ordinary process.

SPIRITUS RECTIFICATUS. L.

Alcohol Fortius. E. Spiritus Vinosus Rectificatus. D.

In this preparation, alcohol is nearly in the highest state of concentration, in which it can be easily prepared in the large way for the purposes of trade; its specific gravity however varies in the different pharmacopœias, viz. the London and Edinburgh preparation is stated to have that of ·835, while the rectified spirit of Dublin is ordered to be only ·840. The former at the temperature of 60° Fah. consists of 85 parts of pure alcohol and 15 of water, the latter only of 83 per cent. of alcohol. It is a most powerful stimulant, but is rarely employed except in combination; as a 485pharmaceutical agent, its use is highly valuable and extensive. (See Tincturæ.) During the evaporation of spirit, a considerable reduction of temperature takes place, which renders it a useful ingredient in refrigerating lotions. See Form. 147, 148. It has lately been ascertained by Mr. Ritchie of Perth, that “the degree of cold induced by the evaporation of spirit of different degrees of strength are proportional to the strength of these spirits, reckoning from the degrees of cold induced by the evaporation of water.” The application of this theorem will enable us to ascertain the strength of a spirit by the “Differential Thermometer” of Leslie.

SPIRITUS TENUIOR. L.

Alcohol Dilutum. E.

Spiritus Vinosus Tenuior. D.

Weaker or Proof Spirit.

This is rectified spirit diluted with a certain proportion of water, and it is to be regretted that the quantity ordered for this purpose, should vary in the different Pharmacopœias; thus, according to the London and Dublin Colleges, its specific gravity is ·930, while the College of Edinburgh directs it to be of ·935. The former consists of 44 per cent. of pure alcohol, and may be formed by mixing four parts, by measure, of rectified spirit, with three of water; the latter contains only 42 per cent. of pure alcohol, and may be made by adding together equal parts of rectified spirit and distilled water. Alcohol in this state of dilution, is better adapted for taking up the principles of vegetables than rectified spirit; indeed, diluted alcohol acts upon bodies as a chemical compound, and will dissolve what neither the same proportion of water nor of alcohol would, if separately applied; we perceive therefore the importance of ensuring uniformity of strength in our spirits. (See Tincturæ.) It is necessary to remark that almost all the spirit sold under the name of “Proof Spirit,” is contaminated with empyreumatic oil, and is unfit for the purposes of pharmacy; it ought therefore to be extemporaneously prepared by mixing together rectified spirit and water, in the proportions above stated. This however is rarely done, except the liquors are intended for the toilet, and hence it has been observed, that the cordials of the apothecary are generally less grateful than those of the distiller, the latter being extremely curious in rectifying and purifying his spirit. If common water be employed for the dilution of alcohol, the resulting spirit will be turbid, owing principally to the precipitation of sulphuric salts; this circumstance lately occasioned considerable embarrassment to the Curators of the Hunterian Museum at the College of Surgeons, who were compelled to prepare their own spirit, in consequence of an excise regulation preventing the distiller from sending out any spirit of that strength which is required for their anatomical purposes. A curious fact has just been noticed in the Laboratory of the Royal Institution, which is, that diluted spirit becomes stronger by being kept in vessels that are carefully closed by bladder! whence it would seem, that alcoholic vapour transpires through this animal membrane less freely than aqueous vapour; we are at present unable to offer a satisfactory explanation of this anomalous case of distillation, but it is probably connected with 486the different solvent powers of these two liquids, in relation to the animal membrane. Med. Uses. Alcohol, although diluted to the degree of proof spirit, is still too strong for internal exhibition; indeed, where its use is indicated, it is more generally given in the form of wine, malt liquors, or ardent spirits, which must be regarded only as diluted alcohol, although each has a peculiarity of operation, owing to the modifying influence of the other elements of the liquid; thus Brandy^[647] is said to be simply cordial and stomachic;^[648] Rum,^[649] heating and sudorific; Gin and Whiskey, diuretic; and Arrack,^[650] styptic, heating, and narcotic; it seems also probable that a modified effect is produced by the addition of various other substances, such as sugar and acids, which latter bodies, besides their anti-narcotic powers, appear to act by favouring a more perfect combination and mutual penetration of the particles of spirit and water. Foreign brandy derives its colour from the oak cask, the intensity of which, therefore, affords some criterion of its age. The English have been in the habit of colouring their spirits with burnt sugar until lately, but now since the cause of the foreign colour is discovered, the scrapings of gall-nuts are employed for that purpose, whence the sulphate of iron is no longer a test of brandy being genuine.^[651] The effects, also, which are produced by the habitual use of fermented liquors, differ essentially according to the kind that is drunk; thus Ale and Porter, in consequence of the nutritive matter, and perhaps the invigorating bitter with which they are charged, and the comparatively small proportion of alcohol which they contain, dispose to a plethora, which is not unfrequently terminated by apoplexy; Spirits, on the other hand, induce severe dyspepsia, obstructed and hardened liver, dropsy, and more than half of all our chronical diseases; and Dr. Darwin moreover remarks that when they arise from this cause, they are liable to 487become hereditary, even to the third generation, gradually increasing, if the cause be continued, till the family become extinct; with regard to Wine, Rush has truly observed that its effects, like those of tyranny in a well formed government, are first felt in the extremities, while spirits like a bold invader, seize at once upon the vitals of the constitution; the different kinds of wine, however, produce very different and even opposite effects, as stated under the history of that article, (see Vinum.) The excise officers frequently avail themselves of the peculiar power of the sub-acetate of lead to precipitate colouring matter, in order to remove from seized Holland Gin, the colour which it contains by being long kept in the tubs in which it is smuggled over. This practice, however, renders the gin liable to gripe.

SPIRITUS TEREBINTHINÆ.

See Terebinthinæ Oleum.

SPONGIA USTA. L. See Carbo Ligni.

STANNI LIMATURA. L.E.D.

The filings of Tin.

The anthelmintic properties of Tin have been explained by three different hypotheses, viz. 1. That it acts mechanically by dislodging the mucus from the intestines; if this be true, it is difficult to explain the fact of its activity being increased by pulverization. 2. That its efficacy depends upon the presence of arsenic; if so, why should the purest specimens act with equal efficacy?^[652] 3. That it operates by generating hydrogen gas in the intestinal canal: it has been observed that this opinion is rendered probable by the fact, that sulphur increases its powers.^[653] Dose, ʒj or ʒji, mixed with honey, treacle or conserve, and exhibited for several successive mornings, a purgative medicine being occasionally interposed, (see Form. 150.) The use of this remedy however is entirely superseded by the more efficacious exhibition of oil of turpentine.

488STATICE LIMONIUM.

Marsh Rosemary. Radix.

[This is a perennial plant found in all parts of the United States. It flowers in the months of July and August. The root, which is the part used in medicine, is astringent, and contains large proportions of tannin and gallic acid. As a medicine it has been much used in this country, and is prescribed with advantage in a number of diseases in which astringents are required. In chronic dysentery, diarrhœa, and cholera infantum, more especially, it has been found exceedingly beneficial. It may be given in infusion or decoction, made by adding ʒij of the root to ℥xij of water.]

SUCCI SPISSATI. E. See Extracta.

SULPHUR SUBLIMATUM. L.E.D.

Sublimed Sulphur. Flowers of Sulphur.

Chemical Composition. It is probably a triple compound of oxygen, hydrogen, and some unknown base. Solubility. It is insoluble in water and alcohol, but soluble in oils, especially in that of linseed, which is a powerful solvent of all sulphureous substances. In boiling oil of turpentine it is entirely soluble. Medicinal Uses. It is laxative and diaphoretic; it acts principally upon the large intestines, and very mildly, whence it proves useful in hæmorrhoidal affections (Form. 74); and in consequence of the diaphoresis which it also excites, it is useful in chronic rheumatisms, catarrhs, and in some cutaneous affections.^[654] To promote its purgative effects, magnesia will be found a serviceable adjunct in hæmorrhoids; it may be given in the form of an electuary, or suspended in milk; its solution in oil (Oleum Sulphuratum) is a most nauseous and acrid preparation. When sulphur is combined with metallic remedies, it generally lessens their activity. Its effects in curing psora are universally admitted, and the only objection to its use is the disgusting smell which accompanies its application; see Unguent: Sulphuris. Dr. Clarke of Dublin recommends a lotion which he says contains a sufficient impregnation of sulphur for the cure of psora in children, to be made by adding an ounce of broken sulphur to a quart of boiling water, and allowing it to infuse for twelve hours. In this process, the water probably takes up a small portion of sulphurous acid; it is difficult to explain the efficacy of the lotion in any other manner. When sulphur is internally administered, it transpires through the skin in the state of sulphuretted hydrogen, and blackens the silver in the pockets of those who take it. Dose ʒj to ʒiij. Officinal Prep. Sulphur Lotum. L.E.D. Sulphur Præcipitatum. L. Unguent. Sulph. L.E.D. Unguent. Sulph. comp. L.

Sulphur Lotum. When sulphur is kept in loosely covered drawers its surface is soon acidified, when it is said to operate with griping, hence the common flowers are directed to be washed with water to get rid of any 489sulphurous acid; it is however rarely performed, and would seem to be a useless subtlety.

Sulphur Præcipitatum. L. Lac Sulphuris, P.L. 1720. This, when pure, differs in no other respect from sublimed sulphur than in its superior whiteness, which it owes to the presence of a small proportion of water; in consequence however of its mode of preparation, it always contains a small quantity of sulphate of lime, and not unfrequently other impurities; it may be assayed by pouring upon a suspected sample a sufficient quantity of liquor potassæ to cover it, and setting it aside in a warm place to digest, when the sulphur will be dissolved and the impurities remain; or it might be at once subjected to the operation of heat; which would volatilize the sulphur, and thus separate it from its contaminations.

SYRUPI. L.E.D. Syrups.

These are solutions of sugar in water, watery infusions, or in vegetable juices; the proportion of sugar is generally two parts to one of the fluid; if it exceeds this, the solution will crystallize, if it be less, ferment, and become acescent.^[655] The most certain test of the proper consistence of a syrup is its specific gravity; a bottle that holds three ounces of water at 55 Fah. ought to hold four ounces of syrup. Syrups are introduced into medicinal formulæ for several purposes, viz.

I. To correct or disguise the flavour of disagreeable remedies. Syrup: Aurantiorum. L.D. (Form, 48, 51, 107.)—Limonum, L.E.D.—Simplex (124, 145).—Zingiberis (88, 95, 105.) Bitter infusions, and saline solutions are rendered more nauseous by the addition of syrups.

II. To produce Medicinal Effects. Syrup: Allii. D.—Altheæ. L.E. (135)—Acidi Acetosi. E.—Colchici. E.—Sennæ. E.D. (70)—Scillæ Maritimæ. E.—Rhamni. L. Papaveris. L.E.D. (5, 7, 75, 169, 170.)—Rosæ (74)—Zingiberis (47, 150)—Sarsaparillæ. L.

III. To communicate peculiar forms.

Every syrup answers this purpose; for the necessary proportions, see Electuaria.

IV. To communicate an agreeable colour. Syrup. Croci: L.—Rhæados. L.D. (166, 168.)—Caryophylli Rubri. D.—Violæ. E. Except that of Saffron, these syrups are rendered green by alkalies, and red by acids.

General Remarks. The practitioner should never introduce syrups into those medicines which are liable to be injured by the generation of acids: I have frequently seen the cretaceous mixture, when charged with syrup. Increase, instead of check, a diarrhœa; and the syrup of poppies, from its disposition to become acescent, will often aggravate rather than 490allay the cholic of infants. The syrup of Senna furnishes the practitioner with a convenient purgative for children; that of buckthorn is more violent, and is on that account but rarely used; besides which, in preparing it the chemist not unfrequently substitutes the berries of the Cornus Sanguinea, the Dogberry-tree, or those of the Rhamnus Frangula, the Alder-buckthorn, for the Rhamnus Catharticus; a circumstance which necessarily renders the efficacy of this syrup variable and uncertain; it is moreover often sophisticated with treacle and jalap. The syrup of the rose, when made with the leaves of the Damask^[656] rose, is gently laxative, and is well adapted for weak children; it is however not unusual, coloris gratia, to substitute the leaves of the red rose, in which case the syrup will possess astringent instead of laxative properties. In the preparation of the syrup of poppies,^[657] the directions of the College are frequently not obeyed; it is sometimes made by dissolving the extract in syrup, formed with coarse sugar, or even with treacle; at others, by adding tincture of opium to a coarse syrup, in the proportion of ♏︎x to every f℥j. In the preparation of the syrups of violets, the juice of red cabbage is generally substituted; this is at least a harmless fraud. Note. The syrups which are printed in Italics, are very susceptible of decomposition, and should be kept in cool places.

TABACI FOLIA. L.E.

(Nicotiana Tabacum. Folia Siccata. Virginiana.)

Nicotianæ Folia. D.

Tobacco.

Qualities. Odour, strong, narcotic, and fœtid; Taste, bitter, and extremely acrid; Colour, yellowish green, (its brown appearance is artificial, being produced by the action of sulphate of iron.) Chemical Composition. Mucilage, albumen, gluten, extractive, a bitter principle, an essential oil, nitrate of potass, which occasions its deflagration, muriate of potass, and a peculiar proximate principle upon which the properties of the plant are supposed to depend, and which has therefore been named Nicotin.^[658] Vauquelin considers it as approaching the volatile oils in its properties; it is colourless, has an acrid taste, and the peculiar smell of tobacco, and occasions violent sneezing; with alcohol and water, it produces colourless solutions, from which it is thrown down by tincture of galls. Solubility. Tobacco yields its active matter both to water and spirit, but more perfectly to the latter; long coction weakens its powers. An oil of tobacco of a most powerful nature, may be obtained by distilling the leaves and separating it from the water, on the top of which it will be found to float.^[659] 491Med. Uses. Tobacco is endued with energetic poisonous properties, producing generally a universal tremor which is rarely the result of other poisons; the experiments of M. Orfila moreover demonstrate, that the action of Tobacco is much more energetic when the soluble portion is injected into the anus, than when it is applied to the cellular texture, and for a still stronger reason, than when introduced into the stomach. Mr. Brodie, from the result of a well devised experiment, has deduced the conclusion that the infusion of Tobacco acts upon the heart, occasioning syncope, through the medium of the nervous system. Uses. As a powerful sedative, it is sometimes valuable in medical practice; the leaves, when applied in the form of a cataplasm to the pit of the stomach, produce an emetic operation; (Form. 67.) In cases of obstinate constipation, depending upon violent spasmodic constriction, or in ileus, or incarcerated hernia, clysters of the smoke of Tobacco, or of an infusion made according to the London College, produce almost immediate relief, (Form. 26.); the practice is not unfrequently attended with severe vomiting, extreme debility, and cold sweats, circumstances which render its administration highly dangerous in cases wherein the patient has been already exhausted by previous suffering. I remember witnessing a lamentable instance of this truth some years ago; a medical practitioner, after repeated trials to reduce a strangulated hernia, injected an infusion of Tobacco, and shortly afterwards sent the patient in a carriage to the Westminster Hospital, for the purpose of undergoing the operation; but the unfortunate man arrived only a few minutes before he expired. Clysters of Tobacco were some years ago recommended in America, for the purpose of forwarding difficult parturition, by inducing relaxation and consequent dilatation of the os uteri, but the alarming symptoms which followed the single case in which Tobacco was thus employed, ought, says Dr. Merriman, to prevent a repetition of the experiment.^[660] It was also formerly proposed to inject infusions of Tobacco, for the purpose of recovering persons in a state of asphyxia from drowning; it is difficult to explain how such an idea could have entered into the mind of the rational physiologist. Smoking or chewing Tobacco has been also advised in cases of spasmodic asthma, and as a general sedative 492to relieve suffering; in the process of smoking, the oil is separated, and being rendered empyreumatic by heat, it is thus applied to the fauces in its most active state. As a diuretic it was successfully exhibited by Dr. Fowler, but as its operation is uncertain and violent, and appears to be very analogous to that of Digitalis, which is far more safe and manageable, it has been very judiciously discarded from practice. The external application of Tobacco in the form of cataplasm or infusion, has been applied to several species of cutaneous disease, but even in this state it is liable to exert its virulent effects. A woman applied to the heads of three children afflicted with tinea capitis, a liniment consisting of powdered tobacco and butter, soon after which they experienced vertigo, violent vomiting, and fainting. (Ephemerides des Curieux de la Nature, Dec. ii. An: i. p. 46.) A case has just occurred in this country of a child whose death was occasioned by her having swallowed a portion of half-smoked tobacco, which was taken from the pipe of her father, and in which there no doubt existed a quantity of essential oil, which had been separated by the act of smoking. It is a curious fact, that the juice of the green leaves instantly cures the stinging of nettles.

Adulterations. When it exhales a fetid odour, we may infer that it has been badly prepared, and not deprived of all its mucus; when pungent, the presence of some deleterious drug is indicated: Cascarilla is very usually added to impart a peculiar flavour; Nitre is also employed for the sake of making it kindle more rapidly, and to impress a lively sensation on the tongue; its vapour is of course very injurious to the lungs: its presence may be detected by treating a suspected sample with hot water, and after filtering the solution through charcoal, setting it aside in order that it may yield its crystals by evaporation. Traces of Lead, Copper, or Antimony, may be discovered by boiling the Tobacco in strong vinegar, and, after filtering it as before, by assaying it with appropriate tests. Black Hellebore, Alum, Sugar, and Corrosive sublimate are amongst the more usual sophistications. Dried Dock leaves are also sometimes substituted. Officinal Prep: Infus: Tabacci. L. Vinum Nicotian: Tabac: E.

Snuff. This well known errhine is prepared from the dried leaves of Tobacco; in its manufacture however, numerous additions are made which are kept secret. Salt is added for the purpose of increasing its weight; Urine, Muriate of ammonia, and powdered Glass, to heighten its acrimony. The varied flavour of different Snuffs is owing to the leaf being in greater or less perfection; or to its having undergone some degree of fermentation; thus, for instance, the Macouba Snuff of Martinique is principally indebted for its acknowledged superiority to the fermentation which the Tobacco undergoes, from being moistened with the best cane juice; other kinds are excited into fermentation by moistening them with melasses and water.

Snuff possesses all the powers of Tobacco; the celebrated Santeuil experienced vomiting and horrible pains, amidst which he expired, in consequence of having drank a glass of wine, into which had been put some Spanish snuff.^[661]

493TAMARINDI PULPA. L. (Tamarindus Indica.)

Tamarindus: Fructus. D.

Fructus Conditus. E.

The Pulp or preserved Fruit of the Tamarind.^[662]

Qualities. Taste, sweetish acid; Odour, none. Chemical Composition. ℥j of Tamarinds is composed of Citric acid grs. 45, Malic acid grs. 2, Super-tartrate of potass grs. 15, together with sugar, gum, jelly, fecula, and woody fibre. Uses. A pleasant febrifuge may be formed by infusing Tamarinds in water or milk; they improve the taste of the more nauseous cathartics. Officinal Prep: Confectio Cassiæ. L.E.D. Infus: Tamarind: cum Senna. E.D. Caution. Copper vessels should never be employed for the preparation of any compound which contains Tamarinds.

TARAXACI RADIX. L.E.

(Leontodon Taraxacum.) Dens Leonis.

Dandelion.

Qualities. Odour, none; Taste, bitter, and somewhat sweet and acidulous. Chemical Composition. The active principles appear to consist of extractive, gluten, a bitter principle (not resinous), and tartaric acid. Solubility. Water extracts its virtues much better than spirit. Incompatible Substances. Infusion of Galls, Nitrate of Silver, Oxy-muriate of Mercury, Acetate of Lead, and Sulphate of Iron occasion precipitates in its solutions. Med. Uses. It has long enjoyed the reputation of proving beneficial in obstructions of the liver, and in visceral diseases; Bergius extols its use in these complaints, and recommends the recent root to be boiled in whey or broth. Dr. Pemberton has more recently added his testimony to its value; he observes that he has seen great advantage result from using the extract in chronic inflammation, and incipient schirrhus of the liver, and in chronic derangement of the stomach. Forms of Exhibition. In that of extract, or in decoction made by boiling ℥j of the sliced root in oj of water down to oss, adding to the strained liquid ʒj of Cream of tartar; the recent full grown root only should be used. Dose f℥jj, twice or thrice a day. Officinal Prep: Extract: Taraxaci. The roots are roasted and used at Gottingen by the poorer people for coffee, from which a decoction of them properly prepared can hardly be distinguished.^[663] The 494leaves of this plant are blanched, and very commonly used on the continent as a salad.

TEREBINTHINA. L.E.D. Turpentine.

Most species of Pinus^[664] may be made to yield (and many of them produce spontaneously) a remarkable resinous juice, usually called Turpentine: an appellation, however, which more properly belongs to the product of a different genus, called by Linnæus Pistachia, which contains the true Terebinthus^[665] of the ancients.

Qualities. Consistence, semifluid and tenacious, but becoming more or less concrete by age; Odour, aromatic; Taste, pungent, austere, and astringent. It is inflammable. Solubility. It is entirely soluble in rectified spirit, but not at all in water; although it becomes miscible with that fluid, by the mediation of the yelk or the white of an egg, but more elegantly by that of vegetable mucilage, and forms a milky liquor. It is capable of entering into union with fixed oils. Chemical Composition. Resin, and an essential oil, the proportions of which vary according to the species of Pine from which it is obtained. They all, however, possess the same general chemical, as well as medicinal properties, viz. When internally taken, says Dr. Maton, they seem to warm the viscera, raise the pulse, and impart additional excitement to the vascular system; applied externally, they increase the tone of the part, counteract indolence of action, and deterge, as it were, ill-conditioned ulcers. Internal ulcerations indeed, especially of the urinary passages, as well as laxities of the seminal and uterine vessels, are supposed to be diminished by the exhibition of preparations of this nature. They certainly appear to act in a peculiar manner on the urinary organs, impregnating the water with a violet smell, and there are strong grounds for believing that its volatile element, developed by the powers of digestion, passes into the circulation, and is eliminated by the kidneys, whose secreting vessels are thus stimulated by its contact. (Page 93.) Pulmonary complaints, as obstinate coughs and asthmatic affections, have been said to give way to medicines of this class; yet, in modern practice, recourse is rarely had to them in such cases, and their exhibition is even considered hazardous. The ancients were accustomed to medicate their wines with various Terebinthinate substances, for the effect of which, see Vinum.

The particular preparations of Turpentine most employed in medicine, will be noticed under the different species.

1. Terebinthina Canadensis. L. (Pinus Balsamea. Resina Liquida.) Canada Turpentine, or Canada Balsam.^[666] This is a transparent whitish juice, brought to this country from Canada, and apparently, says Dr. Maton, not very different in its qualities from the celebrated Balm of 495Gilead,^[667] so high in esteem among the eastern nations, and so strongly recommended in a variety of complaints. Hitherto, however, it has not been much employed in England. Its odour is agreeable, and its taste strong and pungent.

2. Terebinthina Chia. L. (Pistachia Terebinthus.) Chio, or Cyprus Turpentine. The superiority of this species to all the products of the pine tribe, was well known to, and described by, most of the ancient writers on the materia medica. It is pellucid, with a bluish-green cast.

3. Terebinthina Vulgaris. L. (Pinus Sylvestris. Scotch Fir.) Common Turpentine. Horse Turpentine. This species is more coarse and dense than any other kind, and has an opaque light brown colour; its consistence may be compared to that of honey; the taste is very acrid, hot, and disagreeable, and the smell much less pleasant than either the Venice or the Strasburg turpentine. It is the kind which, as its name implies, is most commonly employed, and although inferior in quality to that of the turpentine tree, Pistachia Terebinthus (Chio or Cyprus), the Larch, Pinus Larix (Venice Turpentine), and the Silver Fir, Pinus Picea (Strasburgh Turpentine), especially for internal use, yet it is too often substituted for them in the shops of the druggist. The Colleges of London and Edinburgh direct the common turpentine to be used chiefly in external applications, for which it was also much employed by the ancients. Celsus mentions, “Resina liquida pinea,” as entering into the composition of many of his “Malagmata,” and the “Resina liquida,” of other writers would appear to be of the same kind. The Unguentum Elemi compositum contains this resinous juice as a principal ingredient.

4. Terebinthina Veneta. (Pinus Larix.)^[668] The Larch. Venice Turpentine. The resin is by most writers, and in the shops, esteemed the best, after that of Pistachia Terebinthus, of those juices commonly called Turpentines. It is usually thinner than any other kind, of a pale yellowish colour, and of a hot, pungent, bitterish taste; the smell is strong, and far from being agreeable. Although it bears the name of Venice Turpentine, very little of it is exported from the Venetian territories; but it is probable that the merchants of that country were the first who substituted it for the genuine Turpentine of Cyprus. The resinous juice of the Larch is said to remain always, or at least a very long time, in a state of liquidity; a property which is particularly adverted to by Pliny.^[669] As a Diuretic, the Venice Turpentine has been generally preferred to all the other kinds; and it is said to relax the bowels more, for which reason Riverius^[670] considers it as being safer than other irritating diuretics.

5. Terebinthina Argentoratensis. (Pinus Picea.) Strasburg Turpentine. This resin is generally of a middle consistence between that of the Terebinthus and the Larix; more transparent and less tenacious 496than either; in colour yellowish brown; in smell more agreeable than any other turpentine, except the Cyprian; in taste the bitterest, yet the least acrid.

Form of Exhibition. The Turpentines may be either made into Pills with powdered liquorice root, or suspended in water by the intervention of egg or mucilage; for which purpose, ℥j requires the yelk of one egg, or ʒiss of gum arabic. Dose, gr. x to ʒj.

TEREBINTHINÆ OLEUM. L.E.D.

Oil of Turpentine.

Qualities. Form, a limpid and colourless liquid, whose specific gravity is only ·792; Odour, strong, penetrating, and peculiar; Taste, hot, bitter and pungent. Chemical Composition. It is an essential oil, possessing, however, peculiar habitudes with respect to alcohol, being readily dissolved by hot alcohol, but separating again in drops, as the spirit cools; in the cold it is sparingly soluble in the strongest alcohol, and separates from it on standing; but it dissolves completely in six parts of sulphuric æther. It is not acted upon by the alkalies, except by long triture, when it is converted into a species of resin.^[671] Med. Uses. It acts according to the dose, either on the primæ viæ producing catharsis, or on the kidneys, exciting diuresis; thus its operation offers another illustration of the views which I have so frequently urged during the progress of the present work; it furnishes a striking example of the important influence of quantity, or dose, in determining the specific operation of a remedy; thus two fluid-drachms of the oil may so excite the urinary organs as to produce even bloody urine, and the other ill effects described by Boerhaave and Lange; whereas six fluid-drachms, or a fluid-ounce, will stimulate the bowels, and produce scarcely any apparent effect upon the kidneys.

As a medicine acting powerfully on the first passages, its value seems only to have been lately appreciated; in Tænia, it may be said to act almost as a specific remedy, discharging it in all cases, dead. In obstinate constipation, depending on affections of the brain, I have lately had several opportunities or witnessing its beneficial effects; in an unfortunate instance of Hydrocephalus acutus in a boy of thirteen years of age,^[672] it brought away an accumulation of feculent matter almost incredible as to quantity, after the total failure of the strongest doses of ordinary purgatives; and, I believe, if its dose be sufficiently large, that it may generally be administered with perfect safety and confidence. Dr. Latham has long regarded it as a valuable medicine in Epilepsy, in which cases it may in the first instance prove beneficial by unloading the bowels, and subsequently in producing an affection of the head peculiar to its use; and, which generally succeeds a large dose, it is an approach to intoxication, but is unaccompanied with that hilarity and elevation of thought that so usually follow the potation of spirituous liquors. In small doses it produces diuresis, and is used with much advantage in sciatica and lumbago.^[673] Its 497use in diseases of the kidneys originating from ulcerations and obstructions in those organs has been very highly extolled. Cheyne, in his Essay on the gout, recommends it as a specific in Sciatica; upon this subject my own experience so completely confirms the truth of Dr. Maton’s observations, that I shall here insert them. “If,” says he, “I may be allowed to offer the result of my own practice, its effects are in a few instances successful in the removal of that disease; and even those cases which I have seen cured under its use, appeared to be rather of the symptomatic than idiophatic kind; it is reasonable to presume that the sciatic nerve, from its origin and course, may owe some of its morbid affections to an obstructed ureter, as well as to a rheumatic diathesis.” Form: 50. Hunter spoke of oil of turpentine as a styptic, and it has been administered in the Almond emulsion in cases of internal hemorrhage of an active nature. We should however be very careful how we make such an experiment. This oil has the effect of communicating the odour of violets to the urine of those who take it, and what is still more extraordinary, to those even who merely expose themselves for a short time to its effluvia:^[674] a mixture of ♏︎x of this oil with f℥j of almond oil, introduced upon cotton into the ears, is serviceable in cases of deafness resulting from a diseased action of the ceruminiferous glands; it is also employed as a local stimulant in a variety of cases: and in cholic, and obstinate constipation, it is sometimes exhibited in the form of an enema. In America, oil of Turpentine, in doses of a drachm every hour or two, has been successfully administered in cases of Yellow fever, when, says Dr. Chapman, it appears to be soothing in its effects, removing the sense of heat and irritation in the stomach, subduing the force of vascular action and general excitement, and inducing at once a condition of more comfort and security. Orfila also recommends it as the best corrective of inflammation in the stomach from acrid poisons. In this country it has been very successfully employed in cases of Melæna, and in Puerperal fever. As a stimulating liniment its advantages are considerable, see Liniment: Terebinth: In Germany, Norway, and some parts of the Russian Empire, this essential oil is frequently used as a remedy for lesions of the tendons, and other bruises.^[675] Dose as an anthelmintic, f℥ss-f℥ij, repeated every eight hours until the worm is ejected; in these large quantities it is more convenient, as well as more efficacious, to administer it like castor oil, floating upon some liquid aromatic vehicle:^[676] by rubbing up Oil of Turpentine with mucilage, we do but render it more pungent, and difficult to swallow. As a diuretic or stimulant it may be given in the form of an electuary, in doses of from ♏︎x to fʒj. It may be also employed as a very active clyster, made by carefully incorporating one or two table spoonsful of the oil with the yelk of an egg, and adding to it a pint of thin mucilage. This terebinthinate clyster is well calculated to relieve a paroxysm of flatulent cholic. Officinal Prep. Liniment. Terebinth. L. The Pharmacopœias direct the rectification of the oil by redistillation,^[677] when 498it is commonly called Spirit of turpentine, but it appears to be an unnecessary refinement. Dr. Nimmo has proposed the following process for purifying the oil intended for medicinal use, by which it is said to have its disagreeable flavour lessened without sustaining any loss of efficacy. To eight parts of the oil, add one part of the strongest alcohol, and let them be well agitated together. In a few minutes a separation takes place; the oil, unless very impure, falls to the bottom, and the alcohol, having discharged the impurities, floats at the top. Pour off the alcoholic portion, add a similar quantity of alcohol, and proceed as before. If this be repeated three or four times, the oil will become nearly tasteless, almost inodorous, and when evaporated will leave no residuum. But pure as the oil may be thus rendered, it speedily returns to its original condition.

TIGLII OLEUM. L. Oil of Tiglium.

Croton Tiglium. Oleum e Seminibus expressum.

The Croton Tiglium is a native of the island of Ceylon, and is found in Malabar, China, Cochinchina, and the Molucca Islands. Every part of the plant would seem to be endowed with medicinal activity; the root acts as a drastic purgative, and when pulverized, and exhibited in the dose of a few grains, is considered at Amboyna and Batavia, as a specific for dropsy; the wood (lignum Pavanæ) produces, when administered in small doses, a diaphoretic effect, and in larger ones it proves drastic; the leaves are also purgative, and when dried and powdered are supposed to afford an antidote against the bite of the cobra del Capella. The seeds, however, are the parts which have been more generally employed in medicine, the effects of which appear to have been well known for nearly a thousand years.[A] They were early introduced into Europe, and long known under the names of Grana Molucca—Tilii Grana—and Grana Tiglia.^[678] It appears that they were at first very frequently administered, but their extreme acrimony and violence,^[679] and probably the accidents which arose from their injudicious use, soon banished the article from medical practice; in India, however these seeds are still employed as an effectual purgative, after first undergoing the process of roasting, or baking, for the purpose of removing the shell, rendering the nut pulverulent, and at the same time of moderating the acrimonious qualities.^[680] The expressed oil of these seeds does not appear to have been obtained in a separate form until a later period; Lemery speaks of it, and Geoffroy in directing its dose cautions us against giving more than ʒj!—he probably meant a drop. Its use has very lately been revived, and there can be little doubt but that under proper restrictions, 499it may become a valuable acquisition to the practitioner. The profession is indebted for its late introduction, or rather revival, to Mr. E. Conwell, of the East India Company’s Medical Service, on the Madras Establishment, who,^[681] having for many years prescribed it with advantage, introduced a quantity of it for trial in London, through the medium of his friend, Mr. Short, of Ratcliffe Highway.

Qualities. This expressed oil has a yellow colour, a faint odour, and an acrid taste; these qualities however will be found to vary in different samples; but the fact, as Dr. Nimmo^[682] has justly observed, may be fairly explained, without suspecting the existence of any fraud, by supposing that the seeds have undergone a different degree of torrefaction, in order to separate the oil from the farinaceous part. Chemical Composition. The recent experiments of Dr. Nimmo have very satisfactorily shewn that this oil consists of 45 parts of an Acrid purgative principle, and 55 of a fixed oil resembling that of olives, and not possessed of any cathartic property. The acrid principle appears to reside in a resinous matter soluble in alcohol and sulphuric æther, and in volatile and fixed oils. I have lately repeated some of Dr. Nimmo’s experiments on a recently imported sample of oil, and with similar results. The acrid principle appears to bear a strong analogy to that which I separated from elaterium, and as I gave to this latter principle the term Elatin, it seems to me that we might with much propriety, apply the name Tiglin to the former, especially as it does not appear to possess any of the characters and habitudes of a salifiable basis; at all events the adoption of such a term will obviate the necessity of circumlocution in our descriptions. Solubility. By alcohol the oil undergoes a ready decomposition; the Tiglin is dissolved together with a very minute quantity of the oily part. Ether and oil of turpentine dissolve the whole; a fact which enables us, by digesting the seeds in these menstrua, to obtain the article in as genuine, and certainly in a much more uniform, condition, than by the processes of torrefaction and expression, as practised in India; for this fact we are also indebted to Dr. Nimmo. Med. Uses. As far as I have been able to ascertain the fact, this oil does not appear to produce any effects which cannot be commanded by other drastic purgatives; its value depends upon the facility with which it may be administered; in some cases it is amply sufficient to touch the tongue, in others, a drop or two will be required. In maniacs, and in cases where the administration of bulky medicines is extremely difficult, it would seem to offer a decided advantage.^[683] Forms of Exhibition. It has been usually given in this country in the proportion of from one to two drops, in the form of pills. Dr. Nimmo’s discovery with respect to the chemical composition of the oil, very naturally suggested to him the mode of administering it in the form of an alcoholic tincture, (Tinctura Tiglii,) and he has found by experience that such a preparation furnishes the means of readily apportioning the dose to the various circumstances of the case; thus he found that in administering a tincture^[684] in doses equivalent to the number of drops decomposed, the 500same effects were produced as have been attributed to the entire oil. Adulterations. Much has been said upon the fraudulent admixture of this comparatively expensive article with the cheaper fixed oils; and we believe with much truth; a circumstance which will of necessity prevent the general use of the article; and occasion very different reports with respect to its value and activity. Dr. Nimmo however proposes a method of detecting such adulteration, by a process suggested by the results of his experiments upon its composition, and whose rationalé will be easily understood after the chemical history that has been just presented.

“Let a very light phial be counterpoised in an accurate balance; pour into it 50 grains of the suspected oil, add alcohol (which has been previously digested^[685] upon olive oil,) agitate them well, pour off the solution and add more alcohol as before, until the dissolved portion is diffused in such a proportion of alcohol that each half drachm measure shall contain equal to one dose of the oil of Tiglium for an adult. By afterwards placing the phial near a fire, to evaporate what remains of the alcohol in the bottle, if the residuum be to that which has been abstracted by the alcohol as 55 to 45, the oil is genuine. If olive, or any other oil little soluble in alcohol, has been employed as the adulterating agent, it is evident that the residuum will be in a larger proportion; but should Castor Oil have been employed for that purpose, the proportion of the residuum will be smaller even than in the genuine medicine.”

TINCTURÆ. L.E.D. Tinctures.

These consist of alcohol, proof spirit, or spirit of greater or less density, holding in solution one or more of those proximate principles of vegetable or animal matter which are soluble in that menstruum, viz; Sugar, resin, extractive, tannin, cinchonia, camphor, volatile oils, morphia, emetin, conein, elatin, tiglin, and several acids. The proper solvent of those bodies, termed gum-resins, appears to be proof spirit. The compilers of the Codex Medicamentarius of Paris, have defined the different degrees of spirituous strength requisite for the full and perfect extraction of the active elements of different bodies with great truth and nicety; thus they direct for these purposes a spirit of three different standards, viz. 36 (Sp. gr. ·837,) 32 (·856) 22, (·915) of Beaumé’s hydrometer; with the first are prepared the resinous tinctures; with the second those wherein the resinous, extractive, or gummy elements, hold nearly an equal place; and with the third those in which the latter predominate. We are moreover indebted to this committee for having set at rest a question which has been long doubtful, whether the addition of alkaline agents increases the extractive powers of the spirit? They have indeed ascertained by experiment, that the reverse not frequently obtains; for instance, they found that a smaller proportion of guaiacum was dissolved by the spirit of ammonia, than by alcohol of the 501same strength, and that the quantity of matter dissolved from the root of Valerian was the same in both cases. Very active substances, soluble in alcohol, are those which are particularly adapted for tinctures, since they furnish preparations which are efficient in small doses, and very manageable in extemporaneous prescription, such are the tinctures of Opium, Digitalis, Hyoscyamus, Scilla, &c. and from the chemical analysis of Elaterium, there can be no doubt but that a very active and useful tincture of that substance might be introduced into practice; while Dr. Nimmo has very clearly proved that the active matter of the Croton Tiglium may be thus concentrated, see Tiglii Oleum. On the contrary, substances of little activity, except in large doses, are the least adapted for this form of exhibition, as in such cases the solvent will act more powerfully on the living system, than the principles which it may hold in solution, and when continued for any length of time, will lay the foundation of the pernicious custom of dram drinking; such tinctures, however, are not without their value in combination; they sometimes increase the efficacy, and often correct the operation or disguise the flavour, of the medicines with which they may be united; for example, the cathartic tinctures in Formula 70, augment the purgative powers of the combination, at the same time that they correct its unpleasant operation; many other illustrations are presented in the different formulæ, for the explanation of which I must refer the student to the Key Letters. The addition of a tincture has likewise the effect of preserving decoctions and infusions from spontaneous decomposition, the compound tincture of Cardamoms answers such an object in the compound decoction of Aloes. Tinctures are sometimes made with æther, but they are generally more strongly characterised by the nature of the menstruum than by that of the substance dissolved in it; indeed, æther is used in these cases, not to dissolve substances which would resist the action of alcohol and water, but for the sake of its own direct action on the body; thus the Edinburgh pharmacopœia directs an Æthereal Tincture of Aloes, which is more penetrating and stimulant than the alcoholic tinctures; the London College, with the exception of the Aromatic Spirit of Æther, does not recognise any preparation of this nature: I have already alluded to the Æthereal Tincture of Digitalis of the French Codex, than which nothing can be more injudicious, for the digitalis does not amount to more than 1 70th part of the tincture, and must therefore be entirely counteracted by the stimulant effects of the menstruum. The same objection cannot be urged against the æthereal tinctures of Castor, Musk, and Amber, since in these cases, the subject and the menstruum concur in their mode of operation.

Tinctures derive their names from the substances which impart activity to them, and as the medicinal history of each substance is detailed under its proper head, it will be unnecessary to dwell at any length upon the individual virtues of these tinctures.

1. Prepared with Rectified Spirit.

Tinctura Assafœtidæ. L.D. Dose, fʒss to fʒj.

—— Benzoes Comp. L.E.D. Balsamum Traumaticum, P.L. 1745. This is a combination of Benzoin, Storax, and Tolu, with aloes; it is regarded as a stimulating expectorant, and has been used in chronic catarrh and confirmed asthma, but it is now very rarely employed, except as an application to wounds and languid ulcers. It is sold under the name of 502Friar’s Balsam; and with respect to the use of this preparation as a Styptic, the public have fallen into a serious error; fresh wounds it must necessarily injure, not only by its stimulating qualities, but by the separation of the resins which take place on its intermixture with the blood; these form a substance, which absolutely prevents what is most desirable in such case,—the sides of the wound coming in contact and uniting by the first intention. Dose. As an internal remedy from fʒss to fʒij, triturated with yelk of egg, or mucilage, to suspend it in water.

Tinctura Castorei. L.E. Dose, ♏︎xx to fʒij. See Form 20, 23, 25, 76, 97, 136.

Tinctura Castorei Composita. E. This is much more active than the preceding tincture, as it contains assafœtida, and its menstruum is ammoniated alcohol. Dose ♏︎xv to fʒj.

Tinctura Cinchonæ Ammoniata. L. In this preparation we have the tonic powers of the bark combined with the stimulus of the Ammonia. Dose, fʒss to fʒij. Acids and Acidulous Salts are of course incompatible with it.

Tinctura Guaiaci. L.E.D. A simple solution of guaiac. Dose, fʒi-fʒiij.

Tinctura Guaiaci Ammoniata. This is a solution of the guaiac in the aromatic spirit of ammonia, and is consequently more stimulating than the preceding one, and more efficacious as a sudorific: after arterial action is properly reduced, it is certainly one of our best remedies in rheumatism. Dose, fʒj to fʒij, at bed time, and its effects should be promoted by some warm beverage. It is worthy of remark, that nitrous acid and the spirit of nitric æther occasion an extraordinary decomposition of these tinctures, separating the guaiacum into coagulated masses, and imparting to the whole an intense bluish green colour. I find that chlorine has the same effect;^[686] but the sulphuric and muriatic acids produce no disturbance, although all acids and acidulous salts must be considered as incompatible with it. If equal parts of quick-lime and powdered guaiacum be rubbed together, and a quantity of water be poured over them, and the mixture be allowed to stand until it becomes fine, we shall obtain a solution of this substance, which will mix in any proportion with aqueous vehicles without decomposition, and to which the aromatic spirit of ammonia may be subsequently added with effect.

Tinctura Toluiferæ Balsami. E.D. This is only useful as an adjunct, to impart agreeable flavour and fragrance to other remedies.

The above tinctures, when added to water, are instantly decomposed, the practitioner must therefore remember that when he prescribes them in 503aqueous vehicles, it will be necessary to direct them to be triturated with some viscid liquor, as mucilage, previous to the addition of the water, in order to suspend the resinous precipitate.

2. Tinctures prepared with Spirit above Proof.

Tinctura Aloes Composita. L.D. Elixir Proprietatis. P.L. 1720. Tincture of Myrrh is the menstruum of the Aloes in this preparation, to which Saffron is added. Dose, fʒj to fʒij. Form. 16, 97.

Tinctura Myrrhæ. L. The strength of the spirituous solvent has been very judiciously increased in the Editio Altera of the London Pharmacopœia, by which means a brighter tincture is obtained. It is rarely used except in astringent and detergent gargles, or as an external application to foul ulcers; diluted with water it presents us with an excellent lotion for spongy gums.^[687]

3. Tinctures prepared with Proof Spirit.

Tinctura Angusturæ. D. See Cuspariæ Cortex.

Tinctura Aurantii. L.D. An agreeable adjunct to bitter infusions. Dose, fʒij to fʒiij.

Tinctura Calumbæ. L.D. A valuable stomachic. Form. 32, 35, 154, 155, 159. Dose, fʒi-fʒiij.

Tinctura Camphoræ Composita. Tinctura Opii Camphorata. P.L. 1787. Elixir Paregoricum.^[688] P.L. 1745. This preparation had undergone both change of name and composition in the last Pharmacopœia; its old name was thought improper from its similarity to that of tincture of opium, and the oil of aniseed has been omitted on account of its disagreeable flavour; still, however, these perpetual changes are most distressing; the tincture, as it is now prepared, is very different from that which has been so long and so generally sold under the name of Paregoric Elixir, and the chemist is therefore obliged to keep both the preparations, and to send the one or the other, according as it may be required by the old or new name. One fluid-ounce contains nearly two grains of Opium and of benzoic acid, and about one grain and a quarter of camphor. In doses of fʒj to fʒiij, it is anodyne.

Tinctura Cantharides. D. This tincture is highly stimulating, acting with great energy upon the urinary organs; it therefore offers a resource in gleets, fluor albus, incontinence of urine, &c. it has also proved serviceable as a highly stimulating diuretic, in cases of Hydrops Ovarii. See Form. 116. Dose, ♏︎x to fʒj, given in some demulcent infusion; it 504is likewise employed with advantage as a stimulating embrocation and rubefacient, in conjunction with soap or camphor liniment. Externally it has been used in the cure of Sinuses, and fistulous openings, in the proportion of three fluid-drachms to a pint of water.^[689]

Tinctura Capsici. L. It is an excellent stimulant. See Capsici Baccæ. Dose, ♏︎x to fʒi.

Tinctura Cardamomi Composita. L. An agreeable cordial, and adjunct to bitter infusions. See Form. 47, 51.^[690] Dose, fʒi to fʒij.

Tinctura Cascarillæ. L.D. It is added with much effect to different stomachic infusions. See Form. 33, 39, 41. Dose, fʒi to fʒiij.

Tinctura Catechu. L.E.D. A warm and grateful astringent; very useful as an adjunct to cretaceous mixtures in diarrhœa, &c. See Form. 51, 52, 58. Dose, fʒi to fʒiij.

Tinctura Cinchonæ. L.E.D. Used as an adjunct to the decoction or infusion of the bark. See Form. 126, 127. Dose, fʒj to f℥ss. It should be preserved in a place which is not very cold; for a low temperature precipitates the Morphia; this inconvenience, however, is obviated by the addition of a little acetic acid, without diminishing the efficacy of the tincture.

Tinctura Cinchonæ Composita. This resembles the celebrated tincture of Huxham, and although it contains less cinchona than the simple tincture, yet from the addition of aromatics it is more grateful and stomachic. Dose, fʒj to f℥ss.

Tinctura Cinnamomi. L.D. See Form. 101.

Tinctura Cinnamomi Composita. L.E.D. As this is a combination of aromatics with cinnamon, it is more grateful and stomachic than the simple tincture. Dose, fʒ to fʒij.

Tinctura Conii Maculati. E. As Conein is perfectly soluble in spirit, this tincture constitutes a very elegant and efficient form for the exhibition of Hemlock; I have frequently experienced its effects, when added to febrifuge mixtures, with satisfaction. The London college has not hitherto admitted it into the list of tinctures, which is to be regretted.

Tinctura Croci. E.D. It has no medicinal use, independent of its colour.

Tinctura Digitalis. L.E.D. It is a very useful form for the exhibition of this valuable plant. Dose, ♏︎x, cautiously increased. See Digitalis Folia, and Form. 32.

Tinctura Gentianæ Composita. L.E. An elegant stomachic bitter, but less eligible as a remedy than the infusion. Dose, fʒi-fʒij.

Tinctura Hellebori Nigri. This preparation was strongly advised by Dr. Mead, in uterine obstructions. Dose, ♏︎xxx to fʒj. See Hellebori Radix.

Tinctura Humuli. L.E. It is supposed to possess the tonic and narcotic properties of the hop. Dose, fʒss to fʒiij.

Tinctura Hyoscyami. L. This is a much more powerful narcotic than the preceding tincture; and it is not liable to affect the head, nor to 505produce that disturbance in the biliary secretions which so inevitably follows the use of opium. Dose, fʒss to fʒij.

Tinctura Jalapæ. L.E. As the activity of Jalap does not reside in any one principle, but depends upon the combination of its gum, extractive, and resin, proof spirit is of course its appropriate solvent; and the resulting tincture is therefore an active purgative, but it is rarely administered except as an adjuvant to cathartic combinations. Dose, fʒj to f℥ss. See Form. 70, 76.

Tinctura Kino. L.E.D. This is little else than a solution of Tannin; it is however less astringent than the tincture of Catechu. Dose, fʒi to fʒij.

Tinctura Opii. L.E.D. This is at once a most convenient and elegant form for the exhibition of opium; ♏︎xix contain one grain of opium. See Opium, and Form. 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 52, 75, 76, 107, 110, 117, 127, 136, 156, 172. As an external application, when rubbed upon the skin it produces anodyne effects, and it is said that these effects are very much increased by combining it with acetic acid; an acetate of morphia is probably thus produced.

Tinctura Quassiæ Excelsæ. E.D. The bitter principle of this root, Quassin, is completely extracted by proof spirit. Dose, fʒj.

Tinctura Rhei. L.E.D. Less purgative, but more astringent and aromatic than the infusion. That made with the East Indian variety is of a deeper colour, with a tinge of brown. Dose, f℥ss to f℥j.

Tinctura Rhei Composita. L. A cordial, used principally as an adjunct to saline purgatives. Dose, fʒvj to f℥j, to produce purgative effects; from fʒj to fʒij, to act as a stomachic.

The Edinburgh Pharmacopœia directs two compound tinctures of Rhubarb for similar purposes, viz. Tinct. Rhei et Aloes; and Tinct. Rhei et Gentianæ.

Tinctura Scillæ. L.E.D. Dose, ♏︎x to xxx. See Form. 65, 109, 139.

Tinctura Sennæ. L.E. Dose, fʒij to ℥j. See Form. 70. Dose, fʒij to f℥j.

Tinctura Sennæ Composita. E. In this tincture, the Senna is quickened by Jalap. Dose, fʒij to f℥j.^[691]

Tinctura Serpentariæ. L.E.D. Dose, fʒij to fʒiij. It is principally employed as a stimulating adjunct to the infusion or decoction of Cinchona, in typhoid fevers. Officinal Prep. Tinct. Cincon. comp. L. Dose, fʒi to fʒiij.

Tinctura Valerianæ. L.D. It is only used as an adjunct to the infusion of Valerian.

Tinctura Valerianæ Ammoniata. L.D. This tincture is not more highly charged with the principles of the Valerian than the foregoing one, but as the Ammonia corresponds with it in virtue, it is probably more powerful. Dose, fʒi to fʒij. See Form. 23, 25.

Tinctura Zingiberis. L.D. A highly stimulating preparation. See Form. 33. Dose, fʒss to fʒij.

506TINCTURA FERRI AMMONIATI. L.

As this is merely a spirituous solution of the Ferrum Ammoniatum, the title of tincture is improperly applied to it; it seems moreover to be a very superfluous preparation.

TINCTURA FERRI MURIATIS. L.E.D.

Qualities. Colour, brownish yellow; Taste, styptic; Odour, very peculiar. Chemical Composition. It is an alcoholic solution of muriate of iron; the iron being in the state of peroxide. Incompatible Substances. Alkalies and their carbonates; the infusions of astringent vegetables; mucilage of gum arabic: by this latter substance it is precipitated in gelatinous flakes. Med. Uses. It is one of the most active preparations of iron which we possess, and it moreover appears to exert a specific influence upon the urinary organs.^[692] Mr. Cline informs us that ♏︎x, given every ten minutes, until some sensible effect is produced, afford in dysuria speedy relief; in hemorrhage from the bladder, kidneys, or uterus, its acts as a powerful styptic. See Form. 35, 60, 97, 114. Externally, it is very efficacious in destroying venereal warts, either used alone, or diluted with a small portion of water. Dose, ♏︎x to fʒss, or fʒj.^[693]

TORMENTILLÆ RADIX. L.E.D.

Tormentilla Officinalis.

Tormentil Root.

Qualities. This root is knotty, externally blackish, internally reddish; Odour, slightly aromatic; Taste, austere and styptic. Chemical Composition. Its active matter is chiefly Tannin, and except galls and catechu, it appears to contain a larger proportion than any other vegetable astringent.^[694] Solubility. Boiling water extracts all its virtues, as also does spirit. Incompatible Substances. Solutions of Isinglass, the Salts of Iron; Alkalies and Alkaline Earths. Med. Uses. It has been chiefly used in diarrhœa, and it is very efficacious in that which is so frequently attendant on Phthisis. Dr. Fordyce recommends its union with Ipecacuan, by which combination, he observes, we shall astringe the vessels of the intestines, and at the same time relax those of the skin. Forms of Exhibition. In substance, or in decoction made by boiling ℥j of the root in oiss of water until reduced to oj. Dose, of the 507substance in powder, ʒss to ʒj; of the above decoction f℥j thrice a day. Officinal Prep. Pulv. Cret. Comp. L.

TOXICODENDRI FOLIA. L.E.

(Rhus Toxicodendron.)

Sumach Leaves, or Poison Oak.

Qualities. Its leaves are inodorous, but have a sub-acrid taste. Chemical Composition. Gallic acid, tannin, and a certain acrimonious matter, upon which the virtues of the plant depend, and which, according to Van Mons, is disengaged from the leaves in the state of gas during the night, or while they do not receive the direct rays of the sun. Med. Uses. Dr. Alderson of Hull introduced the leaves of this plant to notice, in whose hands they proved successful in several cases of Paralysis; the same results however have not been obtained by other physicians; the plant has therefore fallen into disuse, and might, in deference to public opinion, be removed from the materia medica. When applied externally it has been known to produce an erysipelatous affection of the skin; a remarkable instance of which lately occurred at the Botanic garden at Chelsea, where a person merely rubbed his eye after having casually touched the plant in question.

TUSSILAGO. (Tussilago Farfara—Folia, Flores.) Coltsfoot.^[695]

This plant has been regarded as a powerful expectorant from the earliest ages; it is at present only valued for the mucilage which it affords; a handful of the leaves boiled in oij of water, until reduced to oj, will furnish, by the addition of a little sugar candy, a very grateful demulcent.

VALERIANÆ RADIX. L.E.D.

(Valeriana Officinalis. Sylvestris.)

Valerian Root.

Qualities. Odour, strong, peculiar and unpleasant; Taste, warm, bitter, and sub-acrid. Chemical Composition. Extractive, gum, resin, fecula, tannin, and a peculiar essential oil which seems to contain camphor, and on which its virtues probably depend. Solubility. Its active matter is extracted by boiling water, alcohol, and the solutions of the pure alkalies. Incompatible Substances. The salts of iron. Med. Uses. It is antispasmodic, tonic, and emmenagogue; and it is highly beneficial in those diseases which appear to be connected with a morbid susceptibility of the nervous system, as in hysteria, hemicrania, and in some species of epilepsy; and it would appear that its virtues in such 508complaints may be frequently increased by combining it with cinchona. Forms of Exhibition. The form of powder is the most effectual, and next to this a strong tincture made with proof spirit; by decoction its powers are considerably impaired, and consequently the extract is an inefficient preparation. Dose of the powder ℈j to ʒj; when the flavour disgusts, the addition of a small portion of mace or cinnamon will be found to disguise it. See Form. 25, 31, 38. Officinal Preparation. Infus. Valerian. D. Tinct. Valerian. L.D. Tinct. Valerian. ammoniat. L.D. Adulterations. The roots of a species of crowfoot are sometimes mixed with those of valerian; they may be distinguished by a caustic taste on chewing them; the roots have also often a disagreeable smell from the urine of cats, who are allured and delighted by their odour; and they are sometimes inert, from not having been taken up at a proper season, or from not having been carefully preserved.

VERATRI RADIX. L.E. (Veratrum Album.)

Helleborus Albus. D.

White Hellebore Root.

Qualities. Odour, strong, and disagreeable; Taste, bitter, and very acrid; by drying, the odour is dissipated, and in this state it is found in the shops. Solubility. Its active principles are soluble in water, alcohol, and the alkalies. Chemical Composition. Pelletier and Caventou have lately discovered in this vegetable a new alkaline principle, white, crystalline, and acrid, to which they have given the name of Veratria: it appears to exist in combination with gallic acid. Med. Uses. The effects of this root are extremely violent and poisonous; the ancients employed it in various obstinate cases, but they generally regarded it as their last resource; it acts as a violent emetic and cathartic, producing bloody stools, great anxiety, tremors, and convulsions. Etmuller says, that the external application of the root to the abdomen, will produce vomiting; and Schroeder observed the same phenomenon to take place in a case where it was used as a suppository, and its juice has been applied to the purpose of poisoning arrows; notwithstanding these effects however the veratrum has been very safely and successfully administered in cases of mania, epilepsy, lepra, and gout:^[696] but the most ordinary use of white hellebore is as a local stimulant; as an adjunct to errhine powders; or in the form of decoction, as a lotion; or mixed with a lard, as an ointment in scabies,^[697] and herpetic eruptions: great caution however is required in its application, 509for several authors affirm that as an errhine, it has caused abortions, floodings which could not be restrained, and fatal hemorrhages from the nose. Dose, gr. iij to v, obtunded by the addition of twelve times its weight of starch, a pinch of which may be taken for several successive evenings; for internal administration it ought not to exceed gr. ij. Officinal Prep. Decoct. Veratri. L. Tinct. Veratri albi. E. Unguent. Veratri. L. Unguent. Sulphur. comp. L.

VINUM. Wine.

The term wine is more strictly and especially applied to express the fermented juice of the Grape, although it is generally used to denote that of any sub-acid fruit. The presence of Tartar is perhaps the circumstance by which the grape is most strongly distinguished from all the other sub-acid fruits that have been applied to the purpose of wine making. The juice of the grape, moreover, contains within itself all the principles essential to vinification, in such a proportion and state of balance as to enable it at once to undergo a regular and complete fermentation, whereas the juices of other fruits require artificial additions for this purpose; and the scientific application and due adjustment of these means, constitute the art of making wines.^[698] It has been remarked, that all those wines that contain an excess of malic acid are of a bad quality, hence the grand defect that is necessarily inherent in the wines of this country, and which leads them to partake of the properties of cider, for in the place of the tartaric, the malic acid always predominates in native fruits.

The characteristic ingredient of all wines is Alcohol, and the quantity of this, and the condition or state of combination in which it exists, are the circumstances that include all the interesting and disputed points of medical enquiry. Daily experience convinces us that the same quantity of alcohol, applied to the stomach under the form of natural wine, and in a state of mixture with water, will produce very different effects upon the body, and to an extent which it is difficult to comprehend; it has, for instance, been demonstrated that Port, Madeira, and Sherry, contain from one-fourth to one-fifth their bulk of alcohol, so that a person who takes a bottle of either of them, will thus take nearly half a pint of alcohol, or almost a pint of pure brandy! and moreover that different wines, although of the same specific gravity, and consequently containing the same absolute proportion of the spirit, will be found to vary very considerably in their intoxicating powers; no wonder then that such results should stagger the philosopher, who is naturally unwilling to accept any tests of difference from the nervous system, which elude the ordinary resources of analytical chemistry; the conclusion was therefore drawn, that alcohol must necessarily exist in wine in a far different condition from that in which we know it in a separate state, or in other words, that its elements only could exist in the vinous liquor, and that their union was determined, and consequently alcohol produced, by the action of distillation. That it was the product, and not the educt of distillation, was an opinion which originated with Rouelle, who asserted that alcohol was not completely formed, until the 510temperature was raised to the point of distillation; more lately the same doctrine was revived and promulgated by Fabbroni, in the memoirs of the Florentine Academy. Gay Lussac has, however, silenced the clamorous partisans of this theory, by separating the alcohol by distillation at the temperature of 66° Fah. and by the aid of a vacuum, it has since been effected at 56°: besides, it has been shewn that by precipitating the colouring matter and some of the other elements of the wine by sub-acetate of lead, and then saturating the clear liquor with sub-carbonate of potass, the alcohol may be completely separated without any elevation of temperature; and by this ingenious expedient Mr. Brande has been enabled to construct a table, exhibiting the proportions of combined alcohol which exist in the several kinds of wine: no doubt therefore can remain upon this subject, and the fact of the difference of effect, produced by the same bulk of alcohol, when presented to the stomach in different states of combination, adds another striking and instructive illustration to those already enumerated in the course of this work, of the extraordinary powers of chemical combination in modifying the activity of substances upon the living system. In the present instance, the alcohol is so combined with the extractive matter of the wine, that it is probably incapable of exerting its full specific effects upon the stomach, before it becomes altered in its properties, or, in other words, digested: and this view of the subject may be fairly urged in explanation of the reason why the intoxicating effects of the same wine are so liable to vary in degree, in the same individual, from the peculiar state of his digestive organs at the time of its potation.^[699] Hitherto we have only spoken of pure wine, but it is essential to state that the stronger wines of Spain, Portugal, and Sicily, are rendered remarkable in this country by the addition of Brandy, and must consequently contain uncombined alcohol, the proportion of which however will not necessarily bear a ratio to the quantity added, because, at the period of its admixture, a renewed fermentation is produced by the scientific vintner, which will assimilate and combine a certain portion of the foreign spirit with the wine: this manipulation, in technical language, is called fretting-in. The free alcohol may, according to the experiments of Fabbroni, be immediately separated by saturating the vinous fluid with sub-carbonate of potass, while the combined portion will remain undisturbed: in ascertaining the fabrication and salubrity of a wine, this circumstance ought always to constitute a leading feature in the inquiry; and the tables of Mr. Brande would have been greatly enhanced in practical value, had the relative proportions of uncombined spirit been appreciated in his experiments, since it is to this, and not to the combined alcohol, that the injurious effects of the wine are to be attributed. “It is well known,” observes Dr. Macculloch, “that diseases of the liver are the most common, and the most formidable of those produced by the use of ardent spirits; it is equally certain that no such disorders follow the intemperate use of pure wine, however long indulged in: to the concealed and unwitting consumption of spirit, therefore, as contained in the wines commonly drunk in this country, is to be attributed the excessive prevalence of those hepatic affections which are comparatively little known to our continental neighbours.” Thus much is certain, that our ordinary wines contain no alcohol, but what is disarmed of its virulence by the prophylactic energies of combination.

511The odour, or bouquet, and flavour which distinguish one wine from another, evidently depend upon some volatile and fugacious principle, soluble in alcohol; this in sweet and half fermented wines, is immediately derived from the fruit, as in those from the Frontignan and Muscat grapes; but in the more perfect wines, as in Claret, Hermitage, Rivesaltes, and Burgundy, it bears no resemblance to the natural flavour of the fruit, but is altogether the product of the vinous process; and in some wines it arises from the introduction of flavouring ingredients, as from almonds in Madeira wines, as well as in those of Xeres and Saint Lucar, and hence their well known nutty flavour. Among the ancients it was formerly, and in modern Greece it is to this day, the fashion to give a resinous flavour, by the introduction of Turpentine into the casks.^[700] These wines are supposed to assist digestion, to restrain ulcerous, and other morbid discharges, to provoke urine, and to strengthen the bowels; but Dioscorides also informs us that they were known to produce vertigo, pain in the head, and many evils not incidental to the same quantity of vinous liquor when free from such admixtures.^[701]

Wines admit of being arranged into four classes.^[702]

1. Sweet Wines; which contain the greatest proportion of extractive and saccharine matter, and generally the least ardent spirit, though this is often rather disguised than absent; as in these wines a proportion of sugar has remained unchanged during the process of vinification, they must be considered as the results of an imperfect fermentation, and are in fact mixtures of wine and sugar; accordingly, whatever arrests the progress of 512fermentation, must have a tendency to produce a sweet wine; thus boiling the must or drying the fruit will, by partially separating the natural leaven and dissipating the water, occasion such a result as is exemplified by the manufacture of the wines of Cyprus, the vino cotto of the Italians and the vinum coctum of the ancients, by that of Frontignac, the rich and luscious wines of Canary, the celebrated Tokay, Vino Tinto (Tent of Hungary) the Italian Montefiascone, the Persian Schiras, the Malmsey wines of Candia, Chio, Lesbos, and Tenedos, and those of the other islands of the Archipelago. The wines of the ancients, as Chaptal observes, were so concentrated by boiling, that they rather deserve the name of extracts or syrups, than that of wines; they, must have been very sweet, and but little fermented; apparently to remedy this, they were kept for a great length of time; according to Aristotle and Galen, seven years was the shortest period necessary for keeping wine before it was fit to drink, but wines of a century old were not uncommon at the tables of the luxurious citizens of ancient Rome, and Horace boasts of his drinking Falernian, born as it were with him, or which reckoned its age from the same consuls.^[703]

2. Sparkling or Effervescing Wines, as Champagne, are indebted for their characteristic properties to the presence of carbonic acid; they rapidly intoxicate, in consequence of the alcohol, which is suspended in, or combined with the gas, being thus applied in a sudden and very divided state to a large extent of nervous surface; for the same reason, their effects are as transitory as they are sudden.^[704]

3. Dry and Light. These are exemplified by the more esteemed German wines, as Hock, Rhenish, Mayne, Moselle, Necker, and Elsass, and those highly flavoured wines, Burgundy, Claret, Hermitage, &c. They contain a very inconsiderable degree of ardent spirit, and combine with it the effect of an acid.

4. Dry and Strong, as Madeira, Port, Sherry, &c. The name Sec, 513corruptly written Sack, signifies dry; the Sec wine prepared at Xeres^[705] in Spain, is called according to our orthography, Sherris, or Sherry. In the manufacture of Sherry, Lime^[706] is added to the grapes, a circumstance, observes Dr. Macculloch, apparently conducive to its well known dry quality, and which probably acts by neutralizing a portion of malic or tartaric acid.

By the adulteration and medication of wines, three principal objects are attempted, viz. 1. To give them strength, which is effected by adding any ardent spirit; but the wine is slowly decomposed by it. 2. To perfect or change their colour. It is very usual to change white wines, when they have grown brown or rough, into red wines, by means of sloes, or other colouring matter. 3. To lessen, or remove their acidity. It is well known that lead in different forms has frequently been employed for this purpose; the practice, however, is attended with most dangerous consequences; but which Dr. Macculloch is inclined to believe has been over-rated, since the compounds which this metal forms with the tartaric and malic acids are insoluble; but against this argument, the decisive results of experience may be opposed, and Fourcroy conceived that by the addition of Vinegar, a soluble triple salt, an aceto-tartrate of lead, was produced. The fraud may be easily detected by the test^[707] invented by Dr. Hahnemann. The ancients, it appears, were acquainted with this property in lead, for according to Pliny, the Greeks and Romans improved the quality of their wines by immersing a plate of lead in them.^[708] Wine, as a pharmaceutical agent, has been employed to extract several of the principles of vegetables, and to dissolve certain mineral bodies: as a solvent, however, it is liable to many serious objections, as inequality of strength, and uncertainty of composition; thus sound and perfectly fermented dry wine, as Sherry, is frequently unable to dissolve iron, while tartarized antimony is instantly decomposed by every other. As a menstruum, to obtain an extract, it is quite inadmissible on account of the residuum which it leaves by evaporation. From such considerations the London College have at length substituted a weak spirit, for the wine formerly employed, although the term “Vinum” is still retained in the Pharmacopœia, to obviate those embarrassments which must ever attend a change of name, with a corresponding change of properties. The Committee were fully prepared to expect the captious objections which are urged against this measure, 514but as the name is chemically and medicinally correct, the etymologist may be fairly allowed to enjoy his assumed triumph without molestation.