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THE OFFICINAL

MATERIA MEDICA
BY

FREDERICK

T.

ROBERTS,

M.D., B.Sc, F.R.C.P.

PROFESSOR OF MATERIA MEDICA AND THERAPEUTICS, AND OF CLIN
MEDICINE AT UNIVERSITY COLLEGE; PHYSICIAN TO UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE HOSPITAL, AND TO THE BROMPTON CONSUMPTION
hospital; EXAMINER IN MEDICINE AT THE ROYAL
COLLEGE OF SURGEONS, AND AT THE
VICTORIA UNIVERSITY, ETC.

SECOND EDITION

H. K.

LEWIS,

LONDON
GOWER STREET,

136

1887

W.C.

PRINTED BY

K.

LEWIS, 136

COWER STREET

LONDON, W.C.

PREFACE TO THE SECOND EDITION.

The

issue of another edition of the British

macopoeia since
necessitated

and

this

this worlc

first

published, has

complete and thorough revision

its

many changes in
of new drugs, and

has entailed not only

the addition

details, but also

the omission of

but have

was

Phar-

some which were formerly

now been

officinal,

rejected.

While adhering in the main to the plan of

arrangement adopted in the first edition, certain
changes have been introduced, which are deserving
of notice.

Much

was originally arranged in

now been incorporated with

that

a tabular form has

and some alterations have been

made in the grouping of the drugs. The most
important change, however, is that the subject of

the general text

the

action

developed.

of medicines

general

has been considerably

summary has been given

groups under which remedies are classified

according to their physiological and therapeutic

of the

effects,

and the terms associated therewith defined.

Moreover,

the

action

of each

officinal

drug

is

indicated, either separately, or in connection with

PREFACE.

iv
Other drugs to which

attempt

made

is

disease, which
this

it is

No

to discuss their practical uses in

altogether beyond the scope of

is

of the several preparations

The doses

work.

therapeutically allied.

are brought together

a concise form, adapted

in

for easy reference.

As

volume now aims

this

ably complete account of the

Medica,

have altered

preparing

the

its

giving a toler-

at

title

present edition

officinal

Materia

accordingly.
I

have

kept

In
in

view, not only the wants of medical and pharmaceutical students, who will find the subject pre-

aspect which

sented from every

required at examinations;
titioners, to

whom

ence with regard

may need

to

it

can fairly be

but also those of prac-

may prove useful for refermany points upon which they

speedy information.

thank friendly critics who, either

in
publicly or privately, have pointed out defects
to
the former edition, and have endeavoured
I

desire

to

them where I have thought this desirable.

my
special acknowledgments are again due to

rectify

My

friend,

Mr. Raymond Johnson, who has kindly

revised the final proof-sheets.

The Author.
102 Harley Street,
April, 1887.

CONTENTS.
Section

I.

INTRODUCTION.
Method

of Study

General

General Nature and

PAGE

Sources of Drugs

Scope of Materia Medica

Pharmacy

Pharmacopceial or Galenical Preparations

and Measures
gical

Weights

Pharmaceutical Operations Physio-

and Therapeutic Action

Section

.....

1-47

II.

THE INORGANIC KINGDOM.

I.

11.

III.

Aqua Water
Carbo

Carbon

.......

Sulphur Group

IV. Chlorine

and Hypochlorites

.61
69

V. Iodine and certain Iodides

73

VI. Bromine and Bromides

VII. Phosphorus and Hypophosphites

56
gS

82
.

.86

CONTENTS.

VI

PAGE

VIII. Acids (with some exceptions)

IX. Alkalies

.90

Ammonium Potassium Sodium

Lithium

10-148

X. Alkaline Earths : Aluminium Calcium Magne-

sium

Cerium

149-163

Antimonium Arsenium Argentum Bismuthum Cuprum Ferrum Hy-

XI. Ordinary Metals:

drargyrum

Magna! ium Plumbum Zincum

164-234

XII. Special Chemical Products

Alcohol

Group

: Hydrocyanic Acid-

Ether

Group

Chloroform

Hydrate of Chloral Butyl-Chloral

Hydrate Nitrite of Amyl Nitro- Glycerine
Tablets Carbolic Acid and Creasote Paraffin
Iodoform

235-259

Sfxtion

III.

THE ORGANIC KINGDOM.

I.

The Vegetable Kingdom.

261-302

A. Table of Natural Orders

B. Groups of Vegetable DrugE

...

303

1.

Entire Plant

Roots and Rhizomes

3o6

2.

3.

Barks

334

4.

Woods

344


CONTENTS.

vii
PAGE

5.

Green-Tops and Twigs

6.

Leaves

348

7.

Flowering- and Fruiting-Tops Flowers

362

8.

Fruits

9.

Seeds

376
'

Special Parts of Plants

11.

Diseased Plants

12.

Vegetable Products:

.......
........
........
......

394
398

a.

Gums

b.

Resins

c.

Gum-Resins.

d.

Balsams or Balsamic Resins

414

e.

Turpentines or Oleo-Resins

418

Oils

and their products

a.

Simple fixed

b.

Aromatic

c.

Concrete

e.

Special

422

428
432

volatile

S^P^

Neutral Principles

17.

Special Organic Acids

18.

Miscellaneous Drugs

438
439

Concrete Juices and Extracts

16.

427

and

/. Glycerine

Alkaloids

408

......

oils, fixed

15.

402

^21

volatile oils
oils

400

oils

Stearoptenes

14.

.383

.....
.

10.

13.

347

.441

^g,

^85
.

CONTENTS.

Vlll

II.

The Animal Kingdom.

PAGE
497

1.

Living Animal

2.

Dead

3.

Parts of Animals, modified or prepared

4.

Secretions or their Constituents

503

5.

Preparation from an Organ

507

6.

Ovum Egg

508

497

Insects
.

-501

Section IV.

Summary

of Officinal Preparations

509-533

MATERIA MEDICA.
Section

I.

INTRODUCTION.
The

study of the medicinal

ployed in the treatment of
essential part of a medical
ject may be conveniently

ag-ents which are emdisease, constitutes an

education.

The

sub-

arranged under four

Materia Medica Proper.
divisions, namely:
1.
III. Physiological Action or PharII. Pharmacy.

macology.

IV. Therapeutics.

Materia Medica has come by general usage to

be associated with that branch of the subject which
deals

with medicinal

substances

in

themselves

that is, with the facts or particulars which have to

be learnt about each individual drug.
Pharmacy
is concerned with the actual preparation of these
agents, and of their various combinations and

compounds. Physiological Action or Pharmacology refers to the action of drugs upon the system
in health.
Therapeutics, in the more restricted
sense of the term, deals with their effects in disease, and their practical uses in treatment.
The main purpose of this work is to give a concise account of Materia Medica and Pharmacy,
according to a plan which I have found useful
for practical instruction.
The Physiological and
Therapeutic Action of the several drugs will
also be stated, so far as this is indicated by
the terms in recognised \x^it emetic, purgative,
B

MATERIA MEDICA.

and the doses of medicines

etc.
employed for internal adpreparations
or their
With regard
mentioned.
will
be
ministration
is
useit
however,
Therapeutics,
Practical
to
less to attempt to teach this branch ot the subject to those who have not as yet acquired the
preliminary knowledge, without which its intelligent study is absolutely impossible. Therefore, no
allusion will be made in the following pages to
the uses of drugs in disease, and I would strongly
warn beginners against burdening their memory
with details on this point, the meaning of which
they cannot possibly appreciate or understand.
diuretic,

tonic,

I,

Method

of Study.

preferable to recognise Materia Medica

and Pharmacy as distinct branches, and to study
Obviously Materia Medica
them separately.
The student should avoid
first.
come
should
burdening his memory with minute and unimportant details about the various drugs, but enis

It

deavour to grasp the essential facts relating to

practical
each, and to recognise intelligently their
The requisite information must of
bearings.
course^be obtained from books, lectures, or demonstrations, but these methods of instruction
and
should always be supplemented by personal
in
Thus,
themselves.
practical study of the drugs
different
reading the description of a drug, the
and reunderstood
easily
points will be far more
before
specimen
a
has
student
membered, if the
which
characters
the
observes
him and carefully
and
examming
by
Moreover,
are described.
will
again, he
handling the specimens again and
'

make

himself familiar with these characters

and

METHOD OF STUDY.

may

also learn to contrast those drugs which are

be mistaken for each other.
Again, he
should endeavour to practise and verify chemical
tests, where these
are important, so as to have
them impressed on the memory. Nor should the
study of Medical Botany be forgotten, in so far as
this subject is connected with Materia Medica
while useful information may be gained by observing the plants themselves in their natural state,
when this is practicable.
Pharmacy is essentially practical, and a satisfactory and abiding knowledge of its details can
only be acquired by learning the "art of disliable to

pensing." Formerly this branch was taught during

the period of apprenticeship, but now it has to be
studied as a separate part of the medical curriculum,
either in a private or public dispensary.
It must
be insisted upon that practical pharmacy is iinportant,
and should receive adequate attention.
While
during the long apprenticeships it occupied far
too prominent a position, the danger now is lest
students should pass into the opposite extreme,
and go_ through the instruction demanded by the
examining boards in a perfunctory manner, as if it
were of no consequence.
Obviously a practical
knowledge of pharmacy is absolutely essential for
those who intend to engage in a dispensing practice
and it is very useful even to those who have
no such intention.
Thus it teaches them, and
makes them familiar with : (i) The art ofprescribing, i.e., how to write prescriptions,
and the best
;

combmations of

The

different

drugs

to

employ.

inodes

(2)

of administering and using therapeutic

agents.
(3) The proper doses of drugs under
various circumstances.
(4) Incompatibles, i.e., the
medicmes which are incompatible with each other,
and which should not be employed together.
Incompatibility may be either chemical or
physiological,
B 2

MATERIA MEDICA.

of considerable importance to become

acquainted with, and to remember, the chief facts

and

it

is

relating- to this

subject.

Owing-

to their

incom-

patibility drug-s when combined together may give

rise to compounds which are either inert or injurious; or which are merely objectionable on account

of their appearance, colour, taste, or other chaIt must be borne in mind, however, that
racters.

agents which are chemically incompatible may

as may be
have valuable therapeutic properties
exemplified by Lotio Nigra, Mistura Ferri Coniposita, and numerous other combinations.
;

essentially practical, its

The
study may be guided and assisted by books.
of
standard
book which must be regarded as the
PharmaBritish
Pharmacy in this country is the
but other countries have their several
copoeia

While

Pharmacy

is

Pharmacopoeias, which may be studied with advanspecial

tage; while most hospitals have now their
inforvaluable
much
which
Pharmacopoeias, from
several
are
there
and
gained;
mation may also be
by indiuseful books of prescriptions compiled
PharmacoBritish
the
studying
In
vidual writers.
must be
poeia with reference to Pharmacy, attention
weights
The
points:!.
following
directed to the
their signs
and measttres which are employed, with
conducting
2. The mode of
and abbreviations.

ot
3. The nature
aeneral pharmaceutical operations.
ot
methods
%outs of preparations, and their general
preparation
the
manufacture.
4- The details of

of individual drugs

and of

active principles.

5.

preparations

o.

Pharmaceutical compoimds or offici^ial

important ingreeach particular drug, with their
proportions ot
the
dients and in some instances
each group ot
memders
of
these ino-redients. 6. The
details as mav
such
with
officinal'preparations
relation to any individual
be if importance in
member of the group.
;


NATURE AND SOURCES OF DRUGS.

General Nature and Sources of

2.

Drugs.
The

ag-ents

regarded
sions

which are used as medicines must be

first instance under the two divi-

the

in

of: i.

Officinal

or
or

official;

2.

No7i- officinal or

drugs are those

which are recognised by the British PharmacoPCEiA, and this division alone will be dealt
with
in this work; although there are many
non-officinal
agents which have obtained an established reputation in treatment, and which are of considerable
non-official.

Officinal

official

practical value.

The following table will serve as a basis for indicating generally the sources and nature of
mediagents

cinal

A. Inorganic f^"

KingdomI
_

B. Organic

Kingdom
1.

2-

(.3f

4.

( 5.

etalhc.
f
Special chemical

products.

Vegetable or Botanical.
Animal.

Some important drugs belong

to

the

non-

metallic division of chemistry, such

as certain
gases, carbon, sulphur, iodine,
phosphorus, and

some
2.

acids.

The metallic

division yields a large number

valuable substances, preparations
of several of
^'''"^ extensively employed in
treatrn!
ment. They are sometimes
used as found in nature,
ot

especially in the form of mineral

walers. Some
'^^"^y
have
ontl to
^Ty.
t'r^^'^
only
be purified
for use.
As a rule, however
rn
in

^'^^"'^ be specially

th!"fP'''P%'^"""f
the
form of oxides,

other combinations.

salts,

acids,

Very rarely

employed therapeutically

is

made

and variou^
a metal
'eiai uselt
self
i

MATERIA MEDICA.

Under special chemical products I include

certain compounds which belong to the domain of
some
organic chemistry, and which are made up of
3.

of the non-metallic elements in various combmaAlcohol, the different ethers, and hydrotions.

group.
kingdom a
botanical
or
4. From the vegetable
many of
obtained,
are
drugs
very large number of
In a
importance.
and
value
them of the greatest
ofjj'"'^
use
made
is
plant
/z>-<?
few instances the
commonly one or more of its parts are alone offici-

cyanic acid will serve

to illustrate this

flowers,
such as the root, bark, wood, leaves,
vegethe
from
derived
drugs
Two
fruit, or seeds.
plants in a
table kingdom are really portions of
rye and galldiseased condition, namely, ergot of
^^^eir
Plants are seldom administered
nuts.
different
natural state, but are usually made into
Again, several imporpreparations.
nal,

pharmaceutical
from certam
tant drugs consist oi products obtained
ways, ot
other
parts of plants, by incision or in
camasafcetida,
opium, aloes, scammony,

which

examples.
phor, catechu, and kino afford prominent
but in
state,
sirnple
These are often given in their
active
contain
and
agents,
reality they are compound
conin
sometimes
principles and other constituents,
siderable number,

and having very

different ac-

from each other,

tions, which can be separated
individual effects^
their
for
and are frequently used
preparea
Some of these active principles have been
laboratory; while
in the chemical
artificially,
processes as
others can be so modified by chemical
different in their action
to yield products essentially
chemical composiupon the system, although their
altered.
tion may be but very slightly
from the vege
derived
principles
active

The
kingdom

they oepresent much variety, and

long to the following groups:

table

NATURE AND SOURCES OF DRUGS.

a. Alkaloids, which are as a rule most valuable

agents, and often extremely powerful.
Ex. Morphine, quinine, strychnine, atropine.
b. Neutral prmciples.
These are usually bitter,
and some are very useful in treatment, but others
are almost inert. Ex. Meconin, calumbin, elaterin.
Organic acids.
c.
Ex. Citric, tartaric, malic,
oxalic, tannic and gallic (which are very extensively found in the vegetable kingdom), meconic.
d. Oils, including (i) Fixed oils, such as linseed,

and croton oils; and (ii) Volatile or

as oils of rue, lavender, peppermint,
and mustard.
e.
Gums. These are of two kinds, namely, (i)
Arabine, which is soluble in water
(ii)
Tragacanihine or Bassorine, which swells up in cold water.
These include, (i)
f. Resins and their varieties.
Simple resijis, e.g., guaiacum, mastiche.
(ii)
Gumolive, castor,

essential oils,

myrrh, asafoetida, ammoniacum, scamOleo-resins or Terebinthi?tates, e.g., copaiba, turpentine, Canada balsam,
(iv) Balsams,
consisting of resin and benzoic or cinnamic acid,
e.g., benzoin, balsam of Peru, and balsam
of Tolu.
fesitis, e.g.,

mony.

g.
h.
I.

(iii)

Starch and Saccharine elements.

Vegetable Jelly, pectin, and pec tic acid.
Protein or Albuminoid substances, including ve^e-

iable albumin, fibrin, casein,

and gelatine.
These are principles the
nature of which is not definitely known, and which
are provisionally grouped together under this term.
Their number is becoming progressively less, as
researches reveal more clearly what the active
J. Extractive

matters.

pnnciples of plants really are.

k. Inorganic salts.
Most plants contain inorganic
constituents, and these may be of more or
less importance, especially salts of the alkalies
and lime.

Khubarb contains a considerable quantity of oxa-

late of lime.


MATERIA MEDICA.

8
will

It

be readily understood that the different

groups of active principles just indicated are very

variously combined in different plants or parts of
plants which are employed medicinally. Moreover, they differ greatly in their power and effects
upon the system, and in their therapeutic value.
It may also be mentioned here that some plants
contain elements having no obvious physiological
action of importance, but when these elements are
brought into contact with water, a chemical decomposition takes place, which results in the production of very powerful agents. This is illustrated

by

oil of bitter

almonds, and

oil of

mustard.

the animal kingdom only a comparatively few therapeutic agents are obtained, and
they may be arranged as follows:
Ex. Cantharides, cochia. Animals themselves.
5.

From

neal, leeches.
b.

Parts of

A?ii?nals,

altered or prepared in

some

cetaceum.
way.
honey.
Musk,
Ex.
c. Secretions.
organs or
d. Special preparations obtained from
ox-gall,
pepsin,
oil,
Cod-liver
Ex.
secretions.
milk-sugar, wax.
The white and yolk of hens' eggs are
e. Eggs.
JEx. Isinglass, lard, suet,

used medicinally.

3.

General Scope of Materia Medica.

the subject more

Materia Medica
what
clear to point out definitely
what it may
words,
other
or, in
actually includes
drug.
individual
any
about
be necessary to learn
It will

perhaps help

to

make

differences in this respect

Ot course there are great
some being quite unimdrugs,
regards different

as

portant,

and

all

that

is

required

is

that the student


SCOPE OF MATERIA MEDICA.

should know what they are, and should be able to

recognise them when he sees them while in other
instances more or less numerous details have to be
The
acquired, which are of real consequence.
facts which it may be requisite to learn about a
;

thus summarised:
that is, whence it is derived.
from the vegetable
obtained
In the case of drugs
geographical source
and
botanical
their
kingdom,
must be separately distinguished.
b. Its 7iahire, or what class of substances it belongs to. In relation to the vegetable drugs, it is
requisite to learn what part or parts of a plant are
officinal, as well as the nature of any special prodruga.

may be

Its officinal source,

duct obtained from this kingdom.

This includes not only
c. Its mode ofpreparaiion.
the more or less complicated chemical processes
by which salts and numerous other medicinal substances are made; but also the methods by which
certain drugs are procured in their natural state,
or the treatment to which they are subjected afterwards, in order to render them fit for use.
The
d. Its active principles or chemical composition.
great majority of drugs are more or less complex,

and their more important constitutents ought to be

known.
Thus, the active principles which the
oflicinal part or parts of a plant contain, and to
which they owe their therapeutic efficacy, should
be learnt; as well as those of vegetable and animal products.
Moreover, it is requisite to be acquainted with the chemical composition or formula
of the various metallic and other salts or compounds; and with the elementary constitution of
the more important organic preparations and principles, such as, ether, tannin, or morphine.
e. Its chief characters and properties.
These include, in the first place, the more obvious characters by which a drug is recognised, and by which

10

MATERIA MEDICA.

at once distinguished from all others

and,
secondly, the more minute physical and chemical
properties which many drugs present, and which
have to be ascertained by more or less elaborate
investigation. These may explain their therapeutic
usefulness; but from a Materia Medica point of
view they are important, inasmuch as they enable
substances to be distinguished from each other
which cannot be otherwise separated. It may be
mentioned here that some medicines present important varieties, with the distinctive characters of
which it is necessary to be acquainted, such as cinchona, senna, aloes.
it is

Its tests, impurities,

and

adulterations.

The

tests

of a drug are scarcely separable from its other

properties, so far as its mere recognition is concerned; but they are also applied in the B.P. to
determine its strength and purity. Unfortunately
even medicines are liable to be impure or adulterated, either from accident or design, and it is
essential to know what impurities or adulterations
must be looked for in connection with many of
the more important drugs, and how they are to be
severally recognised and detected. In some cases
but in others skilled
their detection is quite easy
investigation is required, which it is quite beyond
the power of the student to carry out.
;

4.

Pharmacy.

A. Pharmacop(eial or Galenical Preparations,

Having already indicated what the study of

Pharmacy includes, it will now be convenient to
regive an oudine of the groups of preparations


PHARMACOPOilAL PREPARATIONS.

II

by the British Pharmacopoeia, sufficient

to "enable the student to understand their general
nature and uses; and to obtain a concise knowThe officinal
ledge as to how they are made.
preparations of particular drugs will be conand the
sidered under their respective headings
also be
will
members of the different groups
are
preparations
The
subsequently enumerated.

cog-nised

here taken

in

AcETA

I.

alphabetical order.

Vinegars.

Excluding

Acetum

or

the preparations thus named are solutions

of the active principles of certain drugs in either
strong or dilute acetic acid, with or without the aid
of heat.
or zwa/fr,
II. AQuiE
Waters. In addition to
preparations included under this group are of three
kinds, namely:
1. Aqica Destillata, or water distilled from its orvi7iegar,

dinary impurities.
certain

of

Solutions

2.

substances

in

distilled

water.
3.

made by

water with
or with the
by which process some of the oil

Preparations

parts of plants containing

volatile oil itself,

passes over

distilling

volatile

oil,

in solution.

Poultices. Soft and moist

preparations, for external and local application.
They consist of: i. The /zj-wcir, which is usually
boiling water; 2. The corpus or basis, generally
linseed-meal, exceptionally bread or flour; 3. The
III.

Cataplasmata

most instances, which is an additional

medicinal agent, intended to produce particular
therapeutic effects. The ingredients are mixed in
accessorium in

different

ways.

IV. Chnrtje Papers.

Special preparations on
paper, intended for external use.
There are only
two in the Pharmacopoeia, and each is prepared
in a particular way.

12

MATERIA MEDICA.

V. CoNFECTiONES CONFECTIONS. Soft, but more

or less consistent substances, intended for internal
administration, or for forming the basis of pills.
They consist of drugs incorporated with saccharine
substances, these being used either for the preservation of the drugs, or for rendering them more
palatable.
Confections are prepared in a variety
of ways; and the saccharine material is either
refined sugar, syrup, or honey.
VI. Decocta Decoctions.
Solutions of the
active principles of vegetable drugs, obtained by
boiling the ingredients in water contained in a covered
vessel.
The principles to be dissolved must be
non-volatile.
The substances are directed to be
used in different instances either whole, or in chips,
bruised, sliced, or powdered.
There are exceptions in details in making decoctions, but as a rule
the ingredients are directed to be boiled for ten
minutes ; to be strained while hot ; and as much distilled water to be poured over the contents of the
strainer, as will bring the whole up to one pint.
With two exceptions, all the officinal decoctions
are practically simple.
Preparations inVII. Emplastka Plasters.
They are made in
application.
tended for external
of combinaessentially
consist
but
various ways,
firm matesome
spread
on
out
substances
tions of
which are
and
leather,
calico
or
such
as
rial,
These
adhesive at the temperature of the body.
substances are oleo-margaraie of lead {lead plaster),
resin, wax, oleaginous or fatty compounds, and soap,
and with these are
often variously combined
mixed, in several instances, medicinal agents of a
;

more or
VIII.

less

powerful nature.

Enemata Injections

or Clysters.

Liquid

preparations intended to be injected into the rectum. Their basis is, with one exception, mucilage of
starch.

PHARMACOPCEIAL PREPARATIONS.

oil

IX. Essentia
(one part) in

X. ExTRACTA

Essences.
rectified spirit

Extracts.

I3

Solutions of a volatile
(four parts).
In g^eneral terms an

extract may be defined as a concentrated preparation containing- the active principles of a vegetable
drug', obtained by evaporating- the juice of plants,
or solutions of their principles in different menstrua, and in some instances submitting the products
to certain processes in order to preserve them.
Extracts are of various degrees of consistence,
arid have on this ground been divided into fluid,
iemi-solid, and hard or dry.
The more practical
and useful arrangement of these preparations,
however, is as follows
A. Fresh or green extracts.
This class of
extracts are usually prepared thus:
i. Press the
juice out of the leaves or other fresh parts of
plants, differing in different cases.
2. Heat this
juice gradually to 130 to coagulate the green colour:

ing^

matter; separate this by a calico filter; heat the

to 200 to coagulate the albumen, and again

fluid

filter.

3.

Evaporate the

to the

filtrate

by a water-bath

consistence of a thin syrup

add the green
colouring matter previously separated, and pass
through a hair sieve and, stirring the whole together assiduously, continue the evaporation under
140 to a suitable consistence for forming pills.
The fresh extracts of colchicum and taraxacum are exceptional. There are differences in
detail in each case, but practically the juice,
pressed
from the corm and root respectively, is heated
at
once to 212 to coagulate the albumen; this
is
separated by straining
and the fluid is evaporated under 160 to a suitable consistence.
;

There

also an acetic extract of colchicum,

made on
same plan, with the aid of acetic acid.

IS

the

B. Aqueous extracts. These are

prepared by
acting upon either a part of a plant,
or a vecretable

MATERIA MEDICA.

14
product,
fluid

to

by disiilled water ; and evaporating the

The process of
a suitable consistence.

abstraction is carried out in different

ferent cases, namely, by :1. Digestion in boiling water.
2. Infusion in boiling water, and
boiling.
3. Decoction or boiling.
4. Digestion in cold water.

ways

in

dif-

subsequent

C. Alcoholic extracts. In this class of extracts

the active principles of the drug are dissolved out
rectified spirit and cold
either by rectified spirit alone
or boiling water used separately; proof spirit; or
The details of the process
proof spirit and water.
differ considerably in the case of individual exThe solutions are then evaporated to a
tracts.
proper consistence.
Ether is used for the
D. Ethereal extracts.
;

from one drug (straits extract; in two

preparing
monium seeds), before
in one case
solvent,
the
as
instances it is employed
purpose of

dissolving out oil

alone, in the

other after the action

of rectified

spirit.

E. Liquid extracts. These are characterised

by being of a fluid consistence.
Most of the liquid extracts are made by abstracting the active principles by means of water; eva-

porating to a certain quantity; and adding rectiIn one instance (cinchona) hydrochloric
fied spirit.
Rectified
acid and glycerine are added to the water.
water,
and
spirit
spirit alone, proof spirit, and proof
ethethe
of
One
are used in particular cases.
Two
group.
liquid
real extracts belongs to the
exother
from
made
of the liquid extracts are
trsc ts

With one exception the extracts are all simple.

of drugs
XI Glycerina Glycerines. Solutions

genethe process of solution being

rally aided by heat.

in glycerine,

PHARMACOPCEIAL PREPARATIONS.

Infusions.

XII. Infusa
to these

ing"

marised
1.

The

preparations

I5,

chief facts relatthus sum-

may be

They are made by

infusing or digesting

drugs

water, in a covered vessel.

2. The substances employed are, as a rule, either
huised, sliced, cut small, or powdered before being" infused.
The quantities are variable.
3. Boiling water is used, with four exceptions;
in two instances cold water is employed, and in
the other two ivater at 120.
The quantity ordered
in distilled

is ten fluid ounces.

4. The time for infusion varies according- to the

solubility of the active principles of the drug-, being

either fifteen

two hours

in

minutes, half an hour, one hour, or

one case.

5. In every instance except one, the infusion

directed to be strained before use.

6.

With few exceptions

is

the infusions are quite

simple.

XIII. Injectiones HypoDERMiCiE

Hypodermic Injections.
This class of preparations consists of
concentrated solutiofis of powerful drugs, which are

intended for subcutaneous

injection.

XIV. Lamellae Discs.

These are a g-roup of

preparations introduced into the recent edition of
the B.P., and defined as "discs of gelatine,
with
some glycerine, each weighing about -Jq grain,
and containing .... a definite proportion of the
active drug in each case."
No instructions are
given as to the mode of preparation.

XV. LiNiMENTA Liniments or Embrocations.

Ihese preparations are characterized as follows :
1. They are intended for external
use, being
applied to the skin, usually with the aid
of friction.
2. Most of them are of more or
less oily consistence, and th&y have
been designated "very thin
ointments."

They

all

contain either a fixed

oil,

MATERIA MEDICA.

i6
volatile

oil,

concrete

oil

(camphor),

glycerine,

or a

soap, several of them having two or more of these

in combination
some liniments also contain recti;

fied

spirit.

3. Some liniments are quite simple, others are

compound ; and the simpler liniments form the basis
of some of the more complex, active ingredients
being added, intended to produce special effects.
4. The exact mode of preparation varies, but in
many instances it is a mere mixing together of the

ingredients.

XVI. LiQUORES Solutions. It is difficult to give

any general account of these preparations, as they
are very numerous, and present considerable
They must, therefore, be studied mainly
variety.
They are, with few exindividually or in groups.
ceptions, solutions of drugs, solid, liquid, or gaseous,
In some inwater: or dilutions with water.
to
employed
are
ingredients
stances acids or other
acetic
water,
camphor
acid,
Hydrochloric
aid solution.
severally
ither, chloroform, and ethylic alcohol are
In one
instances.
particular
in
solvents
used as
decomposiprevent
to
added
is
spirit
group rectified
The different solutions are prepared in
tion.
various ways, the process of dissolving being
methods.
often aided by heat, pressure, and other
XVII. LoTioNES Lotions. These are external
preapplications of a liquid character, and such
emoften
are
parations, of a non-officinal kind,
two
but
are
there
In the B.P., however,
ployed.
HyLotto
and
Nigra
recognised Zo/zo Hydrargyri
precipitates
drargyri Flava, which are resijectively
lime-water.
with
oxide
of mercurous and mercuric
includXVIII. Mellita Honeys. Preparations
in

clarified honey ; and

with purified
mixed
is
borax
Mel Boracis, in which
in the Oxyingredient
an
also
honey. Koney is

Mel Depuratumpurified or

mels.

PHARiVl COPCEIAL
'

PREPARATIONS.

I7

XIX. MisTUR^ Mixtures.

This is another
group of preparations of which no very definite
general description can be given, and each of its
officinal members must be separately studied.

The following are

1.

2.

the chief general points

Mixtures are for hiiernal administration.
Some are simple, but several are of complex
:

composition.
3. They consist mainly of substances suspended,
partly dissolved, in water, cinnamon-water, peppermint-water, rose-water, or milk; and agents are

sometimes used to aid solution.

Some mixtures
are merely solutions. Infusion of Senna forms the
basis of the Mistura Sennse Composita.
4. The agents used to suspend the drugs are
syrup, sugar, yolk of egg, or gum.
When the
drugs suspended are oils or resins, an emulsion is
formed, and a gum-resin forms such an emulsion
without further aid.
5.

In

some instances ingredients

are added to mixtures.

XX.
gummy

for flavounhg

MuciLAGiNEs Mucilages.

Solutions of
or starch boiled so that it
is in a "state of excessive
hydration."
small proportion of rectified spirit is added to the
Mucilago
Tragacanthae, in order to preserve it. The
mucilages are of more or less thick
consistence.
substances in

water

XXI. Olea Oils. These preparations

more conveniently discussed hereafter.
meantime it will suffice to state that the

may

will

In

be
the

officinal

be arranged under the following

P-rouos
as regards their mode of
preparation :
I. Oils obtained by
distillation,
obtained by expression, sometimes
aided
oils

'

hyhmf^
3-

4.

Oil extracted by heat alone

(Cod Liver Oil)
Solution of a drug in oil
(Phosphorated

Oil).

l8

MATERIA MEDICA.

XXII. Oleata Oleates. This

is

new

class of

preparations, introduced into the recent edition of

certain
the B.P. They are direct combinations of

made
dru^s with oleic acid. One of the oleates is
into an ointment.
A mixture ot^
XXIII OxYMELLiTA OxYMELS.
.

with acetic acid {Oxymel) ; or with

acelum scillce (Oxyniel s cilice).
XXIV PiLULiE Pills. In this class of preparamass or bolus is first
tions a more or less consistent
of suitable size
pills
made, and this is divided mio
The officinal
required.
or according to the dose
to know
important
is
it
pills are numerous, and
to
instances
some
in
and
ingredients,

clarified

honey

Their chief

remember their proportions.

noted and
The following general facts may be
remembered:

are for internal administration.

complex constitution, and
2 Most of them are of
Some ingremany contain several active drugs. to subdivide
intended
dients however, are merely
more active drugs,
the
of
dose
conveniently the
suitable consistence.
or to o-ive the bolus a
the
the rv.\e is to powder
preparation
I In ^\^e\r
them
mix
thoroughly
then to
solid in-redients, and
with some cohesive maingredients
and
consistent mass
Lna so as to form a uniform
are chiefly
purpose
he materials used for this
exceptionroses;
tnaclTZi soap, and confection of
castor otL
or
water,
soap,
svrup 'Tlyferine, curd
manner, and
pms%re mkde in a special
1

Pills

tKher

Some

.n^Snitionanao^^^^
alf active drugs,
nc? n most instances
bein^
'dilnt7be
gredients
constituents are only
division or intermixture

Snute
TsUl ;rmoteTemedicines.
of the

more

active

PHARMACOPCEIAL PREPARATIONS.
2.

They

consist

IQ

finely-powdered solids, the g"ene-

preparation given in the

a few exceptions, being-:
"Mix them
thoroughly, pass the powder through a fine sieve,
and finally rub it in a mortar. Keep it in a stoppered bottle."
XXVI. Spiritus Spirits.
The preparations
thus named may be divided into three groups,
ral directions as to their

B.P., with

namely
1.

2.

The

alcoholic gro\xp.
Solutions of various agents in, or miximesWvCn.

rectified spirit,

such as camphor, volatile

oils,

ether,

and chloroform.
a more or less complex
made by a process of distillation.
XXVII. SucciJuices. There are two groups
3.

Special preparations, o{

nature,

of juices officinal, namely:

1.

freshly expressedjuices ol certain ripe fruits.

2. Juices specially prepared,

by pressing them out

of fresh bruised plants

adding one measure of
rectified spirit to every three measures
of juice, to
preserve it setting aside for seven days filter;
ing; and keeping in a cool place.
;

XXVIII. SupposiTORiA Suppositories. The

lowing points may be noted with reference
class of preparations
1.

They are

of

fol-

to

this

solid consistence,

but

somewhat

capable of melting at a moderate heat, or

of being
dissolved
and are made into small moulds, of a
conical or other suitable shape, for
introduction
into the rectum.
2. Each suppository contains one
or more important active ingredients, of which
the proportions
must be learnt.
3. They are prepared in two ways,
namely
;

a Rub the active ingredient

or ingredients with
oftheobroma
a slightly warmed mortar,

them

to oil of

oil

and add

theobroma previously melted

c 2

at a

MATERIA MEDICA.

20

low temperature mix the whole thoroughly, and

pour the mixture while it is fluid into suitable
moulds of the capacity of 15 grains; or the fluid
mixture may be allowed to cool, and then be divided
into twelve equal parts, each of which shall be
made into a conical or other convenient form for a
(The proportions used differ in
suppository.
;

dilferent cases).
the active ingredients with glycerine of
h. Mix
some
starch and curd soap in certain proportions; in
suitable
of
paste
form
a
to
starch
instances add

consistence; divide into 12 suppositories.

liquid preon account
useful
parations for internal administration,
to their
due
taste,
of their sweet and pleasant
usually
serves
also
saturation with sugar, which
acclassified
be
may
They
tor their preservation.
:
groups
cording to the following
rehned
Simple syrup, which is a solution of

These are

XXIX. Syrupi Syrups.

1.

sugar in water in certain proportions.

simple syrup with cer2. Syrups made by mixing
a drug in a mixture
dissolving
by
tain ti?tctures; or

and water.
various
Syrups made from refined sugar and
complidrugs by special processes, sometimes very
water,
In this group either cold distilled
cated

of syrup
3.

boiling water, rectified spirit,

or

water,

rectified spirit

There are

tvvo
are generally used as solvents.
merely
being
exceptions, in one case the sugar

dissolved in acetum scillcB {Syrupus

Umonis), but here
other in lemon-Jmce (Syrupus
sciUcb)

^1y;uts^h:uld be

kept

in

>//

in

Bottles,

else the

If they contain
suglr is liable to crystallize.
iheir
ferment,
to
apt
litde suear thev are
servat^^^^^^^^^

aided

special precautions.

in

the

some instances by

too

pre

certain

PHARMACOPCEIAL PREPARATIONS.

21

XXX. Tabell^ Tablets. A newly introduced

group, of which there is only one member at present
Tabellae Nitro-glycerini, defined as " Tablets
of chocolate each weighing two and a half grains,
and containing one-hundredth of a grain of pure

nitro-glycerine."

XXXI. Tincture Tinctures.

This

is

a very

numerous

class of preparations, and they present

considerable differences. The following are the

general points to be noted:

1. Tinctures are solutions of drugs or active principles in menstrua of a spirituous nature, either because these substances are not soluble in water,
or because the aqueous solutions are unstable,
and decompose more or less readily.
2. They are either simple or compound, the latter
containing several ingredients usually.
Some constituents are used merely for their taste, for suspending other drugs, or for other special purposes.

The

3.

are

solvents

employed

in different

instances

used in the case of drugs

or volatile oil ; or this
spirit with a certain proportion of water.
b. Proof spirit, when the
principles are partly
soluble in water, partly in spirit.
This is the menstruum most frequently used.
a.

Rectified J/zhV, chiefly

which contain much

resin

c. In exceptional cases aromatic

spirit
strong solution of ammonia with

of ammonia;

rectified spirit ; solution

spirit of ether ; tincture

of ammonia
proof spirit ;
of orange peel ; tincture of cardamoms with
spirit; and a mixture of
chloroform, ether, and

rectified

rec tilled

spirit.

4- Solid drugs made into tinctures are

usually
directed to be cut small, bruised, or
powdered, before
bemg acted upon by the menstruum.
5. The methods employed in preparing
may be mdicated as follows :

tinctures

MATERIA MEDICA.

22

Simple mixture or solution.

Maceiation for seven days, with occasional agiand in
tation, in a closed vessel; then filtering",
finally
and
straining
and
many cases pressinga.
b.

adding

sufficient spirit to

make

one pint.

Percolation alone in one instance.

fifteen
forty-eight hours
d. Maceration for
occaounces of spirit, in a closed vessel, agitatmg
c.

additional hve

percolationyN\\}^
sionally followed
subject the contents of the
Afterwards
ounces.
mix the
percolator to pressure, filter the product,
'

liquids, and add sufficient spirit to

e. Special processes.

make

one pint.
^.

points to be
:
follows
as
are
noted about these preparations

XXXII. Trochisci Lozenges.

The

intended to be
administering
of
form
sucked, and are a convenient
not a dishave
as
such
drugs in small doses, or
1

They are

agreeable

solid

srnall

tablets

taste.

Most

3!

It is

of

them are

important

simple,

a few compound.

of the
to learn the proportions

drugs in each lozenge.

^ ,
up with refined sugar,
4 They are chiefly made
contain also
gum acacia, mucilage, and water; some used in one
Extract of liquorice is
Hncture of Tolu.
mucilage; and in another case
of
instance instead
m-ze^a/^r instead of water.
^iv
the
m x tne
c
The usual method of preparation is to
active

mucilage and water to

dry ingredients, and add
into 720 lozenges,
form a proper mass. Divide
with a mode^
chamber
and dry these in a hot-air
in a
prepared
are
Some lozenges
rate

heat."

facts
'^'SSxiirUNGUENTA-OxNTMENTS. The main
be thus summarized
reladng to ointments may
more or less solid conbut
They are of a sof
I
use, being
and are intended for external
sis ence
or other
lint
applied on
smeared over a surface,

material, or rubbed

in.

PHARMACOPCEIAL PREPARATIONS.

23

2. They consist of fatty or unctuous substances,

either simple, or mixed with various active drugs.
3.

The

materials

in different

employed

cases are

making ointments

in

Prepared lard.
Benzoated lard.
c. Prepared lard and suet.
d. Prepared lard and olive oil.
e. Prepared lard and yellow wax.
/. Simple ointment, which consists of a mixture of
benzoated lard, white wax, and almond oil.
a.

b.

White or yellow wax and oil.

Yellow wax alone.
i.
Spermaceti, white wax, and almond oil.
j. Soft and hard paraffin.
4. The methods of preparation are very diverse,
but they may be thus classified
a. Simple trituration and thoroug^h mixing of the
g.

h.

ingredients.
b. Dissolving the active drugs in, or mixing them
with, spirit, water, nitric acid, oil, or other liquids,
before mixing them with the firmer constituents.
c. Melting
wax, resin, concrete oils, fats, or
paraffins, by means of a gentle heat (usually in a
water-bath); then stirring thoroughly and constantly while cooling, and at the same time incorporating the dry ingredients in fine powder.
d. Melti7ig the ingredients together; and either
stirring while cooling; or straining through calico,
flannel, or muslin.
e.
Special methods.

XXXIV. Vapores Inhalations. These are preparations intended to be inhaled by the patient,
usually by means of a suitable " Inhaler."
Those
which are officinal are each prepared in a particular way, and must be separately studied.

XXXV. Vina Wines.

Excluding Vinum Xeticum

may be

or Sherry wine, the following general facts

noted about these preparations
:


MATERIA MEDICA.

24

1. They are soluiiofis of drugs or active principles in wine, which is employed partly on account
of its alcohol, partly in some cases on account of
its acid.
Most are simple, a few compound.
2. The solvent is sherry wine in all but three instances.
Viniim Aura7itii is merely a fermentingsaccharine solution, to which fresh peel of bitter
orange has been added. This wine is used in the

preparation of two others

also

in

one

acid

citric

being

added

The

3.

to aid solution.
methods of preparation are:

Usually by maceration; pressing and straining

when required and filtering.
a.

b.
c.

Mere

solution

Special, in the

B.

and

filtering in

case of

Vinum

some

cases.

Ipecacuanhae.

Weights and Measures.

necessary to be acquainted with the recognised weights and measures, and it will be convenient to give here a complete summary of this
part of the subject, copied from the Appendix of
the B.P.
It is

WEIGHTS AND MEASURES OF THE BRITISH

PHARMACOPCEIA.
Weights.
I
I

gr-

Grain

Ounce
Pound

(Avoir.)

oz.
lb.

16 ounces

=
=

437-5 grams

7000

Measures of Capacity.
Minim
Fluid Drachm
Fluid Ounce

min.
11. Ulllli
drm.
fl.

Pint

O.

Gallon

C.

I
I
I

fl.

oz.

=
=
=
=

60

mimms
drachms

20 fluid ounces
o

pmts

WEIGHTS AND MEASURES.

25

Measures of Length.
I inch
12 inches
36 inches

in.

=
=

foot

3 feet

yard

Relation of Measures to Weights.

I

Minim is the measure of

Drachm
i ounce or
Ounce
1-25 pound

Fluid
I Fluid
1 Pint
I

Gallon

,,

,,

,,

or
10 pounds or

0'gii4583 grains of water

54-6875
437"5
8750-0

70000-0
,,

WEIGHTS AND MEASURES OF THE METRIC

SYSTEM.
Weights.
I
I

Milligramme = the thousandth part of one grm. or o'ooi grm.

Centigramme = the hundredth
o'oi
,,

Decigramme =the tenth

Gramme

I
I

o'l

,,

= weight

of a cubic centimetre of
water at 4 C.

Dekagramme = ten grammes

Hectogramme = one hundred grammes

Kilogramme = one thousand grammes

I'o

lO'O
loo'o
iooq-o

,,

,,
,,

Measures of Capacity.
MiUilitre =
i cub. centim. or the
Centilitre =
10
,,
"
T-v
IDecilitre = 100

Litre
= 1000

mea. of

10
100
1000

gram, of water
"

"

,,

(i kilo.)

Measures of Length.
I
1

I
I

= the thousandth part of one metre or o-ooi metre

Centimetre = the hundredth
O'oi
,,
Decimetre = the tenth part
o*i

"
Metre
^.^
Millimetre

26

MATERIA MEDICA.

Relation of the Weights of the British Pharmacopceia

TO the Metric Weights.

Pound
Ounce

Grain

=
=
=

453'5927
28-3495
0*0648

grammes
>i

Relation of Measures of Capacity of the British

Pharmacopceia to the Metric Measures.
I

Gallon

Pint
=0-567932
Fluid Ounce =0 028397
Fluid Drachm =0-003550

Minim

,,

=4-543458

=0-000059

litres

or 567-932 cubic centimetres

28-397
3'550
o-059

"

Relation of the Metric Weights to the Weights of

the British Pharmacopceia.

I

Milligramme
Centigramme

Decigramme

Gramme

Kilogramme

=
=
=
=

2 lbs.

0-015432 grains
0-15432
,,
i'5432
>.
i5'432
1.
,,
3 oz. 119-8 grs. or 15432-349

Relation of the Metric Measures to the Measures

OF the British Pharmacopceia.

=
=
=
=

0-03937 inches
0-39371
,,
3-93708

I
or ^ yard 3-37 inches
..
39"37079
I Metre
Cubic Centimetre = 15-432 grains*
Litre = 1-76077 pint or i pint 15 oz. i dr. 43 m.
I

Millimetre

Centimetre
Decimetre

In prescribing^, the

following-

monly and legitimately used

TKl, = Minim

9
3

signs are com-

= Scruple or 20 grains;
= Drachm or 60 grains
= Ounce.

The cubic centimetre is a standard at 4 C. (39-2 F.),

at 62 F. (i6-66 C.)
grain
the

PHARMACEUTICAL OPERATIONS.

27

C. Pharmaceutical Operations.

be expedient to define here more clearly

some of the more important operations or processes
connected with pharmacy, which have either been
alluded to in discussing- the groups of officinal preparations, but not sufficiently explained, or which
will be mentioned in the following pages.
It

will

The removal of a supernatant liquid

from a precipitate or sediment collected at the
It is effected by merely
bottom of a vessel.
pouring it out, or by the aid of a syringe, syphon,

Decaniation.

or pipette.
DesirucHve Distillation. A process whereby organic
bodies, being subjected to a high temperature,
air being excluded, lose their original form, and
yield new products.
Strictly this term implies the process
Digestion.
of dissolving a medicinal substance in a menstruum by the aid of sustained heat for a variable
time, at a temperature a little below the boiling
point. It is, however, frequently used as synony-

mous with

infusion

and

maceration.

The process

of separating volatile
from fixed ingredients in solution. The liquid is
heated to a sufficient temperature to produce
vapour, and this is then condensed by means
of cold in another part of the apparatus.
Elutriation.
The process by which powders of
different degrees of fineness are separated from
each other. They are suspended and carefully
diffused through water, the whole being allowed
to stand for different intervals, the fluid being
decanted after each interval. The heaviest par-

Distillation.

ticles fall first.

28

MATERIA MEDICA.

Evaporation.
The conversion of fluid into vapour
by raising tlie temperature to various degrees,
as may be required in different instances.

and Straini?ig.
The separation of solid
particles from the fluids in which they are suspended. Straining is conducted rapidly, and is
imperfect.
Filtering is practised through various media according to circumstances (paper,

Filtration

made into filters.

The process adopted for the separation

calico, flannel, etc.),

Lixiviation.

of the soluble

substances.

from the insoluble parts of certain

a variety of solution by perco-

It is

lation.

The process of making a solution of

a drug with a menstruum at the ordinary temperature of the air.
The liquid is poured over
the medicinal substance, and allowed to remain
in contact with it for a variable period.
Percolation.
Filtering in such a way that the liquid
shall come in contact with the whole of the contents of the filter or percolator, in order to obtain
a medicated filtrate. The substance to be acted
upon is suspended in the percolator in the
course of the menstruum, which thus dissolves
out the required ingredients as it permeates
through it.
The process by which a solid subPrecipitatio7i.
from a fluid in which it was
separated
is
stance

Maceration.

previously dissolved, either as crystals, amorphous powder, or magma. Usually the precipitate is thrown dou'n.
Pharmaceutically this signifies that a
Saturation.
liquid has dissolved as much of a solid substance

as it is capable of taking up.

This is a new process, introduced
Standardizing.
into the recent edition of the B.P., with the obcertain
ject of securing a constant strength of
of
proportion
preparations, by adjusting the

THERAPEUTIC GROUPS.

29-

alkaloids or other powerful agents which they

contain.
The vaporisation of solid volatile
Summation.

substances by heat, by a process analogous to

{dry distillation), the vapour being
afterwards condensed by the aid of cold.
The pulverization of drugs, as perTrituration.
formed by means of a pestle and mortar or
In several instances the solid
other apparatus.
matter, having been reduced to a nearly uniform
state of disintegration, is passed through a sieve
of a particular sized mesh.
The degrees of disintegration are represented by numbers ranging
these numbers indicafrom No. 20 to No. 60
ting the number of parallel wires of ordinary
thickness within a linear inch forming the meshes
of the sieves used.
Washing. The removal of impurities from precipitates, crystals, etc., by passing a stream of water
or other fluid over them.
distillation

5.

Physiological and Therapeutic

Action.

Therapeutic agents are ranged under certain

groups, according to their action upon the body
generally, or upon its various systems and organs.
These groups are recognised by definite terms,
which are in ordinary use, and which will be employed in the following pages. It has, therefore,
appeared to me desirable to attempt some comprehensive classification, and to explain the meaning
of the several terms.
It will be understood th.it
the classification does not aim at being scientifically
accurate, and that the mode of action or other

MATERIA MEDICA.

30

details are not discussed, but merely sufficient

information is given to afford tlie student elementary instruction on this part of the subject, and to
enable him to understand the sig-nificance of the
terms which are in common use in relation to the
physiolog'ical and therapeutical action of remedies.

A. Agents used

as

External or Local Remedies.

The groups included under

this division are

with the skin or
connection
generally employed
them are also
some
of
but
surface of the body,
They prosurfaces.
serous
or
applied to mucous
effects.
objective
evident
less
duce more or
Caustics or Escharotics. These destroy
1.
more or less deeply and extensively the structures
to which they are directly applied, the more powerful producing an eschar or slough.
There are three subdivisions of
2. Irritants.
all cause irritation of the skin
they
but
group,
this
they are applied, leading
which
to
surface
other
or
degrees and forms of
different
to
or
congestion
to
inflammation. Irritants include
produce congestive
a. Rubefacients, which merely
in

redness, of a temporary and transient character.

b.

c.

which are " blistermg

inflammation atcutaneous
agents, inducing
of serum under
accumulation
tended' with
of vesicles,
formation
the
and
the cuticle,
blisters.
blebs, or
inflammaPustulants, which excite a form of

Vesicants or Epispastics,

in some
tion leading to a pustular eruption,
characteristic.
and
peculiar
quite
cases

vogue, and
Count er-irrita?it is a term much in
It really
one that is often used very inaccurately.
(

3I

THERAPEUTIC GROUPS.

cannot be definitely associated with any particular

group of therapeutic agents, but rather refers to
one of the purposes for which the irritants just
alluded to, as well as certain others, are employed.
Briefly counter-irritation may be defined as the
artificial production of irritation in one part, with
the view of modifying certain morbid processes
or conditions in another part, with which it has no
direct connection. Revulsani is practically synony-

mous with

Derivaiit signifies the

counter-irritant.

congestion in some
part of the body, intended to relieve a morbid congestion in some other more or less distant part).

development of an

3.

artificial

Emollients and Demulcents.

Emollients

are bland substances which soften the skin or

Demulother structure to which they are applied.
cents merely form a part of this group, which consist

of mucilaginous or

gummy

solutions in water.

Protectives.
These include applications
intended to cover a surface in such a way that it
shall be protected against the injurious action of
air and other sources of irritation.
Agents used for the purpose
5. Detergents.
4.

of cleansing the surface of the skin.

6. Absorbents.
Strictly defined, an absorbent
is a substance which absorbs or condenses into
itself gaseous or liquid materials with which it is
brought into contact.
(The term is also employed
to indicate any method of treatment which aims
at the absorption of inflammatory or other morbid
products, and in this connection is often particularly associated with certain alteratives).

7. Local Refrigerants.
Agents which cool
a surface or part to which they are directly applied,
some of them being capable of producing marked

coldness.

MATERIA MEDICA.

32
B.

Agents having roth a Local and Remote or

General Effect.

1. Antacids.
The members of this group
neutralize acids, and several of them, when their
effects are carried beyond a certain point, become
alkalizers.
They are divided into direct and remote,
according- as they act by immediate contact, or
after absorption into the system, affecting- the blood
and secretions. Some antacids act in both ways.
Acids. The numerous acids are used
2.
therapeutically for a variety of purposes, but they
may be grouped together on account of their
action as acids, in contra-distinction to the preceding group, by virtue of which they neutralize
alkalinity from any cause, and may even produce
or increase acidity in certain fluids, especially the

urine.

is difficult to give a conimportant group, and its

members by no means produce exactly similar
The primary idea is that of binding up,
effects.
constricting, or contracting living soft tissues.
Other effects which different astringents tend to
produce are to coagulate albuminous fluids, or to
5.

cise

Astringents.
definition

It

of this

precipitate them from alkaline solutions; to constrict the blood-vessels; to diminish secretions and
morbid discharges; and to dry up surfaces.

Haemostatics Styptics. These

are asarresting
of
purpose
special
tringents used for the
hfemorrhage, whether local or remote.
4.

C. Agents Affecting the General System.

I.

Diluents.

These include inert liquids which

can be introduced into the system in large quantity,

body,
for the purpose of diluting the fluids of the

THERAPEUTIC GROUPS.
and making- them more watery. By washing- away
in the excretions various waste or morbid products,
they become depicrant.
")
{Refrigerants.
Febrifuges.
I A large number of
Anti- or Apyretics.J
remedies are employed for the purpose of allaying various degrees of fever or pyrexia.
For
practical purposes they may be ranged under
the three divisions given above, which have resspectively the following significations:
a. Refrigeratils

are agents which relieve thirst,

in diminishing febrile disturb-

and thus aid

ance.
b.

c.

Febrifuges may be defined as the milder

classes of remedies used for allaying fever,
and they act in various ways.
Anil- or apyrelics are agents, many of them

of

a powerful nature, which are employed for

the definite object of directly lowering
febrile
excess of temperature, especially
tends to assume a high deo-ree.
3.

when

it

Depletants. This group

fncludes modes of
or reduce the sys:tem, relieving plethora, causing
general depression, and often leading to loss
of weio-ht

treatment mtended

to deplete

4. Antiperiodics. These are remedies

which
have a marked influence in curing
or modifyino
certam so-called periodic diseases,
such as ac^ue

/"^'^'j,^'

affections.

It

is

at pres'ent

dni?f
doubtfuli"'where this group
should be placed, but
provisionally it may be noticed
in this conneclion.
5.

General or diffusible stimulants.

The
is of extensive
application, and

word stimtdant

tfmulat/" '^'"r'

^^'^^ temporarily excites or

^Z^Tshmulanl
r^'T acts
difftmble

f functions.
so rapidly and vigorously
li


MATERIA MEDICA.

34

as to rouse all the vital organs into activity, the

entire system being- thus speedily influenced.
6.

Tonics and Nutrients.

The

term

ionic is

employed in several relations, signifying a

remedy which restores lost or impaired tone, either
to the body as a whole, or to some individual
also

system,

organ,

structure,

or part,

thus tending

permanently to promote functional activity and

A nutrient imvigour, and to increase power.
way acts as a
this
in
and
proves nutrition directly,
the present connection the following
sub-divisions may be mentioned, namely
condition
a. General i07iics, which improve the
especially
system,
whole
the
of
tone
and
of the voluntary muscles.
or hcEmatinics, v/hich nourish and
Blood-tonics
h.
improve the quality of the blood.
class of remedies
7. Alteratives. This is a
alter or
difficult to define, but they may be said to
tissue-change,
modify the process of nutrition and
or conthus influencing certain morbid processes
They
therewith.
ditions intimately associated
quietly,
gradually,
usually produce their effects
often
and imperceptibly, but these effects are
illustrated
as
definite,
remarkably striking and
even ot
by the absorption of morbid products or
purthis
for
used
alterative
(An
healthy tissues.
called
uncommonly
not
pose is, as already stated,
the whole
an absorbent). Some alteratives influence
classes ot
or
systems
particular
body; others
morbid prostructures; and others again special
cesses or diseases, such as syphilis.

tonic.

In

THERAPEUTIC GROUPS.
D. Agents used in connection with
Systems or Organs.
I.

particular

Nervous and Muscular Systems.

For practical purposes these two systems may be

considered together, as they are intimately associated in relation to the action of remedies.
The
nervous system is also concerned with the effects
produced upon many organs and structures by
therapeutic agents, but in the present connection
only those groups will be noticed which obviously
affect some portion or other of this system,
whether
the brain, spinal cord, or nerves.
They may be
conveniently arranged in the following way:
1. Cerebral Stimulants.
class of stimulants
which primarily act upon the brain, causing more
or less exhilaration and increased mental
activity,
followed by stimulation of the vascular and
other
systems. They may cause undue excitement,
leadmg to intoxication, or to delirium of an active or
even violent character.

Cerebral Sedatives

2.

The

term

sedative

has

not previously occurred, and it is another

of those
expressions which have a wide application
In
general it implies the alleviation or
suppression
of undue excitability or irritability
of every kind
whether sensory, motor, or affecting
special functions.

and
and

cerebral sedative

restlessness,
serenity.

subdues mental excitement

producing a sense of calmness

3. Soporifics or Hypnotics. This

is an important group of agents which are
employed for
he purpose of inducing natural
sleep.
Many of
hem belong also to the next group,
according to
the dose which is given.

4. Narcotics.-These
effect upon the cerebral

have a more marked

functions than the precedD2

MATERIA MEDICA.

36

ing, causing stupor,

culminating- in narcotism or

coma, and ultimately leading" to a fatal termination

if given beyond a certain amount.
These are
or Analgesics.
5. Anodynes
remedies which are employed for the relief of pain.

divided into general or local, according as

they act through the nerve-centres, atter adminisor upon the nerves or nerve-endings, estration

They are
;

pecially
6.

when

locally applied.

Anaesthetics. The meaning of an

anaes-

or
thetic is something which completely annuls
subimportant
an
is
There
destroys sensation.
and
division of the group, however, into general
local,

which demands special recognition.

are those which, when inhaled

of conas gas or vapour, cause temporary loss
muscuoften
and
sensation,
of
sciousness, with loss
phenomena.
other
and
paralysis,
lar relaxation or
These effects are more or less rapidly produced,
and pass away when the inhalation is discontmued.
point, a general aneesIf carried beyond a certain
death.
cause
thetic may
over a limited
Local ancBslhelics destroy sensation
area to which they are directly applied.
Ge7ieral anceslhelics

Spinal Stimulants Excito-Motors. The

the
members of this group stimulate or excite
the
upon
seen
spinal cord, the effects being chiefly
rettex
increased
motor functions, as evidenced by
spasmodic disturbance ot the
irritability, and
7

voluntary muscles, terminating

tion-hence named

Telanizers.

taneous hyperesthesia

is

contracor less cu-

in tetanic

More

also often produced.

Sedatives Depresso-Motors.

Spinal
8
or depressant
These agents produce a sedative
irritability
reflex
cord,
spinal
effect upon the
abolished, accombeing impaired and finally

in

terminating
nanied with muscular weakness,
to undue
tendency
any
subdue
They
paralysis.
excitability of the cord.

THERAPEUTIC GROUPS.

37

Local Sedatives. There is a class of

9.
remedies, which may be thus designated, which
relieve certain unpleasant or troublesome sensations connected with the skin, but which cannot
properly be classed as anodynes. Itching is a
typical sensation of this kind.
Local sedatives act
upon the nerve-endings, when applied over the
seat of the irritation.
10.

Nervine Tonics. The group

thus

named

supposed to act upon the nervous system as

a whole, producing some effect not well-understood, but evidenced by improved general nervous
tone.
Some drugs are believed to have a special
is

nutrient effect
11.

upon nerve-structures.
its
comprehensive

Antispasmodics. In

and proper

sense, the term antispasmodic includes

agents which arrest or control spasmodic
muscular movements of every kind. It is, however,
employed very vaguely, and is often restricted to a
comparatively unimportant class of drugs, which
affect spasms of a particular kind.
all

II.

The Eye.

Members of some of the groups already considered are frequently applied in connection
with
the eyes, but there are certain
special effects

which may be produced on these organs, evidenced

by a change in the size of the pupil, through
some
action upon the iris, and loss of
power of visual
accommodation, in consequence of interference
with the ciliary muscle.
The agents which cause
these effects may do so only on
local application,
after internal administration,
or both, and thev
^
are named
:

I.

Mydriatics,

aestroy the

power

which dilate the pupils, and

of

accommodating

vision

to


MATERIA MEDICA.

38
near

objects,

owing- to

paralysis

of the

ciliary

muscle.

Myotics, which contract the pupils, and cause

accommodation for distant objects, as the
result of spasm of the ciliary muscle.
2.

loss of

III.

Alimentary Canal and Hepatic Apparatus.

be convenient to take these systems toand without attempting- any elaborate

classification, the several groups may be conIt

will

<^ether,

sidered
1.

in the

following order

Sialagogues. These

are

agents

which

buccal
cause an increased flow of saliva
prothey
degree,
mucus carried beyond a certain
ptyalism.
duce more or less salivation or
salivary
2. Anti-sialics. These diminish the
of the
dryness
cause
and buccal secretions, and

and

mouth.
3.

Carminatives. The group

coat of the

named

thus

stomach and

act

intes-

upon the muscular

or stomachic
tines, and are also known as gastric
and regustimulate
They
and intestinal stimulants.
checkmg
stomach,
the
of
action
late the muscular
y>rQ(antispasmodics),
spasm
to
any tendency
aidmg
thus
movements,
efficient
and
moting normal
accumulation
dio-estlon, and expelling any undue
they cause
It is supposed also that
of gases.
cardiac end
relaxation of the sphincter at the
of the cesophaof the stomach, or of the lower end
pyloric sphmcter, the
o-us and sometimes of the

mtestmes
expulsion of gas being thus helped. The
normal
their
are acted upon in a similar way,
increased.
peristaltic movements being

These
Gastric or Stomachic Sedatives.
the
of
irritability
allav pain or any abnormal
nausea
to
leads
which
stomach, especially that form
4

and vomiting,

(also called anti-emetics)

or control


THERAPEUTIC GROUPS.
undue muscular

39

by which the food

stomach before dig-estion

excitability,

of the

driven out
properly accomplished.
5.

Stomachic Tonics. The

or
named improve appetite, and promote

Gastric

ag-ents thus

is
is

the muscular tone of the stomach, thus aiding dig-estion, and acting indirectly as general tonics.
6.

may

Peptogens Anti-peptogens.
be applied

to

These terms
remedies which respectively in-

crease or diminish the secretion of gastric juice.

Emetics. This is a well-known group,

7.
which cause emesis or vomiting. According to their
concomitant effects, they are divided into {a) simple,
(6) slimtilant, and {c) depressant or nauseant emetics.

They are

also classed as (a) direct or leflex, and (h)

or centric, according as they only cause
sickness after direct contact with the stomach, by
a reflex action; or when introduced into any part
of the body, affecting the nerve-centres which
govern the act of vomiting.
indirect

8. Digestants.
This is a class of agents intended to supply the place of the normal secretions
which take part in the digestion of food, when
these are absent or deficient, as well as under

certain other circumstances. The salivary, gastric,

pancreatic, and biliary secretions may be thus
substituted.
Digestants are not only administered
internally, but are also

employed to act upon food

before its introduction into the system, and to aid
digestion in the rectum.
9. Purgatives or Cathartics. As a general
group purgatives may be simply defined as remedies which act upon the bowels, and assist the
intestinal evacuations.
They usually modify the
characters of the stools, and often cause diarrhoea.
Purgatives are arranged under certain sub-divisions, as follows:


MATERIA MEDICA.

40
a.
b.

c.

Laxatives, or mild aperients.

Simple purges, which act more efficiently, but
as a rule produce little or no irritation.
Drastic,

which

are

powerful

purgatives,

tending- to excite more or less violently the

peristaltic movements of the intestines, and
thus to cause much griping and also to
irritate the mucous surface, which may end
;

d.

e.

in inflammation and irritant poisoning.

Hydragogue, or "watery purgatives," which
produce a free flow of fluid from the mucous
surface of the bowels, and thus promote the
removal of water out of the system. They
are not necessarily irritant, but some of them
tend to be more or less "drastic."
Saline, a group of neutral salts of potassium,
sodium, or magnesium, which have a purgative action, and usually cause more or

less

watery stools.
which occasion a more or

/. Cholagogue,

copious discharge of

bile,

less

giving rise to

bilious stools.

Intestinal Sedatives. These are antagonto purgatives, tending to subdue the action of

10.
istic

the bowels, and to restrain any abnormal irritaThey are often used in combination with
astringents, to check diarrhoea.

bility.

Cholagogues. Apart from

its association
may be apcholagogue
with purgatives, the term
flow of bile.
the
increase
which
plied to all agents

11.

They comprise two

h.

namely:
promote the secretion

sub-divisions,

a. Hepatic stimulants, which

of bile by the liver.

Bile-expellents, (specially called Cholagogues by

Brunton), which merely drive the bile

already formed out of the gall-bladder and

ducts.


THERAPEUTIC GROUPS.
12.

Anthelmintics.
purpose of

for the

They are divided

a.

Vermicides,

These are

remedies used

getting^ rid of intestinal

into

41
worms.

which

kill

or easily dislodge the

worms.
b.

which merely expel the worms out

of the bowel, whether living or dead.

Vermifuges,

IV. Respiratory System.

Several of the groups already alluded to are

extensively used in connection with the respiratory
apparatus, but those definitely associated with this
system are within a limited range.
1
Sternutatories Errhines. Sternutatories

are substances which, when brought into contact

with the nasal mucous membrane, cause sneezing.
Errhines produce a free flow of watery mucus

from the surface.

Pulmonary Stimulants These stimulate

respiratory function, promoting the act of
breathing and the due aeration of the blood, or
exciting the act of coughing under certain circum2.

the

stances.
3.

Pulmonary Sedatives

or

Depressants

The remedies

thus designated either subdue and

regulate the respiratory act when it is excited or
irregular and spasmodic ; or deaden the sensibility
of the mucous membrane of the air-passages, thus
relieving irritable cough.
Many of them tend to

depress the function of breathing, making the act

infrequent and feeble, and ultimately arresting it.
4. Expectorants. This term is used very indefinitely, but in general it implies a class of
agents which promote the expulsion of secretions
and morbid products from the lungs and airpassages, either by modifying their characters, or
_

MATERIA MEDICA.

42
by

aiding- the act of expectoration.

Expectorants
are commonly divided into (a) sedative or depressant,
which lower blood-pressure, and produce increased

and more

liquid secretion

and

(5) siitnulani,

which

increase blood-pressure, and diminish secretion,

or which assist the act.
Remedies are often used
for the special purpose of lessening the amount of
expectoration; or for altering its quality, and thus
rendering it more easy of expulsion.

V. Vesicular System.

The

action of remedies upon the vascular system

often more or less complicated, and it is not
easy to give a satisfactory classification. Many
act both on the heart and vessels, but taking
these structures separately, the follovk^ing groups

is

may be

recognised.

Cardiac Stimulants. These are stimulants

which act more immediately upon the heart, exciting more frequent and vigorous action, and thus
1

increasing the rapidity and force of the circulation,

the pulse becoming more frequent and stronger.
This
2. Cardiac Sedatives or Depressants.
heart,
subthe
affects
which
sedatives
of
class
is a
duing its action when excessive, both in frequency
and force. Carried beyond a certain point they

become marked

cardiac depressants,

prove fatal by arresting the heart

3.

and ultimately

in diastole.

Cardiac Tonics and Regulators.-The

group now under consideration is

action of the

more gradual and permanent.

cardiac

ionic

usually signifies a drug which exercises a controlling influence upon the heart when it is acting
inefficiently, and rendering its beats much more
powerful and usually much slower. The diastole
ventricles fill properly; the
is prolonged, so that the


THERAPEUTIC GROUPS.

43

is more energetic and effectual, the venthus thoroughly emptied; and arterial
being
;tricles
To the remedies thus defined I
;tension is raised.
:think the term cardiac regulators may be conveniThere is another class of cardiac
ently applied.
tonics, in which the nutrition of the muscular wall
of the heart is gradually improved, and thus its
action is permanently benefited.

systole

4.

Vascular StimulantsVaso-Dilators.
may be made to include all substances

This group

dilate the peripheral vessels, and thus increase the rapidity of the circulation through them.
There are certain remedies which do this with
remarkable cjuickness and energy over the whole
body, and these might be specially termed vasodilators.
Vascular stimulants may be general or
local in the extent of their action, and this sub-

which

division
5.

is

important

Vascular

in practice.

Sedatives

These contract

Vaso-Contrao-

the peripheral vessels, and

They
thus diminish the circulation of the blood.
are also divisible into ge?ieral or local.
6. Vascular Tonics.
As defined by BrunIton, "Vascular tonics are substances which cause
increased contraction of the arterioles or capilllaries.
They not only raise the blood-pressure,
Ibut influence to a considerable extent the quantity
of lymph poured out into the tissues or absorbed
from them, and thus modify tissue-change."
Itors.

VI. Cutaneous System.

large number of therapeutic agents are used

connection with the skin, and for a variety of
purposes. Moreover, several drugs are liable to
produce cutaneous eruptions or rashes when administered internally.
The remedies specially
in


MATERIA MEDICA.

44
employed

to

affect

the function of the skin are

two groups, namely

1. Diaphoretics or Sudorifics, which increase
the perspiration, often producing more or less
evident or profuse sweating-, and to these the term
sudorific has been specially applied.
2, Anhydrotics, which diminish or check the
divisible into

perspiration, tending- to cause dryness of the skin.

VII. Urinary System.

From a

therapeutic point of view the parts of

system which have to be distinguished are the
kidneys, as excreting organs; the bladder as a
muscular apparatus; and the entire tract of the
urinary mucous membrane. Moreover, the urine

this

and certain other possible contents of the

urinary apparatus have to be borne in mind. The
several groups may be thus arranged:
These are agents which promote
1. Diuretics.
the functions of the kidneys, and increase the quantity of urine, or of some of its more important
normal constituents, thus aiding elimination, as
well as promoting the discharge of water out of
the system.
This term may be applied
2. Anti-diuretics.
to substances which diminish the flow of urine, es-

itself

pecially

when

it is

excessive.

Lithontriptics. The members of this group

prevent the deposition of ingredients of the urine,
or which
which tend to form gravel or calculi
formed.
been
have
they
after
dissolve these
Mucous Surface. There is
4. Specifics to
the remedies now under confor
name
no special
include substances which are
they
but
sideration,
3.

eliminated by the urine after administration, and

produce a definite or specific action either upon the


THERAPEUTIC GROUPS.

45

entire membrane of the urinary tract, or upon some

particular portion of it, as tiiat lining- the bladder
or urethra. It must also be remembered that the
urine may be modified by agents belonging to

various groups, such as astringents, antacids, acids,

or antiseptics, and may thus influence the urinary
apparatus or its contents.
Sedatives. These are agents
5. Vesical
which diminish undue irritability of the bladder,
relieving the sensations connected therewith, and
tending to check any abnormal frequency of

micturition.
6,

Vesical

Stimulants

and

Tonics.

The

muscular coat of the bladder may be temporarily

or permanently improved in its action, a stimulant
or tonic effect being respectively produced. Retention or incontinence of urine are thus influenced,
in the case of incontinence the sphincter vesicae
being strengthened in its action.

Generative System.

VIII.

The groups demanding

ing are as follows
1.

notice under this head-

Aphrodisiacs

excite sexual desire

and

in-

crease sexual vigour.

Anaphrodisiacs

act in the opposite direcdiminishing sexual desire and power, and they
may ultimately cause impotence.
The members of this
3. Emmenagogues.
group promote the menstrual flow, if deficient,
irregular, or suppressed from any cause, whether
or not attended with pain.
4. Anti-emmenagogues.
This term may be
applied to remedies which check the menstrual
flow when it is excessive, either in frequency or
amount.
2.

tion,

MATERIA MEDICA.

46

These are uterine

5. Ecbolics or Oxjrtocics.
stimulants, wliich cause the muscular wall of the
uterus to contract more or less powerfully, and to
expel its contents, if there are any.

Anti-galactagogues.
6. Galactagogues
These terms may be respectively applied to ag-ents
which increase or diminish the secretion of milk.

IX.

Special Groups.

There are a few groups which cannot be conveniently classed under any of the foregoing- divisions, and they may be brought together here.
1.

Anti-parasitics or parasiticides destroy

living parasites

inhabiting various parts of

tht;

body, whether animal or vegetable.

Deodorants destroy disagreeable and offenof various kinds, either in connectioi

smells
sive
with the body, or apart from it.
include agents whic!;
3. Antiseptics primarily
prevent or retard the process of putrefaction of
2.

dead organic matters {antiptiirescents). The term

aniiseptic is now used more particularly to signify
the prevention of the formation of septic matteror their destruction, so that they cannot injur
the systemj and they are commonly supposed t>
this by their effect upon living organisms or

do
germs.
are agents which destroy
4. Disinfectants
the spread of infectiou
prevent
infection, and
upon the specific poisoivaction
diseases, by some
originated, and by
severally
are
by which these
one individual to
from
conveyed
which they are
another.

Antidotes are substances which destroy or

poisons, when
neutralize the injurious effects of
c

especially
brouo-ht into direct contact with them,

THERAPEUTIC GROUPS.
in

the

stomach, but also

in

47

other parts of the

body.
6.

Antagonists are also named

physiological

signifying that different agents produce

directly opposite and contrary physiological effects,
and that one may be employed to counteract the
effects of its antagonist, either when introduced
into the system in any way, or in some instances
when locally applied.
antidotes,


MATERIA MEDICA.

48

Section

II.

THE INORGANIC KINGDOM.

In the inorgfanic king'dom we have to deal with
drugs belonging to the three sub-divisions already
i. Non-metallic, 2. Metalindicated, namely
It is
lic, 3. Special Chemical Compounds.
not my intention, however, to separate them thus
absolutely, but to adopt a plan of arrangement
which I have found practically useful and convenient, bringing together medicinal agents which are
:

allied either pharmaceutically or therapeutically,

in the
I.

II.

III.

following order:

Water.
Carlo Carbon or

Aqua

Charcoal,

Sulphur Group.

IV. Chlorine and Hypochloriies.

V.

Iodine

and certain

Iodides.

VI. Bromine and Btomides.

VII. Phosphorus and Hypophosphiles.
VIII. Acids (with

some

'\.

IX.

exceptions).

Ammonium.

2.

Potassium.

3.

Sodium.

\.

Lithium.

Alkalies

INORGANIC KINGDOM.
Aluminium.

'\.

X.

Alkaline 2. Calcium.

Earths

Mag-nesium.
Cerium.

3.
,4.

Antimonium

1.

3.

Bismuth.
Copper.
Ferrum Iron.
Hydrargyrum Mercury.
Bismuthum

4.

Ordinary
j 5.
Metals \ 6.

Cuprum

7.

Manganesium Manganese.
Plumbum Lead.
Zincum Zinc.

8.

9.
\,io.
1.

XII.

Special

^.

Antimony.

Arsenicum Arsenic.
Arg-entum Silver.

2.

XI.

49

Hydrocyanic Acid.
Alcohol Group.
Ether Group.
Chloroform.
Iodoform.
luuuiorm.

ChemicalJ 6. Hydrate of Chloral.

Products] 7. Butyl-Chloral Hydrate
8. Nitrite of Amyl.
9.
10.

Nitro-Glycerine Tablets.
Carbolic Acid and Creosote.

^11. Paraffin,

hard and

soft.

The

consideration of each of the

divisions iust
:enumerated is carried out
according to a tolirably uniform plan,
although

has^o
may help

it

in particular

xplana!o"l

cases;

.T^U

and

tl
me course
cotZ\^
of procedure
advantageously adopt
longing to the several

Hivki^
^'"Z""^
division IS
first
one

the nature
;

it

^^'"^

be varLd
to

make

the' outseT

an

P^^"'
indicating
which the student mav

in learning 'the
groups.

be-

f2wary of the members of

each
given, should there be

and

mo?e than

chemical composition

oThe more
E

MATERIA MEDICA.
Thus a com-

important bein- also pointed out

the compounds
prehensive knowledge is obtamed of
Particular druj,
a
of
preparations
and officinal
and such knowbefore studying them individually;
when employing
ledge is of the greatest service

them

for therapeutic purposes.

mode of preparaUonoi
drugs, and of what
the simple or "elementary"
are
compounds
may be termed their "primary
or
compounds
"
secondary
then considered; the
later
discussed
rule
%a:Tprcparaiions being as a
the facts
In some instances
Pharmacy.
2.

The

(a)

Lr..,and

{b)

on under
each compound have to
under this head relating to
others they can be conbe learnt separately, but in
groups.

or less in
veniently discussed more
preparation of the differIn describing the mode of
endeavoured to bring out proent (Iru-s I have
the
the several parts of
mi^nently and distinctly
one with-

complicated
it is at all a
have
1
into detai s.
unnecessarily
nnt enterino,,rea,enU^
e
XTndii.ed .he proporUons

proces

fwhen

need no. burden

or ne d
l^tr.rd^so"
to do so. no
wishes
tions, unless

h&

endeavo'Lr'clearly
but he shouW

'd-ecXositSarfrer^i-n. aUhough

cular drugs,

hey may u

ta

not con-:

native state^^(nitre), o^J^^^ ^^^^^ (carbonate

processes,

c,

INORGANIC KINGDOM.

potassium), or the ripening- of wine in casks (cream

of tartar).

By

b.

dissolvings metals in acids, either strong

or diluted.
c. By dissolving- oxides or salts, especially carbonates, in acids, and thus neutralizing- or decom-

posing them.

By the direct admixture and combination of

elements themselves.
e. By double decomposition of solutions
of salts.
f. By fusing together solid substances.
d.

'the

g. By mixing- tog-ether certain ingredients, and

heating- them in the dry state, the salt required
beings sublimed and then condensed.

By more

h.

or less complicated and elaborate

processes, each of which must be separately studied.

3. The characters and properties are next indicated,
and I have endeavoured to bring out prominently
those which are important, and in doing- so
have
found it in several instances convenient to group
or
tabulate the drugs.
It must be insisted upon that
I
the student ought to be quite familiar
with the

appearance and obvious characters of the solid

preparations belonging to the inorganic
kingdom
when these are at all striking, such as whether
they are in

powder or crystals, the size and form

crystals, the colour, smell. &c.
Moreover
the solubility of a substance in
different menstrua
is otten a matter of
considerable importance to remember, especially in relation to pharmacy.
Other
ot the

properties in many cases demand

special recognition
and, amongst others, the

changes

to

which

preparations are liable on exposure

to air or licrht
ire trequently of
much consequence
4. The subject of tests, which
naturally follows,
r is hardly
separable from what
isidered

nt,

has just been

demands a few words of special comas this will save much

repetition hereafter.
E 2

MATERIA MEDICA.

52

which tests are employed in the

B.P., in relation to drugs belonging to the inorganic kingdom, may be thus indicated :
Each
drug.
a. To determine the nature of a
its
has
non-metallic,
or
metalUc
whether
element,
the
own peculiar tests and in the case of salts,

The

objects for

acid present also yields

some

instances

special tests.
further important to dis-

its

it is

In
of the
tinguish between different oxides and salts
mercury.
and
same metal, as in the case of iron
pharmaceutical processes,
I. In the course of certain
properly completed,
to ascertain whether they are
soluble
Thus in washing precipitates to remove a
when
determine
to
salt the washings are tested

The same principle

they are free from this salt.
cases.
is followed in some other
whethet
impurities and adulterations,

c To detect
in preparationr
resulting from the materials used
or intentionaj
accidental
employed,
the vessels
decomposition.
admixture, or
o\ a drug, so a
d For the quantitative estiination
of proper compositioi
to determine whether it is

ought
^"ThTstudent's knowledge of chemistry

make him
by which
described
apply

is to

principal test
quite familiar with the
a.
recognised,
are
the various drugs
d.
to
has
he
that
in the B.P., and all
this

knowledge

in

each case,

in relatio

oxide,
non^ metallic elements,
I have therefo
preparations.
alts, and special
omitting any reference
felt justified in entirely
given of the ditterer
these tests in the account
"petals

to

acids

'

drui

Sthe

once for a
but it must be understood,
required to mar
student might be fairly

Materj
an examination on
alluded
rule
Further, I have not as a
Medica.
processe bo
pharmaceutical
to
tests ?n relation
apply the same knowledge
cau e the student cin
tion

these

tests

in


INORGANIC KINGDOM.
ere

for instance,

53

merely state that a " precipi-

washed from such and such a

salt," the
)mpletion of this process being determined by
(Sting- the
washings for the salt in question,
foreover, with regard to impurities and adultera-

ite

is

Dns, I

have deemed

sufficient to

it

mention these,

ecause to give their tests in each case would only

volve unnecessary repetition, and the student
ay easily learn them once for all.
general
mmary of the chief impurities and adulterations
drugs, with their tests, will be given imme-

ately.

The

qiiandtaiive iesls are of

considerable import-

several instances, and I have endeavoured

arrange and group these under a distinct headvr in each case, and to
explain their meaning.
As regards the tialure of the tests employed in
e B.P., they are mainly:
ice in

a.

The

solubility of a

drug

in

water or other

jnstrua.

The effects of heat upon it.

Special chemical tests.
Impurities and Adulterations.
The chief imrities or adulterations of the drugs belonging
the inorganic kingdom recognised in the B.P.,
d their distinguishing tests in different cases]
ly be thus arranged
b.

'I.

2.
3.

Waier

4.

Moistens blotting paper.

Loss of weight on drying.
Turns anhydrous sulphate
of copper blue (in alcohol).
Absorbed by chloride of
calcium.

'Fixed impurities or
adult eralions
;Silica,

Lime,

Alumina,
etc.

Not

volatilized

by heat. Spe-

cial tests for each.

MATERIA MEDICA.

54

Odour.

Chlorine

c.

(Blue colour with mucilage of

Iodine or Iodides

d.

starch, when iodine

or liberated.

J
I

free

(Deposit on copper foil when

heated with it; other spe.]

Arsenic

e.

is

cial tests.

Special

f. Antimony

tests.

precipitated
Metals Discoloured or
tests
special
and
by HaS
Copper,

Certain

Lead,

Iron, etc.

for each.

(White precipitate with

h.

Lime

oxalate of

(I.
i.

Carlonates

J 2'.
.

Effervesce with acids.

White precipitate with

solution of lime.

'\

Curdy white precipitate with-

Acid

Hydrochloric

ammonium.

insoluble:
nitrate of silver,
in.f
nitric acid, soluble
in

and Chlorides

excess of ammonia.

(Dark purple colour in contact

Acid

Nitric

Nitrates

and]
-j

^j^j^

protosulphate of

^nd sulphuric

acid.

jWhite precipitate
Oxalic Acid

iron:

withi

sulphate of Hme.

/Dissolve inHCl; add

thei|
acid and ammonia, and
Phosphoric Acid
solution of ammonio-sull
(In phosphate ofwhits
phate of magnesia; a
tartarid

in.

iron)

precipitate

is

thrown downi

INORGANIC KINGDOM.

55

Reddens moistened litmus

paper.

H,S formed with g-ranulated zinc in hydrochloric

which blackens paper
moistened with solution of
acid,
n.

Sulphtcmis Acid

.<

subacetate of lead.
from
iodine
Liberates
iodate of potash in acetic
acid, which colours starch
blue.
0.

Sulphuric

J cid and (Wh\te

Stilphates

.{

precipitate with chloride of barium.

In the Appendix of the B.P. a list is given of

substances and solutions employed for testing purposes, and in several instances their preparation
is

described.

These

will

be separately enume-

rated, so as to avoid the necessity of mentioning

them in different parts of this work, except in
certain special instances.

With

respect to the pharmacy of the drugs

the inorganic kingdom, the plan
followed is (a) to consider the officinal preparations,
giving their constituents and their proportions,
with any important details as to their preparation;
(V) to mention other preparations of which they are
ingredients, or in making which they are employed
and (f) to point out the chief incovipatibles.
6. As regards the pharmacology and therapeutics
of the drugs, my intention, as previously intimated,
is merely to give
a general summary of their
actions, as expressed by the terms already defined,
and in many instances it will be convenient and
5.

belonging

useful to

to

group agents together

for this purpose.

MATERIA MEDICA.

56

I,

AQUAWATER = HoO.

Simple water
forms, namely

is

recogfnized in the B.P. in two

Natural water, the purest that

Water.
1. Aqua
can be obtained, cleared, if necessary, by filtration.
It should be free from colour, odour, unusual taste,
The most pure natural
and visible impurity.
waters are ice from certain lakes, snow-water, and
rain-water. All contain more or less organic and
inorganic impurities.
2.

Aqua

Destillaia

Disiilled

water.

Distil

ten

connected with
gallons of water from a copper
half gallon
first
the
a block-tin worm; reject
and
impurities),
volatile
the
(which carries over
gallons.
eight
preserve the next
Tests. The purity of distilled water is tested as
still

follows

fluid ounce evaporated in a clean glass capscarcely a visible residue.

leaves
sule
sulphuaffected by solution of lime
not
is
It
b.
retted hydrogen; chloride of barium; nitrate of
silver; oxalate of ammonium; or a mixture of
starch, mucilage, and iodide of potassium,
coloration when a
c. It gives only a faint yellow
solution of potassio-mercuric iodide is added to
a.

three or four ounces.

there is a
repreparations
special group of pharmaceutical

Pharmacy. I. As already mentioned,

cognized in the B.P., named Aqu^.

"water" is or2, Aqua is to be used whenever
ordered to be
\^
water
Distilled
dered in the B.P,
of pharmanumber
large
a
employed in making
ceutical preparations.
o^z/a

In dispensing prescriptions,
to mean distilled water.

should be understood


AQUA
Its

WATER.

advantag^es over natural

purity,

b.

That

it

dissolves

stances than ordinary water,

liability to

57

water are:

a.

Its

more of some subc. That there is less

decomposition.

Action. Externally water

may be

used

for

several purposes, according^ to its temperature,

mode of application, and other circumstances. Indeed there is scarcely a group of local therapeutic
agents to which it may not be thus made to beInternally it may be generally classed as a
long.

diluent.

Tepid water

is

an emetic.


MATERIA MEDICA.

58

II.

CARBO CARBON CHARCOAL^C.

General Summary. There are three forms of

carbon, and one officinal preparation recognized
in the B. P., namely
1. Carbo Ligni Wood charcoal Ca.rhor\, leavingabout 2 per cent, of ash when burned at a high
temperature, with free access of air.
a. Cataplasma carhonis.
Animal charcoal Bone-llack.
2. Carlo Animalis
About 10 per cent, of carbon, the remainder consisting almost entirely of phosphate of lime, with a
little carbonate of lime and iron carbide.
:

3.

Animalis

Carbo

Purificatus Purified

aJiimal

chat coal. KmrmX charcoal from which the earthy

salts have been almost wholly removed._ When
burned at a high temperature with a little red
oxide of mercury and free access of air, it leaves
not more than about 2 per cent, of residue.
Source and Preparation. i. C. Ligfn\V<food
charred by exposure to a red heat without access

of air.
2. C. Animalis. The

residue of bones which

of
have been exposed to red heat, without access

air.

C. Afiimalis Purificalus. Thi?. is

Hydrochloric acid,

bone-black,

in

powder, I

i6,

made

thus

A^ioK^^

^dd

stirring occasion-

temperature for 2 days,

^^^r Digest at a moderate
time.
to
agitating from time
undissolved charcoal on a calico
c Collect the
distilled water from hydrofilter, and wash with
chloric acid.


CARBO

CHARCOAL.

d. Dry the charcoal, and heat

closely covered crucible.

it

59

to redness in

Characters and Properties. The properties of

the several varieties of charcoal may be grouped
in the following way
C. Ligni'is in black, brittle, very
1. Appearance.
powdered pieces, retaining the
easily
light, porous,
:

form and texture of the wood from which

obtained; C. A?iimaUs

powder

C.

it

was

a greyish-black, coarse
Purificatus, a fine black

is

Animalis

powder.

They are all odourless and almost tasteless.

They are insoluble in water.
4. They possess great power of absorbing and
condensing gases, especially wood charcoal, owing
It acts best when recently made,
to its porosity.
or when kept in sealed botdes. After a time it
2.

3.

becomes

inert,

but

its

absorbent action

is

restored

after exposure to a dull-red heat.

5. They also absorb odorous and septic matters;
and oxidize them by means of oxygen taken up

from the atmosphere.

6. They further absorb organic colouring matters, alkaloids, bitter principles, &c., from solutions,
especially purified afiimal charcoal.
Ten or twelve
grains well shaken with an ounce of water containing about a fluid drachm of solution of litmus, removes the dissolved colouring matter; the mixture
when thrown upon a filter passing through colourless.

Pharmacy. -

Officinal Preparalion

Cataplasma
Carbonis.
poultice made with
boiling water, crumb of bread, linseed meal, and
wood charcoal, which is half mixed, and half
sprinkled over the surface of the poultice.
2. Purified animal charcoal is much used in pharmacy as a decolorizing agent in the preparation
of alkaloids, &c. Wood chatcoal is employed in pre-

6o

MATERIA MEDICA.

paring- sulphurous acid, iodides of potassium and

sodium, bromide of potassium, and sulphurated
lime.

Action. Charcoal is mainly used as an antiseptic, deodorant, and disinfectant. In the

stomach it is an absorbent, especially of gfases,
and probably checks decomposition and fermentation of food.
Purified animal charcoal also acts
as an antidote to certain poisons, as corrosive
sublimate, nux vomica or strychnine, and opium.

6i

SULPHUR.

III.

SULPHUR GROUP.

General Summary. It

will

be convenient

to

con-

sider in this group not only sulphur, but also certain unstable compounds of this element, which
are employed for similar or allied therapeutic
effects, according- to the following plan
Sulphur Brimslone.
1
Solu2. Aciduvi Sulphuro sum Sulphurous Acid.
tion of sulphurous anhydride gas, SO,, in water
6-4 per cent, of real sul5 per cent, by weight
:

phurous
3.

acid,

H2SO3.

Sodii Sulphis

Sulphile of Sodium =
Na2S03,7H,0.

^^^ i^m Appendix)', and

4. Sulphuretted Hydrogen
certain Sulphides, namely:
Y{Y{^'^ i^xn Appena. Sulphydrate of Amno7iitim

dix).
b.

Calx Sulphurata

Sulphurated Lime.

mix-

ture containing not less than 50 per cent,

of sulphide of calcium
CaS.
Sulphurata
c. Potassa
Sulphurated Potash.
Of
uncertain composition, but consisting chiefly
of sulphide of potassium, K2S3, with some
hyposulphite, sulphate, and sulphite.
5. Hyposulphite of Sodium (in Appendix).
(Certain sulphides are omitted, because they are
compounds of sulphur with other powerful drugs).

A.

Sulphur

Brimstone = S.

The forms

of sulphur and its officinal prepararecognised in the B.P., include

I.
Sulphur
Sublimaium Sublimed Sulphur or
Flowers of Sulphur.
tions, as

MATERIA MEDICA.

62

Sulphur Pmcipitatum

2.

Lac Siilphuris or Milk of

Sulphur.
3.

Officinal Prepara- \ a.

Hons

Confectio Sulphuris.
Unguentum Sulphuris.

\
Source and Preparation
Prepared from crude or
\. Stdphur Suhlimatum.
rough sulphur by sublimation.
Obtained by a compli2. Sulphur PrcBcipiiaium.
b.

cated process, essentially as follows

a.

C Sublimed sulphur, ^
BoiK Slaked lime, | 3

and

(filter.

and 0|
3 Ca2H0 + 6S3 = 2CaS5 + CaS,03 + 3 H,0
1^

Water,

successively Oj.

Dilute the cooled mixed filtrates with water,

and add in successive quantities hydrochloric acid, fl^8, diluted with water, Oj, until
effervescence ceases, and the mixture acquires a
b.

Oij,

slight acid reaction.

2CaS5 + CaS.Oj +6HC1 - 3CaCU + 3H,0 +6S,

Allow the precipitate to settle, decant the
supernatant fluid, and wash the deposit with water,
until this ceases to give an acid reaction, and to
c.

precipitate with oxalate of ammonium.

calico
d. Collect the precipitated sulphur on a
120.
under
dry
and
water,
with
filter, wash

Characters and Properties.The two varieties

reof sulphur have similar properties, except as
characters.
physical
obvious
their
gards
slightly gritty powder,
1. 6". Sublimatum is a
be cast
of a fine greenish-yellow colour, or may
greyish-yellow,
Under the microssoft, and free from
withcope it is seen to consist of opaque globules,
matter.
out any admixture of crystalline
odourless, unless heated.
2. Both are tasteless and
litmus paper.
moistened
not redden
into

moulds.

They do

6".

Prcucipilaium
grittiness.

is

SULPHUR.
4.

63

insoluble in water, but soluble in

They are

bisulphide of carbon, hot oil of turpentine, and

slig-htly in fixed oils, especially on boiling.
entirely volatilized by heat; it
5. Sulphur is
burns in an open vessel with a blue flame, and

emits a suffocating- odour, SO. being- evolved.

fixed imImpurities. These are SO^; H^S
(sulphuric
calcium
of
sulphate
especially
purities,
acid being- used in the preparation of precipiand artated sulphur instead of hydrochloric)
senic, as AS3S3, which when agitated with solution
of ammonia, filtered, and evaporated, leaves a
residue, giving the tests of arsenic.
;

Pharmacy.

Confecilo

a.

Sulphuris.

Dose

srr.

60

Officinal Preparations

Sublimed sulphur, 4
Acid tartrate of potassium,
well
Syrup of orange-peel, 4

Mix

to 120.

U7iguentum

d.

Sulphuris.

,Tragacanth, J^.

j^j^
'

Sublimed sulphur

2.

Sublimed Sulphur, I
jBenzoated Lard, 4.
f

is

used

in

the preparation

of:
Acid Sulphuricum
Antimonium Sulphuratum
Potassa Sulphurata
Sulphuris lodidum.
also an ingredient

It is

in

Emplastrum Hydrargyri
Emplastrum Ammoniaci cum Hydrargyro
Pulvis Glycirrhizfe Compositus.
it is used as a means of facilitating the subdivision of the mercury).
Action. Sulphur when burnt in the air forms
SO. gas, and is thus a powerful antiseptic, disinfectant, and deodorant.
Employed in this
manner also, or directly applied to the skin, it is
a parasiticide, especially for the itch-insect and

(In the plasters

MATERIA MEDICA.

64

a local stimulant or irritant. Internally sulphur

is a valuable laxative, a sudorific, and an alterative in certain conditions.
Dose Of either form 20 to 60 grains.

B. ACIDUM

SULPHUROSUM
Acid

SuLPHUROUS

= H^SOj.

The sulphurous acid of the B.P. is a solution of

sulphurous anhydride gas, SO,, in water = 5 per
cent, by weight; equivalent to 6-4 per cent, of real
sulphurous acid, H2SO3.
Source and Preparation. Obtained by heating sulphuric acid flj4, vi^ith wood charcoal
broken into small fragments, ^ j, in a glass flask.
The SO2 gas is passed by means of a glass tube
through a wash-bottle containing fl^ 2 of water,
and then into distilled water, fl^30, in a cooled
= 2H,0 + C0,-1-2S02.
f C + 2H3S0,

| h,0 + S0, = H,S03.

Characters and Properties

receiver.

Sulphurous acid

1.

gr.

is

a colourless liquid, of sp.

"025.

has a pungent sulphurous odour.

It leaves no residue when evaporated.
Sulphurous acid is a powerful decolorizing,

2. It
3.

4.

deodorizing, and disinfecting agent; it also arrests

fermentation and putrefaction.
very slight precipitate with
5. It gives but a
chlorine_ is
chloride of barium, until solution of

which
added, showing absence of sulphuric acid,
forms by long keeping.
Quantitative Test. 64 grains mixed with one
distilled water
pint of recently boiled and cooled
not acquire a
do
starch,
of
and a little mucilage
_


SULPHURETTED HYDROGEN.

65

permanent blue colour with the

Vol. sohilion of
grain-measures of the latter have

iodme, until looo

been added.

Action. Sulphurous acid is a valuable antiseptic and disinfectant ; it is also anti-parasitic, especially as regards vegetable organisms,
and arrests fermentation in the stomach.
Zioj-f fl3 1 to I.

C. SoDir SuLPHis

Sulphite of Sodtum

Na,S03, 7H.O.
Source
action

sodium

and

of

Preparation.
Obtained by the
sulphurous acid on carbonate of

or on caustic soda.
Character and Tests
1. Sulphite of sodium is in monoclinic
prismscolourless and transparent.
:

'

2.

The
The

crystals are efflorescent in dry air,

salt is inodorous
with a cooling* saline
.and sulphurous taste.
4- It is readily soluble in water, and very soluble
3.

in spirit.
5-

The aqueous

.ul^^,''^''''^'""'

solution has a neutral or faintly

''"^ ^^^^es

'With HCl.

a sulphurous odour

Action. Sulphite of sodium is

practically only
used as an antiseptic, either locally
or internally.
^
Dosegr. 5 to 20.

D. Sulphuretted Hydrogen
and
Sulphides.
I.

Sulphurelied Hydrogen

wX/"^
'''''^''^^-Stdphuretlcd

US. This P-as i\ ^

P^^^^"^ ^" ^ cllsslf^m n ral
Wa^ers~^Nh\c\^ smell like


MATERIA MEDICA.

66

Some of these also contain alkaline

rotten eg-gs.
sulphides.
In the B.P. sulphuretted hydrogen is mentioned
in the preparation of Acidum Hydrobromicum
Dilutum and is inserted in the Appendix for the
purpose of testing for various metals. It is used
as a gas, prepared by the action of sulphuric
;

acid on sulphide of iron; and it should be

washed by passing it through a bottle containing
water.
2.

Sulphydraie of At7imotiium

This

NH^HS.

only recognised in the Appendix of

compound
the B.P., in the form of a test-solution, prepared
of
by passing a stream of H^S into solution
is

ammonia
ammonia

saturation

to
;

and

adding

preserving

in

solution of

a green-glass

stoppered bottle.
o
Sulphurated LmeStdphide
3. Calx Stdphuraia
mixture containing not less than 50
of Calcium.
per cent, of sulphide of calcium (CaS).
Source and Preparation
Sulphate of calcium, 7
1. Mix thoroughly J
,

[Wood

charcoal, i.
crucible until
earthen
an
2. Heat to redness
disappeared.
the black colour has
once place the whitish residue
3. Cool, and at
bottle.
in a stoppered
with a
Characters. A nearly white powder
sulphuretted
smell somewhat resembling that of
in fine

powder

in

Potash-Hepar
^^^A^'Fo^assa Sulphurata- Sulphurated
is of unsalt
Sulphuris-Liver of Sulphur. .This
ot potaschiefly
certain composition, but consists
hyposulphite,
some
K,S3, with
sium sulphide

sulphate, and sulphite.

Source and Preparation:
r

a.

Mix together

Carbonate of potassium, 2
g^ljlijjjed sulphur,

i,


POTASSA SULPHURATA.
and heat in a crucible, first gradually until effervescence ceases, and then to dull redness until they
are perfectly fused.

K.S.Oj + 2 K.Sj + 3 CO,

3 K3CO3 + 4S,
Pour out the fused liquid, air being- excluded
during solidification by an inverted porcelain basin.
c. Break the solid product into fragments
when
cold, and preserve in a green-gtass, closelyI.

stoppered

bottle.

(Too much heat causes decomposition of the

hyposulphite into sulphate and sulphite).
Characters and Properties
1. Sulphurated potash
occurs in irregular solid
:

brittle
2.

It

fragments.
is greenish

externally, but liver-brown

recently broken; it readily becomes dullwhite when exposed to the air, owing to oxidation,
sulphate of potassium being formed.
3. It emits a strong odour of H,S, especially

when

when moistened.

It is alkaline
and has an acrid taste.
Sulphurated potash is readily soluble in water
:formmg a yellow solution, with the smell of
H,s'
which is evolved freely when excess of
HCl'is
dropped into it, sulphur being deposited.
About
SO per cent, is soluble in rectified spirit.

4-

5.

Pharmacy. (9^>za/

Preparation

Ungtmihcm Poiasscz Sulphuraia:.

/Triturate

Sulphurated potash, gr. 30

Hard

paraffin,

Soft paraffin,

^1

J|.

the

sul-

phurated
potash
m a mortar, and
gradually add the
melted mixture of
the paraffins, rubbing together until the ointment is
perfectly smooth.
F2

MATERIA MEDICA.

68

Action.Used

externally most of this group

and
are supposed to be cutaneous stimulants
Sulirritants.
sudorifics, and may become
phurated potash is only employed as an ointment.
exInternally they are purgative, diaphoretic,
in the form
especially
alterative,
pectorant, and
calsulphuretted mineral waters. Sulphide of
of

in
believed to have a remarkable effect
suppuration.
checking
preventing or
to I.
DoseOi Calx Sulphurata, gr.

cium

is

E.

Hyposulphite of Sodium.

Although used therapeutically

poses to sulphurous

acid, this

for similar pur-

compound

is

only

the B.t^.,_ as a
recoo-nised in the Appendix
24-8 grains in
containing
volumetric lesl-soluliojt,
for the purpose ot
1000 grain-measures of water,
also of indirectly
estimating tree iodine, and thus
in certain comchlorine
of
amount
determining the

of

pounds.

CHLORINE AND HYPOCHLORITES.

IV.

6q

CHLORINE AND HYPOCHLORITES.

General Summary.

In

this

group may be

in-

cluded the following preparations, which either

contain free chlorine, or readily evolve this gas,
1. Liquor
Chlori.
Solution of chlorine gas in
about half its volume of w^ater = -6 per cent, of the
solution by weight, or gr. 2-66 in fl^ i.

2. Calx Chlorinaia
-Chlorinaled lime.
This may
be regarded as consisting chiefly of a compound
of hypochlorite and chloride of calcium (CaCljO^,
CaClj), or as a direct compound of chlorine and

(CaOCK)

lime

33 per cent, of available chlorine.

Liquor Calcis ChlorinalcE.
b.
Vapor Chlori.
3. Liquor SodcB Chlorinaia Solution of Chlorinated
.So^ife. Solution of hypochlorite of sodium
(NaClO),
chloride of sodium, and bicarbonate of sodium
about 2.\ per cent, of available chlorine.
a. Cataplasma Soda: ChlorinatcB.
a.

A.

Liquor Chlori

Solution

of

Chlorine.
Source and Preparation. By heating
P-entlv
hydrochloric acid, J 6, black oxide Sf
manganese, m fine powder,
and water, fl?2^
passmg the liberated chlorine gas through
water in
a small phial
and receiving it into a large bottle
containing water, flj30; which
is disconnected
when the chlorine ceases to be developed,
and
shaken till all the gas is absorbed.
Keep in a
fl

i,

green-glass bottle, well-stoppered, in

a cool and
dark place. It is best used freshly
prepared

4HCl-fMnO, = MnCU+2H,0-fCL

MATERIA MEDICA.

70

Characters and Properties:

a yellowish- green
Solution of chlorine
liquid; sp. gr. 1-003.
,
ana
2. It has a strong odour of chlorine; acrid
air-passages.
the
very irritating to
evaporation.
3. It leaves no residue on
immediately disbleacher,
powerful
a
4. It is
of sulphate
solution
dilute
a
of
colour
the
charging
deodorant,
and
disinfectant
is
also
and
of indigo
compounds.
replacing hydrogen in many organic
decomposed in the
5. The solution is readily
light, forming HCl and O.
ot
Quantitative Test. 20 grains of iodide
added
and
potassium, dissolved in fl^ I of water,
is

1.

mixed

or 439 grains of liquor chlori, the

which requires
solution acquires a deep-red colour,

to fl?

for its discharge 750 grain-measures

of hyposulphite 0/ sodium.

of Vol. solution

Calx Chlorinata Chlorinated

B.

Lime.
product obtained
Source and Preparation. A
spread out in a
by exposing slaked lime, loosely
chlorine gas, as
vessel, to the action of
pj-ope^-

absorbed.
Characters and Properties:
powder, with
Chlorinated lime is a dull white

long as

it is

I.

a feeble odour of chlorine.

soluUon
partly soluble in water. The
of
addition
the
upon
evolves chlorine copiously
calcium
oxalate
oxalic acid, and deposits
and other proper
bleaching
the
possesses
3 It
2

It

is

c^,sgrains of iodide of po.ass.un.

acidulatea
produces, wlien
solved in fi 1 4 of water,

ge"d

wUh

,5


LIQUOR SOD^ CHLORINATE.

71

fl 5 I of HCI, a reddish solution, which requires

for the discharg-e of its colour at least 467 grain-

with

measures of
Pharmacy.
a.

Vol. soluiiofi

of hyposulphite of sodium.

Officifial

Preparalions

Liquor Calcis Chlorinata.

^hWinated

lime,

i|

a mortar j
10 J
( Distilled water,
and shake well tog-ether several times in a stoppered
bottle for three hours.
Filter through calico
and
preserve the solution in a stoppered bottle.
clear solution
sp.gr. r055.
The quantitative test described above shows that
it contains at least about 2 per cent, of available
chlorine, and it may yield about 3 per cent.
b.
Vapor Chlori.
This is simply made by moistening chlorinated lime with water in a suitable
apparatus, and inhaling the vapour.
The gas may
also be allowed to pass into the atmosphere for
disinfecting purposes.
2. Chlorinated lime is used in the preparation of
chloroform.
Triturate

in

'

C.

Liquor Sode Chlorinate.

Source and Preparation:

1.

Dissolve
(

2.

Water, O

Thoroughly
triturate

3.

r
(.

sodium, ^24

2.

Chlorinated lime, J i6\ and

Water, O 6

Well mix the solutions

again

/filter.
filter.

Keep

the solution in a stoppered bottle in a

cool
dark place.

Characters and Properties

1.

This

2.

It is

3-

It

is

and

a colourless liquid; sp. gr. 1-054.

alkaline in reaction.

has a feeble odour of chlorine;

astringent taste.

and an


MATERIA MEDICA.

72
4.

It

5. It

decolorises sulphate of indigo.

is decomposed by HCl, evolving CI gas,

little or no COj.
added to
Quantitative Test 70 grains
=
gr.
20
potassium
of
f Iodide
1
acidulated
fl24
\Water
i
with fl 3 2 of HCl, the mixture assumes a brown
colour, requiring for its discharge at least 500

and

o-rain-measures of

Vol.

solution

sodium.

Preparation

Pharmacy. Officinal

of

hyposiilphile

of

Cataplasma Soda: ChlorinatcB.K hot linseed meal

the
poultice mixed with Hquor sodae chlorinatae in
following proportions
Solution of chlorinated soda, i
Linseed meal, 2
Boiling water, 4.
:

Action of Chlorine and Hypochlorites.

included in_ this
Practically the preparations
antisepo-roup are mainly used as disinfectants,
of chlorine acts as
tics or deodorants. Solution
irritant, and is somea cutaneous stimulant or
either as a bath
times employed for this purpose,
The vapour inhaled
or by sponging the sldn.
expectorant, but tends to
in a diluted form is
mucous membrane.^ Inirritate the respiratory
liquor sodee chlorinata2
ternally liquor chlori and
are supposed to be
and_
are occasionally given,
as well as
stimulant,
nervine

alterative and

^^"nlm-Ol Liquor
rinatse,

mio

to 20.

Chlori or Liquor Sodse Chlo-

IODINE AND IODIDES.

V,

73

IODINE AND IODIDES.

General Summary. It will be useful to give

here a complete list, not only of the preparations
of Iodine, but also of the officinal Iodides and their
Some of the latter will also be considered in this connection, as they are practically

compounds.

employed on account

of the iodine which they conothers will be more conveniently discussed

elsewhere, as they are combinations of iodine with
other powerful medicines, and are used therapeuti-

tain

cally for their combined effects.

I. lodum
Iodine
I.

'a.

Officinal Preparations

b.

containing freel c.
Iodine
.
d.
[:
/.

3.

Linimentum lodi.
Liquor lodi.
Tinctura lodi.

Unguentum
Vapor lodi.

lodi.

Arsenn lodidum Iodide of Arsenic = Asly

a. Liquor Arsenii et Hydrargyri lodidi.
(a. Syrupus Ferri lodidi.
{d. Pilula Ferri lodidi.

5.

Hydrargyri lodidiim
Mercury = H g I ^
a.

6.

Rub rum

Unguentum Hydrargyri

Plumbi lodidum

Red

Iodide

lodidi Rubri.

Iodide of Lead Pblj.

Emplastrum Plumbi lodidi.

Ung-uentum Plumbi lodidi.
Polassii lodidum Iodide of Potassium = KI.
a. Linimentum Potassii lodidi cum Sapone.
a.
b.

7.

Unguentum Potassii lodidi.

Sodii lodidum
Iodide of Sodium
Nal.
9. Sulphuris lodidum
Iodide of Sulphur,
b.

8.

a.

Unguentum Sulphuris

lodidi.

of

MATERIA MEDICA.

74

A. loDUM

Iodine.

I.

Source and Preparation. Iodine is obtained

from "kelp," the burnt ashes of sea- weeds, and
from mineral iodides and iodates. Althoug^h the
preparation is not described in the B.P., it will be
well to give an outline of the process by which
this element is obtained from kelp.
1. The salts are dissolved out by water.
2. The solution is concentrated, and certain salts
are crystallised out.

The remaining solution is

phuric acid. Hydriodic acid
3.

escape

treated with sul-

gases
formed
and sulphate of sodium, mixed with sul-

is

phur, crystallises out.

Black oxide of manganese

4.

acid solution, which

volatilizes,

and

is

is

is

then heated.

condensed

added

The

to the
iodine

in receivers.

2HI + MnO, + H,S04 = MnS04+2H,0-fL.

Characters and Properties

1. Iodine occurs in laminar crystals.

2. It has a dark colour, with metallic lustre.
and peculiar
3. It is volatile, with a marked
odour, somewhat like that of chlorine.
sublimes en4. Iodine melts when heated; then

tirely,

in

the form of a beautiful violet-coloured

vapour.
5.

It

is

very sparingly soluble

in

water, but

is

and by a

freely dissolved by alcohol, by

solution of iodide of potassium.
animal textures, and
5. Iodine readily penetrates
stains the skin yellow.
Impurities. i. The aqueous solution
ether,

Tests and

with starch.
of iodine gives a deep-blue colour

IODINE.
2.

Its
a.
d.

75

impurities and their tests are:

moistens blotting-paper.
the first portion that
Iodide of Cyanogen
sublimes includes slender colourless prisms,

Water

pungent odour.
Fixed impurities or adulterations (charcoal,
plumbago, iron, black oxide of manganThese remain after sublimation.
ese, &c.).
Quantitative
test.
lOOO grain-measures of Vol.
3.
solution of hyposulphite of sodium are required for the
complete decoloration of I2"7 grains of iodine,
dissolved in fl^ i of water with 15 grains of iodide
emitting- a

c.

of potassium.

Pharmacy.

Liquid Preparatiotis.
There are three liquid preparations
of iodine, in all of
which iodide of
potassium is present to aid solution.

It

will

be

a.

Lijiimentum Jodi= I in g.
Iodine, 5
Iodide of potassium, 2
Glycerine, I
Rectified spirit, 40.
Intense blood colour.

b.

Liqtcor

observed that they"

differ considerably
in

their

strength.
are all

Deep blood

They
made by
c.

the ingredients in
the several menstrua.

Unsuentum

Iodi=^ in 100.
Iodine, gr. 22
Iodide of potassium, gr. 33
Distilled water
fl^ i.

relative

merely dissolving

d.

colour.

Tinctura Iodi=
Iodine, ^ 1

in 40.

Iodide of potassium, ^ \
Rectified spirit, Oj.
Intense brown-red.

lodi.

Iodine, gr. 32
Iodide of potassium, gr. 32
Glycerine, fl 3 i

Prepared

Officinal Preparations

l.

lard, 1 2.

Rub the solid in-

gredients with
-

the glycerine,

and mix with

the lard.


MATERIA MEDICA.

76

This vapor is made by simply

in a
Tincture of iodine, fl3 I 1
suitable
"g|water, fl^l
}
apparatus, and applying a gentle heat.
2. Iodine is used in the preparation of iodides
of arsenium, potassium, sodium, and sulphur; the
and iodoform.
pill and syrup of iodide of iron
salts, minmetallic
Ammonia,
3. hicompalibles.
Vapor

e.

lodi.
r

eral acids, vegetable astringents.

OF

lODIDE
loDIDUM
Potassium. KI.

POTASSII

B.

Source and Preparation. This salt is obtained

by the following process
at a time to
1. Add iodine in small quantities
solution of potash, Ci, in a glass or porcelain
permanent
vessel, until the solution acquires a
:

brown

tint.

a porcelam dish, pulwith wood

intimately
verize the residue, and mix
charcoal in fine powder, ^3.
in small quantities at a
3. Throw the mixture
crucible, and when the
iron
time into a red hot
contents.
the
out
whole is fused, pour
2.

Evaporate

When

to

dryness

in

water,
cool, dissolve in boiling distilled

through paper, wash the filter, evaporate

surface, and set
the liquid till a film forms on the

O2

filter

aside to crystallise.
quickly
c
Drain the crystals, and dry them
,

warm

place.

More

crystals

may

^
a
be obtained from
.

a stoppered bottle.
the mother
process a mixture ot
(In the first stage of the
iodide and iodate is formed:
liquor.

Keep

in

6KHO + l6=SKI + KI03+3HA

IODIDE OF POTASSIUM.

77

When heated with charcoal, the iodate is con3CO).

verted into iodide: KI03 C3 = KI
Characters and Properties.
Iodide of potassium is in cubic crystals, colour1
less, and generally opaque.
2. It is easily soluble in water, in a less degree

in spirit.
3. It should be neutral, but has commonly a
feeble alkaline reaction.
4. The taste is saline, acrid, and bitterish.
solution mixed with mucilage of starch,
5.
gives a blue colour on the addition of a minute
quantity of solution of chlorine.
It yields the other
tests of iodine and potassium.
Impurities.
The chief of these are iodate, chloride, and carbonates.
When iodate is present, it
is liable to be decomposed, the iodide developing
the colour and odour of free iodine; it also tends
to disagree with the stomach, owing to its liberation by the acid of the gastric juice.
It is detected
by giving a blue colour in solution with tartaric
acid and mucilage of starch.

Quantitative Test. Ten grains require for

complete precipitation about 602 grain-measures
of Vol. sohition of 7iitTate of silver.

Pharmacy.
a.

Officinal Preparations

Linirnenhim Polassii lodidi cum Sapone.

Dissolve in a porcelain C Curd soap in shreds,

J 2
dish over a water^ Glycerine, fl| i
bath,
(Distilled water, fl^ 10.

Mix briskly

a mortar f Iodide of potassium,

with
powdered, 5 i\.
\

in

until cold

Set aside for an hour

rub well with

A cream-like

product.

then

Oil of lemon,

f!

i.


MATERIA MEDICA.

78

Unguentum Poiassii lodidi.

h.

Iodide of potassium,_gr. 64
Carbonate of potassium, gr. 4^

Water, fl 3
Benzoated

Dissolve the salts

^^^^

^nd

mix

lard, ^

i.

tho-

with

roughly
the lard.

(The carbonate is added to prevent the ointment

from turning yellow).
2. Iodide of potassium is contained in Linimentum lodi, Liquor lodi, Tinctura lodi, and Un-

guentum

lodi.

The chief incompatibles of

are acids; spirits of nitre;
potassium
iodide of
containing starch.
preparations
and vegetable
3.

Incompalibles.

SoDii

C.

loDiDUM Iodide
Nal.

of,

Sodium.

This salt may be

Source and Preparation.
connection
obtained by the process described in
being
soda
of
with iodide of potassium, solution
place of solution of potash.
Characters and Properties :
white, crystalline pow1. Iodide of sodium is a

used

in

der.

2. It
3.

4.
5!
6*

should be dry, but

It is

The
The

is

,.

deliquescent.

readily soluble in water and

aqueous solution is neutral.
taste

is

saline

and somewhat

spirit.

bitter.

of iodine and sodium.

It o-ives the tests
to iodide of potassium.
Similar
ImpurIties.

require for
Quantitative TssT.-Ten grains
gram-measures
complete precipitation, about 660
silver.
of Vol. solution of iiiirate of


IODIDE OF SULPHUR.

D.

SULPHURIS loDIDUM
Sulphur. SI.

Source and Preparation

Rub

1.

to- r

gether t

79

loDIDL, OF

Iodine, 4

")

Sublimed sulphur,

^"

^ ^'^^^

or earthenware mortar until thoroughly mixed.

2. Put into a flask, close the orifice loosely, and
apply heat, at first gently, until the colour has
become uniformly dark, and then increase the heat
so as to produce liquefaction.
3. Withdraw the heat, and when the liquid has
congealed, remove the mass by breaking the flask,
reduce it into pieces, and keep these in a wellstoppered botde.

Characters and Properties

1. Iodide of sulphur is
a greyish-black solid
substance, with a radiated crystalline appearance.
2. It has the odour of iodine
and stains the
:

cuticle

when applied

to

it.

insoluble in cold water; soluble in gly60).

4. It is very unstable.
If loo grains be thoroughly boiled with water, the iodine will pass off"
in vapour, and about 20 grains of sulphur
will re3.

It is

cerine

(i in

main.

Pharmacy.

Officinal Preparation

Unguenluni Sulphuris lodidi.

/Triturate the iodide, and
Iodide of sulphur,
gradually add the melted
5
Hard paraffin, iS \ paraffins, rubbing toSoft paraffin, 55.

gether
^

free

until

from

cold

grittiness.

and

8o

MATERIA MEDICA.
Action of Iodine and Iodides.

Iodine is antiseptic and disinfectant, and

sometimes used for the latter purpose apart
from the body.
2. As external and local applications iodine and
the iodides are more or less irritant, and also act
as local alteratives, promoting the absorption of
morbid products. The stronger preparations of
iodine are vesicant ; and this drug is a para1.

is

siticide in certain combinations.

It

is

also used

upon mucous and

serous
iniodides
the
of
membranes.
for
used
mainly
are
application
local
for
tended
their alterative effects, but they may also be more
or less irritating. The iodide of sulphur is merely
employed as an external application.
to
3. As an inhalation iodine vapour is irritant
for

its

direct

effects

The preparations

the respiratory mucous membrane, and may be

employed as an errhine, expectorant, or anti-

septic.

For internal administration iodine itself is

only seldom used, in the form of tincture. The
iodides of potassium or sodium are the salts
4.

generally given, when a simple iodide is required.

Their effects are numerous and variable under
different circumstances, and the chief actions attributed to them may be summed up as sialagogue,
errhine, expectorant, diuretic, alterative (especially

for

syphilis),

vascular

depressant,

anodyne, emmenagogue, and anaphrodisiac.

Probably some of these effects are due to the alkacombined. Iodine is
lies with which the iodine is
of the system, and
out
lead
of
eliminator
also an
is much
potassium
of
Iodide
mercury.
of
probably
an
When
used in the treatment of aneurism.
is
iodim
iodide is given beyond a certain point,

IODINE AND IODIDES.

8i

produced, indicated by the symptoms of a "cold

head," such as frontal headache, puffiness of
the eyehds with redness of the conjunctivee, running from the eyes and nose, and sneezing"; irritation of the respiratory mucous membrane, giving
rise to cough and expectoration
soreness of the
mouth and throat, with saHvation; and gastric and
intestinal irritation.
Sometimes a skin-eruption
appears, varying in kind
and there may be
marked physical and mental depression.
Doses Tincture of Iodine, 5 to 20 minims.
Iodide of Potassium, gr. 2 to 20 or more.
Iodide of Sodium, gr. 3 to 10 or more.
in the

MATERIA MEDICA.

82

VI.

BROMINE AND BROMIDES.

General Summary. In
are included
1. Broviim
2. Amvionii

this

group the

following-

Bromine, Br.

NH Br

Bromidim Bromide

of

Ammonium,

Bromidum Bromide of Potassium,\^^r.

Bromidum Bromide of Sodium, NaBr.

3''

p'oiassu

4.

Sodii

A.

Bromum

Bromine.

Br.

merely
and PREPARATioN.-The B.P.
sea-water,
"obtamedfrom
states that bromine is
Without en enn^
and from some saline springs."
the

Source

stated that " bittern,"

fnto details, it maybe
sodium out
Cidleft after crystallising chloride of
chlorine
of
with a current
of sS-water, is treated
dissolved
is
bromine this
eas which liberates the
ether; and is punfied by
with
up
it
?ut bT shaking
of potassium, and deconverting it into bromide
means of black ox.de of
;

by
acid.
sulphuric
and
manganese
:
Properties
and
Characters
brownish-red
Bromine is a dark
t

composing

2
the

It

this salt

liquid.

red vapours at
and it boils at from,

s very volatile, giving

commr^^^^^

off

odour and!
a strong and disagreeable
extremely irritating to the.
the vapour being

'^f?thl{
taste

respiratory mucous

membrane.

and ether.
soluble in alcohol

BROMIDES.

83

Pharmacy. Bromine is introduced into the B.P.

the purpose of preparing- hydrobromic acid
and the ofRcinal bromides.
There is also a testfor

solution in the Appendix.

Action. Bromine is a caustic and disinfectant^ but is practically never used therapeutically.

B. Bromides.
The officinal bromides enumerated in the summary may be conveniently considered together.

Source and Preparation. i. Bromide of ammomay be formed by neutralizing- hydrobromic acid with ammonia, evaporating, and
nium

crystallising.
2,

The

bromides of potassium and sodium are made

to the iodides, namely, by

by a similar process

'

adding bromine to solution of potash or soda

evaporating to dryness ; fusing \N\\h. wood charcoal ; dissolving in vi^ater, filtering, and settinoaside to crystallise.
(For details see Iodide of
Potassium;. The proportions given in
the B P
are
:

Solution of potash or soda,

Bromine,

^ 4, or a sufficiency
charcoal, | 2
Boiling distilling water. Oil.

Wood

Characters and Properties

;

}. All the bromides are in crystals, those of bromide of potassium being of good
size and cubical:
but bromide of sodium
appears as agranular powaer, consisting of small
monoclinic crystals.
2.

They are

colourless or white, but bromide

of
""^y ^''^""^ ^I'^htly yellow by expoj

sure to the air.

G2


MATERIA MEDICA.

84
They are

3.

much

readily soluble in water;

less

soluble in spirit.

They are inodorous; but have a pungent

4.

said
saline taste, or that of bromide of sodium is
to be simply saline.
be sublimed un5. Bromide of ammonium may
somewhat deliis
sodium
of
Bromide
changed.

quescent.

several salts give the tests for bromme

and their respective bases.
sulImpurities. The chief of these are iodide,

The

6.

phate, and carbonate.

OuANTiTATivE Tests

Grain-measures of Vol.
Solution of Nitrate
of Silver.

Bromide of Ammonium. Five^

grains dissolved in an ounce of
drops
distilled water, to which two
1.

of \S08-S
of solution of yellow chromate

to

Si4"S

added, re-

potassium have been

quire to produce a permanent red
precipitate

Bromide of Potassiuvi.T&T\\
grains require for complete de-J
composition
2.

838 to 850

>

1.

Broviide

o-rains of the

of Sodium.
dry salt require

^^out 960
.

Action of Bromides.
T

As

applications

local

bromides are
and they deaden,

the

us'ed aranodynes ;
of the throat and larynx.
sensibility
the
bromides are chiefly

sometfmes

em-nervous andl
ffects upon the
^f^l^^ l
P^^'
cerebral sedatives,
l.r svstems being
sedatives and depressants,
2 Internally
2.

the

IJyTnot^sf^pinal

BROMIDES.
and antispasmodics.

85

They are also in various

sedatives, especially affectingthe sensibility of the larynx
cardiac sedatives
or depressants ; anaphrodisiacs ; emmenagogues; and alteratives. When given for some
time they are liable to cause irritation of the alimentary canal; and also the condition termed
bromism, characterized by loss of all sensation in the
throat and larynx; sexual weakness or impotence;
a skin-eruption of various kinds ; and marked
physical and mental depression.
doses

pulmonary

Doses

Bromide of Ammonium, gr. 2 to 20.

Bromide of Potassium, gr. 5 to 30.
Bromide of Sodium, gr. 10 to 30.

,
-

MATERIA MEDICA.

86

AND

PHOSPHORUS

VII.

HYPOPHOS-

PHITES.
group are included :
phosphoratum.
Oleum

General Summary. In
f a.
1.

Phosphorus.

this

2.

phosphori.
Calcium,
Calcii HypophosphisHypophosphile of

3.

Sodium,
Sodvi HypophosphisHypophosphite of

^_ pj1j_,i^

NaPH.O,.

I.

Phosphorus.

P.

PREPARATiON.-The B.P. merely

from
"a non-metallic element obtamed
says
be
may
it
details,
bones " Without entering- into
bonefrom
prepared
stated that phosphorus is
Source

and

acid

sulphuric
by digesting it with dilute
heating
solution
the
filtering and evaporating
pho
subhmed
the
collecting

ash

with charcoal;
water puriphorusin a receiver containing cold
shaking with
and
water,
fying it by melting under
potash and sulphuric
a mfxture of bichromate of
melting and casting into moulds.
arid
'
ocCha^acterI and PaoPERTiES.-Phosphorus the
but
allotropic form,
curs in an ordinary and an
...
officinal.
fnrmpr
is alone
^"'
flexible, wax-like
and
soft
a
is
phosphorus
bp. gr. i 77sticks or moulds,
<;nlid usually in
semi-transparent
and
2 IMS almost colourless
opaque and white,
become
to
tends
but
when fresh,
o^^^ation^
surface, f-?"^
or reddish on the
emits white
in the dark, and
luminous
,
It is
air.
the
vapours when exposed to
;

PHOSPHORUS.

87

Phosphorus is insoluble in water, in which

kept ; soluble in ether, olive oil, melted fats,
naphtha, boiling- oil of turpentine, and bisulphide
of carbon
sparingly soluble in boiling rectified
4.

it is

spirit.

melts at 110, and is highly inflammable,

the air at a temperature a little above
melting point, burning with a luminous flame,

5.

It

ig-niting- in
its

and producing dense white fumes

phosphoric
anhydride, P2O3.
Pharmacy.
i
Officinal Preparations :
a. Okum Phosphoraiiim
Phosphoraied Oil.
Dissolved by heating in a
Phosphorus, gr. 16
stoppered bottle placed
Almond oil, fl^ 4,
in hot water to 180, and
About I per cent.
shaking together.
clear straw-coloured oil; phosphorescent in
the dark.
1. Pilula Phosphori
Phosphorus Pill.
Phosphorus, gr. 3
Balsam of Tolu, gr. 120

Yellow wax, gr. 57.

Put the phosphorus and balsam into a mortar
about half full of hot water; when melted and
softened, rub them together under water until
no
particles of phosphorus are visible, at a temperature
of about 140, add the wax, and as it softens
mix
thoroughly with the other ingredients. Cool without exposure to air, and keep immersed in
cold
water in a bottle.
When dispensed, every two grains of the product is to be incorporated with one grain
of curd
soap; a few drops of rectified spirit being
used if
necessary, to soften the whole.
Three grains contain
grain of phosphorus.
2. Phosphorus is
used in the preparation of
Acidum Phosphoricum Concentratum, and
Calcii
riypophosphis.

MATERIA MEDICA.

88

II.

Hypophosphis HypophosPHiTE OF Calcium. Ca(PH202)2.

Calcii

Source and Preparation. Obtained by heating

phosphorus and nearly twice its weight of hydrate of calcium with water until phosphuretted
hydrogen gas ceases to be evolved; then filtering
separating uncombined lime with carthe liquid
gas and evaporating the remaining
acid
bonic
;

solution until the salt separates in

condition.

a crystalline

Characters and Properties:

1. Hypophosphite of calcium is

in small crystals,

white, with a pearly lustre.

in 6), and hot
2. It is soluble in cold water (i
spirit.
rectified
water (i in 8) insoluble in cold
;

has a bitter nauseous taste.

water when heated to
4. The crystals do not lose
ignite, evolving
they
redness
Heated to
300.
a reddishleaving
and
hydrogen,
phosphuretted
per cent,
about
80
to
amounting
coloured residue
3.

It

of the salt.

III.

Hypophosphis Hypophosphite OF Sodium. NaPH^O^.

SoDii

by adding
Source anu Preparation. Obtained
hypophosof
solution
to
carbonate of sodium
precipitate of carphite of calcium as long as a
then tenng the
formed,
is
bonate of calcium
heat
it to dryness by the
evaporating
and
solution

it constantly stirred
a steam-bath, keeping
when the salt begins to solidify.

of

PHOSPHORUS AND HYPOPHOSPHITES.

Characters and Properties
1. Hypophosphite of sodium

8Q

is

a white granular

salt.

deliquescent very soluble in water and

but
insoluble in ether.
spirit,
It
has
a bitter nauseous taste.
3.
4. It ignites at a red heat, and gives off phosphuretted hydrogen.
It is rapidly attacked by
oxidising agents.
2. It is

Action of Phosphorl's and Hypophosphites.

1. Locally
applied phosphorus is a strong
escharotic, but is rarely used for this purpose.
2. Internally phosphorus and the hypophosphites
are powerful nervine tonics. They are also regarded as general tonics, nutrients to certain
tissues, alteratives, and aphrodisiacs.
Phosphorus has been credited with remarkable powers
as a difiFusible stimulant. It is a strong poison,
and when long-continued, even in minute doses, is
liable to produce fatty degeneration of certain
organs. The hypophosphites are much less irritating than phosphorus.
Doses~0\eum Phosphoratum, Ti;5 to 10.

Pilula Phosphori, gr. 2 to 4

Calcii Hypophosphis, gr. 5 to 10.
Sodii Hypophosphis, gr. 5 to 10.


go

MATERIA MEDICA.

VIII.

THE OFFICINAL

ACIDS.

large number of acids

preparations;
named are not really acids. In
their actions and therapeutic uses they present
The only characters
considerable differences.
they present in common are that they have usually
an acid reaction to test-paper, and that they combine with bases to form salts. It will be useful to
give here a complete list of the officinal compounds regarded as acids, but many of them are
more conveniently considered in other parts of this
work. They may be arranged in the following
sub-divisions, A. signifying Acidum, and the English
name being omitted

General Summary.

are recognised
but some thus

in tiie B. P. as distinct

A. Strong Inorganic Liquid. Acids.

solution of HCl gas in

A. Hydrochloricum.
=
per
cent, by weight.
about 32
distilled water
solution of HNO3
Fortis.
2. A. NitricumAqua
or 60 per cent,
weight,
=
by
cent,
in water
70 per
1.

of anhydrous NaO^.
Conceniratuin = Y{^0^ with
3. A. Phosphoricum
water.
of
cent,
33-7 per
strong acid,
4. A. SulphuriciimOil of Vitriol.
H2SO4.
of
cent,
per
about
containing
98

B. Dilute Inorganic Liquid Acids.

Dihdum.hn aqueous solu1. A. Hydrohromicum
weight of gaseous
tion containing 10 per cent, by
or real hydrobromic acid, HBr.
per cent, ot
2. A. Hydrochloricum Diluiu?n= lO'S^
drachms.
HCi or 35-5 grains in 6 fluid
l'.

Dtluium=\TAAV^^
HNO3.

A. Nilrictim

nitric acid,

cent,

of real

OFFICINAL ACIDS.

Diluium.
Contains
hydrochloric, nitric, and nitrous
acids, and other compounds, dissolved in water.
solution of H3PO4
5. A. Phosphorician Diluiuvi.
4.

free

J.

Nitro-hydrochloricum

ciilorine,

= 13-8

per cent, by weight, corresponding to 10 per cent, of phosphoric anhydride PjO^,

or 35'5 grains in 6 fluid drachms.
3
6. A. Sulphuricum Dilutiim
1
"65 per cent, of
H2SO4, or 49 grains in 6 fluid drachms.
in

water

form of dilute
7. A. Sidphuricuvi Aromaticum.
sulphuric acid
12-5 per cent, of H3SO4, or 37'5

grains in 6 fluid drachms mixed with rectified

spirit, cinnamon, and ginger,
8. A. Sulphurosum.
solution of sulphurous acid
gas (SO3) in water = 5 per cent, by weight, or 6-4
per cent, of real sulphurous acid, H3SO3. (See
;

Sulphur Group).
C. Inorganic Solid. Acids.

An anhydride = As^Oj. (See

A crystalline acid = H3BO3.
An anhydride = C2O3.

1. A. Arseniosum.
Arsenic).
2. A. Boricum.
3. A. Chromicum.

D. Simple Organic Acids.

1.

A. Aceiicim

Concentrated
acetic
99 per cent, of real acetic

Glaciale.

acid, containing nearly

acid, HC.HjO^.

A solution of 33 per cent, of real

or 28 per cent, of C^HeOj.
A. Aceiicum Dihdum =
per cent, of real
acetic acid
or 16 grains in
fluid ounce.
Aceium Vinegar. An acid liquid containing
about 5-41 per cent, of real acetic acid.
A. Citricum. A crystalline acid =
HjCfiHjOj.H.O.
A. Tarlancum. A crystalline acid =
2. A. Aceticim.
acetic acid,

HCHjO^

a;-?,']

4.

5.

6.

H.C^H^Oe.

A
MATERIA MEDICA.

92

E. Special Organic Acids.

=
=

HC7H5O2.
crystalline acid
A. Benzoicum.
HCgH-O.
A. CarboHcum. A crystalline acid
CarboHcum Liquefaclum. Carbolic acid
3. A.
liquefied by the addition of lO per cent, of water.
A crystalline acid
4. A. Gallicum.
1

2.

HjCjHjOjjHjO.
Dilulum
gas in water

A. Hydrocya?iiciim

5.

solution of

weight.
6. A.

HCN

Pncssic

=2

acid.

per cent, by

Lactic acid, HC3H5O3, with

about 25 per cent, of water.
A. Laclicum Dilulum. The preceding diluted
a
ounces
with water =

= H3C,H07.
acid
Meconic
A. Meconicum
acid = HC18H33O2.
fatty

A
9. A. Oleicum.
acid =
crystalline

A
Salicylicum.
A.
HC,H503.
A. Tannicum. A solid acid = CjjH^jOi,.
Laclicum.

7.

in

3 fluid

pint.

8.

fluid

10.

i\.

As already
just

stated,

many

of the preparations

enumerated are more conveniently discussed

other parts of this work several of them, ho\ymay now be finally disposed of, but it will
not be practicable to adhere strictly to the preceding classification. Some of the acids may be considered in groups, according to their action; others
must be dealt with individually.
in

ever,

A. Strong Mineral Acids.

The

acids

commonly recognised

in

this

group

and they may

are hydrochloric, mlric, and sulphuric,
be considered together.
,
,
Preparation. i. Hydrochloric acid.

Source and
Without describing the

details given

the

it


STRONG MINERAL ACIDS.

93

prepared by the
sulphuric acid, diluted with water,
upon chloride of sodium in a glass flask, aided
by heat. The gas is passed through a wash-bottle
to remove all traces of H^SO^, and then into a
will suffice to state that this acid is

action of

cooled receiver containing distilled water.

NaCl+H,S0, = HCl + NaHS04.

The B.P. merely states, "an

acid.
acid prepared from nitrate of potassium or ni2. Nitric

trate of sodium, by distillation with sulphuric

acid and water."
This acid is made by a com3. Sulphuric acid.
plicated process, which is described at length in
works on Chemistry. The B.P. merely states that
it is " an acid produced by the combustion of sulphur, and the oxidation and hydration of the resulting sulphurous acid gas by means of nitrous
and aqueous vapours."
Characters and Properties. The chief facts to
be remembered under this heading respecting the
strong acids may be thus summarized
1. In appearance they should be colourless and
transparent liquids, but are usually more or less
coloured from impurities.
Sulphuric acid has a

somewhat oily consistence.

2. They are intensely acid in taste and reaction.
3. They readily combine with water.
Hydrochloric and nitric acids emit pungent and acrid
suffocating vapours, combining with the atmospheric moisture.
Sulphuric acid absorbs water
very rapidly, with condensation and elimination of
much heat.
4. They are powerfully corrosive, especially sulphuric acid, which chars and blackens many organic substances.
S-

Sp, gr.<^ Nitric, 1-420.

Sulphuric, r843.

MATERIA MEDICA.

94

Neutralizing power

6.

Hydrochloric, gr. 114-8

Nitric, gr. 90
Sulphuric, gr. 50

Neutralize 1000 grain-

measures of

NaHO.

These acids are dissipated by

or no residue.

7.
little

Vol. sol.

o/soda = j^o grains of

heat, leaving

i. All the acids are liable to conImpurities.

fixed impurities, such as earthy matters,
and metals.
2. The chief special impurities to which each
acid is liable, are as follows
Sulphuric acid or sulphates;
a. Hydrochloric.

tain

sulphurous acid.
Hydrochloric acid; sulphuric acid.
Sulphate of lead arsenic nitric
Sulphuric.

arsenic
b.

Nitric.

Pharmacy. The strong acids are ingredients

c.

acid.

in

their several diluted acids, and are employed in

making some of their respective salts they are
also contained in the following preparations
f Liquor Antimonii Chloridi.
7,
,
;

Hydrochloricin^^:^^^^^ Arsenici Hydrochloricus.

Liquor Ferri Pernitratis.
C
Liquor Hydrargyri Nitratis Acidus.
'm\
Nitric

(Unguentum Hydrargyri

Nitratis.

Action. The strong mineral acids are simply

used as caustics or escharotics. If somewhat
diluted they are vesicants.

B. Dilute Mineral Acids.

the
In this division the diluted preparations of
noticed.
will
be
acids just considered

made
i. The simple dilute acids are
Preparation.
strong
the
to
water
distilled
by gradually adding

DILUTE MINERAL ACIDS.

95

acid, in such proportions that in each case the

mixture measures a certain bulk when cooled to

60 F., as follows

Diluted.

Acid.

a.

Hydrochloric

d.

Nitric

c.

Sulphuric

Another method given

( Hydrochloric

...

...

31

...

83^

in

the B.P.

26

is

to

weigh

3060 grains ")

respectively-; Nitric acid, 2400 grains
Vin a
Sulphuric acid, 1350 grains
J
glass flask, of the capacity of one pint, then gradually

add

distilled

water

acid,

until the mixture, after

it

has been shaken and cooled to 60, measures a pint.

2.

Acidum Nitro-hydrochloriciim Dilutum.

water,

25, and keep the mixture in a glass-stoppered bottle for fourteen days before it is used.
3. Acidum Sulphuricum Aromaticum.
a.

l^lP^i^^^^
Mix gradually!
*
^

b.

Addl|Pi"*f.^T^^^''

\ Rectified spirit, 36.

-^

\ Strong tincture of ginger, 2.

Characters and Properties. a. These dilute
acids are all colourless, except Acidum sulphuncum
aromaticum, which is deep-red.
b. They present the usual acid taste and
other

properties.
c. Their sp. gr. and neutralizing
spectively as follows

power are

re-

Sp. Gr.

Neutralizing Power.

'In

Hydrochloric
Nitric

....

Sulphuric

i'0S2

i-ioH
I

'094

each

case 6 fluid
require for
neutralization 1000
grain-measures of Vol.
solution of soda.

drachms


MATERIA MEDICA.

96

Neutralizing Power.

Sp. Gr.

[6 fluid
Nttro- hydrochloric

1-070

drachms require

about S83 grain-mea-

sures.

weight

by

grains

C195
require 500 grain-meaAromatic Sulphuric O-gii]

The

sures.

acids are conpreparations

tained in the following
Hydrochloric \ Liquor Morphinae Hydrochloricus.
Liquor Strychninas Hydrochloricus.
in

Pharmacy.

several dilute

Sulphuric in Infusum Rosse Acidum.

Aromatic Sulphuric in Infusum Cinchonae Acidum,
Action. The group of dilute mineral acids now
under consideration present some individual pecu-

liarities in their actions,

summarized as follows
1.

but generally they

may be

to the skin or a mucous membrane,

dilution,
be, according to their degree of
will
They
stimulant, or astringent.

Applied

they may
irritant,

discharges;
also neutralize alkaline secretions or
deposits.
and may dissolve certain

much dimay

Internally they are refrigerant when

canal
luted; and further down the alimentary
2.

anti-peptogens, or
act as acids, gastric tonics,
used as an antidote
is
acid
astringents. Sulphuric
as a digestant,
given
is
acid
Hydrochloric
to lead.
Nitro-hydrojuice.
gastric
of
ingredient
being an

Nunc acid
an hepatic stimulant.
special action on the mouth
is credited with some
are supposed
and throat. Remotely the dilute acids
and to
alteratives,
to be tonics, astringents,
acidifv the urine.

.j
^
Acid ijlio
i?,i^-Dilute Hydrochloric or N.tnc

chloric acid is

Nitro-hydrochloric Acid, ms to 20.

to 30.
or Aromatic Sulphuric Acid, ms

to 30

Dilute


PHOSPHORIC ACID.

C.

97

Phosphoric Acid.

This acid must be considered separately, and

as already intimated, it occurs in the B.P. under
two forms, namely
1. Acidiim Phosphoricum Concentraium.
2. Acidutn Phosphoricum Dilutum.
:

Source and Preparation:

Acidiim

Phosphoricum Concentraium.
The details g-iven in the B.P. are somewhat complicated,
but essentially the process of preparation of this
acid is as follows:
I.

{Phosphorus,
Nitric acid,

gfr.

413

")

lin a glass
I 6
Distilled water, fl ^ 8
J
flask, connected with a vertical glass condenser,
until the phosphorus has entirely disappeared.
b. Concentrate the fluid until it is reduced
to about
two fluid ounces, and orange-coloured vapours are
no longer formed.
c. Mix
with distilled water until when cold
it measures three fluid ounces,
and has a sp gr
fl

of 1-5.

Phosphoric acid may also be prepared from

phosphorus, by treatment of the product of atmospheric oxidation with water and a little
nitric
acid.
2.

Acidum Phosphoricum Dilutum.

Mix I Concentrated phosphoric acid,

1 Distilled water, 20.

Diluted phosphoric acid may be prepared

from
a concentrated acid of any
strength other than
that described, provided the
product have a sp.

of

-08,
tests,
I

and respond

gr

to the officinal

characters and


MATERIA MEDICA.

98

Characters and Properties

1. Both forms of phosphoric acid are colourless liquids
the concentrated preparation has a
syrupy consistence.
2. They have a sour taste; and strongly acid
:

reaction.

1-5
Concentrated
I -08.
j Diluted
4. When evaporated, a residue is left, which
melts at a low red heat, and upon cooling- exhibits
a glassy appearance.
Impurities.
The chief of these are certain
metals; hydrochloric, nitric, or sulphuric acid;
and metaphosphoric acid, u^hich gives a precipitate with solution of albumen.
Quantitative Tests. 73*8 grains of the concentrated, or 355 grains (fl 3 6) of the diluted acid,
mixed with 180 grains of oxide of lead in fine
powder, leave by evaporation a residue (principally phosphate of lead), which after it has been
heated to dull redness, weighs 2 15 "5 grains.
Action. Phosphoric acid is only used internally,
and chiefly as a refrigerant, gastric tonic, and
general tonic or alterative. It is believed that
it has an acid effect on the urine.
concentrated acid, 1112 to 5; of diluted
Doses
It should be given well-diluted.
acid, 111 10 to 30.
3-

Sp. gr.

D.

Dilute Hydrobromic Acid.

This acid requires separate consideration.

Source and Preparation
:

Mix {^'Xj:'!'s'}'"^S:lass

cylinder.

Pass a current of sulphuretted hydrogen

gas, until the red colour of the liquid has disappeared and filter.
2.


BORIC OR BORACIC ACID.
3.

the

99

Distil; reject the distillate until it is free from

odour of sulphuretted compounds, and then

it until sulphuric acid begins to distil.

Dilute with distilled water until it has a
sp. .s^r. of 1-077 at 60. Preserve in glass-stoppered

collect
4.

bottles.
More hydrobromic acid may be obtained
from the rejected distillate by redistillation.

Characters and Tests

1. Dilute hydrobromic acid
:

ji

is a colourless, inodorous liquid.

2. It has a sour taste and acid reaction.
3. It leaves little or no residue on evaporation.
4. Chlorine water liberates bromine, colouringthe fluid yellow.
It should not become discoloured
on keeping.
Impurities.
Sulphuric acid.
Quantitative Test. S 10 grains require for
neutralization 1000 grain-measures of Vol. solution
of soda.

Action. Hydrobromic acid

is believed to have
similar to those of the bromides (See
Bromides), but it is mainly given with quinine
or morphia, with the view of preventing
the unpleasant after-effects of these drugs.

actions

Dose,

Vi\_\^

to 50.

Acidum Boricum Boric or Boracic

Acid.
Source
faction of

and Preparation. Obtained by the

sulphuric acid on borax; and by the

punhcation of native boric acid.

Characters and Properties
I. Boric acid occurs
in lamellar crystals or irregular masses of crystals,
easily powdered,
unctuous to the touch.
:

H2

MATERIA MEDICA.

100
2.
3.

They are
The taste

colourless and pearly.

is feebly sour and bitter, leaving a

sweetish after-flavour.
4. Boric acid is soluble in water
ing water (I in 3); glycerine (i

(i in

in

25)

s);

spirit at 60 (i in 16).

boil-

rectified
.

changes the colour of litmus to wine-red.

Turmeric paper moistened with an aqueous solu5.

It

with hydrochloric acid,

this
becomes brownish-red on gently drying, and
potash
of
colour changes to a greenish if solution

tion

slightly

acidified

be added.
6.

The

^
burns with a flame
.

alcoholic

solution

tinged with green.

and on

crystals liquefy when warmed,

cent of their weight,
careful ignition lose 43^
cooling, to a brittle
the product solidifying, on
7

The

glass-like mass.

Impurities. Sulphate, chloride,

lime,

^ i.
metals,

soda.

Pharmacy. O^nwff/ Preparaiion ;

Acidi Borici
Unsumtum
^
^

Boric acid, in fine powder,

"

Melt the paraffins;

add the

acid, dis-

tributed over the

\

through a sieve;
stir

till

cold.

antiseptic,
Action. Boric acid is an important
not given
is
It
disinfectant, and deodorant.
internally.


CHROMIC ACID.

F,

AciDUM Chromicum

lOI

Chromic

Acid.

This is an anhydride (not a true acid).

Source and Preparation
C Bichromate of potassium, ^ 30
a. Dissolves Sulphuric acid, fl^50
:

d.

(Water, fl^42.
Set aside for twelve hours,

and decant the

liquor.
c. Heat the liquor to
about 185; and add sulphuric acid, fl J 7, and water sufficient to dissolve
any crystals of chromic acid that may have been

formed.
d. Allow the liquid to cool; collect and drain
the crystals; and dry them on porous tiles under
100 in an air-bath.
More crystals may be ob-

tained on evaporation.

Characters and Properties

1. Chromic acid occurs in crimson acicular crystals, which are very deliquescent and inodorous.
:

corrosively caustic to the skin.

soluble in water, yielding- a deep orangered solution. Mixed with cold alcohol, aldehyd is
evolved, and a green residue remains
warmed
with hydrochloric acid, chlorine is evolved.
In
contact with alcohol, glycerine, and some
other
organic matters, sudden combustion or explosion
may ensue.
2. It is
3.

It is

4. Chromic acid melts at a high temperature,

and at a still higher decomposes, with
evolution
of oxygen, leaving a greenish-black
residue.
Impurities. Sulphuric acid, of which it contains

a trace.

Pharmacy O^anal

Preparatioti

Liquor Acidi Chromtd

2S percent, of chromic
anhydride, CrC03, or nearly 18 grains
in flj i
29-5 per cent, of real chromic acid,

H.CrO^.


MATERIA MEDICA.

102

Chromic

acid, I
water, 3.
Distilled
I
Orange-red, strongly acid, inodorous,
1

Dissolve

caustic,

sp. gr. 1-18.5.

Chromic

acid is chiefly used as an

Much diluted it is said to be a
escharotic.
cutaneous sedative, allaying itching.

Action.

Acetic Acid Group.

G.

This group includes

1. Acidum Aceticum Glaciale Glacial
Acetic Acid.
2. Acidum Acelicmn
Diluted
Diluttm
Aceticum
3. Acidum
:

4.

Acetic Acid.
Acetic Acid.

Acetimi Vinegar.

Source and Preparation

The preparation of
1. Acidum Aceticum G/am/^.
is made by
this acid is not given in the B.P., but it
sulphuric
distilling anhydrous acetate of soda with
acid.

Acidum Aceticum. The B.P. merely states

acid liquid obtained from wood by destructive

an

2.

tillation,
3.

and subsequently

Acidum Acetictm
"^'^

dis-

purified."

Dilutuvi.

Acetic acid,
Distilled water,
i

7.

AcetumVi7iegar.K'n acid liquid, prepared!

grain, by the;
from a mixture of malt and unmalted
acetous fermentation.
.ugroup
Characters and Properties.- i. All this
colourare clear and
at the ordinary temperature
which is brown.
vinegar,
except
less liquids,
crystallises when cooled, and
4

Glacial acetic acid

remains crystallised
above 60.

until the

temperature rises

to


ACETIC ACID.

103

2. They have a more or less pung-ent acetous

odour; and various degrees of acid taste and reac-

according- to their strength.

The sp. gr. and neutralizing
several acids are as follows:
tion,

power of

3.

the

Neutralizing power.

Sp. gr.

Grain-measures of volumetric
solution of soda,

Sirong Acid r044

Glacial Acid 1-058
Dilute Acid

Vinegar
^

182 grains

1000.

60 grains
at least 990.
roo6
440 grains or 11^1=313.
|445-4 grains or fl 5 i
vol 7-0
^ ^
about 402.
.

4. The glacial acid

resin, and volatile oil.

camphor, gum,

dissolves

Impurities.
I. In the diflferent forms of acetic
acid the chief impurities liable to be present are
sulphurous, sulphuric, and hydrochloric acids; and
metals.
2.

Vinegar

is

allowed by law

have ^J^-

to

part of sulphuric acid added, in order to preserve

it;
beyond this amount it is an adulteration.
Metals are also liable to be present.

Pharmacy.

i.

Aceh'c

acid is

used

some of the officinal acetates or

and is an ingredient in
Acetum Cantharidis.
:

in

makino-

their solutions*
'

Extractuni Colchici Aceticum,

Oxymel.
2.

Tinctura Ferri Acetatis.

is contained

Dilu/e acetic acid

Acetum Scillae, and thus

Oxymel Scillse.

3.

in

indirectly in

Syrupus Scillas.
Liquor Morphinae Acetatis.
Glacial acetic acid is contained

in

Acetum Cantharidis.
Linimentum Terebinthin^ Aceticum
Mistura Creasoti.

MATERIA MEDICA.

104
Action.

i.

Externally the glacial acetic acid

is

escharotio.
According to their strength, the
other forms may be vesicant, rubefacient,
astringent^ or local refrigerant.
2. Acetic acid is not much used separately as an
internal remedy; but much diluted it may be employed as a refrigerant or astringent.

DoseOi

Diluted Acetic Acid,

H. Citric Acid.

fl

to ^

j.

H3C6H30,,H,0

Source and Preparation. Obtained from lafion:

juice or Imie-juice, by the following process
(The
point.
boiling
1. Heat the juice, O4, to its
precipitated).
albuminous constituents are
degrees, till
2. Add prepared chalk, I 4|, by
of lime is
(Citrate
effervescence.
there is no more
precipitated).

2H3C6H3O, + 3CaC03= CajaQHp, + sH^O + 3CO3

and
Collect the precipitate on a calico filter,
passes
wash it with hoi water till the filtered liquor
are
from it colourless. (Sugar and malate of lime
3.

thus removed).
^j
^
Oj, and
water,
4 Mix the deposit with distilled 2I
previously
gradually add sulphuric acid, I

Oii. Boil gent y

diluted with distilled water,
mixture constantly
the
for half an hour, keeping
precipitated).
is
calcium
(Sulphate of
stirred.

Ca32C6H50, + 3H.SO,

= 3CaSO, + 2H3C6Hp,.

filtraSeparate the solution of citric acid by

matter with a little distion- wash the insoluble
washings to the so ution.
tilled water, and add the
i-2i, allow it
Concentrate this solution to density
decant the liquor from
cool, and after 24 hours
c

to


CITRIC ACID.
the crystals of sulphate of calcium which will have
formed ; further concentrate the liquor until a film
forms on the surface, and set it aside to cool and
Purify the crystals, if necessary, by
crystallise.
recrystallisation.

Characters and Properties

acid is crystalline, the primary form

being- the right rhombic prism.
2. The crystals are transparent and colourless.
3. Citric acid is soluble in | its weight of cold
water, ^ its weight of boiling water, in rectified
spirit (10 in 15) and in glycerine (i in 2); insoluble
1.

Citric

pure ether. The aqueous solution decomposes

on keeping, into acetic and carbonic acids, and
becomes mouldy.
4. The diluted aqueous solution has an agreein

able acid taste.

5.

The

crystals are

decomposed by

heat, aconitic

charred matter being left; but

they leave no ash when burnt with free access of
acid
air.

and a

little

Impurities.
Fixed impurities;
oxalic acid ; and sulphuric acid.

tartaric

acid;

yUANTITATIVE TeST = PoWER OF NEUTRALIZATION.

a. 70 grains dissolved in distilled water= lOOO
grain-measures of Vol. solution of soda.
h. For practical purposes it is useful to know
the neutralizing power of citric acid with regard to
the following officinal salts, as given in theB.P.
20 grains of

Carbonate of Ammonium
Carbonate of Potassium
Bicarbonate of Potassium
Carbonate of Sodium
Bicarbonate of Sodium

=
=

Grains of
Citric Acid.

26^
17
14
9-8

167

A solution of about 40 grains of citric acid in one

ounce of water resembles lemon-juice in strength.

io6

MATERIA MEDICA.

in

Pharmacy.
i. Citric acid is necessarily present
Succus Limonis; and in Syrupus Limonis, which

contains lemon-juice.
2.

It is

employed

in the

preparation of

all

the

officinal citrates or their solutions.

it

3. It is an ingredient in Vinuni QuininsR, where

aids materially in dissolving the quinine.
4. Citric acid is much employed in making effer-

vescent draughts.

Tartrate

of potassium; alkaacetates; and sulphides.

;
Action. Citric acid may be given in solution as
a refrigerant, and is also said to increase the
acidity of the urine.
It is chiefly used as an ingredient in effervescent draughts.
Dose gr. 10 to 30.
5.

l7ico7npaiibles

line carbonates

I.

Tartaric Acid.

H^C^H^Og.

Source and Preparation. Obtained from the

acid tartrate of potassium, by a process essentially
similar to that by which citric acid is prepared,
but with differences in detail.
1. Boil acid tartrate of potassium, ^ 45, with
distilled water, C2, and gradually add prepared
chalk, 1 \2\, constantly stirring. (Tartrate of
calcium and Tartrate of potassium are formed).
2KHCiH406+CaC03=CaC4H.i06+K2C.iE40G+C02-l-HoO.
2. When effervescence has ceased, add solution
of chloride of calcium, ^13^1" O2. (Tartrate
of potassium is converted into tartrate of calcium.)

K,C,H,06 + CaCl ,=CaC,H,06 -f 2KCI

3.

When

the tartrate of calcium has subsided,

pour off the liquid, and wash the tartrate with

distilled water until it is rendered tasteless.


TARTARIC ACID.

107

4. Decompose the tartrate by mixing it thoroughly

with sulphuric acid,
13, diluted with distilled
water, O3, and boiling for half an hour, with repeated stirring".

CaC,H,06 + H3S04=H,C,H,06 + CaSO^.

Filter through calico; evaporate the filtrate
at a low temperature to sp. gr, i-2i ; allow it to
cool
and then separate and reject the crystals of
5.

sulphate of calcium which have formed.

Again
evaporate till a film forms, and allow the liquid to
cool and crystallise.
Purify by solution and recrystallisation.

Characters and Properties

Tartaric acid is in crystals, the primary form

of which is the oblique rhombic prism.
2. They are colourless and transparent.
3. Tartaric acid has a strongly acid taste.
4. It is soluble in water (10 in 8)
in rectified
1.

The aqueous

solution becomes
mouldy on keeping, and acetic acid is formed.
5. Tartaric acid is modified by heat; and leaves
no residue, or only a trace, when burned with free
access of air.
Impurities.
Lime; metals; oxalic acid.
spirit (i

in

3).

Quantitative Test=Po\ver of Neutralization.

a. 25
grains dissolved in water
330 grainmeasures of Vol. solution of soda.
b. The neutralizing power of tartaric
acid with
reference to the following is thus given in the B.P.

Grains of
Tartaric Acid.

20 grains of

Carbonate of Ammonium
Carbonate of Potassium
Bicarbonate of Potassium
Carbonate of Sodium
Bicarbonate of Sodium

Pharmacy. I. Tartaric acid

ployed

in

is

=
=
=
=
=

28|
18
15

10^
17-8

not directly em-

any pharmaceutical preparation, but

it


io8

MATERIA MEDICA.

contained in the alkaline tartrates, tartarated

antimony, and tartarated iron.
2. This acid was formerly much employed in
making effervescent draughts, but its place is now
principally taken by citric acid.
Salts of potash, lime, mercury,
3. Incompatibles.
and lead; vegetable astringents.
Action. Similar to citric acid.
Dose gr. 10 to 30.
is

K. Lactic Acid.
This acid is recognised in two preparations in
the B.P., namely
1
Acidum Laciicum Laclic Acid.
Diluted Lactic Acid.
2. Acidum Lacticuvi Diluium
Source and Preparation.- i. Lactic acid is produced by the action of a peculiar ferment on
solution of sugar, and subsequent purification of
:

the product.
2. Diluted Lactic Acid.

^.
Mix

Lactic acid, fl ^ 3.
I Distilled water, sufficient
f

to

produce Oj.

Lactic acid is a
sp. gr. i-2i. The diluted acid has a sp. gr. 1-040.

Characters and Tests.

colourless, syrupy liquid, of

i.

inodorous, with a pure acid taste.

miscible in all proportions with water,
3.
nearly insoluble in
rectified spirit, and ether;
chloroform.
yieldmg mflam4. It vaporises when heated,
chars, and
residue
the
mable gases at about 350;
disappears.
finally almost entirely
permanganate of potassium,
5. Warmed with
of aldehyd.
odour
lactic acid gives the
hydrochloric acid;
or
Sulphuric
2. It is
It

is

Impurities.
lime; sugar.

LACTIC ACID.

log

120 grains of lactic acid,

Quantitative Test.
and 800 grains of the diluted acid, require for
neutralization 1000 grain-measures of Vol. soltUion
of soda.

Action. Lactic acid locally applied is a solvent

of diphtheritic "false membrane."
Internally it
has been used as a digestant, and to acidify the
urine; it has also some reputation as a remedy for
diabetes.


no

MATERIA MEDICA.

IX.

AMMONIUM.

General Summary.
The officinal compounds
and preparations of ammonium may be arrang'ed
according

to the following

plan

Liquor AmmonicE
.

Slroftg

Solutions of

per cent, of NH3,

or IS"83 grains in fl3 i.
Liquor AmmonicB,
Solution of
Ammonia
10 per cent, of
NH3, or 5*2 grains in fl 3 i.

Gaseous

Ammonia =
NH3,

Solutio7i

Forhor
of Ammonia

in Water.

32-5

^I.

Liquor A7ninonii Acetaiis Foriior

Acetate

Solution

Sirojig

of

Annnonium

of

NH.C^HjO,.
2.

'
'

Mindererus'

luted

B.

Solutions of
Salts of

Ace tatis
Di-

Spirit'

Solution

'

of Acetate of

Ammonium.
3.

Ammonium
in

Aimnonii

Liquor

Liquor Ammonii Citratis ForSolution

Strong
tior
of

Ammonium
(NH,)3QH,0,.
Citrate

Water.

of

Di-

4.

Liquor Ammonii Citratis

5.

of
of
Ammo7iium.
Liquor Bismuthi et Ammonii
luted

Solution

Citrate

Citratis.

trate of

ammonium and

muth.

(See Bismuth).

solution of cibis-

A
AMMONIUM.
r I.

2.

Ill

A?nmonn jBenzoas-^NH^C^H^O^.
Ammonii Carbonas. This is
considered to be a compound of acid carbonate

of

ammonium (NH^HCOj),
carbamate of ammo-

witii

nium

C. Salts

(NH4NH3CO,),

and

the compound molecule is

usually regfarded as containing one molecule of each
of these salts.
Ammo7iii Bromidtm='H H^Br.

of

Ammonium.

(See Bromine),
Amnionii Chloridum
moniac
NH^Cl.

Sal Am-

Ammonii Niiras=i\Yi^Oy
Ammonii Phosphas

(NHJ.HPO,.

Bismuthi et Ammojiii Cittaiis

Citrate of Bismuth and Amjuonium.
(See Bismuth).
r

Linime7itum AmmonicE.
Spintus Am7?io}ii(X Aromaticus
Aromatic Spirit of Aiiinionia
Sal Volatile.
spirituous
solution of ammonia, neutral
carbonate of ammonium,
and oils of nutmeg and

D. Special
OflBcinal

Preparations.

lemon.

Spiritus

AmmonicB Fcetidus
Foetid Spirit of Ammonia.
spirituous solution of am-

monia with
^

It

will

oil

of asafoe-

tida.

be convenient to consider the several

compounds of ammonium according

cation just given.

to the classifi-

MATERIA MEDICA.

112

A. Solutions of Gaseous Ammonia.

Source and Preparation*

Liquor AmmonicB Forlior.The directions given

for the preparation of this compound in the B.P.
are somewhat complicated, as regards the apparatus, but the process is essentially as follows
placed in
a. Gradually heat in an iron bottle,
chloride
sand,
by
surrounded
pot
metal
a
lb. 3,
powder,
coarse
in
ammonium
of
1.

slaked lime,

lb. 4.

2NH4CI + Ca2 HO = CaCI

b.

2.

+ 2NH3 + 2H,0.

Pass the liberated gas (NH3) through a series

of tubes and bottles into a flask containing
water.
Liquor AmnionicB.

(Strong solution of ammonia,

^''^ (Distilled water, 2

preserve in a stoppered bottle.
;

Characters and Properties.The two solutions

only differof ammonia have the same properties,
ing in strength.
liquids.
a. They are colourless
odour of ammonia, and
powerful
a
h. They have
emits pungent fumes.
solution
the stronger
c.

d.

Their taste is acrid.

They have a strong alkaline reaction.
(Liq.

Amm.

Fortior = 0'89.

Sp.gr.jLjq^ ^j^fonige = o-9S9.

dissipated with heat.
f. They are entirely
Carbonates; lime; metals;
Impurities.

e.

sul-

phides; chlorides; sulphates.

r t
Liquor
^Quantitative Tests. -52-3 grains of
Liquor
of
grains
Ammonice Fortior, and 170
gramlooo
neutralization
require for

Ammoniee,
measures of

Vol. solution

of oxalic aad.


SOLUTIONS OF SALTS OF AMMONIUM.

Pharmacy. Liquor AmmonicB Fortior

making, or is an ingredient in

II3

used in

is

Ammonii

Phospiias.

Linimentum Camphorae Compositum.

Liquor Ammonii Citratis Fortior.
Spiritus Ammoniai Aromaticus.
Spiritus

Ammonise

Foetidus.

Tinctura Opii Ammoniata.

Liquor AmmonicE is contained in

Linimentum Ammoniae.
Tinctura Quininse Ammoniata.

Solutions of Salts of Ammonium.

B.

Source and Preparation:

1

Liquor Ammonii Acetaiis Fortior.

a.

Add

gradually crushed carbonate of amto acetic acid (about

"145); add more of the acid until a neu-

monium

tral liquid results.

Dilute with sufficient water to yield O3.

Liquor Ammonii Aceiatis.

b.

2.

Mix / Strong solution of acetate,

(Distilled water, 5.
3.

i.

Liquor Ammonii Citralis Fortior.

Neutralize citric acid,
I 12, with strong-

a.

solution of ammonia.
sufficient water to make Oj.
Liquor Ammonii Citratis.

b.

4.

Add

Mix I Strong solution of citrate,

( Distilled water, 4.
(All these preparations
are directed to
from lead).

in bottles free

be stored/
I

MATERIA MEDICA.

114

Characters and Properties, These solutions

have similar properties, the two solutions of the
respective salts merely differing- in strength.
1.

2.
3.

They are colourless liquids.

They have no odour; but a saline
They are neutral in reaction.
(Liq.
Sp.g-r.

Liq.
Liq.

'

^Liq.

taste.

Amm. Acet. Fort. = 1-073.

Amm. Acetatis= 1-022.
Amm. Citratis Fort. -= 1-209.
Amm. Citratis = 1-062.

C. Salts of

Ammonium,

Taking- the salts of

in alphabetical
Bromide)
the
(except
ammonium
B. P. on this
the
in
given
directions
the
order,
follows:
as
are
point

Source and Preparation.

[,

Benzoate.

( Benzoic acid, 'I 2

Dissolved Solution of ammonia,
( Distilled water, fl j 4
and
evaporate, keeping ammonia in slight excess,
set aside that crystals may form.
Produced by submitting" a mixture
2

ammonium and
of sulphate or chloride of
and resublimation
to
carbonate of calcium
sublimation.

6NH,Cl+3CaC03 = N,HiA08+3CaCl,+2NH3+H,0,
be formed by neutralising:
ammonia or carbonate;
with
acid
hydrochloric
dryness. It;
of ammonium, and evaporating to
sublimation.
is usually prepared by
diluted nitnc acid with^
iV//ra/^.-Neutralise
4
of amsolution of ammonia or carbonate
3

Chloride. Vi?^^

aret
evaporate the solution until crystals
temperature.
a
and keep these fused at

monium:
obtained,

SALTS OF AMMONIUM.
not exceeding- 320, until the

II5

vapour of water

is

no

longer emitted.
5.

to

Add strong solution of

diluted phosphoric acid, fl^ 20,

Phosphate.

fmonia
the solution

amuntil

alkaline; evaporate, addingto time, so as to keep it

in slig-ht excess. When crystals are formed, on the
cooling- of the solution, dry them quickly on filteris slig-htly

more ammonia from time

paper on a porous
well-stoppered bottle.

ing'

tile,

and preserve them

in

Characters and Properties

salts of ammonium have the following- pro:

The

perties in
1.

common

They are white or

colourless;

and

crystalline.

Their reaction is neutral, except the carbojiaie,

which is alkaline.
3. They are volatilised and sublimed by heat,
except the nitrate, which first fuses at 320, and is
2.

decomposed at 350 to 450 into nitrous oxide

(N0) and H3O. This salt is introduced into
:he B.P. for the purpose of making N^O.
The other properties of the several salts of amnonium may be arranged in a tabular form :
then
iras

12

i6

MATERIA MEDICA.
V
*-

(/]

OJ

c/j

c
H

CO

g
5'
Pi

rt

1 s
;j
fc-

S.J I
X

Eg
Q

cr

SI

"hi)

"^3

a)

O C

3 rtE o

P o

CJ

ca

i3

c'-3

_ "
e
II

II

1-

H
o

!^

ii

aj

U)

o
^

W)

<

u "

to

"3

i)E

bjD t,

c O

"

ll-S.S

>,

"5.

" o

^5

1)

ti/)

rt

E^
S
E
rt O

E c
5 "
-SE.S
E

.5

OH

3^


SALTS OF AMMONIUM.

II7

Impurities. The carbonate and niirate of ammonium are liable to contain sulphate and chloride.

QUANTITATIVK TeSTS
Carbonate. 1,2- 1 grains dissolved in fl|j of
1.
vater, are neutralised by looo grain-measures
of
Vol. solution of oxalic acid.
20 grains of")
:

'^'"'"^
of \ neutralise \
^ ^8^ gr. tartaric acid.
J
2. Phosphate. 20 grains dissolved in
water, and
olution of ammonio-sulphate of
magnesia added
crystalline precipitate
Ammonio-phosphate of
lagnesia, which when well
washed upon a filter
nth solution of ammonia, diluted
with an equal
olume of water, dried, and heated to
redness

:arbonate

.mmonium

^aves i6-8 gra.\ns=p_yro-phosphate

of magnesia.
Pharmacy. I. Carbonate of ammonium \s
used
le

preparation of
Bismuthi Carbonas.

in

Liquor Ammonii Acetatis Portion

Spiritus Ammonias Aromaticus.
2. Chhnde of ammonium is used
in making Liquor
mmonias Fortior and is an ingredient
in Liquor
ydrargyr. Perchloridi, for the
purpose of aidino;

blution of the perchloride

of
ilts

mercury

^~/^-^/^^.-The

3.

of

ammonium

chief incompatibles of the

are as follows
P""'^'''

%faT^'''~'^"'^''
h Carbonate.-Kdds
and acidulous
ilts;

lime-water.

Chloride. ~A\ka.\\es,

irbonates

salts

;
'

earthy

alkaline earths and their

lead and silver salts.

MATERIA MEDICA.

D. Special Officinal Preparations.

Linimeniurn ArmnonmK semi- solid cream.
with agitation until the emulsion can be

1.

Mix

poured from a
2.

Solution of ammonia,
Qlive oil, 3.

bottle,

Spirilus Ammoni(B Aromaiicus.

Carbonate of ammonium, ^ 4
Strong solution of ammonia,
Volatile oil of nutmeg, fl 3 4^
Oil of lemon, fl 3 6^
Rectified spirit,
Distilled water,
Distil the oils, spirit,

fl

O6
O 3.
and water

^ 8

to

7.

Distil

separately fl ^ 9. Dissolve the carbonate and soluin &i

tion of ammonia in the latter by gentle heat
tmie.
to
time
from
shaking
140,
water-bath to
necessary, when cold, through a little
seven:
cotton-wool, and gradually mix with the
gallon
The product should measure one
pints.
colourless liquid;
Characters and Tests :
One fluid ounce requires for neutrasp. gr. 0-880.
Filter,

if

Vol. solutim oj
addition ol
the
fluid ounce, after
chloride
of
test-solution
of the

558 grain-measures of the

lization

oxalic add.

One

330 grain-measures
a further
of barium, should yield, after filtration,
added.
is
reagent
precipitate when more of the
Pharmacy. ^rowa/zc spit it of ammonia is containec
[Tinctura Guaiaci Ammoniata.
^"
jTinctura Valeriana? Ammoniata.
.

Spiriitcs A?nmo7ii(B

Macerate

a.

hours
sel,
b.

for

Fatidus.

pieces
24 jAsafcstida in small

in a closed ves-]

'\

rr

-4.

(Rectified spirit fls i5solution o>

Mix the product with strong

and

distil

ammonia,

fl? 2,

and make up with spint

become,
CharactersT-A colourless liquid but
0-84/
keeping; sp. gr. about

yellow by


ACTION OF AMMONIUM GROUP.

HQ

Action of AmmoxiuiM Group.

As an

external application, solution of amas caustic,

vesicant, rubefacient, or local stimulant.
It
is also an antidote to certain animal poisons, as
that of wasps or spiders.
Chloride of ammonium,
applied as a lotion, is used as a local refrigerant,
or as an alterative, to aid the absorption of certain morbid products.
2. Employed by inhalation through the nostrils,
solution and carbonate of ammonia are powerful
general stimulants, being commonly used in the
form of "smelling-salts."
They are also ster1.

monia

acts, according- to its strengtli,

nutatories and errhines; and when properly

diluted with air, gaseous ammonia is a stimulant expectorant.
Chloride of ammonium is
used as a spray to the throat and air-passages.
3. As regards their internal administration, the
compounds of ammonium have different actions,
which may be thus summarized
a. All the preparations containing
free ammonia
or its carbonate, including aromatic and
foetid
spirit of ammonia, as well as the
solution and
carbonate, are diffusible stimulants, and antispasmodics or carminatives in connection with
the alimentary canal. They are also
useful direct
:

antacids

valuable

in

the stomach.

The carbonate

is

pulmonary stimulant and stimulant

expectorant, a diaphoretic, and an emetic

in
large doses.
Solution of ammonia is seldom
given separately, but it is an
ingredient in Ammoniated Tincture of Quinine and
Ammoniated
iincture of Opium, and is believed
to prevent unpleasant symptoms which are liable
to arise from
the quinine and opium
respectively.

MATERIA MEDICA.

120

b. The solutions of acetate and citrate of ammonium are diaphoretic, diuretic, and febriflige.
One or other of them is a common ingredient in

The solution of acetate

"saline mixtures."
large doses is said to be emmenagogue.

in

c. With respect to special salts of ammonium,

the benzoate is diuretic, also rendering the
urine more acid, hepatic stimulant, and antiseptic. The chloride has been credited with numerous actions, namely, diaphoretic, diuretic,

alterative,

expectorant, hepatic stimulant,

emmenagogue
as a remedy

it is also given in large doses

The phosphate is
neuralgia.
for
;

diuretic and hepatic stimulant. The nitrate

is not used medicinally.
Doses The doses of the several salts and preparations of ammonium which are administered

internally are as foUow^s

Benzoate, gr. lO to 20.
Carbonate, gr. 3 to lO as an emetic, gr. 20.
Chloride, gr. 5 to 20.
Phosphate, gr. 5 to 20.
Strong Solution of Acetate, ill 25 to 75.
Solution of Acetate, fl 3 2 to 6.
Strong Solution of Citrate, fl 3 ^ to i^.
Solution of Citrate, fl 3 2 to 6.
Aromatic Spirit of Ammonia 1 ^ ^
^
J
Foetid Spirit of Ammonia
:


121

POTASSIUM.

X.

POTASSIUM.

General Summary. The compounds and preparations of Potassium recognised in the B.P. are
very numerous, but they may be thus classified
Catisli'c Potash
(a. Polassa Catistica
Hydrate of Potassium = KHO,
:

I.

containing-

Forms of

some

Liquor Potassce

Potash.

impurities.

Solution of potash.

A solution of hydrate of potassium =5 -84 per cent, by weight,

or 27 grains in fl^ i.

Bicarbonate

Potassii Bicarlonas
b.

of Potassium = KHCO3.
Bichromas Bichromate of
,,
Potassium = ^S^rO ^, CrOy
Bromidum Bromide ofPo,,
tassium = K.Br. (See Bromine).
Carbonas
Caibonate of
,,
Potassium^YL^CO^, with about
16 per cent, of water of crys-

d.

tallisation.

CMoras

,,

Chlorate

of

Potassium = KCIO3.
Ferrocyanidum Ferrocya,,
nide of Potassium K-^QC^Nd,

Inorganic

Salts.

3H.O.

lodidum Iodide of Potasstum --YA.

(See Iodine).
Nitras Nitrate of Potas, ,

--

Saltpetre=^KNOy
Permanganas
Permanganate of Potassium=KMnO^
Sulphas
Sulphate
of

stum. Nitreor

/.
I

k.
j

V.

Potassium
KaSO^.
Potassa Sulphurata
Sulphurated
Potash.
(See Sulphur).

MATERIA MEDICA.

122

'a.

Poiassii Aceias

Aceiaie of Poias-

f. Soda

= KC2H3O,.
Citras Citrate of Potassium K3C6H.O,.
Cya7iidiim Cya?iide
of
Potassium = KCN.
Tartras Tartrate of Potassium Soluble Tartar
= K,C,H,06,H,0.
Tartras Acida Acid Tarof Potassium Cream
of Tartar = KHC^H^gTartaraia Tartrate of

Potassium
and
(See Sodium).

siiim

Organic

d'.

,,

c.

,,

d.

Salts.

e.

trate

[a.

Sodium.

Argenii

et Poiassii Nitras
Niof Silver and Potassium
Mitigated
(See
Caustic.

trate

Argent um).
Linimentim Poiassii lodidi cum
Sap07ie,
(See Iodine).
c. LiquorArse7ticalis. (See Aksenium).
4. Special
d. Liquor
Potasses.
Effervesceiis
Officinal
Potash Water.
Preparations.
Liquor Poiassii Permanganalis
Solution of Permanganate of
Potash Condy s fluid.
b.

f.
g.

Trochisci Poiassii Chloraiis.

Unguentum Poiassii

lodidi.

(See

Iodine).
h.

Ungtmitum Potassoi

Sapo
5.

Soap.

Mollis Soft

made

Sulphuratai.

Soap.

Soap

with potash and olive

oil.

preparations just enumerated are

discussed in other parts of this work; the remainder will now be considered, mainly according
to the classification given above.

Some

of the


123

FORMS OF POTASH.

A.
I.

of

Forms of Potash.

Preparation. The process

Liquor Poiassce.
this solution is essentially as follows:
to the f Carbonate of potassium, Ibi
boiling- point I Distilled water, Ci.

making
a. Heat

Gradually mix washed slaked lime, 1 12, and

boil for 10 minutes, with constant stirring.
subsidence of the insoluble matter,
c. After
transfer the clear supernatant liquor by means of
a siphon to a green glass bottle, with an air-tight
1.

stopper, and add distilled water, if necessary, to

the solution of proper strength.

make

KX03 + Ca2HO=CaC03 + 2KHO.

Characters and Properties:

Liquor potassae is a colourless liquid

a.

h.

= ro58.
It

sp. gr.

has a strongly alkaline reaction.

The

taste is intensely acrid and caustic.

readily attracts CO, from the air; and dissolves lead from white glass bottles.
Impurities.
Carbonic acid, lime, sulphates,
chlorides, and alumina.
c.

d.

It

Quantitative Test. 462-9 grains (fl^ j) require

482 grain-measures of Vol. solution of oxalic acid.
Pharmacy.
i. Solution of Potash is used in the
preparation of Caustic Potash, and of the Bromide
and Iodide of Potassium.
2. hicompatibles.
Acids, acidulous salts, preparations of ammonia, metallic salts, preparations of
belladonna, stramonium, and hyoscyamus.
2. Polassa Causlica.
Preparation. Boil down
solution of potash rapidly in a silver or clean iron
vessel, until it becomes of oily consistence, and a
for neutralization


124

MATERIA MEDICA.

drop removed on a warm glass rod solidifies

on
Pour into moulds; and when solidified

cooling.

and still warm put into stoppered

Characters and Properties

bottles.

a. Caustic potash
cakes.
b.

It is

c.

It

is

is

in

hard white pencils or

very deliquescent.
readily soluble in water (2 in

i),

and

alcohol.
d.
e.

The reaction is powerfully alkaline.

Caustic potash is corrosive; and dissolves

animal tissues.
Quantitative Test. 56 grains dissolved in
water leaves only a trace of sediment, and requires
for neutralization at least 900 grain-measures of
Vol. solution

Pharmacy.
Potassii

of oxalic acid.
Caustic potash

is

used

in

making

Permanganas,

B. Salts of Potassium.
Excluding the

where (Bromide,

salts of

potassium discussed else-

Iodide,

and Sulphurated Potash),

now be considered together.

Preparation. In three instances
the salts of potassium are merely purified, being
either found native (nitrate), or produced artificially
during certain processes (carbonate, acid tartrate).
large number of them are prepared from the
carbonate, and a few are obtained from other
They may be considered according to
sources.
their alliances, in the following order
Obtained from commercial pearlCarbonate.
I,
ash, the product of lixiviation of wood-ashes, by
treating it with its own weight of distilled water,
and evaporating the solution just to dryness, while
it is kept briskly agitated.
the remainder will

Source and


SALTS OF POTASSIUM.

125

This salt may be obtained by

a strong- solution of carbonate of
potassium with carbonic acid gas, and recrystallising- the separated salt.
2.

Bicarbonate.

saturating-

K,C03 + H,0 + CO, = 2KHCO3.

Bichromate. No directions are given in the
B.P. for the preparation of this salt, but it may be
3.

stated that

it

made by

is

roasting-

chrome iron

ore with a mixture of carbonate of potassium

and chalk in a furnace, through which a current
of air passes.
Yellow chromate of potassium is
thus formed, which is treated with sulphuric acid,
when the red chromate is produced.
4. Chlorate. The details of the preparation ot
this salt given in the B.P. are somewhat
complicated, but essentially

parts

it

consists of the following

Pass chlorine gas into a mixture of

f Carbonate of potassium,
? 20
t Slaked lime, ^53
triturated with water, so as to be slightly
moist '
contained in a large carboy.
Boil with water, Oj, for twenty minutes
filter
evaporate till a film forms on the surface,
and
a.

l>.

set aside to cool

and crystallise. Purify by dissolving in boiling water, and

re-crystallisation.
K2C03+6CaH202+6Cl2=2KC108+5CaCla+CaC03+6H20.
S- Sulphate. Ihe preparation of this salt
is not
a.luded to in the B.P., but it is made
by neutralising with carbonate of potassium
the acid sulphate left in the manufacture of nitric
acid
6. Acetate. a. Add carbonate
of
I 20, gradually to acetic acid,

K,C03-f 2HC

potassium.

O2

H30,=2KC,HA + H,0-f CO3.

acidulate if necessary with a

few
.rt-^
additional drops of acid;
evaporate to dryness
in a porcelain basin;
liquefy cautiously by heat
allow the basin to cool,
and when the salt has

MATERIA MEDICA.

126
solidified,

and

wliile still

ments, and put

it

warm, break

it

into frag-

into stoppered bottles.

Gradually add carbonate of

a.
7. Citralc.
potassium, | 8, to a solution of citric acid, ^ 6
in O2, and if the solution be not neutral, make it so
by the cautious addition of more acid or carbonate.
b. Filter; evaporate to
stantly after a pellicle has

dryness,

begun

stirring

to form,

till

conthe

salt granulates.
c. Triturate in a dry warm mortar; and preserve the powder in stoppered bottles.
A salt obtained by fusing
8. Ferrotyafiide.
animal substances, such as the cuttings of horns,
hoofs, and skins, with carbonate of potassium
and iron, in an iron pot, lixiviating the crude product with water, and purifying the salt by crystalli-

sation.
g. Cyanide.

May be obtained by heating ferroat a red heat until gas

potassium
of
cyanide
the sediment to
allowing
evolved,
be
ceases to
subside in the still molten mass, and pouring oflF
It may be purified, it necessary,
the clear liquid.
crystallisation from spirit.
and
in
solution
by
Nitrate of potassium of commerce
10. Nitrate.
purified, if necessary, by crystallisation from solu-

tion in distilled water.

Acid Tartrate. Kn acid salt obtained from

the crude tartar which is deposited during the
fermentation of grape-juice, and from the lees of
wine.
tartrate
12. Tartrate. a. Gradually add acid
of
solution
boiling
of potassium, 1 20, to a
O2I,
boil
and
in
potassium,
carbonate of
^ 9
If the liquid is not then neutral,
for a few minutes.
careful addition of more
it must be made so by
tartrate.
carbonate or acid
11.

KHaH.O, + KX03=2 K AH4O,, + CO, + H,0.

Filter;

concentrate

aside to cool and

till

crystallise;

a pellicle forms; set

evaporate for more


SALTS OF POTASSIUM.

and dry the crystals by exposure

crystals; drain,
to air in

warm

place.

bottle.
13.

127

in

a stoppered

This

Pennanganale.

plicated process,
several steps

Preserve

of

salt is made by a comwhich the following- are the

a.

fine

Mix in f Chlorate of potassium, J 3

powder \ Black oxide of manganese,"
^

ese

")
.

41'

and evaporate to dryness on a

porcelain vessel
sand-bath, stirring diligently.
b. Pulverise the residual mass; place the powder in a covered crucible, and expose it to a dull
red heat for an hour, or until it is semi-fused.
;

{Manganate of potash

is

formed).

6KH0 + sMnOo + KCIO3 = 3K2MnO, + KCl + 3 H.O.

c. Cool
pulverise
and boil with Oi-| of water.
Let the insoluble matter subside, decant the fluid,
boil again with 0\ of water, again decant, saturate
the united liquors with carbonic acid, and
evaporate till a pellicle forms. {Pennangafiaie is
thus formed).
d. Set aside to cool and crystallise.
Drain the
crystalline mass, boil it in water,
| 6, and strain
through a funnel, the throat of which is lightly obstructed by a little asbestos.
Let the fluid cool
and crystallise, drain, and dry the crystals by placing them under a bell-jar over a vessel containing
;

sulphuric acid.

Characters and Properties.

The salts of pobe conveniently tabulated under two

divisions, as regards their characters and properties, according to the following arrangement:
A. White or Colourless Salts. These are all
tassium

may

but the carhonate, citrate, tartrate, and often

the acid tartrate are in a powdery or granular
form,
the crystals being very small. They are
inodorous!

crystalline,

Name

Crystals.

of Salt.

and

Reaction.

satiny Neutral.

I.

Acetate.

Foliaceous
masses.

2.

Bicarbonate.

Right rhombic prisms.

Large

3.

Carbonate.

Chlorate.

Rhomboidal

rather

plates

caustic.

or Neutral.

tabular crystals 4- or
transparent.
6-sided ;
;

5.

Citrate.

6.

Cyanide.

White opaque

crystalline powder.

Neutral.

crystal- Alkaline.

line masses.

7.

Nitrate.

In crystalline masses or Neutral.

fragments of striated
six-sided prisms; white

and opaque.

8.

Sulphate.

Six-sided prisms, termin- Neutral.

ated by six-sided pyraTransparent;
mids.
very hard.

g.

Tartrate.

Small; 4- or 6-sided Neutral.

prisms; colourless.

10.

Acid Tartrate.

gritty white

powder Acid.

or fragments of cakes,
on one
crystallised
surface.

Not

powder; Alkaline, and

crystalline

and
white
opaque.
4.

Neutral.

co

transparent.

so:

Taste.

Solubility.

Very soluble
and rectified

e.

e.

and fpphlv

nllfs

Cold water

(i

in

Changes.

wate r Very deliquescent.

spirit.

Not deliquescent.

in 3].

Boiling water (i in i).

Insoluble in alcohol.

aiKaune

giy
istic.

When

heated, carbonate

is left.

anc Readily in water (i in

J) Very deliquescent.
Insoluble in alcohol.
Loses 16 per cent,

of

weight with red heat.

and

saline.

opdiingiy

in

(i in 16)

cola water Fuses with heat;

gives
boiling water
off 0, and
KCl re-

(I in 2).

y acid and saline.

mains.

very soiuDle

in

water Deliquescent.

(10 in 6).

Insoluble in

and

taste

like

rocyanic acid.

Readily
s'j
tirely

in

uuL

spirit.

water; spar- Deliquescent.

dimost en-

in

absolute

alcohol.
lar,

cool and saline. Cold water

(i in 4).
(i in

Boiling water

opdungiy

and

saline.

Melts with heat, and

cast into

2J).

in aJconol.

-old water (i in 10).

Soiling water (i in
4).
Insoluble in alcohol.

saline, and bitter- ^

aLci (10 in a)

is

prttnclla.

moulds=SaZ
Thrown on

the

deflagrates.

fire it

Mot deliquescent.
w V,.
Jecrenitatpq
LCI Lca

when

c^mr,rr^r,
fatrongiy

heated.

(named somewhat deliquescent,

decomposed by heat.
S

Soluble tartar).
I nsoluble in
alcohol.
It, acid.

("old
1

water

(i in

Boiling water

200).

(i in 16).

nsoluble in alcohol.

leat evolves an odour

of burnt SUtrar a
residue remains.

MATERIA MEDICA.

130

B.

Name

Coloured Crystalline Salts.

of Salt.I Crystals.

Bichromate.

I.

Odour

and'

Taste.

Large, red,
four-sided

Changes.

Solubility.

Water

(i

in 10).

Fuses and is
decomposed
by heat.

Water

(i

in 4).

Permanent

tables
transparent.
2.

Ferrocyanide. Large

yel-

Insoluble in alcohol.

low.

3.

Permanganate Slender.pris No odour.

matic; dark
purple.

Water

(i

in 16).

the

in

air.

When

heated,

Sweetish

Solution has a it decrepitates,

rich purple co- 0 is evolved,
and astrinand a black relour.
gent taste
sidue remains.

:
Impurities.The chief of these are as follows
a.

AceMe.MetalWc

impurities.

Carbonate. Traces of silica, sulphate,

chloride are usually present.
Chlora/e Chlorine, chloride, lime.
c.
Sulphate.
d. Cyanide.
and chlorides.
e. iV^zVra/f. Sulphates

and

b.

/.

Sulphate. Lime.

Quantitative Tests. These

into two g-roups, namely:
I.

Power

may

be divided
Grain-measures
of Vol. sol. of
oxalic acid.

of Neutralization.

Bicarbonate^o grains, exposed to )

500
of
a low red heat, leave 34^ grams
carbonate
a white residue
at least gSo
grains
Carbonate
%l
b.
1000
Citrate 1 02 g-rains
c.
990
grains
d. Tartrate 112
least 1000.
at
20^%r^^^^
e. Acid Tartrate
the salts are directed
In the last three instances,
gases cease to be
till
redness
to be heated to
a.

=
=
=
=

SALTS OF POTASSIUM.
evolved, and the alkaline residue to be treated
with distilled water, filtered, and well washed.
2.

Special Tests.

Cyanide.
10 grains dissolved in an ounce of
water require about 730 grain-measures of Vol.
solution of nitrate of silver to be added
before a permanent precipitate begins to form
about 95 per
cent, of real cyanide of potassium.
b. Permanganate.
grains dissolved in water
require for complete decoloration a solution
of
44 grains of granulated sulphate of iron, acidulated with fl3 2 of diluted sulphuric acid.
a.

Pharmacy. I. Officinal preparations. Those

of
the salts of potassium not considered
elsewhere'
are as follows
;

a.

Liquor Potassm Effervescens.

Dissolve j ^^.^^.^ "ate of potassium, gr. 30

i Distilled water, Oi.
Filter; and force in as much
pure washed CO
gas as can be introduced by pressure
of about 1
^
atmospheres.
b.

Liquor Potassii Permanganatis. Intense

purple.
Dissolve I Permanganate of potassium, gr. 88
i Distilled water, Oi.

Jrochisci Potassii Chloratis

= gr.

5
each.
Made in the ordinary way with refined
sugar
gum arable, mucilage, and water.
2. The other preparations in
which

in

'

the com^ont2.med, or in making

^
which fh
they are used, are as follows :

P^^^'^'T

a.

Bichromate.

micum and
b.

in

making ^^^aum
Acidum ^^roChro-

Sodii Valerianas.
Carbonate is contained in

Decoctum Aloes Compositum.

Enema

Aloes.

Liquor Arsenicalis.
Mistura Ferri Composita.


MATERIA MEDICA.

132
It

muthum
c.

used

also

is

Cyanide.

Used

catum.
d.

making Atropina and

in

Bis-

Purificatum.

Ferrocyanide.

in

making Bismuthum

\}%Qdi.

in

Purifi-

making Acidum Hy-

drocyanicum Dilutum.
e.

Sulphate is contained in
Pilula Colocyntiiidis Composita.
Pilula Colocynthidis et Hyoscyami.
Pulvis Ipecacuanhse Compositus.
Acid Tartrate is an important ingredient in
:

Confectio Sulphuris.
Pulvis Jalapae Compositus.

preparing Acidum Tartaricum,

Antimonium Tartaratum, and Ferrum Tartaratum.

Also used

in

Action of Potassium Group.

compounds and preparations

following
of potassium may be summarized in the

The

action of the

those which are considered in

used
other connections, and those which are not
:
for medicinal purposes
potash
I. External and local applications.
escharotic.
or
caustic
is simply a powerful
upon
Solution of potash is a mild caustic, acting
or
corns,
nails,
the
as
such
epithelial structures,
detera
as
acts
it
diluted
When much
warts
and
gent especially for the removal of epithelium
sedative,
a local
thickened sebaceous secretion

way, excluding

bonate and

The

carsolution
bicarbonate of potassium in

relieving itching

and an antacid.

actions.
some of the preparations of potasof
Solutions
have been reconisium, especially the citrate,
or gouty
rheumatic
mended as applications to

have similar

ACTION OF POTASSIUM GROUP.

I33

Tlie nitrate and chlorate in solution are

local refrigerants ; and the chlorate is believed
to have almost a specific effect as a local remedy

joints.

in

certain affections of the

mouth and

throat.

Per-

mang-anate is a most valuable antiseptic, disinfectant, and deodorant, and is extensively used
in the form of the solution
Condy's iluid. The
cyanide is a cutaneous sedative and anodyne.
2. Internal action.
In discussing this part of the
subject, it will be expedient to take some of the
preparations of potassium in groups, others individually.
It may at the outset be stated generally that the prolonged use of these preparations
is liable to produce a marked
depressant effect
upon muscular and nervous tissues.
a. Solution of potash, the carbonate,
and the bicarbonate are direct antacids in the stomach,
gastric sedatives, and peptogens. They also

act as antidotes to acids and certain

other poisons.
After absorption they supply potash
to

the

blood and tissues when deficient; and become

remote antacids or alkalizers, diuretics, alteratives, and expectorants, increasing
the amount
and diminishing the viscidity of the
bronchial
secretion.
Potash-water is a pleasant preparation havmg more or less similar
actions, but is
chiefly used for its effects on the
stomach.
b. The chlorate is given
internally for its effects
on the mouth and throat, and is also
a diuretic.
It has been supposed
that this salt is

decomposed

the system, and that oxygen

gas is liberated.
c. Nitrate of potassium
is a diuretic, diaphoretic, febrif\ige, and vascular

doses.
_

paper

IS

sedative in large
from burning nitreinhaled as a pulmonary sedative
in

Ihe smoke

arising

asthmatic attacks.
t/.
Sulphate is a saline aperient,
but
much employed medicinally.

is

not

134

MATERIA MEDICA.

e. Permanganate
of potassium may be employed internally as an antiseptic ; and is also
supposed to be an emmenagogue.
y. The vegetable salts of potassium have this
property in common, namely, that after absorption into the blood they are decomposed, and
become converted into the carbonate. In connection with the alimentary canal they are all more
or less refrigerant, and the acetate, tartrate,
and acid tartrate are saline aperients ; the
acid tartrate in combination with jalap in compound jalap powder produces abundant watery
After absorption they become remote
stools.
antacids, diuretics, and the citrate is diaphoThe citrate is the salt commonly used if
retic.
desired
to alkalinise the blood or urine for
it is

any length of time, and it may thus act as a

lithontriptic. The acetate of potassium is much
employed as a diuretic.
Z>cj^j Solution of Potash, iriiS to 60, well-diluted.
Bicarbonate, gr. 10 to 40.
Carbonate, gr. 10 to 30.
Chlorate, gr. 10 to 30.
Nitrate, gr. 10 to 30.
Permanganate, gr.

to 5.

Sulphate, gr. 15 to 60.

Acetate, gr. 10 to 60.
Citrate, gr. 20 to 60.
Tartrate, gr. 60 to ^ ^.
Acid Tartrate, gr. 20 to 60.
Effervescent Solution of Potash, ^ 5 to lO.
Solution of Permanganate, fl 3 2 to 4.

SODIUM.

SODIUM.

XI.

General Summary. A similar plan of arrangement of the numerous officinal compounds and
preparations of Sodium may be adopted as in the
case of Potassium.
I.

Sodium =

Na. The metallic element.

Soda Causiica Caustic Soda Hydrate of Sodium, NaHO, with

2.

Forms of
Soda.

some
b.

a.

impurities.

Liquor SodcB
Solution of Soda
8*8 grains of Hydrate of Sodium
in fl J I or 4 per cent, by weight.
1

a.

Sodii Arsenias
Arseniate of Sodium
[See Arsenium).
Bicatbonas
Bicarbonate

of

= NaHCOj.
Bromidum Bromide of So= Na.Br. (6V^ Bromine.)
Carbonas Carbonate
of
Sodium = Na2C03, loH^O.
~
Sodium

c.

,,

diu?n

,,

3.

e.

f.

,,

Dried

Chloride of
Hvpophosphis Hypophosphite
Chloridum

Sodium=N aC\

Inorga-

nic
Salts
of Sodium.

Carbonas Exsiccata
Carbonate- :Na,C03.

g.

,,

of Sodium. (^vS^i? Phosphorus).

lodidum Iodide of Sodium =
Nal.
{See Iodine).
Nitras Nitrate of Sodium =

NaNO^.

Phosphas
Phosphate
of
Sodium
V,z.^'^0^, I2H,0.
Sulphas
Sulphate of Sodium
Na.SO^, 10H3O.
Sulphis
Sulphite of Sodium =
Na,S03,7H,0. (^'ff Sulphur).
m. Borax Pyroborate of Sodium -~.

Na^Bp,, loH.O.

J36

MATERIA MEDICA.
'

a.

Taitarated Soda
of Potaasium and
Sodium Rochelle Salt =

Soda Taiiarala

Tarlrale

NaKC^Hp6,4H,0.
b.

Sodii Citro- Tartras Effervescens

Effeitescent Citi o- Tartrate of
Sodium. An aggregation of

Organic

bicarbonate of sodium with

Salts of

citric

and tartaric acids,

refined sugar.

Sodium.
c.

Salicylas

Salicylate

and

of So-

dium (NaC^Up^),, H,0.

d.

Sulpho - carbolas
carbolate

of

Sulpho=

Sodium

NaCftHsSO^, 2H,0.

Sodium

[a.

b.

Valerianate
NaC^HnOj.

Valerianas

e.

Liquor SodcB Effervescens

Water.
Liquor Sodii Arseniatis.

Arsenium).

of

Soda
(See

Liquor Sodii Ethylatis Solution of

Ethylate of Sodium \(^ per cent.
of the solid salt, NaCaHjC
5. Special
Officinal
{See
^d. Liquor Sodii ChlorinalcB.
Preparations.
Chlorine).
Caiaplasma Sodii ChlorirtatcB. {See
Chlorine).
Gtyceritmm Boracis.

Mel

Boracis.

h. Trochisci

Sodii Bicarbonatis

= gr. $

in each.

6.

Soaps.

(a.
|-_

Curd Soap.
Sapo Animalis
Hard
Soap.
Durus
Sapo

FORMS OF SODA.

A.
The
merce.

Sodium.

metallic element sodium as

metwith

in

com-

should be preserved in well-stoppered

bottles under mineral naphtha.
Characters.
soft metal, rapidly oxidising in
the air, but showing- a bright metallic surface
when freshly cut.
It attacks water or alcohol
with evolution of hydrogen gas, little or no insoluble matter remaining.
Quantitative Test. 23 grains, cautiously dissolved in water, requires for neutralization at
at least 975 grain-measures of Vol. solution of oxalic
It

acid.

Pharmacy. Sodium
for the

is introduced into the B.P.

preparation of Liquor Sodii Ethylatis.

B.

Forms of Soda.

1. Liquor SodcE.
This solution is prepared by
the action of slaked lime,
I 12, on a boiling
solution of carbonate of sodium,
J 28 in Ci, by a
process similar to that by which Liquor Potas'sEe is
made, to which the student is referred for details.

Characters.

A clear,

alkaline liquid of so

pt

1-047.

Impurities. Carbonic acid ; lime; magnesia;

usually a trace of sulphate and chloride.

Quantitative Test. 458 grains (flji) require

470 grain-measures of Vol. solu-

tor neutralization
'

iion

of oxalic

acid.

Pharmacy. Solution of soda is used in the

preparation of Sulphurated Antimony.
2. Soda CflMj/zfa. Preparation.
From solution
Of soda, by a similar process to that
by which
caustic potash is made from solution
of potash.

MATERIA MEDICA.

138

Characters and Properties.

Caustic soda very

caustic potash, but presents the
following differences
a. It is most frequently in whitish or greyishwhite fragments or cakes, but may be
cast into sticks, like those of caustic
potash.
b. It is less deliquescent
and less caustic.
Quantitative Tests. 40 grains dissolved in
water require for neutralization about 900 grainmeasures of Vol. solution of oxalic acid.
Impurities Chloride
sulphate.

much resembles

C. Salts of Sodium.

These may be discussed together, omitting the

several salts which are described in other connections, namely Arseniate, Bromide, Hypophosphite, Iodide, and Sulphite.
Source and Preparation. In considering this
part of the subject, the salts of sodium may be
taken in the following order
The preparation of this salt is not
1. Chloride.
mentioned in the B.P., but it is obtained by the
evaporation of sea-water or spring-water, or of
solution of rock salt.
This salt is commonly obtained
2. Carbonate.
sodium, either by reaction with
of
chloride
from

bicarbonate of

ammonium

and subsequent

ig-

or by conversion into sulphate, and action

nition
on
a mixture of the sulphate with carbon
heat
of
;

and carbonate of calcium.

Carbofiate. Expose
3. Dried

carbonate of
capsule
to heat applied
porcelain
a
^
gently until the crystals crumble to powder then
increase the temperature, and continue the action
The product
until vapours cease to be evolved.

sodium,

8, in

SALTS OF SODIUM.
weig-hs about |
in

a stoppered

Bicarhonate.

4.

3.

Rub

it

to

powder, and enclose

bottle.

obtained by saturating
with carbonic acid, or by

salt

carbonate of sodium
reaction of chloride of sodium and bicarbonate
of ammonium.
Borax.

5.

A native

salt.

It is

also

made

arti-

by boiling- together, in proper proportions,

boric acid and carbonate of sodium.
ficially

A native salt (Peruvian or Chilian

nitre) purified by crystallisation from water.
may be obtained by addPhosphate. This
Niiraie.

6.

salt

7.

ing-

a solution of carbonate of

sodium

to

a solu-

of acid phosphate of calcium, prepared

from a mixture of bone-ash and sulphuric acid.
8. Sulphate.
May be obtained from the residue
left in the manufacture of HCl from NaCl (acid
sulphate of sodium=NaHS04), by neutralizing
it with carbonate of sodium, and crystallising
tion

from solution

in

water.

2NaHS0, -f- Na,C03=2Na3SO^

9. Effe7vesce7ii Citro- Tartrate.
a.

-1-

H,0 -f CO^.

Powder, mix tho- [Bicarbonate of sodium, 17

roughly, and heat Tartaric acid, g
to between
200 Citric acid, 6
and 202
(.Refined sugar, 5.
b.

When

the particles of the

powder begin

to

assiduously until they assume a

granular form. Separate by suitable sieves the
granules of uniform and most convenient size, and
preserve in well closed bottles.
^g'g'i'egate,

stir

Tartarated Soda.

Add

gradually acid
a boiling solution
of carbonate of sodium, ^ 12 in O4, boil for a
few minutes, and if required add one or other salt
till a neutral solution is obtained.
10.

a.

tartrate of potassium,
I

16, to

2KHC,,HA+Na,C03=2KNaQHA + H,0+C0,.

140

MATERIA MEDICA.
Boil

b.

and

and

filter

concentrate by evaporation

crystallise.

w Salkvlate. Obtained by the action of salicylic acid on carbonate of sodium or caustic

soda.
.

12.

Obtained

Sulphocarbolate.

carbolic

acid

by

dissolving

excess of sulphuric acid^

supersaturating the liquid with carbonate of
barium, filtering, and treating the filtrate with
in

carbonate of sodium until no further precipitate

fo rms.
The filtrate from this mixture yields crystals of

sulphocarbolate of sodium on evaporation.

In making this salt, valerianic

acid is first prepared by oxidation of amylic alcohol (fousel oil), and the acid is neutralized by
solution of soda.
The steps of the process are
essentially as follows:

Valerianate.

13.

a.

Distil

Sulphuric acid, fl^6i

until

about half a galIon has passed

over into the con-1
denser, a mixture of

'

Water, J 10
Bichromate of\
fl

potassium,

t-.-

Water, 03^
1
Amylic alcohol,

-..l

^'l
&^"tle heat
fl

^ 4.

Saturate the distilled liquid accurately with

solution of soda; remove any oily fluid which
floats on the surface
evaporate till watery vapour
ceases to escape; and then raise the heat cautiously, so as to liquefy the salt.
c. When the product has cooled and solidified,
break it into pieces, and immediately put it into a
stoppered bottle.
The salts of
Characters and Properties.
sodium are all white or colourless. With regard
to their other characters they may be conveniently
arranged under two divisions, according to the
following plan
A. Crystalline Salts. The chief properties of
this group may be exhibited in tabular form. (See
b.

pages 142 and

143).

SALTS OF SODIUM.
B. Non-Crystalline Salts.

Dried Carbonate.

141

These include:

A white powder

its other
characters being- similar to those of the carbonate.
1.

In

Bicarbonate.-

2.

powder or small opaque

irregular scales
of a saline,
taste, not caustic or unpleasant;
;

(i in

alkaline
soluble in water

slightly

10).

Citro- Tartrate.
In white grains;
soluble in water with effervescence.
3. Effervescent

This salt is in dry white masses,

4. Valerianate.
without alkaline reaction
entirely soluble in rectified spirit;
and giving out a powerful odour of
valerian on the addition of dilute sulphuric acid.
;

Impurities.
The chief impurities liable to be
in the salts of sodium are potash, sulphates,
and chlorides.

found

Quantitative Tests.
on the

same plan

These may be

considered

as in the case of potassium.

Grain-measures

a.

Power of

(i)

(ii)
(iii)

(iv)

b.

rTeutralization.

of Vol. solution
of oxalic add.

Bicarbonate, 84 grains, exposed)

to red heat, leave 53 grains of V
alkaline residue = carbonate
J
Carbonate, 143 grains
Dried Carbonate, 53 grains
J
")

Tartarated Soda, 141

grains,
heated to redness till gases
cease to be evolved, leave an
alkaline residue = carbonate

Special

Test

lOOO

_
^

90

1000

Sulphate. \oo grains dis-

solved in distilled water and acidulated

with
hydrochloric acid, give, by the addition of chlo'ride of barium, a white precipitate,
which, when
washed and dried, weighs 72-2 grains.

TABULAR VIEW OF THE

Name

I.

Crystals.

of Salt.

Borax.

f^arifarl

Reaction.

prisms,

6-sided

L.arge

r'olmiT'lpQQ

CHi

flat-

Weak

alkaline.

pnn

transparent.

2.

Carbonate.

crystals of rhombic Strong alkaline.

and
colourless
transparent.

Laminar
shape

3.

Chloride.

crystalline Neutral.
white,
Small,
transparent
or
grains
cubic crystals.
;

4.

Nitrate.

Obtuse rhombohedra; colour- Neutral.

less.

5.

Phosphate.

Large rhombic prisms, ter- Faintly

minated by four convergplanes

ing

and
6.

Sulphate.

transparent

colourless.

6-sided

prisms

7. Salicylate.

alkaline.

rhombic Neutral.
oblique
transparent.

scales Neutral or faintly

crystalline
colourless or nearly colour-

Small

less.

8.

Sulphocarbolate.

Rhombic prisms;
and transparent.

Tartarated Soda,

Pr!<!m<!

g.

colourless Neutral.

or halves of prisms Neutral.

right rhombic order

of
Large
generally 8-sided.
Transparent and colourless

'

PERTIES OF SALTS OF SODIUM.

Changes.

Solubility.

[Taste.

Water

Slightly efflorescent.

(i in 22).

Boiling Water (i in 2).

Glycerine (i in i).
Insoluble in rectified spirit.

alkaline,

and Water

liUy

(i in 2).

Dilute acids, with effervescence.

Insoluble in rectified spirit.

Stic.

salt

or

Water

(i in 23).

Slightly
rit

in

not

rectified

pure

in

spial-

Heat causes aqueous fusion, and the liquid cools

to a transparent
bead.

glass

Effloresces and crumbles.

Aqueous fusion with heat,
and then dries up, losing

63 per cent, of weight.

Should not deliquesce, but

often does a little, from
presence of impurities.

cohol.

and

jg

saline.

mild.

Water

(i in 2).

Water

(i

Slightly deliquescent.
Deflagrates with heat.
Efflorescent.

in 5).

Insoluble in rectified

(i in 3), and mea- Effloresces.

sures 3^.
Loses 55-9 per cent,
Insoluble in rectified spirit.
weight by heat.

ewhat

and Readily soluble

bitter.

in

water

less so in spirit.

and slightly Water

5r.

of

Readily in water; slightly Evolves inflammable gases

but completely in alwhen ignited, and a
cohol.
white residue remains.

saline.

ig saline,

Loses 63 per cent, of weight

by heat.

Water

ind bitter.

ish

spirit.

ignition gives vapours

of carbolic acid.

When

(i in i^).

Insoluble in rectified

On

spirit.

heated leaves an alkaline residue of carbonate.

MATERIA MEDICA.

144
Pharmacy,

i.

Officinal

The prenot considered

Preparations.

parations of sodium-compounds
elsewhere include
:

a.

Liquor SodcB Effervescens.

/Dissolve,

filter,

and

P^^' ^" P^""^

Bicarbonate of sodium, gr. 30

^^^^
Water, O i.

^.^f ^
gas,
pressure of about
four atmospheres.

b.

Liquor Sodii Ethylatis.

\

Metallic sodium, gr. 22

Ethylic alcohol, fl^ i.

Dissolve in a flask kept

cool in a stream of
cold water.
The solution should be recently prepared.
colourless liquid, of syrupy consistence, becoming brown by keeping. Sp. gr. 0-867.
I
I

A
c.

Trochisci Sodii Bicarbonatis,

made

in

the ordi-

nary way with gum acacia, mucilage, and

sugar
5 grains in each lozenge.

d.

Glycerinum Boracis.

Powdered borax,
Glycerine, 4
Distilled water,
e.

i \

Colourless.
Rub

together in a mortar
or heat

until dissolved
2.

Mel Boracis Borax Honey.

Finely-powdered borax, 2^
>Mix.
Glycerine, i
Clarified honey, 16.

2.

gently.

The

other prepaialions

j
in

making which

the

sodium are used, are as follows:

and Syrup
Phosphate of Iron
Bicarbonate.
a.
Iron.
of
Phosphate
of
Subchloride
C/'/onV/t'. Hydrochloric Acid;
b.
and Perchloride of Mercury.
Phosphate of Iron and Syrup of
c. Phosphate.
Iron.
of
Phosphate

salts of

Valerianate. Valerianate of Zinc.

;

d.

ACTION OF SODIUM GROUP.

These include all drugs which

knowledge of chemistry teaches him

3. Incompatibles.

the student's

I45

are chemically incompatible with sodium, or with

the acids contained in the several salts.

Action of Sodium Group.

The action of the members of

many respects similar to those of

this

group are

in

the preparations

and they may be considered according to the same plan.

I. External and local applications
.Ca.ws'ixc soda is
a caustic or escharotic, but less powerful than
caustic potash.
The solution of ethylate of sodium
IS also used as a mild caustic.
Solution of soda
of potassium,

is

slightly

caustic,

detergent, antacid, or
is seldom used.
The

cutaneous sedative, but

carbonate has similar actions. The bicarbonate

in
solution is a useful antacid, employed
as an application in connection with the skin
or certain mucous
surfaces, and a saturated solution
has been found
efficacious in the treatment of
burns and scalds,
aorax as a lotion is a cutaneous
sedative and

detergent;

this salt is also much

employed as an
application to the mouth and throat,
its officinal
preparations being intended for

this

purpose

being supposed to have a special

effect upon the
mucous membrane; it is likewise
used as a

Borax is somewhat antiseptic

^^'^"^^ of sodium is a
rSm,^''f^''*^u''*rubefacient, when
lln^'"^-

'?J^;^t'"-

;"fbarh.'''

^ff^'^^^ f sodium upon

XHci'dT''''^
he system differ from
those of potassium, in that
^^^orh^<^, and therefore ha
a mo"r 't' r^'^y
alimentary canal;
Wh7e U
wmie
It ha'.
"""T
has a far
less depressing effect
upon the

MATERIA MEDICA.

146

muscular and nervous systems.

Urate of sodium
also much less soluble than urate of potassium.
a. Solution of soda, the carbonate, and the bicarbonate act upon the alimentary canal as direct

is

antacids^ peptogens, and gastric sedatives.

After absorption they become remote antacids
or alkalisers, alteratives, and expectorants.
Of this group only the bicarbonate is much given,
and this salt is very extensively employed for its
effects on the stomach, being less irritating and
better borne than the bicarbonate of potassium
the amount of sugar
it is also believed to lessen
excreted

in

cases of diabetes.

of great value as a food,

as a condiment. In
taken
and should be habitually
antidote in cases
as
an
used
the stomach it may be
is a serviceable
and
silver;
of
nitrate
of poisoning by
as a
employed
also
is
It
doses.
full
emetic in
adminissalt
Common
haemoptysis.
for
remedy
tered by enema may act as a purgative, and is a
useful vermicide, destroying thread-w^orms.
which may
c. There is a group of sodium-salts
b.

Chloridfe of sodium

is

be mentioned together, as they are practically

employed mainly as saline aperients, namely,
phosphate, sulphate, citro-tartrate, and tartarated
soda (which also contains potassium). In small
doses they are diuretic, and

may

affect the acidity

Phosphate and sulphate are also

of the urine.
stimulants.
hepatic
diuretic, but is seldom
d. Nitrate of sodium is a
used as a medicine.
remote antacid and diue. Borax is a mild
is regarded as an emdoses
full
in
retic ; and
ecbolic.
and
menagogue
and
Salicylate of sodium is an antipyretic,
(See
fever.
rheumatic
has a special action in

Salicylic Acid).


DOSES OF SODIUM GROUP.
g. Sulphocarbolate of

sodium

is

147

antiseptic and

antizymotic.
Valerianate of sodium is a nervine tonic,
seldom used.
Doses As given in the B.P., the doses of the
compounds and preparations of sodium now under
consideration are as follows:
Bicarbonate, gr. 10 to 60.
Carbonate, gr. 5 to 30.
Dried Carbonate, gr. 3 to 10.
h.

but

is

Citro-tartrate, gr.

60

Phosphate, ^ ^ to

i.

to 120.

Salicylate, gr. 10 to 30.

Sulphate, ^ J to i.
Sulphocarbolate, gr. 10 to 15.
Valerianate, gr. i to 5.
Borax, gr. 5 to 40.
Tartarated Soda, ^ i to l.
Trochisci Sodii Bicarbonatis, i to

6.

L2

MATERIA MEDICA.

148

XII.

LITHIUM.

of lithium in the B.P. are only

and the chief facts relating to

The preparations
three in number,
them may be given

a tabular form.
Properties and Tests.

Preparation.

Name.
Lithii

I.

in

Carbonas
Carbonate of
Lithium =
LiaCOa.

2. Lithii
Citras
Citrate of

Lithium

LisCeHsOT.

No method of pre- a. A white powder, or miparation is given in the nute crystalline grains.
B.P., but this salt is b. Alkaline reaction.
made by the action of c. Soluble in water (i in
carbonate of ammo- 150). Insoluble in alcohol.
nium on sulphate or d. 10 grains, neutralized
chloride of lithium. with sulphuric acid, and
heated, leave 14-86 grains
= sulphate.
Add

a.

of

in successive

(I.

White crystalline salts.

Soluble in water (i in
50 2i), without leaving any
( Citric acid, gr. go residue.
c. 20 grains burned at a
1 Water, flji.
with free
b. Dissolve by heat low red heat,

portions

Carbonate

lithium,

until

ceases.
C,

gr.

effervescence access of air, leave 7-8

grains of white residue.

JIjVcipUI ctLC

gr. of

b.

LO op.

about 1-230.

Set aside to crysand dry and

preserve in stoppered
d.

tallise,

bottles.

Prepared by a simi- a. A clear colourless liprocess to Potash quid.

Soda Water. Con- b. Effervesces strongly.
and
Effervescens
gr. 10 of carbon- c. Acidulous taste.
tains
Lithia

Liquor

3.

LithicB

lar

Water.

ate of lithium in

i.

antacid
Action. The compounds of lithium are
solvents of
and diuretic, but are chiefly used as
being the
uric acid, the urate of lithium

most

solu-

gout,

They are mainly employed

ble of all.
and as external applications.
internally
both

Citrate, gr. $
gr. 3 to 6
lOto
flj 5
to 10; Effervescing solution,

Doses Oi Carbonate,

ALUMINIUM.

149

ALUMINIUM.

XIII.

Only certain forms of Alum are officinal, and

may be considered together.
Alum = Al33S04, K^SO^, 24H,0;
1. Alumen
Sulphate of aluor AI33SO,, (NH,)3S0^. 24H3O.
minium and potassium (potassium alum or potash
alum), or of aluminium and ammonium (ammonium or ammonia alum), crystallised from soluthey

tion in water.

Source and Preparation. The preparation of

alum is not given in the B.P., but it may be stated
that it is made from alum-schist, by roasting, exposing to the air, lixiviating, evaporating the solution, adding a concentrated solution of sulphate of
ammonium or potassium, and crystallising.
Characters and Properties. a. Alum is in crys-

masses, exhibiting the faces of the regular

octahedron colourless and transparent.
b. It has an acid, sweetish and astringent taste
and a strongly acid reaction.
in 10 or ii); boilc. It is soluble in water (i
ing water (10 in 8)
glycerine (i in 4). Insoluble
in rectified or proof spirit.
(I.
Alum forms insoluble compounds with albu-

talline

min, fibrin, casein,

2.

and

gelatin.

Alumen Exsiccatum Dried

Alum.

Potash alum deprived of

crystallisation.

Preparation.

Heat

or

Burnt

water of

its

potassium alum

in

porcelain dish or other suitable vessel

raise the
heat not above 400, and continue till aqueous
vapour ceases to be disengaged, and the salt has
lost between 45 and 46 per cent, of its weight.
Reduce the residue to powder, and preserve in a
;

well-stoppered bottle.

MATERIA MEDICA.
Characters.

Dried

alum

is

a white spongy

mass or powder; slowly but completely

water.

Glycerinum Alumims

Preparahm
Glycerine 0/ Alum.

Alum,

i]-^..

Pharmacy.
in

powder,

Glycerine, 5.

and

Officirial

soluble in

[Dissolve with gentle heat

Set aside
and pour off the clear
from any deposited matter.
Action. Alum is a powerful astringent, both
external and internal.
It
is
purgative and
emetic in large doses. Dried alum is slightly
escharotic, and is only used externally. Alum
is also given as a supposed specific remedy for
hooping-cough.
Dose Of Alum, 10 to 20 grains.
stirring.

fluid

CALCIUM.

XIV. CALCIUM.
General Summary. The
calcium

may

(a.

Forms of
Lime

I.

officinal

d.

a.

Lime.

Impure.

Liquor Calcis
solution of

Lime-water.

b.

Chalk.
(a. Creia
ot\b. Creta PrcBparaia

Carbonate of Ic.
Calcium =1
CaCOj.

in
j.

Prepared Chalk.
Carbonas Pracipiiata
Precipitated Carbonate of Cal-

Calcis

cium.
d.

in fi^

Liquor Calcis Saccharatus.

saccharine solution of lime =
7' 1 1 grains in fl^ j.

Forms

slaked lime

water = about gr. \

Solutions of

of

Calx-Lme = CaO. Impure.

Slaked Lime
Calm Hydras
Ca(HO),.

3.

compounds

be conveniently arranged thus

Marmor Album

White Marble.

Calx Chlorijiata {see Chlorine).

Calx Sulphurata {see Sulphur).
Calcii Chloridum
Chloride of
Calcium = CaCl2,2H20.

4.

Various
Salts

Calcii Hypophosphis

of

Ca(PH202)2 {see Phosphorus).

Calcii Phosphas
Phosphate of
Calcium = Caj (P04)2.

Calcium.
/.

Calcii

Sulphas Sulphate

Calcium.

CaSO^.

of

Nearly anhydrous


MATERIA MEDICA.
a.

Misiura CreicE Chalk Mixture.

b.

Pulvis CrelcB Aromaticus.

Pulvis CretcE Aromaticus cum Opio.
Hydrargyrum cum Ctetd Grey

c.

Special

S.

d.

Officinal

Powder

Preparations.

[see

Mercury).

Linimentum Calcis.
Calcis
Chlorinatce.
f. Liquor
Chlorine).
g. Liquor Calcii Chloridi.
e.

The preparations

{see

of calcium in the foregoing-

which are not discussed elsewhere, may be

considered under two main groups.
list,

Lime and

A.

its

Solutions.

Source and Preparation

1. Lime.
Obtained by calcining chalk or limestone, so as to expel the carbonic acid.
CaCOj
CaO + CO,.
2. Slaked lime.
Act upon lime, lb 2, by water,
Ol, in a metal pot. When vapour ceases to be
disengaged, cover the pot with a lid and set it
aside to cool
then sift the slaked lime by gentle
agitation, and preserve the fine powder in wellstoppered bottles. Should be recently prepared.
Put washed slaked lime, ^ 2,
3. Liquor Calcis.
:

into

stoppered

bottle

containing

water, Ci, and shake well

for

distilled

two or three

After 12 hours the clear solution may

off with a siphon as required for use,
or transferred to a well-stoppered green-glass
minutes.

be drawn

bottle.
4.

Liquor Calcis Saccharatus.

Digest for a few hours /Slaked lime, i

in a corked bottle, shaking] Refined sugar, 2
occasionally

(Distilled water, 20.


LIME AND ITS SOLUTIONS.
Separate the clear solution with a siphon, avoidingunnecessary exposure to air, and keep it in a wellstoppered bottle.

Characters and Properties

compact

Lime.
a. This substance occurs in
masses, of a whitish colour.
readily absorb water, swell,
b. They
1.

into

and

fall

powder, with development of much heat.

Solubility in

d.

The

2.

Slaked Lime

3.

Solictions

solution

fl3

is

2of^;

S"^'

l^l^^

alkaline.

a white bulky powder.

of Lime. n. These are colourless,
is

but the saccharated solution

is

liable to

become

brownish by keeping-.
They have an alkaline reaction.
Sp. g-r. of saccharated solution = 1-052.
They readily absorb CO^ from the air. and
become covered with a film of carbonate of

b.
c.

d.

lime.

Quantitative Test.

Power

of Neutraliza-

tion.
Grain -measures
T

of Vol. sol. of
oxalic acid.

Liquor Calcis, fl| 10

Liquor Calcis
^
^
460-2 grs.
'
Saccharatus |
Pharmacy.
i.
Officinal Preparation :
1.

2.

")

r,

Linimentian
Calcis.
thickish cream.

180.

254.

Solution of lime, i
Mix with
Olive oil, i.
J agitation.
2. Slaked li?ne is used in
the preparation of
Chlorate of Potassium.
Solution of lime is an ingredient in Lotio Hydrargyri Fluva and Lotio Hydrargyri Nigra
and is
used in making Oxide of Silver.

")

"[

3.

Tncompatibles. M\ner2.\

alkaline and metallic salts

and vegetable acids;

tartarated antimony.

MATERIA MEDICA.

154

Salts of Calcium.

B.

Source and Preparation

Native

carbonate of calcium.
Prepared Chalk. Chalk freed from most of its
impurities by elutriation, and afterwards dried in
small masses, which are usually of a conical form.
1.

Chalk.

2.

3.

friable

Precipitated Carbonate,

Mix

solu
tions in boiling
a.

distilled

Chloride of calcium, | 5
water Carbonate of sodium, J

of
Collect the precipitate on a calico
away the NaCl with boiling water;
212.
b.

each
in

pints.

wash
and dry at

filter;

This is a hard white crystalcarbonate of calcium, in masses, used

in producing CO2 gas.
a. Neutralize hydrochloric acid
5. Chloride.
with carbonate of calcium, adding a little solution of chlorinated lime and slaked lime, to
peroxidise and precipitate any iron present.
evaporate the liquid until it becomes
b. Filter
and dry at about 400.
solid
This salt is made as follows:
6. Phosphate.
a. Dissolve bone- f Hydrochloric acid, fl^6
ash, i 4 in
\ Water, O i.
4.

White Marble.

line native

b.

Ca32PO, +4HCI = CaH,2P0, +2CaCl,.

Boil for a few minutes; filter; add water
O I, and afterwards solution of ammonia,
until the

mixture

is

alkaline.

CaH42P04+2CaCl2+4NH4HO = Ca32P04+4NH4Cl+4E20.
on a calico filter with
c. Wash the precipitate
NH^Cl and dry
remove
to
water,
boiling
;

not above 212.


SALTS OF CALCIUM.
7.

Native sulphate of calcium (CaS04,

2H3O), rendered nearly anhydrous by heat.

Sulphate.

Characters and Properties

1.

Carbonates.

The several

sidered together.
(i)

Chalk.

forms

In

(ii)

Prepared

con-

irregular whitish

masses.
a.

may be

Chalk.

white

amorphous substance, usu-

Appearancel

ally in
(iii)

cone-shaped masses.

Precipitated Carbotiate,

A white

crystalline powder.
b. All forms are insoluble in water
soluble in
dilute hydrochloric acid, with effervescence.
2. Chloride. a. Chloride of calcium is in white
;

b.

c.

agglutinated masses.
is
very deliquescent; rapidly absorbs
water; and is a powerful desiccating agent.
It is entirely soluble in water (i in
2), and
can be crystallised in prisms; also in alIt

cohol.
d.
3.

has a bitter, acrid, and saline taste.

Phosphate. a. This salt is a light,

It

white,

amorphous powder.
b.

It

is

insoluble in water; soluble in

without effervescence.

diluted

nitric acid,

Impurities. The chief of these are :

1.
CarbofiatesFhosphate and chloride.
2. C>^/m'(ff Hypochlorite or chlorine,
evolved
on addition of HCl carbonate.
3. Phosphate Csivhona.\.e
chloride.
;

Pharmacy. I. Officinal Preparations:

a. Mistura Creta Chalk Mixture.
Prepared chalk,

Gum

acacia,

Syrup, 2

Cinnamon Water, 30

(Triturate the chalk and

gum acacia with the
cinnamon water, add
the syrup, and mix.


MATERIA MEDICA.

156

Pulvis Cretce Aromaticus

1 in
4 nearly.
Prepared chalk, 11

b.

Cinnamon, 4
Nutmeg, 3
Saffron,
Cloves,

dark fawn.

Chalk

Powder the several ingremix thoroughly;

through a fine
sieve; and rub lightly
in a mortar.

dients;
v

Cardamom seeds,

Refined sugar, 25.

c.

pass

'

dark fawn.
Pulvis CretcB Aromaticus cum 0/)z'o
Aromatic powder of ]
[Prepared as above.
chalk, 39

Opium

in

powder,

i.

Sp. gr. I '145.

Liquor Calcii Chloriduin.
Chloride of calcium, i "(Dissolve, and filter
if necessary.
Distilled water, 5.
J
2. The salts of calcium now under consideration
are employed in pharmacy as follows:
a. Marble is used in making CO2 gas.
b. Precipitated carbonate is contained in Trochisci
d.

Bismuthi.
Prepared chalk is contained in Hydrargyrum
cum Creta.
d. Phosphate is contained in Pulvis Antimonialis.
e. Sulphate is used in making Calx Sulphurata.
employed as a desicf. Chloride is frequently
cating agent.
c.

Action of Calcium Group.

action of the preparations of calcium which
are used for medicinal purposes, and which are
not discussed elsewhere, may be readily summed
up in the following way

The

I.

External

and

local

applications.

Lime

is

caustic, and was formerly used in combination

are
with caustic potash. Lime-water and chalk

ACTION OF CALCIUM GROUP.

157

direct antacids, sedatives, and astringents,

and may be employed in connection with the skin
The linimentum calcis is a
or a mucous surface.
well known application for burns and scalds.
Prepared chalk is much employed as a tooth
powder.
Most of the preparations of
2. Internal actions.
calcium have important actions in connection with
The solutions of lime and
the alimentary canal.
efficient
antacids and asare
carbonates
the
Lime-water is a valuable gastric
tringents.
sedative in certain conditions it is also much
employed for preventing- the curdling of milk.
Any of these preparations may be used as an
antidote in cases of poisoning- by oxalic acid.
Lime-water is a vermicide, administered in the
form of enema for thread-worms. Chloride of
calcium has been recommended in certain forms
of vomiting, accompanied with weak digestion
and chronic diarrhoea.
The preparations of calcium are only absorbed
in very small proportion, and yet they produce
important effects upon the system.
Practically
they may be regarded as nutrients to certain
tissues, especially the bones, and as alteratives,
and they are all extensively employed for these
purposes in rickets and other forms of disease.
Doses Liquor Calcis, f^^ i to 4.
Liquor Calcis Saccharatus, i\ 15 to 60.
Prepared Chalk, gr. 10 to 60.
Precipitated Chalk, gr. 10 to 60.

Chloride, gr. 3 to 10.

Phosphate, gr. 10 to 20.
Liquor Calcii Chioridi, V{\_ 15 to 50.

Mistura Cretae,
i to 2.
Pulvis Cretse Aromaticus, gr. 10
Pulvis Cretse Aromaticus
gr. ID to 40.

to 60.

cum Opio,

MATERIA MEDICA.

158

XV. CERIUM.
There is only one
metal, namely:
Cerii

compound

officinal

of this

Oxalas Oxalate of Cerium

CeC.O^, 3H3O.
and Preparation. A salt which may
be obtained as a precipitate by adding solution of
oxalate of ammonium to a soluble salt of cerium.
It usually contains some oxalate of lanthanum and
oxalate of didymium.
Characters and Properties
1. Oxalate of cerium is a white granular powder.

Source

2. It is insoluble in

water.

decomposed at a dull-red heat to a reddish-brown powder

CeO and CeO^. 10 grains
3.

It is

incinerated lose 5-2 grains in weight.

Action. Oxalate of cerium is a gastric sedative.
Dose gr. i to 2.

MAGNESIUM.

MAGNESIUM.

XVI.
General Summary.
nesium
I.

B.P.

in tiie

Forms

Magnesia
MgO.

a.

of

The

preparations of
thus arranged:
Magnesia Levis Light

may be

magMag-

nesia.

Heavy
Magnesii Carbonas LevisLight
Forms of
Carbonate of Magnesium
Carbonate =
Magnesii Carbonas Ponderosa
{MgC03)3,Mg(HO)2,
4H2O.
Heavy Carbonate of Magnesium.
Magnesii Sulphas Sulphate of Magnesium
b.

Magnesia

Ponderosa

Magnesia.

2.

3.

Epsom ^a// = MgSO^, 7H2O.

/a.

4.

of

Solutions
Salts

ofi

Magnesium.

Enema Magnesii Sulphatis.

Liquor Magnesii
Carbonatis
Fluid Magnesia.
solution
with CO2, containing nearly
gr. 10 of carbonate of magnesium in fl| j, or about two

per cent.
Liquor Magnesii Citratis

Limon-

ade Purgative.
solution of
citrate of magnesium.

For practical purposes the compounds of magnesium may be considered according to the following plan
:

A. Sulphate of Magnesium.
Source and Preparation. The preparation of
is not mentioned in the B.P., but
it is
made by acting upon magnesian limestone by
this salt

i6o

MATERIA MEDICA.

sulphuric acid; filtering from the insoluble calcic

sulphate; evaporating and crystallising.

Characters and Properties

a.

Sulphate of magnesium occurs in minute

rhombic prisms; colourless and transparent.

b.

It

is readily soluble in water (lo in

13); insoluble in alcohol.

has a bitter and unpleasant taste.

slowly effloresces when exposed to the air.
Quantitative Test. The precipitate given by
carbonate of sodium, when obtained from a boiling
c.

It

d.

It

solution of 100 grains of the salt, should,

well washed, dried, and heated to redness,
1&26 grains.

when
weigh

Pharmacy.- i. Officinal Preparaiion:

Enema Magnesn Sulphatis.
Sulphate of Magnesium, ^ i f Dissolve the sulphate
Olive Oil, fl^ j
^"
mucilage, add
^
Mucilage of Starch, fl^ xv.
the oil, and mix.
2. Sulphate of magnesium is contained in Mistura
Sennae Composita.
Lime-water; alkaline carbo3. Incompatihles.

nates; acetate of lead

B.

nitrate of silver.

Carbonates of Magnesium and

Forms of Magnesia.

Source and Preparation. i. Carbonates. a. The

ingredients used in preparing the two carbonates
are the same in both cases, namely
Sulphate of magnesium, 1 10
J
\ Carbonate of sodium, J 12.
There are important differences, however, in
the earlier part of the process, and they may be
:

thus contrasted

MAGNESIUM.
Heavy Carbonate.
(i)

Mix two

boiling

Light Carbonate.
and

rang solutions, each salt havbeen previously dissolved

boiling water, Oj.
(ii)

i6i

Evaporate to perfect

dryness by means of a sandbath.

Digest the residue
with boiling water (O2) for
half an hour.

(i). Mix two cold and much

diluted solutions, each salt having been previously dissolved
in cold distilled water, C^.
(ii). Boil
the mixture in a
porcelain dish for 15 minutes.

b. After this, in each case collect the preci[)itate

on a calico filter wash repeatedly from sulphate
of sodium
and dry under 212.
2. Forms of Magnesia.
The two forms of magnesia are prepared from their respective carbonates, by exposing- them to a low red heat in a
Cornish or Hessian crucible closed loosely by a
lid, until a small quantity, taken from the cefttre
of
the crucible, cooled, moistened with water, and
dropped into warm diluted sulphuric acid, causes
;

no effervescence.
Characters and Properties. The characters of
this group may be summarised thus
a. They are all apparently white
amorphous
powders, but the carbofiaie is minutely granu-

b.

and the light carbo?iate contains numerous

slender prisms intermixed.
The light forms are much the more bulky, in
the case of the magnesias the volumes
corresponding to similar weights being in the

c.

They are

lar,

ratio of 3 to
J

i,

insoluble in water
soluble in dilute
acids, the carbonates with effervescence
Impurities. Lime; sulphate.
;

Quantitative Test. 50 grains of heavy

carbonate calcined at a red heat are
reduced to 22.
i^KARMACY. I. Either heavy or light
magiiesia may
be used as an ingredient in
Pulvis Rhei Compositus.

MATERIA MEDICA.

l62

Light carlonate

2.

is

used in making Vapor Olei

is an ingredient in

heavy carlonaie
Bismuthi.
Trochisci

Pini Sylvestris;

Solutions of Salts of Magnesium.

C.

Source and Preparation:

1

Liquor Magnesii Carhonaiis.

2I
jj f Carbonate of sodium, 5

t Water, 0\
Sulphate of magnesiurn, I

the
point.
boiling
J
together until CO2 ceases to be

Water,
h.

c.

e.

2.
a.

\ heated

to

Boil them
evolved.
Collect the precipitated carbonate on a calico
it with distilled water from
sodium.
sulphate of
Mix with distilled water, O i, and saturate
with pure washed CO^ gas, under the pressure of about 3 atmospheres.
Filter after 24 hours, and again pass in CO,

filter,

d.

]
2

and wash

gas. Keep in a bottle securely closed.

Liquor MagJtesii Ciiraiis.
Dissolve carbonate f Citric acid, gr. 200
gr. 100, in (Water, flj2.
Filter into a strong half-pint bottle.

of magnesium,
b.

Syrup of lemons, fl ^ ^
Aaa|^g_^gj,^ nearly to fill the
.

c.

d.

Put in

bottle.

crystals of bicarbonate of potassium,

or wire;
gr. 40; secure the cork with string
dissolved.
is
bicarbonate
the
and shake until

Characters and Properties. Both these

solu-

B.P., alluding to the

that it effervescessays
Carbonatis,
Liquor Magnesii
vessel,
containing
the
when
all,
at
slightly, or not
taste. AIt is free from any bitter

tions are clear liquids.

is first

opened.

The

ACTION OF MAGNESIUM GROUP.

163

fluid-ounce evaporated to dryness yields a wliite

solid residue, which after being calcined weighs

about 6 grains = magnesia.

Action of Magnesium Group.

The preparations
internally.

of magnesium are only used

In the alimentary canal magnesia and

its

carbonate are antidotes

by

acids, arsenic,

in

cases of poisoning

and certain alkaloids; and they

are also antacids of great value. All the compounds are more or less aperient, the sulphate
being a most efficient saline aperient.
After
absorption they act to some degree as remote
antacids ; and the sulphate given well-diluted
and in small doses, is diuretic.
Doses Of either form of Magnesia or Carbonate,

gr. 10 to 60.
Sulphate, gr. 60 to ^ \.
Liquor Magnesii Carbonatis, fl^ i to
Liquor Magnesii Citratis, flj5 to 10.

2.


MATERIA MEDICA.

164

XVII. ATTTIMOlSriUM-ANTIMONY.
General Summary.

The

officinal

compounds and

preparations containing- antimony include:

1

Antimonium Nigrum Purificatum

Antimony Sulphide of Anti-

Purified Black
mony =Sb2S3.

Sulphurated
2. Antimonium Sulphuratum
Antimony. A mixture containing- sulphide and
oxide of antimony, Sb^Sj and 55303.
3.

Antimonii Oxidum

Oxide

of Antimony

Antimonium Tartaratum Tartarated

Antimony Potassio-tartrate of AntimonyTartar Emetic. An oxytartrate of antimony
4.

and potassium = (KSbOC4H406)3,H30.

Liquor Antimonii Chloridi.

"Butter

of
solution of chloride of antimony
(SbCl3) in hydrochloric acid.
5.

Antimony." A

,a.

Aiiiimonialis

powdif.

6.

Special

b.

Officinal

Preparations.

Aniimonial
modification of
James's powder, containing
oxide of antimony.
Anlimoniale Antivionial
Vinuni
solution of tarwine.
tarated antimony in sherry

Pulvis

c.

wine gr. 2 in fl ^ i.
Unguetiltwi Antimonii Tariarati
Oinl?7ienl

>

of Tarlaraled

Aiiii-

mony.

of antimony may be further considered in the order in which they are obtained.

The compounds

SULPHURATED ANTIMONY.

A.

165

Purified Black Antimony.

Source and Preparation. Fuse the native sulphide, to purify from silicious matter; reduce it to
fine powder; and if, on testing", any soluble salt
of arsenium is present, purify by the following
process
a.

(Native Sulphide,
J
for 5 days,
^^^^
^
r

i
Macerate

stirnng frequently,
b.

in

fine

[solution of Ammonia, fl ^ 8.
to subside, pour off the

powder

Allow the

supernatant liquid, and thoroughly wash

the residue with distilled water.
Dry the

powder by the aid of heat.

Characters and Properties. a. Black antimony
is a greyish-black, crystalline powder.
b. It is
insoluble in water
dissolves almost
entirely in boiling HCl, giving off H^S
and the
solution gives a white precipitate when poured

into water.

B.

Sulphurated Antimony.

Source and Preparation

Boil for two f
hours, with fre- Purified black antimony,
J 10
quent stirring, Solution of soda, 04^
adding
water Sublimed sulphur, 1 10.
:

a.

-i

occasionally,

(A double
formed, thus

sulphide,

and a double oxide are

2Sb,S3 +6NaH0

= 2Na3SbS3 + Sb.Oj + 3 H^O.

Sb,03+6NaHO = 2Na3Sb03 + 3H,0).


i66
b.

MATERIA MEDICA.
While

still

add boiling distilled water,

hot,

O9.
c.

Strain through calico, and

befoi'e

it

cools

add

by degrees diluted sulphuric acid

to

(Sulphate of sodium is formed,

and sulphurated antimony is precipitated).
Collect on a calico-filter; wash with water
from sulphate of sodium; dry under 212.
slight excess.

d.

Characters and Properties

a. Sulphurated antimony is an orange-red powder.
:

b.

It is

c.

It

odourless

has a slight

taste.

readily
insoluble in water or spirit
soluble in caustic soda; also in HCl, evolving H2S, a little sulphur being deposited.
is

becomes partially decomposed on exposure

to light and air, with separation of sulphur.
Quantitative Test. 60 grains moistened and
d.

It

warmed

with successive portions of nitric acid,

until red fumes cease to be evolved, and then
dried and heated to redness, give a white residue
weighing about 40 grains.
Pharmacy. Sulphurated antimony is an ingredient in Pilula Hydrargyri Subchloridi Composita

(Plummer's

Pill).

C. Solution of

Chloride of Antimony.

Source and Preparation. a. Dissolve by the

aid of gradual heat, constantly stirring,

Purified black antimony,

ffii

\ Boil

for

15

minutes.

Hydrochloric acid, O4.

J
Sb.Sj -f 6HC1 = 2SbCl3 + 3H3S.
(The HjS gas escapes through a flue).
boil down to 2 pints;
b. Filter through calico;
and preserve

in

a stoppered

bottle.


OXIDE OF ANTIMONY.
Characters and Properties
heavy liquid;
a. This solution is a yellowish-red
sp. gr. about 1-47.
oxychloride
b. It g-ives a white precipitate of
becomes
which
water,
into
dropped
when
orang-e-red when treated with H3S.
:

c.

It is

destructive to org-anic tissues.

Quantitative Test.

fluid

drachm mixed with

solution of tartaric acid (J^ in fl^4 of water)

forms a clear solution, which, if treated with HjS,
gives an orange precipitate, weighing, when
washed and dried at 212, about 22 grains.
:\

D.

Oxide of Antimony.

Source and Preparation

a.

Mix [solution ofchlorideofantimony,fl 16

J
Distilled water, C 2.
'

roughly
b.

Repeat a

series of processes of allowing- the

removing the liquid
precipitate to subside
by a siphon; adding Ci of water; agitating;
and again allowing to subside. Oxychloride
of Anlimony, 2SbCl3,5Sb303, is thus formed.
;

c.

Add, and leave

in

contact for half Carbonate of sodium,

an hour, stirring] Distilled water, O2.
frequently
\

|6

2SbCl3,sSb,03 + 3Na,C03 = 6Sb,03+6NaCl + 3C02.

d.

Collect the deposit of oxide of antimony on a

calico filter
wash away the chloride of
sodium with boiling distilled water; and dry
;

under 212.


i68

MATERIA MEDICA.

Characters and Properties

a. Oxide of antimony is a greyish-white
powder.
h. It is insoluble in water;
readily soluble in
:

hydrochloric acid.

The

c.

solution

in

HCl, when dropped into

water, gives a white precipitate

Oxy chloride
of antimony, at once changed to oranee bv

H,S.

The oxide

d.

Pharmacy.

is

fusible at a

low red heat.

Officinal Preparation

Pulvis Antini07iialis

Antii?ionial

Powder.

Mix ^ O^ide of Antimony, i

Phosphate of Calcium,
!_

Tartarated Antimony

E.

2.

Tartar

Emetic.
a.

Make a

paste

with-:'

Oxide of antimony, ^5
Acid tartrate of potassium

water of
fine powder,
and set aside for 24 hours.
b.

c.

")

in

^6

>;
J

distilled water, O 2, and boil for a

quarter of an hour, stirring frequently.
Filter; set aside to crystallise; evaporate the
mother liquor to one-third for further crysand dry the crystals on filtering paper
tals
at the temperature of the air.

Add

Sb,03-|-2KHC,H,06=2KSbC,H,0,-fH,0.
Characters and Properties
a. Tartar emetic is a crystalline
:

b.
c.

d.

salt

= rhombic

octahedra, exhibiting triangular facets.

The crystals are colourless and transparent.
Tartar emetic has a slight metallic taste.
It is efflorescent, and becomes opaque on exposure.

ACTION OF ANTIMONIUM GROUP.

l6g

soluble in cold water (i in 15), boilingIt

(I in 2), partially in proof spirit.
dissolves entirely when boiled with an excess
of acid tartrate of potassium.
f. The aqueous solution has an acid reaction,
and decomposes readily.
antimony decrepitates and blackTartarated
g.
ens by the application of heat.
Quantitative Test. 29 grains dissolve slowly
but without residue in fl| i of distilled v^ater at
60, and the solution gives with H^S an orange
precipitate, which, when washed and dried at
212, weighs 151 grains.
Pharmacy.
Officmal Preparations :
a. Unguenhim Antimonii Tariaraii.
r Tartarated antimony, in fine
Mi.x thoroughly<
powder, i
e.

It

is

water

1'

i .

(^Simple ointment, 4.
Vintcm Antimoniale.
Dissolve, and filter (Tartarated antimony, gr.
h.

40

Sherry wine, O i.
2. Incompatibles.
The chief incompatibles of tartarated antimony are alkalies
lead salts
gallic
and tannic acids and vegetable astringents geneif

necessary

rally.

Action of Antimonium Geoup.

Externally the solution of chloride ot antiis a powerful caustic.
Tartarated antimony, in the form of ointment, applied to the skin,
is a characteristic pustulant.
2. Internally the oxide of antimony is sometimes
used in the form of antimonial powder, as a diaphoretic in febrile affections, or as an alterative.
Sulphurated antimony is merely given in
the form of compound calomel pill, as an altera1.

mony

170

MATERIA MEDICA.

tive.

Tartarated antimony

commonly employed, and

is

the

preparation

drug is used in
different doses as a diaphoretic, cardiac and
vascular depressant, sedative expectorant,
or depressing emetic.
In large doses all the
preparations of antimony are powerful irritant
this

poisons.
Doses

Of Oxide, gr. i to 4 Sulphurated Antigr. I to 5

Tartarated Antimony, as a diaphoretic, gr. Jg- to i as an emetic, gr. i to 2 ;
mony,

Antimonial wine,

1115 to fl3 j.


ARGENTUM
XVIII.

I7I

SILVER.

ARGENTTJM-SILVER.

General Summary. The following preparations

of silver are
1.

Pure metallic
ge?i/i

now recognised

in the

B.P.

Argentum Purificatum Refined

silver.

Nilras.

Silver.
ArmakingIntroduced for

Nitrate of Silver
Argenti Nitras
AgNOj.
Caustic
Lunar
Nitras Nitrate of
3. Argenti et Potassii
Silver and Potassium Mitigated Caustic.
A mixture of the fused nitrates of silver and potas2.

sium
4.

to 2.

Argenti Oxidum

Oxide

Ag^O.
Each of these compounds

will

of Silver

now be

con-

sidered separately.
I.

Argenti Nitras Nitrate of Silver.

Source and Preparation
Nitric acid,
f
:

b.

2i

1 Distilled water, ^ 5 J
refined silver, J 3, in a flask, and dissolve
with gentle heat.
evaporate ; and
Decant the clear liquor
Again evaporate
set aside to crystallise.
;

the liquor and crystallise.

Drain the crystals in a glass funnel, and
dry them by exposure to air, carefully
avoiding- contact with organic substances.
d. Fuse the crystals in a capsule of platinum
or thin porcelain
and pour the melted
c.

proper moulds.
e. Preserve in carefully stoppered bottles.
(To form Toughened Nitrate of Silver or
salt into

"Toughened
nitrate

of

Caustic,"

add

potassium to 95

nitrate of silver before fusion).

parts of
5
parts of the


172

MATERIA MEDICA.

Characters and Properties.

in

is

colourless

prisms
h.

It

a.

tabular

Nitrate of silver
right rhombic

or white cylindrical rods.

soluble in water (gr. lOO in

is

11150)

also in rectified spirit.

c.

d.

It

darkens on exposure

to light,

tion.
2,

and

stains

the neck of the containing bottle.

10 grains with water, fl3 ij, and HCl yield
a precipitate of chloride of silver, weighing 8'44 grains, when washed with hot distilled water, and thoroughly dried.
The
filtrate should leave no residue on evapora-

Argenti et Potassii Nitras

Mitigated

Caustic.
Source and Preparation
a. Fuse and mix thoroughly together
:

in

capsule of platinum or thin porcelain

f

Nitrate of silver,

\ Nitrate of potassium, 2.
b. Pour the melted mass into proper moulds.
c. Preserve in bottles carefully stoppered.
Characters and Properties. a. This salt is in

b.

cylindrical rods or cones; white or greyishwhite.

It is freely soluble in water, but only spar-

ingly in rectified spirit.

30 grains dissolved in water, fl^-|, give
with HCl a precipitate, which, when washed
with hot water and thoroughly dried
8*44 grains.
Argenti Oxidum Oxide of Silver.
c.

Source and Preparation

r Nitrate
of silver, ? 1 1
P^"'i
i Distilled water, flj4
Solution of lime, O 3^, in a bottle.
b. Shake well, and set aside to allow the de:

posit to settle.

I73

ACTION OF SILVER GROUP.

c.

Draiv

off the

filter;

wash

collect the deposit on a

with distilled water, fi|6;

fluid
it

and dry under

Keep

212,

in

it

a well-

stoppered bottle.
Characters and Properties. a. Oxide of silver
is an olive-brown or black powder.
h. It is insoluble in water; slightly soluble in
ammonia; completely in nitric acid.
decomposes in contact with organic
c. It

matters.
</.

Heated

to redness,

116 grains leave

108

of pure silver.
The incompatibles of nitrate of
Lncompatibles.
j//wr include alkalies and their carbonates; chloiodide of
rides
acids (except nitric and acetic)
and astringent
potassium ; solutions of arsenic
infusions.
The oxide is liable to explode when
prescribed with creosote or chlorides in pill, and
before mixing must be diffused through some

simple powder.

Action of Silver Group.

Externally or locally applied, nitrate of silver
a caustic, vesicant, stimulant, or astringent, according to its strength and mode of
application.
The nitrate of potassium and silver
is,
as its other name implies, " a mitigated
caustic."
Internally, both the nitrate and oxide
of silver are astringent to the alimentary canal,
and nervine tonic. The nitrate is liable to produce a dark line on the gums, followed by discoloration of the skin.
is

Dose0{
in pill.

Nitrate, gr.

to i;

of Oxide, gr.

-I

to 2

MATERIA MEDICA.

174

XIX. ARSENIUM-ARSENIC.
General Summary,

The

B.P.

compounds and

preparations which contain arsenic

may be

veniently arranged and discussed as follows

con-

A. Acidum Arseniosum Arsenious Acid.

anhydride (not a true acid). As^Oj.

An

(l.

B. Salts

containing
Arsenic.

Arsenii lodidiim

ASI3.
Ferri Arsenias Arseniale of It on,
with some oxide.
Sodii Arsenias
Arseniale of

Sodium

When

Na.HAsO^, yH.O.

freshly crystallised

Na.HAsO^, 12H3O.
C. Solutions

containing
Arsenic.
The first two
con-

solutions
tain

per cent,

of arsenioiis

acid,

or 4^ grains

in

fl^j; the third^

contains about
I percent, ofarsem'ous iodide

mercuric

the

last,

and

iodide
I

per

cent, of arse?tiate

of soditim.

Liquor Arsenicalis Arsenical Solution

Fowler s Solution.
An
aqueous solution of arsenious
acid and carbonate of potassium, coloured by tincture of
lavender.
Liquor Arsenici Hydrochloricus.
diluted solution of arsenic
itichloride
ASCI3.
Liquor Arsejtii el Hydrargyri
Solution of Iodide of Arlodidi
senium and Mercury Dotiovan's

An

aqueous solution
and red
arsenium
of iodide of
iodide of mercury.
Solution.

Solution

Liqour Sodii Arsetiiatis

of Arseniate of Sodium.

A. Arsenious Acid

White

Arsenic.

Source and Preparation. Obtained by roasting

arsenical ores, and purified by sublimation.


ARSENIUM.
Characters and Properties
heavy white powa. Arsenious acid occurs as a
usually present
which
der; or in sublimed masses,
the existence
by
caused
a stratified appearance,
other in
each
from
differing
of separate layers,
in a
sublimed
slowly
When
opacity.
of
degrees
glass tube, it forms minute brilliant and trans:

parent crystals of octahedral character.

a faint
b. It is odourless and tasteless, but leaves
sweetish after-impression.
cold
c. Arsenious acid is sparingly soluble
in
(i
water
boiling
20);
in
water (i in 100);
freely in glycerine; slightly in alcohol.
d. It is entirely volatilized at a temperature not
exceeding 400, without melting. Sprinkled^ on a
red-hot coal, it emits an alliaceous or garlic-like
odour.
Quantitative Test. 4 grains dissolved in boiling water with about 20 grains of bicarbonate
of sodium, discharge the colour of 808 grain-

measures of

Vol. solution o/ioditie.

Salts containing Arsenium.

B.

Source and Preparation

Obtained by the direct com1. Arse7iii lodidim.
bination of iodine and metallic arsenium, or by
evaporating to dryness an aqueous mixture of
arsenious and hydriodio acid.
:

Arseniate of Sodium.
X
thoroughly Arsenious acid, ^ 10
in a mortar-; Nitrate of sodium, ^ 8I
2.

Sodii Arsenias

fl.

finely

dered

pow

j'

Dried carbonate of sodium,

5I.

176
^.

MATERIA MEDICA.
Expose

crucible,

to

until

full

all

red heat

in

efifervescence

a covered clay
has ceased, and

complete fusion has taken place,

c. Pour out the fine salt on a clean
flag-stone,

and when

but

solid,

water (fl^ 35),

still

warm, put

into

loiling

stirring- diligently.

d. Filter the solution through paper; set

aside
to crystallise ; drain and dry the crystals rapidly

by exposure on

filtering-

paper;

and enclose

in

stoppered bottles.

The

add

converted by the nitrate of

which expels the CO^ from
the carbonate, and forms pyro-arseniaie 0/ sodium :

sodium

arse7iious

is

into arsenic acid,

As,03+Na,C03+2NaN03 = Na,As30,+CO,+N,03.
Solution in water converts this into the officinal
arseniate : Na^ As^O,
H,0 = 2Na,H AsO^.
When freshly crystallised, the salt has the com-

position Na^HAsO^, 12H3O; on exposure moisture

escapes, the effloresced salt only containing- 7H2O
of crystallisation.
3.

Ferii Arsenias

Arseniate of Iron.

Mix two [Sulphate of iron, 1 2of

solutions
Boiling water, O 50
j
and stir Dried arseniate of sodium, ^ 15I
thoroughly (Boiling water, O 5.
J
4I, dissolved
b. Add bicarbonate of sodium,
1

a.

in

")

little

water.

2Na2H AsO^ + 2NaC,H30, + 3FeS0^ =

Fe32AsO^ + 3Na2Sb4+2HC,H30,.
c.

Collect the white precipitate on a calico filter,

it completely from sulphate of sodium.

and wash

d. Squeeze between folds of strong linen in a

screw-press; and dry on porous bricks in a warm

air-chamber under

100.

Characters and Properties.

arranged in a tabular form.

These

may be

I77

SOLUTIONS CONTAINING ARSENIUM.

Iodide of Arsenium. Arseniate of Sodium.

(I,

In small crystals.

a.

Crystalline prisms.

Arseniate of Iron.

a.

An

amorphous

powder.
b.

Orange-coloured.

b. Colourless
parent.

trans-

b.

Of

greenish

colour.

Soluble in water,
c. Insoluble in water
c.
I^eadily and almost
c.
entirely soluble in water the solution being alka- readily soluble in hydrochloric acid.
and rectified spirit. The line.

aqueous solution has a

neutral reaction.
d.

Almost

instantly

volatilises with heat.

d. Heated
to 300
becomes anhydrous.

it

d.

Tasteless.

Impurities.
Arseniate of iron is liable to contain
a sulphate, indicated by the solution in hydrochloric
acid when diluted giving a white precipitate with
chloride of barium.
Quantitative Tests
1. Arseniaie 0/ Iron.
100 grains dissolved in an
excess of sulphuric acid diluted with water, continue to give a blue precipitate with ferrocyanide
of potassium, until at least 225 grain-measures of
Vol. solution of bichromate of potassium have been
added.
2. Arseniaie of sodium.
An aqueous solution of
12-4 grains of anhydrous arseniate of sodium,
acidulated with acetic acid, requires not less than
34 grains of acetate of lead for complete precipi-

tation.

C.

Solutions containing Arsenium.

Source and Preparation

Liquor Arsenicalis Fowler's Solution,

a. Dissolve Arsenious acid in powder, gr.
87
by the aid of] Carbonate of potassium, gr. 87
heat
(Distilled water, fl^ 10.
I.

MATERIA MEDICA.

178

When

3.

cool

add <

Compound

tincture of

lavender,

fl

3 5

(^Distilled water
O i.
more soluble with carbonate

Arsenious acid is
of potassium, and this is gradually decomposed,
forming arseniate of potassium=
K3C03 + As,03 = 2KAs02 + CO,.
The tincture of lavender is added for colouring

and flavouring purposes, so that this preparation

may be recognised and distinguished from the
other solutions containing arsenic.
2. Liquor Arsenici Hydrochloricus.
Arsenious acid, gr. 87
.,
,.,
Boil until!f
a.
Hydrochloric acid, fl 3 2
dissolved
I Distilled water, fl J 4.
h. Add Distilled water = O i.
lodidi.
3. Liquor Arsenii et Hydrargyri
of each 45
)
a. Triturate [Iodide of arsenium,
grains,
until nearly Red iodide of mercury,
(Distilled water, about fl J i\.
dissolved
with
b. Pass through a filter, and wash the latter
)

sufficient
4.

water

to

produce

fl

J lO.

Liquor Sodii Arseniatis.

(Anhydrous arseniate of sodium.

dried by a heat not over 300, gr. 9

Dissolve]
(Distilled water, fl| 2.
Characters and Properties. The characters

msntioned

in the B.P.,

Liquor
Arsenicalis.

may be

Liquor Arsenici
Hydrochloricus.

Reddish colour.

Colourless.

Alkaline reaction.

Acid reaction.

Sp. gr. I'oio.

Sp. gr. i-oio.

Odour

of lavender.

thus contrasted.

Liquor Arsenii et Hydrargyri lODIDI.

Clear pale yellow.

Sp. gr. I'0i6.

Metallic flavour.

ACTION OF ARSENIUM GROUP.

lyg

Quantitative Tests.
442 grains (fl^ 1) of
Liquor Arsenicalis or Liquor Arsenici Hydrochloricus, boiled for five minutes with 20 grains
of bicarbonate of sodium, and then diluted with
six fluid ounces of distilled water, to which a little
mucilage of starch has been added, does not give
with the Vol. sohiHon of iodine a permanent blue
colour until 87"5 grain-measures have been added.

Action of Arsenium Group.

1.

Locally applied arsenious acid

is

a powerful

escharotic under certain conditions.

2. Internally administered all the preparations
containing arsenium may be employed as general tonics and nutrients ; nervine tonics
alteratives, especially affecting the skin
and
antiperiodics.
In minute doses they seem to
exert a beneficial effect upon the alimentary canal,
especially the stomach, promoting appetite and
digestion, but in large doses they are irritant
;

poisons, causing vomiting and purging.

They

also act upon the conjunctivae, and the respiratory mucous membrane, tending to cause irritation of these structures.
As a poison, arsenium

produces fatty degeneration of organs, as well as

marked nervous symptoms.
Some of the preparations containing this drug are employed on
account of its combination with other important
remedies.

Doses 01 Arsenious Acid, gr.

to
Liquor
;
Arsenicalis or Liquor Arsenici Hydrochloricus,
H12 to 8; Liquor Arsenii et Hydrargyri lodidi,
TUio to 30; Arseniate of Sodium, gr.
to i;
Liquor Sodii Arseniatis, 1115 to 10
Arseniate of
Iron, gr.
to \.
All preparations containing
arsenium should be given directly ajter meals, and
the doses very gradually increased.
;

N2

MATERIA MEDICA.

i8o

XX. BISMUTHUM-BISMUTH.

General Summary. This group includes

The impure metal.
f a. Bismuthum.
__
1. Metallic J
Bismuthum PuriJicaium.'Pnn^ed
:

Bismuth.^

2.

Bismuth.

Bismuthi Oxidum Oxide of Bismuth =

Bi,0,.

Bismuthi Carbonas Carbonate of

Bismuths (Bi,0,C03)H,0.
Bismuthi Ciiras Citrate ofBismuth

(a.

b.

3.

Salts of^

Bismuth.

^BiCfiHjO,.
Bismuthi Subniiras

c.

Subnitrate of

^zjww/y^^BiONOs.H^O.

(i)

Trochisci Bis??iuthi=gr. 2

of Subnitrate in each.
d.

Bismuthi et Ammonii Ciiras Citrat

of Bismuth and Ammotiium.

Liquor Bismuthi et Ammonii Citratis

Solution of Citrate of Bismuth and Ammonium. Equivalent to about gr. 3 of oxide of bis4.

muth

in

fl

I.

A.

Metallic Bismuth.

The crude impure metal is introduced into the

BP to make Purified Bismuth, the preparation-

described at some
and' characters of which are
use to the
practical
no
of
be
can
it
length but
with these^
medical student to burden his memory
Several tests are also mentioned,
details.
copper,
eating the absence of arsenium,
impurities.
other
and
iron,
barium,

l8l

OXIDE AND SALTS OF BISMUTH.

B.
It

Oxide and Salts of Bismuth.

will

tog-ether,

be convenient to take these preparations

according to the following- plan :

Source and Preparation

1.

Carbonate,

2.

Siibnitrate.

^^^^ ffom

jg^^j^ ^j^^^^ ^^j^^

)

Purified Bismuth, and the earlier part of the process is the same in each case,
a Add purified bis- fj^.^^.^ ^^^^
muth, 5 2, m small pieces, distilled water,
in successive portions, to

fl

5 3.

(Bi+4HN03 = Bi3N03+NO+2H,0).
I. When effervescence has ceased, apply for 10
minutes a temperature approaching that of ebullition, and decant the solution.
c.

Evaporate the solution down

to fl| 2.

From this point the preparation of the two salts

differs, as follows
:

SUBNITRATE.

Carbonate.

d. Pour the concentrated sod. Add the concentrated solution in small quantities at a time lution into distilled water,
to a cold filtered solution of C|. Subnitrate is precipitated,

Carbonate of ammonium, ^6 and

Distilled water, O2,
constantly stirring.

(4Bi3N08+3N4HioC3n8=
12NH4N03+2Bi2C06+7C02).

supernitrate

remains

in

solution.

(5Bi3N08+8H20=
4BiN04,H20+Bi3N08,8HNOs).
e. Decant the fluid
add to
;

Collect the precipitate on the precipitate distilled water,

a calico filter, and wash until CJ stir well together; decant
the washings
are tasteless. the liquid in 2 hours
colDry, first by slight pressure lect the precipitate on a calico
with the hands, and finally at filter; enfold it in the calico
a temperature not exceeding and press with the hands; and
e.

150.

dry under 150".


I82

MATERIA MEDICA.
Oxide of Bismuth.

3.

^-

fsubnitrate of bismuth,
of soda,J O 4,
1-)

lb

I.

c.

i )

^'H Solution

Allow the mixture

to cool,

f"^
minutes.

and the oxide

to

subside.
wash the
Decant the supernatant liquid
precipitate thoroughly with distilled water;
and dry by the heat of a water-bath.
;

(2BiN04 + 2NaHO = Bi,03H,0+2NaN03).

4.
a.

b.

c.

Citrate

of Bismuth.

Subnitrate of bismuth, 1 5I
J
dissolved \ Nitric acid, fl^ 11.
Pour in water, with constant stirring-, until
the cloudiness produced by the water no
longer rapidly disappears.
Dissolve bicarbonate of sodium, ^ 8, in
add citric acid, 1 4 boil
distilled water

Heat

until

and add

the
gas
until
no
bismuth
of
solution
the
liquid to
Heat to
further precipitate is produced.
Set aside to
boiling, occasionally stirring.
until

all

is

expelled;

cool.
d.

When
from

5.

salt

filter,

and wash the precipitate

Dry over a water-bath.

This
of Bismuth and Ammonium.
obtained from the Solution of Citrate

Citrate
is

cold,

nitric acid.

of Bismuth and Ammonium, as follows : Evaporate the solution over a water-bath to the conSpread in thin layers on
sistence of a syrup.
100.
glass or porcelain plates, and dry under
stopin
a
them
preserve
Remove the scales, and

pered bottle.
Characters and Properties. Under this heading the preparations of bismuth now under
consideration may be arranged in two groups,

namely:

OXIDE AND SALTS OF BISMUTH.

1.

a.

Oxide and Simple Sails.

powders, but the siilnitraie

heavy, and really in minute crystalline

These are
is

1.

all

scales.
In colour they are white, except the oxide,

which
c.

is

dull lemon-yellow.

soluble in
in water;
with half its volume of
with effervescence. The
citrate is soluble in solution of ammonia, to
a clear or nearly clear liquid.

They are

insoluble

nitric acid, diluted

water, the carbonate

Citrate

pound
a.

It

h.

It

d.

e.

of Bismuth and Ammonium. This comfrom the other preparations of

salt differs

bismuth

c.

They are blackened by HjS.

d.

2.

183

in several particulars.
occurs in small, shining-, translucent scales.
is very soluble in water.

taste is slightly metallic.

solution yields ammonia when warmed
with solution of a fixed alkali.
On ignition the salt chars and yields a resiIts

The

for the most part black, but with a

yellow surface, soluble in a little nitric acid.

due

Impurities.
purities

The

mentioned

chief of
in

these

connection

are the imwith Purified

Bismuth.

Pharmacy.

l.

Officinal Preparation

Trochisci Bismuthi.

These are made

in the

usual

way with gum acacia,

but rose water is

mucilag'e, and refined sugar,

used.
Each lozenge conrSubnitrate of bismuth, gr. 2
tains< Carbonate of magnesium, gr. 2|
(__Precipitated carbonate of calcium, gr. 3|.
2. Incompatihles

The

su'ctiitrate

is

incompatible

with the alkalies and their carbonates.


MATERIA MEDICA.

Liquor Bismuthi et Ammonii

C.

CiTRATIS.
Source and Preparation.

Rub citrate of bispaste with a little water;

add solution of ammonia gradually and with
stirring, until the salt is just dissolved; dilute with
muth,

gr. 800, to a

water to form O j.
Characters and Properties
a. This is a colourless solution.

distilled

Sp. gr. = 1-07.

has a slightly metallic taste.
d. It is neutral or slightly alkaline.
e. It is freely miscible with water.
f. Heated with alkalies it evolves ammonia,
and yields a white precipitate.
Evaporated
to dryness and the residue
g.
ignited, a charred mass with a yellow
edge results; this treated with nitric acid
affords a solution which should stand the
h.

c.

It

tests

for the impurities

mentioned under

"Purified Bismuth."
Quantitative Test.
2 fluid drachms mixed
with an ounce of distilled water, and treated with
sulphuretted hydrogen in excess, yields a black
precipitate, which, when
washed and dried,

weighs about

7 grains.

Action of Bismuth Group,

I. As external and local applications, in connection with the skin and certain mucous surfaces,
the oxide, carbonate, or subnitrate of bismuth
may be used as absorbents, sedatives, and

ACTION OF BISMUTH GROUP.

185

employed in the
astringents. They are either
or ointments
lotions
form of powder, or made into
of bismuth
preparations
2 Internally all the
astrinand
sedatives,
gastric
act mainly as
also
are
They
canal.
alimentary
gents to the
supposed to be nervine tonics.
Carbonate or
Doses Oi Oxide, gr. 5 to 15
Citrate of
or
Citrate
Subnitrate, gr. 5 to 20
13isLiquor
to
gr.
2
5
Bismuth and Ammonium,
i.
to
fl
3 i
muthi et Ammonii Citratis,
;

i86

MATERIA MEDICA.

CUPRUM-COPPER.

XXI,

The B.P. recognizes the

Cuprum Copper. Fine copper wire,

General
following"
1.

Summary.

about No. 25 wire-gauge, or about 0'02 inch. It

is used for making the salts of copper, and in the
preparation of Spiritus yEtheris Nitrosi.
'l.

Cupri Niiras

2.

of Copper.

Nilraie

of Copper

Cu(N03)3H20.

Salts)

Cupri Sulphas Sulphate of Copper

j^/z/^j/owe^CuSO^.sHjO.
(
The chief facts concerning the officinal salts
of copper may be presented in a tabular form,
thus

2.

Source and Preparation

Sulphate.

Nitrate.

By

dissolving

copper

in di-

luted nitric acid, and evaporating the solution until

crystallisation takes place on
cooling to a temperature not

lower than

70.

By heating sulphuric acid

and copper together, dissolving the soluble product in hot
water, and evaporating the
solution until crystallisation
or by
takes place on cooling
dissolving black oxide of
copper in hot diluted sul;

phuric acid, filtering, evaporating,

Characters and Properties

and

Sulphate.

Nitrate.
a.

Deep blue prismatic

crys-

a.

Large oblique prismatic

crystals

tals.

c.

Very deliquescent.
Highly corrosive.

rf.

With one-third

h.

crystallising.

b.

Has

deep blue.
a strong

styptic,

metallic taste.

of

its

weight of water it forms, below 70, tabular crystals. With

a very little more water it
yields a styptic, caustic, corrosive fluid.
e. The diluted aqueous soution is faintly acid.

c.

Soluble in water

in glycerine (i in 4).
A. The solution in

(i in 3);

water

is

pale blue, and strongly reddens litmus.

The crystals
c.
slightly in air.

effloresce

CUPRUM

COPPER.

187
carbonates;
sulphates);

INCOMPATIBLES. -Alkalies and their

mineral salts ^except
lime-water;

and most vegetable astringfents.

ot
AcTiox I. Externally and locally the saltsand
state
solid
their
in
copper are escharotic

iodides

concentrated solution
the nitrate acts thus in a
when in a more or less dithey are astringent

luted solution.
2. Internally

sulphate only is employed,

emetic
being astringent to the alimentary canal;
is also
It
tonic.
in large doses ; and nervine
phosby
poisoning
in
employed as an antidote
phorus.
Dose-Oi Sulphate, gr. ^ to 2 ; as an emetic,
gr. 5 to 10.

the

i88

MATERIA MEDICA.

XXII.

FERRUM-mON.

General Summary. Iron and its numerous officinal compounds and preparations
may be conveniently arranged and discussed as
follows :
_

I.

Porms

'a.

Annealed Iron Wire, having- a

diameter of about 0-005 of an
inch ; or wrought iron nails.

d.

Ferriim Redachm Reduced Iron.

Metallic iron, with a variable

of.

Metallic Iron/

amount of oxide
2.

Perri Peroxidum

of Iron, Fe,03,H,0.
(a.
d.

3.

of iron.

Hydratum Peroxide

Ferri Arsenias. (See Arsenium).

Ferri Carbonas Saccharata
Saccharaied Catbotiaie ofIron. Carbonate of iron, Y &Q,0 ^,xY{^Q
mixed with peroxide of iron
and sugar, the carbonate (if
reckoned as anhydrous) formingf about one-third of the
mixture.
Ferri Phosphas
Phosphate of

Simple

Iron.

Salts of Iron

Ferrous

Phosphate,

Fe3(POJ8H,0,

at least 47
with ferric phos-

per cent.
phate and some oxide.
;

Ferri Sulphas

Sulphate of

Iron,

FeS07H,0.
Feni Sulphas Exsiccaia Dried

Sulphate of Iron, FeS04,H20.

Ferri
Sulphas
Granulata
Granulated Sulphate of Iron,

FeS04,7H,0.

=
FERRUM

4.

Compound
\

Ammonii Citras Citrate

of Iron and Ammonium.
Ferrum Tartaratum Tartarated

Fern
or Scale Salts
of Iron.

IRON.
et

h.

Iron.

Fern

et

Quinines Citras

Citrate

of Iron and Quinine.

Liquor Ferri Acetatis Fortior

Strong Solution of Acetate of
(Ferric Acetate).
Solution
Liquor Ferri Acetatis
diluted
of Acetate of Iron.

fa.

i in 4.
solution of the above
Solution
Dialysati
Ferri
Liquor
solution
of Dialysed Iron.
of highly basic ferric oxychloride, orchloroxideof iron,

5.

from which most of the acidulous matter has been removed

by dialysis.

Solutions

and
'.

Tinctures
containing

Liquor Ferri Perchloridi Fortior

Strong Solution of Perchloride

o/'/r(?=3r728grainsin fi3

Compounds
.

of Iron.

i.

Liquor Ferri Perchloridi Solution

diof Perchloride of Iron.
luted solution of the above

in 4.

Solution
f. Liquor Ferri Pernitfaiis
of Pernitrate of Iron = 7 "865
grains in fl 3 I.
SoluLiquor
Ferri Perstclphatis
g.
tion of Persulphate of lion.
Tincture
h. Tinctura Ferri Acetatis

of Acetate of Iron.
i.

TincTinctura Ferri Pei chloridi

ture of Perchloride of Iron.

MATERIA MEDICA.
fa.

b.

Special

6.

c.

Officinal

Preparationscontaining
Iron.

made from

Emplastrum Ferri ;

Peroxide.
Misiura Ferri Aromatica
ArO'
inaiic Mixture of Iron
Heberden's Ink, containing Tannate
0/ Iron; made from Iron Wire.
Misiura Ferri Composila
Compound Iron Mixture Griffith's

Mixture, containing Hydrated

Ferrous Carbonate.
d. Pilula Ferri Carbonatis.
e. Pilula Ferri lodidi.
f. Syrupus Ferri lodidi.
g Syrtipus Ferri Phosphatis.
h. Trochisci Ferri Redacti.
.

i.

^j.

Vinum Ferri.
Vinum Ferri

Ferrum Redactum

A.

Source and Preparation.

Citratis.

Reduced

Iron.

The directions given

reduced iron are
consists essentially

in the B.P. for the preparation of

somewhat complicated, but

of two parts.
a.

Ferric oxyhydrate

is

it

by adding

prepared

strong solution of perchloride of

\ Distilled water, 5
r

Solution of ammonia,
1 Distilled water, 5
cipitate; and drying.
^

iron,

\
J

^
"^^'^'"^
1

'

resulting ferric oxyhydrate is thoroughly

reduced by putting it in the middle part of an
heating
iron-tube, confined by plugs of asbestos
of
stream
it
through
a
passing
furnace;
it in a
a
cool,
it
to
and
allowing
gas,
hydrogen
dried
continued.
still
being
hydrogen
of
slow current
b.

The


igi

PEROXIDE OF IRON.
The reduced

iron

is to

be enclosed

stoppered bottle.

Characters and Properties:

in

a dry well-

b.

iron is a fine greyish-black powder,

exhibiting metallic streaks when rubbed
with firm pressure in a mortar.
It is strongly attracted by the magnet.

c.

It

Reduced

a.

dissolves in hydrochloric acid with effervescence, hydrogen gas being evolved.

Ten grains added to an aqueous solution of
f Iodide of potassium, gr. so\
digested
^
gr.

d.

50
a flask and gently heated, leave not
more than 5 grains undissolved, which
should be entirely soluble in hydrochloric

\ Iodine,

in

acid.

Incompatibles. It may be here stated once for

all that iron and its preparations are chemically
incompatible with tannic and gallic acids, as well
as with vegetable drugs which contain these acids.
They are, however, occasionally administered in

combination.

B.

Peroxide of Iron.

Source and Preparation

Solution of persulphate of iron,
.
:

^"^^

fl

Distilled water, O i
gradually to solution of soda, fl J 33, stirring constantly and briskly. Let the mixture stand for two hours, stirring occasioni

ally.

Fe,3SO^+6NaHO = Fe,03,3H,0 + 3Na,S04.

b.

c.

Collect the precipitate on a calico filter;

and
wash it from sulphate of sodium.
Dry under 212, until it ceases to lose weight;
then reduce

it

to fine

powder.


192

MATERIA MEDICA.

Characters and Properties

a. Peroxide of iron is a reddish-brown powder.
which is not magnetic.
:

destitute of taste.
insoluble in water, but dissolves completely, though slowly, with the aid of heat,
in hydrochloric acid diluted with half its

h.

It is

c.

It

d.

volume of water.
Heated to dull redness

is

in a test-tube
about 10 per cent, of moisture.

C.

it

yields

Simple Salts of Iron.

Source and Preparation. Taking the several

simple salts of iron in the order in which they are
obtained, they may be described as follows:
I.

Sulphate. a.

Add Sulphuric

Iron wire, ^ 4

Distilled water,
h.

c.

in

acid,

fl

4, to

a porcelain dish.

When

disengagement of gas (hydrogen) has

almost ceased, boil for ten minutes.
set aside for 24 hours
Filter through paper
and dry the crystals on filto crystallise
tering paper on porous bricks.
;

Dried Sulphate Yie&i the sulphate of iron,

aqueous vapour ceases to be given
Reduce the residue to a fine powder, and
off.
preserve it in a stoppered bottle.
2.

to 212, until

This form of sulphate is

Granulated Sidphate.
solution of sulboiling
prepared by filtering the
into
a jar containabove)
as
phate of iron (made
the mixstirring
and
fl|8,
spirit,
ing rectified
minute
in
separate
shall
salt
ture so that the
decanby
deprived
are
These
granular crystals.
3.

'

SIMPLE SALTS OF IRON.

tation of adhering- liquids;
iper on porous bricks, by
4.
a.

b.

and dried on
exposure

filtering

to the air.

Saccharaied Carionale.

of iron, | 2
f Sulphate
iBoiling distilled water, C \
Carbonate of ammonium, J i\
with
Boiling distilled water, C ^
in a deep cylindrical vessel, with brisk

Mix

stir-

Cover the vessel as accurately as possible

aside for 24 hours; and separate the
supernatant solution by a. siphon from the
precipitate which subsides.
Pour on boiling distilled water, Ci, stir
well, and after subsidence, again remove the
set

c.

clear solution.
d.

Collect the resulting- carbonate on a calico

press rub it with refined sugar, J i,

a porcelain mortar; and dry under 212.
[Boiling water is used to exclude air
and the
sugar is mixed to preserve the carbonate ag-ainst
oxidation by the air).
filter;

in

5. Phosphate.

Sulphate of iron, | 3
Dissolve I
Boiling
distilled water,
\
f

Phosphate of sodium,

\ Boiling distilled water,

h.

When

30
1 2|
1 30.

the solutions have cooled to

between
and 130, add the latter to the former,
pouring in also a solution of bicarbonate of
100

sodium, If,

in

little distilled

water.

Mix

thoroughly.
c.

Transfer the precipitate to a calico filter;

it with hot distilled water from sulphate
of sodium; and dry under 120.
o

wash


MATERIA MEDICA.

194

Characters and Properties

I. Sulphates.
The sulphates of iron may be considered together, as most of their properties are
the same.
a. They present different appearances, namely
Oblique rhombic prisms, of pale
Sulphate,
greenish-blue colour.
Dried Sulphate.
powder, of greyish-cream
:

colour.

I.

Small granular crysGranulated Sulphate.

tals, of pale greenish-blue colour.
They are soluble in water, forming a clear
insoluble in rectified spirit.
solution
;

c.

d.

They have a styptic taste.

They are all more or less

liable to

become

oxidised by exposure to the air, but especiIts crystals then present

ally the sulphate.
opaque rusty-coloured spots, and its solution
precipitates an ochrey deposit.
2.

Saccharated Carbonate.
a.

This

h.

colour.
It is soluble,

c.

3.

salt is in

small coherent lumps, of a grey

with effervescence, in warm

hydrochloric acid, diluted with half its volume of water.
It has a sweet, very feebly chalybeate taste.

Phosphate.
a.
h.
c.

This is an amorphous powder.

It has a slate-blue colour.
soluble
It is insoluble in water;

in

hydro-

chloric acid.

Impurities.

Sulphate of iron may be present

phosin

arsenic in the
the saccharated carbonate
phate ; and copper in the sulphate.
special test is directed
Quantitative Tests.
;

iron in
to be applied to each of the salts of
protosalt
this group, to determine the quantity of


I95

SIMPLE SALTS OF IRON.

which they contain.
salt in

some

acid;

consists in dissolving- the

It

and observing how many grain-

measures of Vol. solution of lichromate of potassium

are required to convert the protoxide into peroxide, which is indicated by its ceasing to give a
blue precipitate with ferricyanide of potassium.
There are some differences in detail, which may
be exhibited in a tabular form.
Grain-measures of
Vol. solution of

Bichromate of Potassium.

Saccharated Carbonate, 30 grains

dissolved in excess of phos- Vat least 287'5
phoric acid diluted with water J
"|

Phosphate, 30 grains dissolved in

hydrochloric acid
Sulphate,
in

42*

grains dissolved"^
sul- >

'

water acidulated with

about 500

phuric acid

J
Dried Sulphate, 10 grains dis-")
solved in water acidulated with >at least igi
sulphuric acid
)
Granulated Sulphate,
grains")
dissolved in water acidulated >
with sulphuric acid
J

Pharmacy.

i.

The

officinal

500

preparations of these

be considered with the others

{see Special Officinal Preparations).
The sulphate is an ingredient in Pilula Aloes et Ferri.
2. Incompatibles.
In addition to the general insalts of iron

will

compatibles of ferruginous preparations, special

incompatibles have to be recognised in the case of
particular salts, namely
Saccharated Carbonate.
Acids
:

lodide.^

Acids and acidulous

their

carbonates

and acidulous
salts;

salts.

alkalies

lime-water.

02

and

MATERIA MEDICA.

196

Compound or Scale Salts.

D.

Source and Preparation. The scale preparations of iron may be considered together, as the
earlier and final parts of the process of making
them are similar in each case, and this may be
conveniently divided into three stages.
a. In the first part of the process ferric hydrate
is made, by adding gradually diluted solution of

persulphate of iron to diluted solution of ammonia, stirring constantly and briskly allovi^ing
;

the mixture to stand for two hours, stirring occasionally; putting the precipitate on a calico filter,
draining, and washing, to remove sulphate of

ammonium.
The proportions

used are

of the ingredients
case,
as follows:
different in each

Name

Liquor Ferri
Persulphatis.

of Salt.

Liquor AmmonijE.

Citrate of Iron and

Ammonium
Tartarated Iron

O2
O3

O2

fli6 with water,

"0

Citrate of Iron and

Severally
flgii
diluted with
water, 02.
fl8

fl.S4^^

part of the process is special in

each instance, thus
the fernc
(i) Citrate of Iron and Ammonitim.KM
b.

The second

Citric acid,

^4
J
.
heated
hydrate
tojjj.gtiued ^'^^r, fl^ 8^^^^^^
by a water-bath, stirring until nearly the
,

(ii)

J.

whole has dissolved. Let the solution cool,

and add solution of ammonia, fl ^ 5^.
hydrate
Tartarated /m/. Mix the ferric
potasof
tartrate
acid
with
intimately

sium,

in

powder, ^

2, in

a porcelain dish,


IRON.

COMPOUND SALTS OF

197

and let the mixture stand for 24 hours.

Apply heat not above 140' add graduallydistilled water, O i, and stir constantly
until nothing- more will dissolve,
;

0/ Iron and Quinine. K^d. the ferric

Citric acid, ? 3 and gr. 30 \
,
,
^
hydrate to f Distilled water,
|
I 5
heated by a water- bath; stir until disand add quinine (previously presolved

Citrate

(iii)

pared from 1

sulphate of quinine).
in small quanSolution of ammonia,
^

of

Let the solution cool, and add

(
tilies at

A?

a time-^

12

Distilled water, fl ^ 2 J
I
stirring briskly, and allowing the quinine,,
which separates with each addition, to dissolve before adding more.
c. The last stage of the process consists in each
case in filtering through flannel; evaporating to
a syrupy consistence; drying in thin layers on flat
porcelain or glass plates, at a temperature not
exceeding 100; removing the dry salt in flakes;
and keeping it in a stoppered bottle.

Characters and Properties.

of iron present the

salts

The

common

compound

character that

they are in thin transparent scales. Their special

characters and properties may be thus tabulated:
Name

of
Salt.

Citrate

u/

Colour.

Solubility.

Ueep-red.

Iron and

Reaction.

Taste.

In water {2 in 1). Feebly acid. Slightly sweetish

insoluand astringent.

Almost

Ammonium.

ble in rectified
spirit.

Tartarated
Iron.

Darker

deep-garnet.

In water

(i in 4).

Neutral.

Sparingly in

Slightly sweetis
and astringent.

spirit.

Citrate of
Irr.n

and

Quinine.

Greenish,
goldenyellow
;

lustrous.

Water (2 in i). Very slightSomewhat delily acid.

quescent.

Bitter and chalybeate.


igS

MATERIA MEDICA,

Special and Quantitative Tests.

plied to the scale salts in the B.P.,
indicated

Those

ap-

may be

thus

1.

Remains

after incineration

Peroxide

of Iron.
a.

b.

Incinerated
of Iron and Ammojiium.
with exposure to air leaves about 30 per
cent., which is not alkaline to litmus.
Tartarated Iron.
50 grains incinerated at a
red heat, the product washed with water,
Citrate

and

again

incinerated,

grains.

weighs

about

15

of Quinine and Iron. Burned with exposure to air leaves a residue which, when
moistened with water, is not alkaline to testpaper.
2. Quantitative Test for Quinine in Citrate
of iron and quinine = 50 grains dissolved in fl^ i
of water, and treated with slight excess of ammonia, give a white precipitate, which, when dissolved out by successive treatment of the fluid
with ether or chloroform, the latter evaporated,
c.

Citrate

and the residue dried until it ceases to lose weight,

The precipitate is almost
weighs 8 grains.
entirely soluble in a little pure ether, and when
burned leaves but a minute residue.
Pharmacy.

i.

Officinal

Preparation.

The

Am-

monio-citrate of iron is contained in Vinum Ferri

Citratis (see Special Officinal Preparations).
The following may be specially
2. Incompatibles.

mentioned
Ammonio- Citrate.
:

Mineral acids; fixed

kalies.
Mineral acids; lime-water.
Tartarated
Alkalies and
of Iron and
al-

Iron.

Citrate
_

their carbonates.

Qui?ii?ie.


IQQ

SOLUTIONS AND TINCTURES OF IRON.

Solutions and Tinctures of Iron.

E.

preparations containing- iron in

most important group,
be conveniently discussed together.

These

liquid

different forms constitute a

and they may

Source and Preparation.Under this heading
arranged accordthe several preparations may be
they contain.
which
ino- to the compounds of iron
This solution
Iron.
1. Solution of Dialysed
is

made
a.

as follows
r Strong solution of perchloride ot
iron, fl| 6
Mix-|
:

J
(Distilled water, O2
stir into the mixture sufficient diluted
solution of ammonia to impart, after thorough agitation, a distinct ammoniacal odour.
wash the precipitated
Filter through calico
water; and
distilled
with
hydrate
ferric

and

b.

squeeze to remove superfluous moisture.

c.

the precipitate to strong solution of

perchloride of iron, fl^ i, stir thoroughly,
warm gently, and when complete or nearly

Add

complete solution

is

obtained,

filter

if

neces-

sary, and place the liquid in a covered dialyser ; then subject it to a stream of water in
the usual manner until the solution in the

dialyser

is

almost tasteless.

The

resulting

measure fl^ 28.

Preparations containing Acetate of Iron,
solution should

2.

(l)

Strong Solution 0/ Acetate.

Solution of persulphate ~|
>
of iron, fl ^ 5
Gradually add<
i
water,
O
Distilled
(
)
^ ammonia, fl J 8
3^1^
the
1
to
|
\ Distilled water, O
whole thoroughly, taking care that ammonia
C

a.

'

is,

even

finally, in slight excess,

as indicated

200

MATERIA MEDICA.
by the odour. Let the whole stand for 2
hours, stirring- occasionally
put it on a
calico filter, drain, wash the precipitated
ferric hydrate from sulphate of ammonium,
and again drain and squeeze it to remove
superfluous moisture.
Dissolve the ferric hydrate in liquefied
;

a.

glacial acetic acid, fl^3; and make up

fl^io with distilled water.
Allow any
insoluble matter to subside, and pour off the
to

clear solution.
Solution of Acetate.

(2)

f Strong solution of acetate,

\ Distilled water, fl J 20.
Tviciiire of Acetate.
Strong solution of acetate,
Acetic acid, fl^
^.
^^^"^
1 Rectified spirit, fl
I 5
Distilled water, O i.
Preserve in a stoppered bottle.

j^j^

(3)

fl

j 5

fl

j 5

Preparations containing Perchloride of

3.

Iron.
(l)

Strong Solution of Perchloride.

(

a.

I.

c.

d.

Iron wire, ^4

Dissolved Hydrochloric acid, fl^ \2\ y by

( Distilled water, fl ^ 7
J
heating moderately until effervescence ceases,
and then to boiling.
Filter, rinsing the flask and contents with a
little water, and pouring this over the filter.
Add to the filtrate hydrochloric acid, flj 7;
mix, and pour the solution in a slow continuous stream into nitric acid, fl J i^, evolution of red fumes being promoted, if necessary, by a slight application of heat.
Evaporate until no more fumes escape, and a
then add hydroprecipitate begins to form
chloric acid, fl^ I, and sufficient distilled
water to produce fl J 17^.
;

SOLUTIONS AND TINCTURES OF IRON.

(2)

(3)

Soluiion

a.

h.

5.

^^^^

= after admixture.
\ Distilled water 4

Tine lure of Perchloride.

( Strong solution
Mix < Rectified spirit,

Distilled water,

of perchloride,

2.

Solution of Pernitrate of Iron.

wire, 1 i
( Fine Iron
^
Dissolve-^ Nitric acid, fl ^ 4i
K adding
(Distilled water, fl^ 16 j
a little more water, if necessary, to moderate
the action.
Filter the solution;
tilled water as will

and add as much dis-

make O

\\.

Solution of Persulphate of Iron.

r Sulphate of iron, ?8
^.
Dissolve with the j
gulphuric acid, fl 3 6
aid of heat
(Distilled water, fl^ 10.
.

h Mix I Jf.^*r^
r^
\ Distilled water,
this,
c.

a.

of Perchloride.

Strong solution of perchloride,

...

4.

20

warmed,

;
'

and add

to

^ 2 J
the solution of sulphate of iron.
fl

lay boiling- until, by the sudden

disengagement of ruddy vapours, the colour
and so long- as
changes from black to red
a drop of the solution gives a blue precipitate with ferricyanide of potassium, add a
few drops of nitric acid, and renew the

Concentrate

boiling, to convert all the sulphate into persulphate.

d.

When

the solution is cold, add

to make the quantity

water,

Characters and Properties.

Under

distilled

n.
this

head

following general facts,

and reference must be made to the B.P. if more
detailed information is required with regard to
individual preparations.
it

will suffice to notice the


202

MATERIA MEDICA.

a. The solutions and tinctures of iron are all

markedly coloured, the colour ranging from deepred through dark-brown to pale-brown or orangebrown.
b. They are inodorous, except the preparations
of the acetate, which have an acetous smell.
c. The solution of dialysed iron is free from any
marked ferruginous taste. The remainder have
a more or less astringent taste, especially the perchloride and persulphate, which are highly styptic.
The acetate is also sour.
d. Each preparation has a definite sp. gr.
e. They are
miscible with water or rectified
spirit in all proportions.

Quantitative Tests.
The solutions treated
with excess of solution of ammonia, give a reddish-brown precipitate which, when washed, dried,

and

ignited,

weigh respectively as follows

Grains.

Strong solution of

acetate,

fl

i,

"I

diluted with water, flj 2

J
Solution of dialysed iron, lOO grains
Strong solution of perchloride,fl 3 i, \
diluted with water, fl^ 2
J
Solution of pernitrate, fl 3 i
Solution of persulphate fl3i, diluted with water, fl^ 2
J
")

The

= 57
= 5
= 15 to 16
= 2-6
= 11-44

of ferric salts are

Hydrochloric acid
may be present in the dialysed iron. The perchloride is apt to contain arsenium.
Impurities.

solutions

liable to contain ferrous salts.

Soluh'on

and Tincture of PerAlkalies, lime-water, magnesia, and their

chloride.
carbonates; mucilage.
Incompatibles.

'

203

SPECIAL PREPARATIONS OF IRON.

Special Officinal Preparations.

F.

of the preparations to be considered in

already
this o-roup are merely compounds of those
They
independent.
quite
are
others
discussed;
order.
alphabetical
in
taken
be
will

Some

1,

Chalyheate Plaster.

Emplastrum Ferri

Me.oge.her{S";.S;t'}^^
oxide of iron, in fine powder,
mixture stiffens on cooling-.

i ;

and

till

the

AromaHca = lr\tens,Q brown.

2.

Mtstura

a.

Macerate Fine iron wire, ^ \

Fej-ri

stir

days Red cinchona bark, in powder,

inaclosedves--{Calumba root, in powder,
agitating Bruised cloves, ^ \
sel,
Peppermint water, fl^ I2.
occasionally
b. Filter, adding- as much peppermint water to
the filter as will make the product measure fl^ 12^.
J J f Tincture of orange peel, fl^ ^
for three

A
.

c.

3.

<^

I (^Qt^pQund tincture of cardamoms, fl^

3.

Mislura Ferri Composita = 'S[msh-greer\; opaque.

Powdered myrrh, gr. 60

Triturate so as Refined sug-ar, gr. 60
to form a thin paste Carbonate of potassium, g-r. 30
Rose water, a sufficiency.
nutmeg, fl 3 41
b.
Gradually add,
f Spirit of
continuing the trituration ( Rose water
J
until about fl^ 8 of a milky liquid is formed.
c. Dissolve f Sulphate of iron, gr. 25
and add \ Rose water, remainder of fl^ 9^.
Mix thoroughly, and preserve the mixture as
much as possible from contact with air.
a.

204

MATERIA MEDICA.

(Excess of carlonaie ofpotasmim forms with myrrh

a saponaceous compound, which suspends the carbonale of iron produced by double decomposition.
The mixture is very liable to decompose, but the
sugar retards this.
It should be recently prepared).
4. Pilula Ferri Carbonaiis

in 5.

Beat into a uniform P^.^^^^''^^^^ carbonate

mass
\ "-o"'
(

5. Pilula Ferri
a.

Confection or roses,

of

i.

Iodidi=\ in about 3^.

Ag-itate in a strong:

phial,

ounce Fine iron wire, gr. 40

until
the- Iodine, gr. 80

froth

becomes

stoppered

Distilled water,

ill

50.

white
I,

Pour the

fluid upon powdered refined sugar,

gr. 70, in a mortar; triturate briskly; and
gradually add powdered liquorice root,
gr. 140.

6. Syrupus Ferri Iodidi=gr. 4-3 of iodide of iron

inflSi. Colourless if kept in well-filled bottles.
Sp. gr. about i'385.
a.

Digest in a

flask, slightly

Iron wire, i
heating, and occasionally
Iodine, 2
shaking, until the froth
Distilled water,

becomes white

h.

-iPrepare a syrup with

c.

Add

3.

Refined sugar, 28

| j^j^^.j,^^

^^'^^

syrup to the above solution,

boil gently for ten minutes; then filter
the liquid while still hot into the remainder
fl^ 2 of this

and

of the

warm

syrup,

(This preparation

is

and

mi.x.

best preserved by suspending

205

SPECIAL PREPARATIONS OF IRON.

in the bottle containing- it.
iron).
iodine is set free, it combines witli the

of

coil

iron wire

As

Feni Pbosphatis = about gr. i of

Colourless
of iron in fl3 i.
phosphate
anhydrous
deposits on
and
brown,
becomes
fresh
when
Sp. gr. about 1-305.
keeping-.
(Granulated sulphate of iron, gr. 224 )_
^.
a. Dissolve j^j^jijjgj ^.^^g^^ fl^
|
4
separately^
p^Qgpj^j^jg of sodium, gr. 200 \
Syrupus

and mix

(Distilled water, fi^ 4-

bicarbonate of sodium, dissolved in a

b.

Add

c.

water, and, after careful stirring",

transfer the precipitate to a calico filter, and
wash it from sulphate of sodium.
Mix the residue on the filter in a mortar with
little

concentrated phosphoric acid, fl| li- Filter,

add refined sugar, j 8, and distilled water,
and dissolve without heat. The whole to

measure exactly
8.

fl^ 12.

Trochisci Ferri Redacti'gr.

grey.

Made

in the

usual

in

way with

each.
Ironrefined sugar,

gum, and mucilage.

Intense olive-brown.
days (Fine iron wire,
(Sherry wine, O I,
in a closed vessel
the iron being almost, but not quite wholly immersed in the wine, and the vessel frequently
then filter.
shaken, and the stopper removed
g.

Vinum

Macerate

Ferri.

for

thirty

10.

Vinum Ferri

Dissolve

and

Cilraiis.

Deep-brown.

Citrate of iron

and ammonium,

Orange wine,

gr. 160

i,

let the solution remain for three days in a

closed vessel, shaking occasionally; afterwards
filter.


206

MATERIA MEDICA.

Action of Iron Group,

As

external and local applications the solutinctures of the persalts of iron are
more or less powerful astring-ents and styptics.
Emplastrum Ferri is a useful plaster for giving1.

tions

and

support to a part.

As

internal remedies iron and its compounds

certain actions in common,
but particular effects are produced by some special
preparations.
The chief facts relating- to this
subject may be indicated as follows
a. The entire ferruginous group
may be said
to act as haematinics or blood-tonics^ and with
few exceptions, they are all used for this purpose,
the exact preparation selected depending upon the
special circumstances of each case. They are also
general tonics ; and some of them are employed
more particularly as nervine tonics.
b. Several of the preparations of iron are astringent or styptic when internally administered,
and not only may they be used for these purposes,
but it is important to recognise which of the compounds have such an action, as itmayon this account
not be desirable to give them. Those which are
most obviously astringent are the solutions and
tinctures of the persalts, and the different forms of
2.

and preparations have

sulphate of iron.
c.

The hydrated peroxide

antidote

in

is

employed as an

cases of poisoning by arsenic.

compounds of iron have special

actions, depending upon its combination with other
therapeutic agents. Thus the iodide produces the
combined effects of iron and iodine, and is chiefly
administered when a preparation of iron is required
in scrofulous or tubercular subjects. The arseniate
d.

Some

of the

2O7

DOSES OF PREPARATIONS OF IRON.

given mainly for the arsenic it contains ; while

the scale salts possess the actions of their several
ingredients, in addition to those of iron.
is

Z)oses0^ Reduced Iron, gr.

I

to 5

Lozenges,

to 6.

Hydrated Peroxide,

gr. 5 to 30.

Saccharated Carbonate, gr.

to

30

Pill,

gr. S

to 20.

Phosphate, gr. S to 10; Syrup, flS i.

Sulphate, gr. I to 5 ; Dried, gr. ^ to
lated, gr.

Granu-

to 5.

Tartarated Iron
Citrate of Iron and Ammonium Vgr. 5 to lO.
Citrate of Quinine and Iron
J
Solution of Dialysed Iron, 111, lO to 30.
Solution or Tincture of Perchloride, Vl 10 to 30.
Solution of Pernitrate, vi 10 to 40.

Strong Solution of Acetate, nx i to 8.

Solution or Tincture of Acetate, lit 5 to 30.
Compound Mixture of Iron
Aromatic Mixture of Iron
Pill of Iodide, gr. 3 to 8.
Syrup of Iodide, fl 3 ^ to i.
Wine of Iron
n
Wine of Citrate of Iron
"j

208

MATERIA MEDICA.

XXIII.

HYDRARGYRUM-MERCURY.

General Summary. Mercury and its officinal

compounds and preparations may be arranged
thus:
I.

2.

Hydrargyrum Mercury

AUotropic
forms of
Mercuric

a,

h.

Oxide=HgO.
a.

Hydrargyii Oxiduni Flavum

Yellow Oxide of Mercury.
Hydrargyri Oxidum Ruhrum
Red Oxide of Mercury.
Hydrargyri Siihchloridum Suhchloiide of Mercury
Calomel=

HgCl.

3.

b.

Hydrargyri Perchloridum Perchloride

of Mercury Corrosive

c.

Hydrargyri

Salts of

Su5lima/e=}rigC]2.

Mercury

d.

lodidum Ruhrum
Red Iodide of Merctiry^Hgl^.
Hydrargyri Persulphas Persul-

phate 0/ Mercury=UgSO^.
e.

Am White Pre-

Hydrargyrum Ammoniatum
monialed Mercury

cipiiale=.'^UJr{gC\.
f a.

b.
c.

4.

drargyro.

Officinal

Preparations
containing
finely divided

Mercury.

Hydrargyrum cum CreicL Grey

powder=gr. I in 3.
Emplastrum Hydrargyri.
Emplasirujii Ammoniaci cum Hy-

d.

<

e.

Linimeulum Hydrargyri.
Pilula Hydrargyri Blue pill=

gr. I in 3.
Each
Supposiloria Hydrargyt i.
contains gr. 5 of Utiguenlu?n

Hydrargyri.
Utiguenkwi Hydrarg)>ri.
Ungtce?ilum Hydrargyri Composi-

turn Scott's Ointment.

'

MERCURY.

209

Liquor Arscnii

et

Hydiargyrt

Solution of Iodide 0/ Arsiniiim and Mercury Donovan's

solution {See Arsenium).
Liquor Hydrargyri Nitratis Acidus
-Solution of Acid Nitrate of
lodidi

il/-a<;j=Solution of Hg-^NOj
in nitric acid.
c.

Liquor Hydrargyri Perchloridi

Soltition of Perchloride of Alercury=gr. 1 in fl J I.

Yellow
Lot10 Hydrargyii Flava
Mercurial Lotion
Yellow Wash.

A precipitate

of

Hg-Q with

lime-water.
5.

Special

e.

Officinal

Preparations
containing^

lime-water.
Oleatum Hydrargyri Oleaie of
Mercury.
Pilula Hydrargyri
Suhchloridi
Composita
Compound Pill of
Calomel Plummef's Pillzr.
of calomel in 5.

Compounds
of

Lolio Hydrargyri Nigra

Black
Mercurial Lotion Black Wash.
precipitate of Hg-jO with

Mercury.

Unguentum

Hydrargyri

Oxidi

Hydrargyri

Am-

Hydrargyri

lodidi

Rubri.

Unguentum
moniati.
J-

Unguentum
liubri.

k.

Unguentum Hydrargyri Nitratis

Citrine Ointment.
I.

Unguentum

Hydrargyri Nitratis

Dilutum.
VI.

L/nguenttcm Hydrargyri Sulchloridi.


MATERIA MEDICA.

210

A.

Hydrargyrum

Mercury.

Mercury, in the metallic form, is introduced into

the B.P. as an ingredient of several preparations
containing it in the free state and also for the
Its
purpose of making some of its compounds.
method of preparation is not mentioned.
Mercury is described in the B.P. as a metal,
;

at ordinary temperature, brilliantly lustrous,

Volaeasily divisible into spherical globules.
redvisible
tilizes at a temperature below that of
of
compounds
All the
ness, leaving no residue.

fluid

and

the property last mentioned in

common, being entirely volatilized and sublimed
by heat, or in certain cases they are decomposed.

mercury have

B. Oxides of Mercury.
Source and Preparation
Red or Niiric Oxide,
I

a.

Dissolve j^.,^.^
i
^^i^
I
|i,i,tilled water',

Y^^J^Xo
^ ^>|Cess

mercury,

3Hg + 8HN03 = 3Hg2N03 + 2NO+4H,0.

h.

c.

Triturate mercury, J 4, with the dry salt

until the two are uniformly blended together.
Heat the mixture in a porcelain dish, with
repeated stirring, until acid vapours cease
to be evolved.

Hg2N03 + Hg - 2HgO + 2NO,.

(The

rtieraity

saves waste of oxygen).


211

SALTS OF MERCURY.
2.

Fellow Oxide.

Dissolvebyf Perchloride of mercury, J 4

aid of heat \ Distilled water, O 4.
of soda, O 2,
b. Add this solution to solution
and stir them together.
Hg-CL + 2NaH0 = 2NaCl + HgO + H^O.

a.

c.

After subsidence, decant the supernatant

wash the precipitate thoroug-hly on
liquid
a calico filter and dry by the heat of a
;

water- bath.

Characters and Properties.^ The two officinal

oxides of mercury are chemically the same, the difference between them being only in their physical
appearance their chief characters and properties
may be thus indicated
;

(Red oxide is an orange-red

powder, consisting of crys-

Appearance

a.

talline scales.

Yellow
,

oxide

Both forms are insoluble

b.

is

yellow

powder.
in

water; readily

soluble in hydrochloric acid.

c.

They become decomposed by heat

into

oxygen and mercury.

C.

Salts of Mercury.

Source and Preparation. This part of the submay be best considered in the order in which

ject

the several salts are obtained.

I.

Persulphate

""^^

Obtained by

direct comhiiiation.

{^IXricLTd, 11^12}^"

porcelain

stirring constantly until the metal disappears; then continue the heat until a dry white
salt remains.

vessel,

Hg+2H,S0, = HgS0, + S0,+2H,0.

P2

212

MATERIA MEDICA.

2. Perchloride

Corrosive Sublimate.

Mix thoroughly Persulphate of mercury, 20

in a mortar finely] Dried chloride of sodium, 16
(siackoxide of manganese, i.
powdered

a.

b.

Sublime this mixture in a suitable apparatus;

HgClz passes over and

condensed.

is

HgSO^ +2NaCl = HgCU +Na,SO,.

(The MnOj prevents the formation of any
calomel, HgCl, by setting free

some CI from

the

NaCl).
3.
a.

h.

c.

Suhchloride

Calomel.

together ["Moistened persulphate

of mercury, 1 10
until no globules^
Mercury,
are visible
(
I 7.
(Hg^SO^ is formed).

Rub

dried chloride of sodium, ^5, and

thoroughly mix by continued trituration.
Sublime by a suitable apparatus into a large
chamber, so that the calomel shall fall in
fine powder on its floor.

Add

Hg3S04+2NaCl = Na,SO,4-2HgCl.
d.

boiling distilled water from HgCU,

washings are not darkened by sulphydrate of ammonium dry under 212.

Wash with
until the

4.

Red

Iodide.

Obtained

by

frecipilation

from

solution of perchloride by iodide of potassium.

/

a.

Mix

aqueous

loiling

solutions of

Perchloride of mercury.
4 in O 3
Iodide of
^ 5 in

potassium,

I.

HgCU + 2KI = 2KCl + HgI,.

to the temperature of the air,
liquor; collect the
supernatant
decant the
it twice with
wash
filter
a
precipitate on
21 2^
under
dry
and
water;
cold distilled

"When cooled

SALTS OF MERCURY.
c

213

Ammonialed Mercury.

Dissolve by f Perchloride of mercury,

water, O 3,
heat
t Distilled
constantly stirring-.

^3

HgCU + 2NH3 = NH,HgCl + NH,Cl.

Solution of ammonia, fl | 4
water, O I.
Distilled
I
it with
Collect the precipitate on a filter; wash
under
dry
and
cold distilled water

Pour

this

solu- f

tioninio

NHp;

212.
be
(If the solution of ammonia
different
a
perchloride,
solution ot

added

to

the

compound

is

formed).

and

Characters

may be

Properties. These

described according- to the following- plan.

1.

Persulphate. a. This

is

a heavy crystalline

powder.
h.

It is

white, but rendered yellow

by

affusion of

water.
Chlorides. \\. will be useful to contrast the
two chlorides of mercury, one character they have
in common being that they are both heavy.
2.

Calomel.

Corrosive Sublimate.

A dull-white powder, a. In masses of prismatic

a.
sometimes rendered yellowish crystals. Colourless.
by trituration in a mortar.
metallic
acrid,
h. Highly
h. Nearly tasteless.
taste.
c. Soluble in water (i in 19)
Insoluble in water, rectimore
boiling water (i in 3)
fied spirit, or ether.
soluble in alcohol, and still
more so in ether, than in
c.

water.

3.

The iodide of mercury is a crystalpowder (octahedra), of a vermillion

Iodide. a.
line

colour.


MATERIA MEDICA.

214
I.

c.

4.

is almost insoluble in water;

sparingly
dissolves in alcohol, but freely in ether, and
in an aqueous solution of iodide of potassium.
Heated gently on a sheet of paper over a
spirit-lamp, it becomes yellow (crystals =
rhomboidal prisms), resuming its scarlet
colour on cooling.
It is entirely volatilized
at a temperature under redness.

It

Ammoniated Mercury. a. This preparation

an amorphous powder, or sometimes it

made

is
is

into small spiral cones.

white and opaque.

has an unpleasant metallic taste.
d. Water has but little, and alcohol or ether no
action upon ammoniated mercury.
e. It entirely volatilizes at a heat below redness.
caustic potash, it evolves
f. Digested with
h.

It is

c.

It

ammonia.
should yield 77-5
mercury.

g. It

per cent, of metallic

Impurities.
The only impurity that needs special
notice is the presence of corrosive sublimate in
calomel.
ether shaken up with the impure
salt in a bottle, leaves a residue of the corrosive

Warm

sublimate on evaporation.

The salts of mercury that require

Incompatibles.
special notice in relation to this point are
Solutions of potash, soda, and lime;
a. Calomel.
nitro-hydrochloric acid ;
iodide of potassium ;
:

hydrocyanic acid.

Alkalies and their cariodide of potassium

soaps;
lime-water;
bonates;
of mercury being
iodide
together,
given
(but often
of lead; nitrate
acetate
emetic;
tartar
formed);
bark.
of
decoction
albumen;
of silver;
h.

Corrosive siihlimate.

215

PREPARATIONS OF MERCURY.

of Mercury.
D. Officinal Preparations
The numerous

officinal

preparations containin|

may conveniently be
mercury or its compounds
under three groups, namely
considered

Mercury.
Preparations containing free
colour
Hydrargyri.-^\^^
'i. Emplaslmm

gradually to
sublimed sulphur, gr. 8,
until they
stirring
gr.
56,
heated olive oil,

Add

h.

AdT^mercury,
o-lobules are

3,

and

no longer

triturate

until

visible.

preAdd to the mixture lead plaster I 6,whole

the
mix
viously liquefied, and
thoroughly.

Hydrargyro.

Emplaslmm Ammoniaci cum

Made in the same way
Brownish lead colour.
except that instead of
as Emplastrum Hydrargyri,
previously liquelead plaster, ammoniacum, 3 12,
2

fied, is finally
-I

added.

Linimeniim ^^rar^rz.-

A lead- coloured cream

flji, with limment ot

ointment,
1, with
mercurial
rub
camphor,
together.
i;
them
mix
then
fl
liniment of camphor, ^
Mercury I in 6.
Blue pill.
4. Pihda Hydrargyri.
^
/^ until metallic

Mix

a.

solution of

ammonia,

RubJ Mercury,

together

Iglobulesareno

Confection of roses,

j forger visible.

and mix well.

h. Add powdered
by melting oil
Supposiloria Hydrargyri.
5
heat; adding
of theobroma, gr. 120, by sufficient
thoroughly;
mixing
ointment of mercury, gr. 60;
liquorice,

and pouring

into 15 grain

i,

moulds, or dividing into

MATERIA MEDICA.
12 equal parts after cooling.
Each suppository
contains gr. 5 of mercurial ointment.
6.

Unguentum Hydrargj^ri.Lead colour.

(Mercury, 16
until
metallic
Rub
]

^''^P^red lard,

together

16)- globules

cease

(Prepared suet, i
to be visible.
Unguentum Hydrargyri Composilum.
Mlv / Yellow wax, 7
,
^"^1 Olive oil,
by the aid of heat.
3
I
J

7.

")

b.

Incorporate ointment of mercury,

6, and when
the mixture is nearly cold, add
powdered

camphor, ii and

stir the

together.
8.

whole thoroug-hlv
^

Hydrargyrum cum Creta. Grey powder =\

Mercury, i
J"
Prepared
chalk, 2.
(

in ^.

Triturate till all

globules disappear
B.

Preparations

made from Mercury.

Liquor Hydrargyri Nilratis ^aa'z/j. Colourless

strongly acid.
a. Dissolve
f Nitric acid, fl ?
q 1
jvvithout heat.
mercury, ^4,int Water, flj li
1

3Hg + 8HN03 = 3(Hg2N03) +4H,0+2NO.

Boil gently for 15 minutes, (to ensure the
formation of pernitrate, and to expel NO)
cool
and preserve the solution in a stoppered bottle
b.

away from
2.

the light.

Unguentum Hydrargyri A'ltratts. Lemon-colour.

Dissolve

b. Melt by
water-bath
c.

212,
until

cold.

Add

\^'^'?'''y^.i
(Nitric acid, 12
the Prepared lard, 15
|

(Olive

oil,

32

by gentle heat.
1

in

a large por-

J celain vessel.
while at about

the solution of mercury

and mix thoroughly.
Heat if necessary,
the mixture froths up; and stir until it is

PREPARATIONS OF MERCURY.
C.

217

Preparations of Compounds of Mercury.

Colourless.
Liquor Hydrargyri Perchloridi
of perchloride in fl3 i.
Contains gr.
rPerchloride of mercury, gr. lO
Dissolve -< Chloride of ammonium, gr. lo
(^Distilled water, O i.
(The chloride of ammo7iiiim aids solution).
1.

Hydrargyri Flava.
Perchloride of mercury, gr. i8

2. Lotio
f

j^j^

(Lime-water, fl^ lo.

Theyeilow oxide is precipitated.

HgCl,-|-Ca2H0

= HgO + CaCl, + H,0.

Hydrargyri Nigra.
jSubchloride of mercury, gr. 30
j^j^
(Lime-water, fl^ 10.
3. Lolio

The

black oxide is precipitated.

2HgCl-fCa2HO= Hg,0-f CaCl,-fH,0.

4. Olealum Hydrargyri.
Gradually add yellow
oxide of mercury, i, to oleic acid,
9, kept stirred
in a mortar, and triturate occasionally until it is
all dissolved.

Light-brown, oleaginous, semi-solid.

;

Hydrargyri
5. Pilula
Subchloridi
Composita.
Bright-orange. Contains gr, i of calomel in
5.
Triturate ]

f "^^''^^'-y-

(Sulphurated antmiony,

[Powdered guaiacum

i.

resin, 2

Castor oil, i,
and beat the whole into a uniform mass.
(

6. Ungtienta.T\\<irQ are
five ointments made
from mercurial compounds, which may
be thus
arranged in alphabetical order:
a. Unguentum Hydrargyri
Ammoniati.
Ammoniated
mercury,
i
Mix I
\ Simple ointment, 3.


2l8

MATERIA MEDICA.

Unguenium Hydrargyri lodidi Rtihri.

( Red iodide of mercury, in fine powder,
Mix X
gr. i6

h.

(^Simple ointment, ^ i.
Unguetilum Hydrargyri Niiratis Diluttm.
Nitrate of mercury ointment, i
j^j^ J
\ Soft paraffin, 2.
d. Unguenium Hydrargyri Oxidi Ruhri.
c.

Meltl^^,::^P^^^ffi%|*

}; and when the

\ Soft paraffin, ^ f
mixture in cooling- begins to thiclcen, add oxide
of mercury, in very fine powder, gr. 62, in a
glass or porcelain mortar, and mix thoroughly.
'

e.

Uttguentuni Hydrargyri Subchloridi

Subchloride of mercury, gr. 80

Mix

Benzoated

lard, ^

i.

Action of Mercury Group.

The effects produced by mercury and its compounds and preparations may be summarized in
the following way
I. Extetnal and local applications
a
a. The solution of acid nitrate of mercury is
powerful escharotic or caustic ; the red oxide
has a mild action of a similar kind, and so has the
perchloride, but it is not employed for this purpose.
perchloride of mercury is a valuable
h. The
:

This salt in soluantiseptic and disinfectant.

in the form of
mercury
tion, and the ammoniated
used
especially
being
ointment, are parasiticides,
destroy pediculi in connection with hairy parts
of the body.
preparations ol
large number of the
c.
for external
intended
compounds
mercury or its
and
stimulants
local
as
act
application
or local

to


ACTION OF MERCURY GROUP.

2ig

alteratives, affecting- ulcerated surfaces, diseases

and proof the eyelids, and certain skin diseases,
moting the absorption of inflammatory and syphilitic products.
also used
d. Several of these preparations are
mercury
the
getting
of
locally, with the view
effects
specific
its
produce
it
may
that
absorbed, so
thus
emespecially
are
They
system.
the
upon
ployed in connection with the skin, in the form

Calomel is generally
of inunction or fumigation.
used for the purpose of fumigation.
2. Internally only a comparatively small number
of the mercurial preparations are employed,
their actions may be thus indicated
a. They all act upon the alimentary canal,

and

are sialagogue and

and
purgative, some of them

tending to cause more or less severe gastric and

Grey powder, blue pill, and
calomel are the preparations given to act on the
bowels.
With regard to the liver, they are
undoubtedly cholagogues, but the perchloride
seems to be the only compound which is a true
hepatic stimulant, blue pill, grey powder, and
calomel being- apparently merely bile-expellents,
but they are often of conspicuous service.
Minute
doses of calomel or grey powder have been recommended in certain forms of vomiting and

intestinal irritation.

diarrhoea.
b. All
mercurial preparations which are administered internally have a marked alterative

and are generally regarded as having a

specific effect upon syphilis.
As already intimated, some external applications are employed
for this purpose, the mercury becoming absorbed.
The suppository of mercury may be used to produce a similar effect
and the perchloride is occasionally injected subcutaneously.
In connection
with this alterative action, some of the mercurials

action,


220

MATERIA MEDICA.

are supposed to be more or less sudorific and

diuretic, and blue pill in a certain combination
is believed to have a distinct and positive effect

upon the kidneys.

Some of the compounds and
preparations of mercury contain other ingredients,
which aid its alterative action, or have peculiar
effects of their own.
c. Mercury when administered in excess, or in
certain individuals even in small quantity, produces
a condition termed mercurialism, the symptoms
of which are profuse salivation; swelling and
redness of the gums, and sometimes of the tongue
and salivary glands; loosening of the teeth; a
peculiar odour of the breath
and a metallic
taste.
If carried beyond this point ulceration ot
the mucous membrane, and even necrosis of the
jaws may be caused. The development of these
phenomena has to be carefully watched for when
employing mercury for its effects on the system.
Chronic poisoning by mercury gives rise to emaciation and anaemia, low fever, inflammation of
;

periosteum and bone, and various nervous symptoms.

Doses The doses of the preparations of mercury
administered internally are
Of Pill of Mercury Blue pill, gr. 3 to 8.
Mercury with Chalk Grey powder, gr. 3 to 8.
Subchloride, gr. ^ to i as an alterative, gr. i to
5 as a purgative; Compound pill, gr. 5 to lO.
Solution, fl 3 i to 2.
to \
P.erchloride, gr.

Red

iodide, gr. -^^ to \.

221

LEAD.

XXIV. plumbum: LEAD.

General

Summary. The

officinal

and preparations of lead include:

compounds

Plumbi Oxidum. Oxide of Lead=PbO.

I.

a.

Plumbi Aceias Acetate of Lead

= Pb(C,H30,)

'.

Salts

of,

Lead.

c.

d.

3H,0.

Carbonate of
Lead= sPbCOjPbO, H,0.
Plumbi lodidum Iodide of Lead
= Pbr,.
Plumbi Nitras Nitrate of Lead
= Pb(N03),.

Pluvihi CarboTtas

Emplastrum Plumbi.
Plumbi lodidi.
Subacetatis
Plumbi
SoLiquor
c.
lution of Sitbacetate of Lead
Goulard Extract =^
Pb,0(C,H30,),.
d. Liquor Plumbi Subacetatis DiluGoulard Water.
tus
Glycerifium Plumbi Subacetatis.
A Pilula Phanbi cum Opio.
g- Suppositoria Plumbi Composita.
h. Unguentum Plumbi Acetatis.
a.

b.

3.

Special

Officinal

Preparations
of

Compounds
of Lead.

i.

Jk.

,,

,,

Carbonatis,

,,

,,

lodidi.

Glycerini

Plumbi

Subacetatis.

A.

Oxide of Lead.

Litharge.

Source and Preparation. No directions are

given on this point in the B.P., but this preparation
is made by roasting lead in a current of air.

MATERIA MEDICA,

222

Characters and Properties. a. Oxide of lead

occurs in heavy scales, of a pale brick-red
colour.
is insoluble in water; completely soluble
in diluted nitric and acetic acids, without
effervescence.
Copper and iron.
Impurities.

l.

It

Pharmacy.

Oxide

of lead is used in making'

of the other preparations; and it is also an
ing-redient in Emplastrum Saponis Fuscum.

some

B.

Salts of Lead,

Source and Preparation. The B.P. only gives

directions for the preparation of the acetate and
iodide, but the others may be mentioned.
1. Acetate.
By solutiojt of the oxide in acid.

powder,
in

oxide of lead, ^ 24, in fine

\with the aid of
Acetic acid, O2
a little heat.
O
water,
Distilled
J
t

Dissolve

a.

PbO+2HC3H303 = Pb2C3H30,+H,0.
evaporate

Filter;

b.

till

a pellicle forms;

and crystallise, adding- a little acetic acid

if the fluid has not a distinctly acid reaction.
and dry the crystals on filtering
c. Drain
paper, without heat.
2. Carbonate.
By exposing" sheets of lead to the
carbonic acids, evolved from
and
acetic
fumes of
decaying organic matter.
and
vinegar,
tan,
spent

Made by dissolving oxide of lead in

Nitrate.
filtering, and crystallising.
acid,
nitric
dilute
Prepared by double decomposition.
Iodide.
3.

4.

Nitrate of lead, I 4

Mixjf jjjg^mg^

a.

\ dissolved
J

by

Iodide of potassium, 1 4
Distilled water, O \.
Pb(N03), + 2KI=PbI,+2KN03.
.

^a.ter,

heat,

223

SALTS OF LEAD.

wash

Collect the precipitate on n filter;

b.

with distilled water

and dry

place.

Characters and Properties.

The

in

it

warm

salts of

lead

present individually very definite characters and

properties, and they must be separately described.
Acetate

1.

Sugar of Lead.

This salt occurs in white crystalline masses,

moderately heavy.
with a
It has a marked acetous odour
sweet astringent taste.
also in
It is soluble in water (lo in 25)

a.

b.
;

c.

alcohol.
d.

The aqueous solution slightlyreddenslitmus;

is clear, or has only a slight milkiness,
which disappears on the addition of acetic
acid; and does not form an oiiaque white

jelly with
e.

2.

3.

gum

mucilage.

Acetate of lead is slightly efflorescent.

Small crystals may be seen on the inside
of the containing bottle.

Carbonate

White Lead.
a soft heavy white powder.

a.

This

b.

It is

c.

The powder

is

soluble, with efferinsoluble in water

vescence, in diluted acetic acid, without
leaving any residue.

Iodide.

is

Nothing

blackened by H2S.
is

mentioned

in

the B.P. as

the characters of this salt, but it may be mentioned that it is a bright yellow powder, which
has neither taste nor odour ; sparingly soluble in
cold water, entirely in boiling water, being de-

to

posited on cooling in golden crystalline scales;

also soluble in alcohol, solution of potash, and
alkaline iodides.

224
4.

MATERIA MEDICA.
Nitrate. a. This salt

is in

octahedral crystals,

which are colourless, and nearly opaque; permanent in the air.

b. It is soluble in water and alcohol.
c. It has a sweetish and astringent taste.
d. The aqueous solution added to sulphate of
indigo discharges

its

colour.

Quantitative T's.^t. Acetate. 38 grains dissolved in water require for complete precipitation
200 grain- measures of Vol. solution of oxalic acid.
Incompatibles.
acids,

C.
I.

and

Acetate.

Sulphuric and tannic

their salts.

Officinal Preparations of Lead.

Emplastrum Plumhi.

Pale yellow.

Boil together /^
^
,
,
Oxide ofr,lead, in fine powder,
5
gently by the
Olive oil, ID
heat of a steam

Water,

bath

5,

and keep them simmering

for four or five hours,

stirring constantly until the product acquires a
proper consistence, adding more water if necessary,
2.

Melt

Emplastrum. Plumbi lodidi.

Lead

plaster, 8)

Resin,

and

Pale orange.

mix Powdered

[intimately

Pbmhi

of lead,

iodide
I.

Subacetatis.

3,

Glycerinu?ii

a.

M Acetate of lead, ?5
KitandJ uboil\^ .,
r,
Mix
a in powder,
a
z,!
,
lOxide of lead,
J 3:^
'

toraquarter<Qj
of an hour

(Distilled water, fl^ 12.

h.

Filter;

pated.

and evaporate

until the

water

is dissi-


OFFICINAL PREPARATIONS OF LEAD.
4.
a.

Liquor Plumhi Suhacetaiis.

[Acetate of lead, 5
Boil

for half

constantly

an] Powdered oxideoflead,3^

stirring.

(Distilled water, 20,

hour
Filter;

h.

22$

and when cold add water

to

make up

Keep in stoppered bottles.

20.
Characters. This solution is a dense clear
with alkaline reaction, and
colourless liquid;
sweet astring-ent taste; becoming- turbid by exposure to the air; and forming with mucilage of
acacia an opaque white jelly. Sp. gr. I 275.
Quantitative Test. 284-5 grains require for
perfect precipitation 500 grain-measures of Vol.
solution of oxalic acid.
Alkalies; lime water or hard
Incompatibles.
vegetable
water mineral acids and their salts
astringents ; opium
acids
iodide of potassium
albuminous fluids.

Liquor Plumhi Suhaceiatis Diluttis.

,,.
Solution of subacetate of lead,
~,
Mix and filter c j^^^^i^g J
i^it
^
through paper
(oistilled water, 79.
5

Plumhi cum Opio.

Beat into rAcetate of lead, in fine powder, 6
a uniform] Opium, in fine powder, i
mass
(Confection of roses, i.
6. Pilula

7.

Suppositoria

Made

with

...

oil

Plumhi Composila.

theobroma

of

into 15-grain sup-

Acetate of lead, gr.

^
positories, each containing ^
,

'

Opium, gr.

'

3
j

I.

8. Unguenta.
The several ointments containing
preparations of lead are made as follows:

Unguenlum Plumhi Acetatis.

Acetate of lead, in
Mix thoroughly
gr. 12
Benzoated lard, |

a.

fine

powder,

i.

MATERIA MEDICA.

226

Unguenium Phmbt Carhonalis.

[Carbonate of lead,
powder, gr. 62
Mix thoroug-hlyj
[Simple ointment, ^ i.

b.

c.

Unguentum Plumhi

Mix thoroughly J

in fine

powder.

gr. 62

[simple ointment, ^

Ungumtum

fine

lodidi.

[Iodide of lead,

d.

in

Glycerini

Melt j
P^'Sf
(Soft paraffin,

Plumhi

^ 18

of subacetate of lead,
mixture has cooled.

i.

Subacetalt's.

*en add

;
'

^ 4^,

and

stir

glycerine
*
until the
'

Action of Lead Group.

actions of the preparations and compounds
of lead may be readily summed up thus :
external
1. The large majority of them are for

The

use,

and they mainly

sedatives.
subacetate
lead

is

A
is

act as local

made

with

a local stimulant and alterative.

plaster is non-irritating, and is

pose of giving support to a part.
2.

astringents and

the solution of
a useful refrigerant. The iodide of
lotion

The

acetate

is

Lead

useful for the pur-

the only preparation of lead

It is a powerful astrinand is also regarded as a

administered internally.

gent and styptic

vascular sedative.
;

The pill and suppository

on account of the compreparations,
are useful
lead with opium.
of
acetate
the
bination of
Pill of Lead with
Acetate, gr. i to
4

Doses

Opium,

gr. 3 to 5.

227

ZINC.

XXV. ZINCUM-ZINC.
Summary. The B.P.
and compounds of

General

following- forms

Zinc

the

Commerce.

of
rZmc.^
/,
Zinciim ^
(jranuLatiim.
Zinci Oxidum Oxide of Zinc = ZnO.
'..r

1.

recog-nises
zinc

11-

Metallic

Ziitcum
ry.

2.

a.

Zmci Acelas Acetate of Zinc =

Zn(C2H30,) 2H,0.

PrePrczparata
Calamina
pared Calamine Native Carbonate of Zinc.
Carbonate of
Zinci Carbonas

c.

Zinc=Zr\COy (Zn2H0) H,0.

3.

Salts of

d.

Zinc.
e.

Chloridum
Chloride of
Zi?tcZnQA2.
Zitici Sulphas
Sulphate of Zinc
Zitici

= ZnSO

7H,0.

f. Zinci Sulphocarbolas
carbolate

of Zinc

Sulpho-

Zn(C6HsS0,) H3O.

Zinci ValeriaTias
Valerianate
Zn(CjHg03)2.
of Zinc

4.

Preparations
of

a.

Liquor Zinci Chloridi {QxxrnQtt^

Disinfecting Fluid).

Officinal

Compounds
of Zinc.

Oleaiuin Zitici

Unguentum

d.

,,

,,

,,

Calamines.

e.

A.

-Oleate

b.
c.

of Zitic.

Zinci.
Oleati.

Metallic Zinc.

Zinc of Commerce is introduced into the B.P.

for
the purpose of making granulated zinc.

Q2

MATERIA MEDICA.

228

Granulaled Zinc is used for making certain of the

of zinc.
It is prepared by melting
zinc in an eartlien crucible; pouring it in a very
thin stream into about two gallons of cold water;
draining and drying.

compounds

Oxide of Zinc.

B.

Source and Preparation. Expose carbonate

of zinc to dull red heat in a loosely covered
a portion taken /ro?n the
longer effervesces when
no
centre, and
dipped into diluted
and
water
with
moistened
until

Hessian crucible,

cooled,

sulphuric acid.
to

stoppered

When

cool, transfer the

product

bottles.

of zinc may also

zinc
by combustion.
metallic

Oxide

be prepared

from

Characters and Properties.

powder,
a. Oxide of zmc is a soft, nearly white
becoming pale yellow when heated.
b. It is tasteless and odourless.
insoluble in water, but dissolves, without
effervescence, in diluted nitric acid.
Sulphate, chloride, and lead.
Impurities.
c.

It is

C.

Salts of Zinc.

Source and Preparation. Under

the several salts of zinc

may be

this

heading

considered

in the

which they are obtained.

Calamine. T\i\^ is native carbonate
Prepared
1
crucible at
of zinc, calcined in a covered earthen
and treed
powdered,
a moderate temperature,

girder in

elutriation.
from gritty particles by

2.

SALTS OF ZINC.

229

Chloride Frapared from the metal, by

direc/

combination.
r

a.

Add by

degrees

Hydrochloric acid, n 3 44
Distilled water, O
i

porcelain
to granulated^ zinc, lb i, in a
basin, and aid the action by gently warming
on a sand-bath until gas is no longer evolved.

Zn+2HC1
h.

= H,+ZnCU.

Boil for half an hour,

and allow

to

it

adding

vi^ater for loss

stand on a cool part for 24

hours, stirring frequently.

If,

on testing the

liquid,

it

iron or lead, these impurities

by the following process

be found

to

contain
rid of

must be got

c.

botUe pour in solution

of chlorine by degrees, with frequent agi-

Filter into a gallon

tation, until

the fluid acquires a [lermanent

odour of chlorine.
d.

Add carbonate of

e.

Filter through

3.

zinc, in small quantities at a time, and with renewed agitation,

until a brown sediment appears, and the
whole of the iron or lead is thus precipitated.

paper into a porcelain basin

evaporate until a portion of the liquid withdrawn on the end of a glass rod, and cooled,
forms an opaque white solid. Pour it into
moulds; and when the salt has solidified,
but before it has cooled, place it in closely
stoppered bottles.

Sulphate.

Prepared

from the metal, by

direct

combination.

When
action

Sulphuric acid, fl^ 12) on granulated

zinc, I 16.
Distilled water, O4 f

effervescence has nearly ceased, aid the

by heat.
Zn

+ H,SO,=ZnSO, + H,.

MATERIA MEDICA.

230
b.

If,

on

testing-,

the liquid

is

found

to

contain

must be filtered, and treated with

chlorine water and carbonate of zinc,
iron,

as
c.

in preparing-

Filter the

chloride of zinc.

solution

evaporate

till

a pellicle

and set aside to crystallise. Dry the

crystals by exposure to the air on filtering
paper placed on porous tiles. More crystals
may be obtained by ag-ain evaporating the
mother liquor.
Carbonate.- Prepared from the sulphate, by
forms

4.

it

double decomposition.
a.

b.

c.

10
Sulphate of zinc,
water,
distilled
O I,
Boiling
I
of sodium, 1 \o\\ stirring
Carbonate
J
1 Boiling distilled water, Oi, J diligently.

p
rour

for 15 minutes after effervescence has

ceased; and let the precipitate subside.
Decant the supernatant liquor wash the precipitate from sulphate of sodium by repeated
collect it on
affusions of hot distilled water
calico, drain, and dry at a moderate tem-

Boil

perature.
5.

Valerianate.

Prepared

from the sulphate, by

double decomposition.

Mix nearly [Sulphate of zinc, ls\\

Distilled water, O 2. J
boiling
solutions Valerianate of sodium, 1s\
[Distilled water, O 2.
of
J
ZnS04-i-2NaCsH,0,=-Na,SO, + Zn2C.Hg03.

a.

b.
c.

Cool and skim off the crystals formed.

Evaporate the mother liquor under 200 to
and remove more crystals.
cool
1 4
Drain the crystals on a paper filter; wash
with a small quantity of cold distilled water
from sulphate of sodium drain again and
dry on filtering paper at ordinary tem;

d.

peratures.

23I

SALTS OF ZINC.

may also be prepared by

with carbonate of zinc.
acid
saturating- valerianic
solution.
6 Ace/aie. Ma.de from the carbonate, by
successive
in
zinc,
2,
of
I
a. Add carbonate
Valerianate of zinc

(Acetic acid,

portions, to {i,igtiiied

h.

c.

fl

^ 3

linaflask

| 6[
Heat g-ently, and add by deg-rees more acetic
acid till the carbonate is dissolved.
and
Boil for a few minutes; filter while hot;
mother
the
Decant
set aside to crystallise.
set
liquor, evaporate to one half, and again
crysthe
dry
and
Drain
aside to crystallise.

water,

fl

by exposure to the air at ordinary temspread on filtering- paper on a

porous tile.
be obtained by heating7. Sulphocarboldte.U.a.y
and sulphuric acid,
acid
carbolic
a mixture of
of zinc, evapooxide
with
product
the
saturatingtals

peratures,

and crystallising.
Characters and Properties. In describing their
characters, the salts of zinc may be sub-divided
into two groups, namely:
rating-

A. Non-crystalline salts.
a. The carbonate of zinc
1. Carbonate.

is

a white

powder.
odourless and tasteless.
insoluble in water; soluble in diluted
nitric acid, with effervescence, and without

b.

It is

c.

It

is

residue.

This is a pale pinkishPrepared Calamitte.

almost entirely
grittiness
brown powder, without
in
acids.
effervescence,
with
soluble,
2.

3.

Chloride.

a.

This

salt

occurs in rods or tablets,

which are colourless and opaque.

b. It is very deliquescent and caustic.
(lO in 4),
c. It dissolves almost entirely in water
alcohol, or ether.
,

MATERIA MEDICA.

232

B. Crystalline Salts.

b.

a. The acetate of zinc is in thin

crystalline plates, which are translucent and
colourless, with a pearly lustre.
It is soluble in water (lo in 25).

c.

It

1.

2.

b.

c.

3.

b.

Acetate.

has a sharp unpleasant taste.

a. Sulphate of zinc occurs in small
prismatic crystals, like sulphate of magnesia,
which are colourless and transparent.
It is soluble in water (10 in 7)
and is effloSulphate.

rescent.
It has a strong- metallic styptic taste.
Sulphocarbolatc
a. This salt is in tabular
crystals, colourless and transparent.
They dissolve in about twice their weight of

water; and are efflorescent.

rectified spirit or
4.

Valerianate.

a.

The

valerianate of zinc

tabular crystals, which are white,

is

in

brilliant,

and pearly.
b.

They have a

feeble odour of valerianic acid

and a metallic

taste.

scarcely soluble in cold water

or ether, soluble in hot water and alcohol.
heated with diluted sulphuric acid,
d. When
valerianic acid is distilled, which, when
mixed with solution of acetate of copper,
does not immediately affect the transparency
of the fluid, but forms after a time oily drops,
which gradually pass into a bluish-white
valerianate of copper.
crystalline deposit
The following are the chief impuriImpurities.
ties of the salts of zinc
Sulphates, chlorides, lead.
Acetate.
c.

This

salt is

Carbonate. Sulphates and chlorides.

Chloride. Sulphate, lime, iron and lead.
:

Sulphate. Iron, lead, and copper.

Stdphocarbolate.?>n\^h3L\.e, lime.
S\x\^h.a.ie, butyric acid.
Valerianate.

ACTION OF ZINC GROUP.

IncompatiblesThe incompatibles of preparatheir carbonates;
tions of zinc are alkalies and
nitrate of silver
acetate of lead
lime-water
decoctions; and
or
infusions
vegetable
astringent
;

milk.

Officinal Preparations of Zinc.

D.

Liquor Zmci Chloridi.T\<\^ solution is prepared in the same way as the chloride, except that
filtered liquid
in the final part of the process the
the bulk of two
is evaporated until it is reduced to
1.

pints.

Characters. A colourless fluid, of astringent

and sweetish taste; sp. gr. 1-460.
Oleaiiim ZinciOleate of Zinc.

2.

the mixture to stand for two hours ; then heat on

a water-bath until the oxide is dissolved.

Unguentuni Zinci.

3.

,j

Oxide of zinc, gr.

Melted benzoated

Unguentum Zinci

4.

80, to
lard, ^i,)
)

and
till

stir

cool.

Oleati.

Mix by

the aidjOleate of zinc,

of a little heat (Soft paraffin,

n
i,j

and

stir until

nearly cold.

Action of Zinc Group.

The

action of the zinc

compounds which are

used medicinally are as follows

The solution of chloride of zinc is a valuable

deodorant and disinfectant, and is much emI.

ployed for these purposes.

MATERIA MEDICA.

234

2. Several of the preparations of zinc are used

as external or local applications. The oxide and
prepared calamine, in the form of powders, are
absorbent; the several ointments are somewhat
astringent and sedative, and |)romote the healing of wounds or ulcers.
The chloride is a
powerful escharotic ; its solution is antiseptic,
and much diluted it may be employed as an
astringent. Sulphate of zinc is a mild caustic,
and in solution it is also employed as an astringent.
The sulphocarbolate is antiseptic and
astringent.
3. Internally the oxide and acetate of zinc are
astringents. The oxide is much employed as an
anhydrotic.
Sulphate and acetate of zinc act
as simple emetics in full doses.
All the compounds of this metal which are administered internally are regarded as nervine tonics, but

especially the valerianate.

Doses Of Oxide of Zinc, gr. 2 to 10.
Acetate, gr. 1 to 2
as an emetic, gr.
10 to 20.
Sulphate, gr. I to 3
as an emetic, gr,
10 to 30.
Valerianate, gr. i to 3.

DILUTED HYDROCYANIC ACID.

XXVI. ORGANIC

235

CHEMICAL PRODTJCTS.

AciDUM Hydrocyanicum Dilutum

Diluted Hydrocyanic Acid.

A.

Solution of 2 per cent, of

in water.

HCN

gas

Source and Preparation. From ferrocyanide

of potassium, by the following process
:

Sulphuric acid, J
a. M1.K
water, fl ^ 4.
Distilled
I
Ferrocyanide
of potassium, | 2^
b When f
Distilled
water,
add
cool,
J 10.
I
f

fl

fl

c.

slowly into a cold receiver containing"

fl^8, until the whole meaand
fl|i7,
add distilled water to the
sures
required strength.

Distil

distilled water,

2K4FeCy6+6H,SO^=FeK,FeCy6+6KHS04+6HCy
Diluted hydrocyanic acid should be kept in wellbottles, tied over with impervious tissue.
The bottles should be inverted when not in use,
.and be kept in a dark place.

corked

Characters and Properties

a. Diluted hydrocyanic acid is a colourless
b. It has a powerful and peculiar odour.
:

liquid.

cooling
then irritating.
only slightly and transiently reddens litmus
paper.
e. Sp. gr. 0-997.
/. A fluid drachm evaporated in a platinum
dish leaves no fixed residue.
Impurities.
Sulphuric and hydrochloric acids.
The presence of a trace of mineral acid is said to
prevent decomposition.
c.

Its taste is at first

d.

It


MATERIA MEDICA.

236

Quantitative Tests

/lOOO

270 grains, rendered alkaline by

a.

-require-J

solution of soda,

b.

100 grains (or

no

grain-measures

of
Vol.
solution oj
Nitrale
Silver,
of
before a permanent
precipitate forms

minims), precipitated with

a solution of nitrate of silver, and the precipitate

thoroughly washed and dried, yield 10 grains of
cyanide of silver.
Pharmacy.

Officinal Prepaj-alion.

l.

Vapor Acidi\T>\\\x\.ed hydrocyanic acid,

Hydrocyanici (Cold water, fls i-

10 to 15

ill

2. Diluted hydrocyanic acid is an ingredient

Tinctura Chloroform! et Morphinae.
3.

Incompatibles.

copper, and iron

Sulphurets;

of

salts

in

silver,

red oxide of mercury.

Action. Externally hydrocyanic acid is a cutaneous sedative, and is especially used for this
purpose in the form of cyanide of potassium, made
Internally it is a valuable gastric,
into a lotion.

pulmonary, and vascular sedative; and

an

Hydrocyanic acid is a powerful

The
poison, acting as a general depressant.
vapour is inhaled as a pulmonary sedative, to:
relieve cough and difficulty of breathing.

antispasmodic.

Dose

y\\

2 to

B, Alcohol

8.

Amylicum Amylic

Alcohol.,

form of alcohol, commonly known as

fousel oil, is recognised in the B.P. as a distinct
preparation, which consists of amylic alcohol,
This

C^HiiHO, with a small proportion of other

ous substances.

spiritu-;

ETHYLIC ALCOHOL GROUP.

237

conSource and Preparation. A liquid of oily

by
produced
spirit
sistence, contained in the crude
solutions with yeast,
the fermentation of saccharine
or distillation of
rectification
and separated in the
It should be distilled, and the
at 253 to 260 be alone
over
passing
product

.uch crude spirit.

collected for use.

Characters and Properties

liquid.
a. Amylic alcohol is a colourless
odour;
oppressive
and
penetrating
b. It has a
taste.
burning
and a
0-8i8.
c. When pure its sp. gr. is
:

It

d.

in all

is sparingly soluble in water, but soluble

proportions in alcohol, ether, and essential

oils.

the air in contact with platinumblack, amylic alcohol is slowly oxidised, yielding
valerianic acid.
e.

Exposed

to

Pharmacy. Amylic alcohol is introduced into

purpose of making Amyl Nitris

the B.P. for the

and Sodii Valerianas.

C.

Ethylic Alcohol Group.

General Summary. The forms and preparations

in which ethylic alcohol is recognised in the B.P.,
may be thus arranged
:

Ethylicum Ethylic Alcohol

1. Alcohol
Absolute Alcohol = CjHjHO, with i, or at most

per cent, of water.

2.

Rectified Spirit.
Spiritus Tenuior Proof Spirit. Diluted

Spiritus Rectificatus

Alcohol with 16 per cent, of water.

3.

rectified spirit,

containing about 49 per cent, by

weight, about 57 per cent, by volume, of alcohol.

MATERIA MEDICA.

238

4. Spiritus Vini Gallici French Brandy

Contains about 55 per cent, of alcohol by measure,
with volatile oil and oenanthic ether.
a.

5.

Mistura Spiritus Vini

Gallici.

Vinum Xericum Sherry Wine. Con-

tains 17 to 18 per cent, of alcohol, oenanthic ether,

cream of
6.

tartar, malates, sugar, etc.

Vinum Aurantii Orange Wine

Con-

tains 10 to 12 per cent, of alcohol.

Source and Preparation. This part of the submay be very briefly discussed.
This is made by first macera1. Absolute alcohol.
ting rectified spirit, O i, with carbonate of
potassium, ^ 2, for 24 hours, with frequent agi-

ject

tation; then with small fragments of recently fused

and cooled chloride of calcium for the same
and finally distilling.
time in a flask
dry
condenser is closely connected with a receiver,
from which the access of air is excluded. The first

be returned

fl^ 2 distilled should

then the distillation

been recovered.

to the flask,

continued until

fl,^

15

and
have

Obtained by the distillation

2. Rectified spirit.
of fermented saccharine fluids, in which the Tonda
cerevisicE is present, at a temperature between 60^
and 80. The sugar is decomposed into alcohol
and carbonic acid C6Hi206 2C03+2C2HaO.
The product is rectified, until it is of the proper-

density.

^.

Proof spirit.

4.

Brandy.

5.

6.

Rectified spirit, 5

Mixj^^^^^^^^/
T\/r-

from French wine.

Spirit
A Spanish wine.
Sherry
Wine made Britain, by the
Orange
distilled

ivine.

ivine.

in

fermentation of a saccharine solution, to which the,

fresh peel of the bitter orange has been added.

ETHYLIC ALCOHOL GROUP.

239

It is only necesalcoholic group,

purely
the
here
to
allude
sary to
(excluding brandy and wines), and their characters and properties may be readily summed up

Characters and Properties.

thus:

They are colourless and very mobile liquids.

have a characteristic pleasant odour
b. They
more
or less strong spirituous burning taste.
and a
a.

little rectified spirit rubbed on the back of the

hand leaves no unpleasant smell after the spirit

has evaporated.
to evaporate; are entirely volac. They tend
and are inflammable, burning
tilised with heat
smoke.
without
flame
with a blue
i Ethylic alcohol, 0797 to 0-Soo
d. Sp. gr. I Rectified spirit, 0838
Proof spirit, 0 920.
The several liquids remain clear when diluted
e.
with distilled water.
mixes in all proportions with,
f. Rectified spirit
water, ether, acetic ether, and amyl nitrite.
g. Rectified spirit dissolves ammonia, potash
iodine and.
(not the carbonate), soda, and lithia
bromine; sulphur; phosphorus; many alkaline
and metallic salts, especially those that are deliquescent castor oil
camphor and volatile oils;,
balsams; tannic and gallic acids; sugar and mannite; several vegetable alkaloids
and colouring
matters.
Tests.
In the B.P. special tests are applied to
ethylic alcohol and rectified spirit.
1. Alcohol ^o^?, not cause anhydrous sulphate of
copper to assume a decided blue colour, even after
the two have been well shaken together.
(This
shows absence of water).
2. Rectified spirit.
fl^4with 30 grain- measures
of Vol, solution of nitrate of silver, exposed for 24
hours to bright light, and then decanted from the
;


MATERIA MEDICA.

"240

black powder which has formed, undergoes n<

further change when again exposed to light with
(This indicates that amylic
more of the test.
are not present in excess}.
aldehyde
alcohol and
i.
Pharmacy.
Officinal Preparation.
us
Vini Gallici.
Spirit
Mistura

^"^^ ^
^^^^ I
top-ether J
together
]
| ^gf^^g^j ^^gar, l\
water,
Cinnamon
rufl2.
J
^"dadd
[O^^^^^^Ha.
{French brandy,

Rnh
Kub

'

2.

The members

of

group are

alcoholic

the

pharmaceutically employed in making several important preparations in the B.P., as follows

a. Ethylic alcohol is used in making Liquor Sodii
:

Ethylatis.
b.

Rectified spirit is
constituent of:

used

(i)

Several Tinctures.

(ii)

Almost

all

in

preparing, or

the officinal Spirits,

and

is

the:

Essences.
the alkaloids, and santonine.
of several alkaloids,
Solutions
(iv)
in preparing :
used
is
spirit
Proof
Most Tinctures.
(i)
(iii)

c.

Most of

Spiritus Armoracise Compositus.

Sherry wine is the basis of all the

(ii)

d.

officinal

Wines, except
Of arge-wine AY'xnum Ferri Citratis,
e.
contained injVinum Quininse.
Action. Alcohol is an antiseptic, but is noti
therapeutically.'
definitely used for this purpose
of wine, it is!
spirit
Externally, in the form of
stimulantl
allowed
is
refrigerant, if evaporation
Somet
prevented.
is
evaporation
or rubefacient, if
:

'

of the

spirits

in

ordinary use, such as gm on

in a diluted form, asi

whisky are often employed

cooling applications.

Internally, alcohol in various

^THER GROUP.

241

forms and doses may act as a gastric stimulant;

a diffusible stimulant, especially affecting the
nerve-centres and heart;
a depressant and
narcotic in full doses; diaphoretic; diuretic;
or antipyretic.

BoseOi Mistura

D.

Spiritus Vini Gallici,

include
I.

of

The

in

2.

to 2.

the

B.P.

^ther Ether Sulphuric Ether.

liquid prepared from alcohol,

taining not less than 92 per cent, by
pure ether (C^HjoO).

forms and

different

Ether recognised

volatile

^THER Group.

General Summary.
preparations

fl

and convolume of

^ther Purus Pure Ether. Ether

free

from alcohol and water.

Spiritus -ffitheris Spirit of

3.
mixture of ether and rectified spirit =

Ether
i

to 2.

^theris Compositus Com4. Spiritus

pound Spirit of Ether Hoffmann's Anodyne. A mixture of ethereal oil with spirit of
ether.

'

5. Spiritus .ffitheris Nitrosi Spirit of Nitrous Ether

Sweet Spirit of Nitre.
A
spirituous solution containing nitrou.
compounds,

aldehyd, and other substances.

6.
1

C3H5C,H30,.
Source and Preparation
I.

'

^therAceticus Acetic Ether Acetate

ofEthyl

^M^r.

This

rectihed spirit,

compound is obtained from

by a somewhat complicated process
R


MATERIA MEDICA.

242

the

continuous

etherificaiion

process,

of

which the

following are the essential parts

,
a ( Sulphuric acid, fl ^ lo ]_
a. Mix. in
glass flask t Rectified spirit, fl^ 12 J
distil at a temperature sufficient to maintain
the liquid in brisk ebullition.
b. As soon as the ethereal fluid begins to pass
over, supply fresh spirit by means of a
specially- arranged tube in a continuous
stream, and in such quantity as to equal
the volume of the fluid which distils over.
When the remainder of fl^ 50 of spirit has
been added, and flj42 have distilled over,
the process may be stopped.
of calcium, I 10
c. Agitate the im- f Chloride
lime,
Slaked
in
a4
pure ether
1 \
( Distilled water, fl ^ 1 3
bottle with
minutes,
d. Leave the mixture at rest for 10
pour off the supernatant fluid, and distil
until the distillate reaches sp. gr. 0735.
In this process suJphovinic acid is first formed,
:

thus:-H,S04 + C,H60 = C,H6S04 + H,0.

The sulphovinic acid is agam decomposed by the
formed :
alcohol, ether and sulphuric acid being
=
QH.oO.
QHeSO, + C.HeO H,SO, +
The ether is then purified from sulphurous and
sulphuric acids, and water.
ether, thus :
2 /Ether Funis. Prepared from
water, Oi,
distilled
with
a. Shake ether, O2,
spirit.
rectified
the
remove
in a bottle, to
off
decant
separated,
have
liquids
I When the
diswith
this
Mix
ether.
the supernatant
after separatilled water, O i, and again,
tion, decant.
ether for 24 hours with
c Dicrest the washed

of
burnt lime, ? i, and chloride
the
remove
calcium, I 14- in a retort, to
reDistil into a closely-attached
water.
re1;ently

ceiver.


^THER GROUP.

^theris Compositiis.

4.

Spirilus

a.

Gradually

mix

b.

5.

36")

'

Shake

the

Spiritus jfEtheris Nitrosi.

distillate

with lime-

Made from

by the following method

\AA
Add

c.

fl

water to neutralize any acid; remove the

supernatant liquid, and expose it to the air
for about 12 hours.
Pour fl 3 3 of the f Ether, fl J 8
liquid into
\ Rectified spirit, fl^ 16.

spirit,

b.

Sulphuric acid,

J
^"
Rectified spirit, fl J 40 J
let the mixture stand for 24 hours.
Distil until the fluid in the retort begins to

blacken.

c.

243

J
11
gradually

Sulphuric acid,

fl

rectified

? 2, to)

| R^^^^ified spirit, O i
and then add gradually Nitric acid, fl^ 2^.
Distil in a retort or flask with fine copper
wire, ^2, between 170 and 180, until
fl^ 12 have passed over into a bottle, it and
the condenser being kept cool with ice-cold
water.

Allow

the

contents

of the

retort

to

cool;

again add nitric acid, flji|; and distil

until the distillate has increased to flj 14.
d.

Mix with rectified

spirit, O2, or as much

as will m.ake the product correspond to a
special test.
{^See B.P., p. 378).

Made

6.

Mlher Acetutis.

a.

Slowly add I S^'^P^^T ^^^t' ^ I

I
^
\ Rectified spirit, fl J 32I
j
keeping the fluid cool
then add acetate of
sodium, 1 40, mixing thoroughly.

in

the following

way:

'

b.

Distil flj45.

R2

MATERIA MEDICA.

244
c.

Digest the

distillate

with freshly dried carJ 6, for 3 days

bonate of potassium,

Separate the ethereal fluid, and again distil

until all but about fl24 have passed over.
Preserve in a well-closed bottle, in a coo'
place.
aceiic add is
In this process elher is formed
sodium
they comacetate
of
liberated from the
water
with
some
distilling
over,
ether
bine, acetic
;

which

is

afterwards removed.

H,SO, + C.HfiO = QHfiSO, + H,0

CHfiSO^ + NaC,H30, = C,Yif,,Up, + NaHSO,.

The characters
Characters and Properties.
preparaethereal
and properties of the several
following
the
in
tions may be readily grouped

way

Spirit
1. They are colourless mobile liquids.
of nitrous ether may have a faint yellow tinge.
2.

They are

and pure

volatile, especially ether

ether, with the production of considerable cold

they leave no residue on evaporation

inflammable.

and are

different forms of ether have each

characteristic odour and taste
and
peculiar
3.

The

Taste.

Odour.

Ether

Strong

and

sweet

Hot and pungent.

fragrant.

Nitrous Ether

Agreeable
trating

Acetic Ether

Agreeable:

and pene- Sweetish

apple-like.

sharp.

ethereal; Burning.

faintly like apples.

cooling and


^THER GROUP.
4.

Their respective Sp. gr. are as follows

=0735
yEther
=0720
^ther Purus
:

....

Spiritus yEtheris
Spiritus ^theris Nitrosi

^ther

Aceticus

=0-809
=0*840 to 0-845
about=o-900
.

Nitrous ether has a slight acid reaction usubut does not effervesce, or only feebly, when
shaken with a little bicarbonate of sodium. The
other forms should be neutral.
5.

ally,

6. Fifty measures of ether ag-itated with an equal

volume of water are reduced to 45, by an absorpAcetic ether is soluble in
tion of 10 per cent.
Spirit of ether readily
water (about i in lo).
Ether is soluble in all promixes with water.
portions in rectified spirit; and acetic ether in laoth
rectified spirit and ether.
7.

Ether dissolves iodine, bromine, and corrosive

sulphur and phosphorus spar-

sublimate freely
ingly; volatile

and

fixed oils;

many

resins

and

balsams; caoutchouc; and most of the vegetable

alkaloids. It does not dissolve the caustic alkalies.
Special and Quantitative Tests.
Ether. W\\en shaken with one-fourth
1. Pure
lof its bulk of (Solution of iodide of potassium and
>a little starch paste, no blue colour is produced.

of Nitrous Ether.
agitated in a test tube with a strong
solution of sulphate of iron, if a few drops of
strong sulphuric acid are poured down the
side of the tube, a deep olive-brown or black
zone is produced, widening as the tube is
gently shaken.

2.

Spirit

a.

When

b.

Tested

in a special way, (as described in

Pharmaceutical
otmial), it should yield, at the

ordinary temperature and pressure, and

when

246

MATERIA MEDICA.
freshly- prepared, seven
nitric

times its volume of

oxide gas; and even after it has been

kept some time, and the vessel containing- it

has occasionally been opened, it should yield
not much less than five times its volume of
the gas.

Pharmacy.
i. Ether \% contained in Collodion;
Collodion Flexile; and Tinctura Chloroformi et
Morphinse. It is also used in making Extractum
Filicis

Liquidum, Extractum Mezerei yEthereum,

and Extractum Stramonii.

of Ether is contained

Spirit

2.

in

Tinctura Lobelias-

^therea.
Acetic Ether

3.

is

used

in

making Liquor Epis-

pasticus.

Spirit

of Nitrous Ether is insulphate of

gallic and tannic
tincture of guaiacum
iron
acids; and emulsions.
Inconipatibles.

4.

compatible with iodide of potassium

;

Ether, administered by inhalation,

Action.-

is

general anaesthetic, pure ether being specially

and extensively employed during operations for
Externally, it may be used as a
this purpose.
refrigerant, local anaesthetic, stimulant, or
rubefacient, according to the mode of appliInternally this remedy is usually given
cation.
in the form of spirit of ether or compound spirit
of ether, and it may act under different circum-

stances

as

powerful

diffusible

stimulant,

antispasmodic, narcotic, or stimulant expectorant. As a diffusible stimulant ether is also

Acetic
injected subcutaneously in urgent cases.
ether has similar actions, hut is less powerful.
Spirit of nitrous ether is a stimulant, but is chiefly
employed as a diaphoretic, or diuretic. It is a
common ingredient in "saline mixtures," being a
useful febrifuge.

CHLOROFORM.

247

ill 20 to 60.
Spirit of Ether, ill 3 to 90.
Compound Spirit of Ether,

Doses Of Ether,

ill

30

to

fl3 2.

Acetic Ether, ill 20 to 60.

Spirit of Nitrous Ether, fl 3 | to

2.

Chloroform
Chloroformum
TeRCHLORIDE of FoRMYL^CHClj.

E.

Source and Preparation. Chloroform is prepared from chlorinated lime and rectified spirit, by
an elaborate process, of which the following- are
the essential parts

1.

first

Chlorinated lime,
Slaked lime, th 5

Distil, at

ib 10

with heat Rectified spirit, fl^ 30

j

(water, C

3.

When

the distillate reaches fl^SO mix it

water by shaking, and allow the mixRemove the
ture to separate into two strata.
=
wash it rechloroform;
crude
lower stratum
peatedly with distilled water; and agitate it for 5
minutes with an equal volume of pure sulphuric
2.

well with

acid.
3.

Separate
with

the

chloroform

Chloride of calcium,
Slaked lime, ? 1

and

agitate

it

J 2

and re-distil by
the chloroform
4. Decant
means of a water-bath.
Add i per cent, by
;

weight of ethylic alcohol.

248

MATERIA MEDICA.

Characters and Properties

1. Chloroform is a colourless, limpid liquid.
2. It has an agreeable ethereal odour;
and a
:

sweet

taste.

neutral in reaction.
Sp. gr. 1-497.

It is

3.

4-

5. Chloroform is volatile; it evaporates speedily,

and leaves no residue and no unpleasant odour.
6. It burns, though not readily, with a green

smoky

flame.
soluble in water (i in 200)
in alcohol
and ether in all proportions.
8. Chloroform dissolves most resins and fats;
fixed and volatile oils; most organic alkaloids;
iodine and bromine; caoutchouc and gutta percha;
benzoin; wax partially
sulphur and phosphorus
sparingly.
It is

7.

Test.

After

agitation with sulphuric acid, the

not coloured to any greater extent than
that producible by absolute chloroform to which
per cent, of ethylic alcohol has been added.
I
latter is

Pharmacy.
a.

Aqua

Officinal Preparations

Chlorofonyii.

Dissolve by
shaking
c
'
* )( r-y.-i
Chloroform,
3 x
^
a two-pint^ Stop--<
.,,
\.
i-,.
|D.stilled water, arr
fl^ 25.

pered bottle

d.

Linimen/um Chloroformi.
Chloroform,
Mix f r
^
f
u
( Liniment or camphor,
,

c.

^^'^

Chloroform,

I.

Sp. gr. 0-87 1.

Spiriius Chloroformi.
,

d.

\ Rectified spirit, 19.

Tinciura Chloroformi Cotnposila.

C Chloroform, 2
Mix < Rectified spirit, 8
(Compound tincture of cardamoms, lO.

249

CHLOROFORM.
e.

Morphina.
r Hydrochlorate of morphine, gr. 8
Dissolve \ Oil of peppermint, 1U 4
Tinclura Chloroformi

et

(Rectified
.

J f

Chloroform,

^^^|Ether,fl3

fl

spirit, fl^ i,

2.

extract of liquorice,
\ Treacle, fl^ I
( Liquid

Mix

( Syrup, fl^

fl|

|
r

add this to the previously formed solution

mix thoroughly; add diluted hydrocyanic
acid, fl^^; and make up with syrup to
;

Action. Externally, chloroform may be employed as a cutaneous stimulant or rubefacient, especially in the form of liniment; and
when mixed with certain other drugs, it aids
This agent is chiefly
their absorption by the skin.
used, inhaled in the form of vapour, as a general
anaesthetic ; in small quantity, either alone or
with steam, it may also be administered in this
manner as a pulmonary sedative. Internally,
chloroform is chiefly used for its flavour, especially
as chloroform water, or as a gastric sedative,
pulmonary sedative, or antispasmodic ; in
large doses it becomes a narcotic.
Doses

Of Chloroform,

^^\

3 to 10.

Chloroform Water, fl J | to 2.
Spirit of Chloroform, nx 20 to 60.
Compound Tincture of Chloroform, 11x20
to 60.

Tincture of Chloroform and Morphine,

ins

to 10.


250

MATERIA MEDICA.

loDOFORMUM

F.

IODOFORM.

CHI3.

Source

and Preparation.
The B.P. merely
regard to iodoform, that it is "A product of the action of iodine on a mixture of alcohol and solution of carbonate of potassium."
Characters and Tests
1. Iodoform is in shining-, lemon-yellow, crystalline scales
somewhat greasy to the touch.
2. It has a persistent and disagreeable odour
states with

and

flavour.

It is very slightly soluble in cold water, more

soluble in rectified spirit, soluble in chloroform or
ether, readily and entirely soluble in warm ether.
4. The solutions are neutral to test-paper.
5. When heated, iodoform first melts to a brown
liquid, then gives off brown and violet vapours,
leaving a black residue which entirely disappears

3.

on continued ignition.
6. Warmed with an alcoholic solution of potash,
and the resulting fluid acidified by nitric acid,
iodine

is

liberated.

Pharmacy.
a.

Offititial

Suppositoria

Preparations

lodoformi.

Made

with

oil

theobroma, each suppository containing gr.

iodoform.
Unguentum lodoformi.
h.
Melt and J Iodoform, i
mix
\ Benzoated lard,

Action. Iodoform

is

of
of

9.

much employed

exter-

also administered
nally as an antiseptic.
that
it produces a
supposition
internally, on the
recomspecially
been
has
and
similar effect;
It

mended

in phthisis.

Bosegr. ^

to 3.

is


HYDRATE OF CHLORAL.

Hydrate
Chloral Hydras
=
C2HCI3O, H^O.
Chloral

G.

of

Source and Preparation. Chloral produced by

the action of dry chlorine gas on anhydrous
alcohol, purified by treatment, first with sulphuric acid (to remove water and alcohol),
and afterwards with a small quantity of lime
(to take up hydrochloric acid that is formed),
and finally converted into hydrous chloral by the
addition of

water.

Characters and Tests

small colourless
1. Hydrate of chloral is in
on exposure to
deliquesce
crystals, which do not
:

air.
2.

They have a

odour

peculiar, pungent, but not acrid

and a pungent and rather

bitter taste.

Hydrate of chloral is soluble in less than its

own weight of water, rectified spirit, or ether
and in four times its weight of chloroform.
aqueous solution is neutral or but
4. The
3.

slightly acid to test-paper

(absence of HCl).

Chloral hydrate melts with gentle heat to a

transparent liquid, which begins to
120; it boils in a test-tube, with
about
solidify at
pieces of broken glass, at from 202 to 206, volatilizes at a slightly higher temperature on platinum foil, without residue.
5.

colourless

6.

It is

decomposed by

alkalies into chloroform

and an alkaline formiate.

7. A solution in chloroform, agitated with sulphuric acid, does not impart colour to the acid
(absence of oily impurities;.

MATERIA MEDICA.

252

Quantitative Test.

lOO grains dissolved in

of distilled vi^ater, and mixed with 30 grains
of slaked lime, should yield not less than
70 grains
of chloroform on careful distillation.
flj

Pharmacy.

Officinal Preparation

Syrupus Chloral

= gr.

10 in

fl

I.

Dissolve

Action.

Externally hydrate

of chloral is used
Internally it acts

solution as an antiseptic.

in

and

as a cerebral sedative and hypnotic, spinal

sedative, and antispasmodic.
It may also be
employed as a pulmonary or cardiac sedative
under certain circumstances and in large doses
becomes a dangerous cardiac and pulmonary
depressant.
Dose Of Hydrate of Chloral, gr. 5 to 30
Syrup, fl 3 1 to 2.
;

Butyl-Chloral Hydras Hydrate

OF Butyl-Chloral = C^H^CljO, H^O.

H.

Source and Preparation. Butyl-chloral, produced by the action of dry chlorine gas on alde-

hyd

cooled to a temperature of 14, separated by

fractional distillation, and converted into the solid
hydrous butyl-chloral by the addition of water.

Characters and Tests

1.

Butyl-chloral hydrate

is in

pearly white cry-

stalline scales.

has a pungent but not acid odour, resembling that of hydrous chloral; and an acrid nauseous taste.
2.

It

NITRITE OF AMYL.
3.

own

soluble in about 50 parts of water, in its

weight of glycerine and of rectified spirit, and
It is

nearly insoluble in chloroform.

but slightly
4. The aqueous solution is neutral or
acid to test-paper.
fuses at about 172 to
5. Butyl-chloral hydrate
a transparent liquid, which in cooling, commences

about 160.
does not yield chloroform when heated
with solutions of potash or soda, or with milk of
to solidify at
6.

It

lime.

Action.- Butyl-chloral

is

hypnotic; and has

peculiar anodyne action upon the fifth

nerve, thus relieving neuralgia of the temples and

also

face.

Dose Gr.

I.

5 to 15.

Amyl Nitris Nitrite of Amyl

C^H^NO,.

Source and Preparation. A liquid produced

by the action of nitric or nitrous acid on amylic
alcohol, which volatilizes between 262 and 270.
It should be stored in hermetically-sealed vessels
or in well-stoppered bottles, and in a cool dark
place.

Characters and Properties:

1. Nitrite of amyl is an ethereal

liquid, of yel-

lowish colour.
2. It is very volatile
submitted to distillation
about 70 per cent, passes over at 194 to 212.
3. It has a peculiar, and not disagreeable odour.
4. Sp. gr. about o-88o.
5. Nitrite of amyl is insoluble in water
freely
soluble in alcohol, ether, and chloroform.
;

MATERIA MEDICA.

254

6. If added drop by drop to fused caustic potash,

valerianate of potash is formed.
Action. Nitrite of amy] is chiefly employed by
inhalation, and is a vaso-dilator and cardiac
stimulant, increasing considerably the frequency
of the heart's action, and diminishing arterial tension; it is especially used in the complaint named
angina pectoris.
It sometimes acts as a pulmonary sedative in asthma and is also a

spinal depressant.
Dose
'tion.

^111

\ to

To be

internally

ill

NiTRO-GlYCERINI TaBLETS
GLYCERINE.

TABELLiE

by inhala-

2 to 5

used with caution.

OF

NITRO-

These may be mentioned

here, and they are

as " Tablets of chocolate
each weighing two and a half grains, and containing one-hundredth of a grain of pure nitro-glycerine."
Action. Similar to Nitrite of Amyl.

described

Dose

in

the B.P.

or 2 tablets.

AciDUM Carbolicum Carbolic

HCgH^O.
Phenic Acid

J.

An

Source and Preparation.

from coal-tar oil, by fractional
sequent purification.

Characters and Tests.

acid

distillation

or

obtained

and sub-

Carbolic acid occurs in separate pulverulent

crystals, or in acicular crystalline masses.
very slight
2. They are colourless, or have a
reddish or brownish tint.
1.

CARBOLIC OR PHENIC ACID.

255

Carbolic acid has a peculiar and powerful

odour and taste.
4. The boiling point is not higher than 371, and
the melting point not lower than gi-S1066.
5. Sp. gr. at the melting point, 1060 to
6. At 60, 100 parts of the acid are liquefied by
dissolve 30
the addition of 5 to 10 parts of water
to 40 of water; and are dissolved by 1800 to 1200 of
water, the former and latter of these numbers being
respectively characteristic of the acicular and pulThe aqueous
verulent varieties of the acid.
solution should be clear and colourless, or nearly
3.

so.

Carbolic acid is freely soluble in alcohol,

benzol, chloroform, disulphide of carbon,
glycerine or glycerine and water, and in solution
7.

ether,

of alkalies.

does not redden blue litmus paper.

coagulates albumen and collodion.
It does not affect the plane of polarization of

8.

It

9.

It

10.

a ray

ot polarised light.

Neutral solution of perchloride of iron strikes

a deep purple colour, and bromine water gives a
white precipitate with a cold saturated aqueous
solution of carbolic acid. Solution of ammonia and
of chlorinated soda produce a deep purple coloration, especially after a time.
Impurities.
Cresol is present in the ordinary
carbolic acid, which causes it to change colour,
and modifies its boiling-point.
1

Pharmacy.
i.
Officmal Preparations.
a. Acidwn Carboliciim Liqtiefacttim
Liquefied Carbolic Acid.
Carbolic acid liquefied by the addition
of 10 per cent, of water.
Characters.
This is a colourless or very
slightly reddish or brownish liquid, with the odour
and taste of carbolic acid. Sp. gr. 1-064 to 1x67

at 60.

It

dissolves

18 to 26 per cent, of

water

MATERIA MEDICA.

256

yielding a clear or nearly clear solution,

at 60,

from which any slight coloured impurity separates

as dark oily drops.
b.

Glycerinum Acidi Carbolici.

Rub
c.

until dissolved
together
^

Suppositoria Acidi Carbolici

-[

^^""bolic acid,
(jrlycenne, 4.

cum Sapone.

Made

with curd soap and glycerine of starch,

each suppository containing gr. i of carbolic
acid.

d.

Unguentum Acidi
Kir

1.

Melt and

..

stir

Carbolici.

together!f
I

until cold

Carbolic acid,

Soft Paraffin, 12

[Hard

Paraffin, 6.

Carbolic acid is used in making the Sulphocarbolates of Sodium and Zinc.

2.

Carbolic acid is much used as a

general purposes.
disinfectant
2. As a local application it may act, according
to its strength, as caustic, irritant, stimulant,
or cutaneous sedative, but is chiefly and extensively employed as an antiseptic or disinfectant.
In the
It may also be used as a parasiticide.
Action.

i.

for

form of inhalation
septic purposes in

it is

much employed

aff"ections

for antiand:

throat

of the

respiratory organs.
Internally carbolic acid in small doses, or inn
the form of sulphocarbolate, acts as an antizymotior"
processes;
in the stomach, checking fermentative
remote*
and
immediate
an
as
used
and is also
it becomes a power-'
doses
large
In
antiseptic.
other grave re-i^
ful irritant poison, and produces
of thef
absorption
from
arise
also
may
suits, which
purposes.
antiseptic
for
applied
acid 'when
DoseOi Carbolic Acid, gr. i to 3 Liquefiedr
3.

Acid, ni

to 4.

CREASOTE.

Creasotum

K.

Creasote.

Source and Preparation.

distillation of

Characters and Tests.

\

product of the

wood-tar.

i.

Creasote

is

liquid,

colourless or with a yellowish tinge.

2. It has a strong empyreumatic odour
burning taste.

3.

Sp. gr.

4.

Creasote

freely
It is

and a

1-071.

is

sparingly dissolved by water, but

by alcohol,

ether,

and glacial

acetic acid.

insoluble in glycerine.

5. It

does not coagulate albumen, and

ble with collodion without production of

is

misci-

any pre-

cipitate.
6.

Dropped on white

to 212,

it

filtering

paper and heated

leaves no translucent stain.

7. It turns the plane of polarization of a ray of

[polarized light to the right.

8.

An aqueous

solution (i per cent.) with a

neutral solution of ferric chloride,
coloration, rapidly changing to a
and, unless the mixture is very
reddish-brown precipitate.

drop of a dilute
yields a green
reddish-brown,
dilute, giving a

Pharmacy.
a.

Officinal Preparaiions

Mislura Creasoti.
[Creasote, 11x15
IX
{Glacial acetic acid,

distilled

gradually add

water, flj 15; and I ^y^'^P'?.^ ^

^ ^'
'

i.

11115,

Unguenium

Creasoli.

Mix [ Creasote, 1
\ Simple ointment,

,
(bpiritofjuniper,fl 3 ^.

8.
s


MATERIA MEDICA.

258
c.

Vapor

Mix j
(

Creasoti.
g'-^,^^^^^'

Boiling- water,
8.
2, Incompatible.
Oxide of silver.

Action. The actions of creasote are very similar

to those of carbolic acid, but this drug- is more
especially an antiseptic and antizymotic. It
chiefly used as an application to carious teeth
as
an inhalation in pulmonary diseases; and to check
vomiting- or diarrhoea in certain conditions, probably mainly by its effects in preventing fermentation in the alimentary canal.
Dose Of Creasole, ill I t'3 3 Mixture, fl^ I to 2.
i

Paraffinum Durum
Paraffinum Molle

Hard Paraffin.
Soft Paraffin.

These two forms of paraffin are now

and they may be considered tog-ether.
Source and Preparation:

officinal,

Hard paraffin is a mixture of several of the

harder members of the paraffin series of hydro1.

carbons;

usually

obtained by distillation

from

shale, separation of the liquid oils by refrigeration, and purification of the solid product.

So/l paraffin is a semi-solid mixture containthe softer or more fluid members of

the paraffin series of hydro-carbons; usually obtained by purifying- the less volatile portions of
2.

ing-

some of

petroleum.

It is

known

in

commerce by various

names.
Characters and Tests. These may be summed
up as follows

fanciful

Appeara7ice. VLd.rd. paraffin is colourless, semitransparent, and crystalline; soft paraffin is white
or yellowish, translucent, soft, greasy.
I.

PARAFFIN.
2.
I

Both forms are inodorous and tasteless, and

is free from any unpleasant odour

the soft variety

or flavour, even
3.

5.

when warmed

Their reaction
r-

4.

259

Sp.

neutral.

is

f Hard = 0'82
gr.jg^f^ =0-84

Melli?ig (

Hard=

(Soft

to 120.

to 0'q4
to 0-87.

10 to 145

95 to 105 or hig-her.

Both varieties burn with a bright flame, leavno residue. The soft paraffin volatilizes without giving- acrid vapours.
6.

ing-

They are insoluble in water, slightly soluble

absolute alcohol, freely soluble in ether, chloroform, benzol, etc.
7.

in

8. Soft paraffin is not saponified

alkalies (absence of fats).

Pharmacy.

The paraffins

into the B.P. as a basis for

by solutions of

have been introduced

ointments, and

making

they enter into the composition of several of these

preparations, usually in combination, but in two
instances the soft paraffin is used separately.

Action.

The paraffins are valuable emollients,

as they cannot

become rancid or

irritant.

s 2


26o

MATERIA MEDICA.

Section

III.

THE ORGANIC KINGDOM.

This king-dom includes the two divisions of:
or Botanical. 2. Animal. I propose to treat of these divisions according to the
following- plan
arrange, in a tabular form, the drugs
1. To
immediately derived from the vegetable kingdom
under their several Natural Orders, with the view of
simply making the student acquainted at the outset
{b) bota7iical and geographical
with their {a) names
to the part or parts of the
as
ftaiure,
(c)
sources;
product obtained from
special
any
or
plant used,
the active prinespecially
constiluenis,
chief
{d)
it;
familiar
tolerably
himself
make
should
He
ciples.
proceeding
before
subject,
the
of
outline
this
with
I.

Vegetable

further.

discuss the vegetable drugs under (jroups,

&c.), or
as parts of plants (roots, leaves, flowers,
mdi&c.),
oils,
particular products (gums, resins,
natural
and
source,
Their nature, officinal
2.

To

cating -.a.
order;

and
3.

b.

d.

Thew

Their

To

c\\\ei characters;

actions

and

c.

Their pharmacy;

doses.
_

give a brief account of the drugs derived

from the Animal Kingdom.

261

TABLE OF NATURAL ORDERS.

TABLE OF NATURAL ORDERS.

EXOGEN.'E,

I,

A. Thalamiflor^.
Nat. Ord. BAN'TTNCUIiACB.a:.

Botanical Source or Officinal Nature

Part of Active Principles, and
Name of Plant.
Chief Constituents,
Plant or Product.
Geographical Source.

Aconitum
Napellus.

I.

Aconiti Folia.

fresh leaves

The

Indigenous.

recognized

ing tops, gathered in tain

1. Aconitina, the ofJuly, when about onethird of the flowers are ficinal alkaloid.
:

Monkshood.

the

All

and flower- parts of the plant con-

2. Aconellin, pscndAconiti Radix. aconitin, and other alThe dried root, col- kaloids.
lected in winter and
3. Aconitic acid.

expanded.
2.

Cultivated in
Britain.

Root also
imported from
Germany.

early spring.
3.

Aconitina.

Podophyllum
Feltatum.

American

may

Apple.

The

alkaloid derived from

the root.

1.

zoma.
zome.

Podophylli Rhi-

The

dried rhi-

Podophylli Resina
Resin
of Podophyl-

1.

Podophyllin, the

officinal resin.
2.

Berberine, an al-

.kaloid.

2.

United States. lum.

The resin obImported from tained from the rhiNorth America. zome.

1.

2.

Podophyllotoxin.
Picropudophyllin.

262

MATERIA MEUICA.

Botanical Source or

Name

of Plant.

Cimicifuga

Nature
Part
Plant or Product.

Officinal

Geographical Source.

of

CimicifngcE Rhizoma.
dried rhizome and

Kacemosa.

Active Principles, and

Chief Constituents.

The

2.

Volatile
Resins.

rootlets.

3.

Tannin.

1.

oil.

(Actsea

Racemosa).
United States.

Delphinium
Staphisag^na

StaphisagricB Scmina.
elphinine
dried ripe seeds. other alkaloids.

and

The

Stavesacre.
S. Europe.

Hat.
Illicium

Anisi
Stellati
Star Anise

1.

Anisatum.

Friictns
Fruit.

Star Anise.

fruit.

The

Volatile

oil.

dried

2. Oleum
Anisi.
Volatile oil distilled
from the fruit.

China.

Nat.

Jateorhiza
CEUvunba.

Ord.

or

Columbo.

IESriSFZ:RIACi:.s:.

Cabanbce

The

Radix.

1.

Calumbine, aneu

root sliced trans- tral principle.

versely,

Calumba

MAON'OX.IACE.a:.

Ord.

and

dried.

2.

Calumbic'

acid.
3. Bcrberine,

an alkaloid.
Forests of EastbeAfrica,
tween I bo and
the Zambesi.

ern

Form

yellow
salt.

Starch.
nut contain
tannic or gallic acid).
4.

(Does

TABLE OF NATURAL ORDERS.

263

Botanical Source or Officinal Nature

Part of Active Principles, and
Name of Plant.
Chief Constituents.
Plant or Product.

Geographical Source.

Cbondodendron
Tomentosum.

PareircE Radix. Dried

root.

1. Pclosinc or Cissampeliiie
a base, supposed to be identical

with Berhcrine.
bitter yel2. Resin
low matter; starch.

Brazil.

Nat. Ord. PAPil.VERACE.a3.

Papaver
Somnifermn.

in

Papaveris

Cap-

The

ripe tained

principles conin opium are

very numerous, and

Opium. The juice only the most importobtained from inci ant need be mentioned
Asia sions made in the un here.

Garden Poppy.

Grown

1.

sula.
Nearly
dried capsules.

Minor.
Cultivated in
Britain.

2.

capsule, inspis
sated by spontaneous
evaporation.
3. Morphines Acetas.
Acetate of morphine.
ripe

Morphince Hydrochloras.
Hydrochlorate of morphine.
MorphincB Sid
5.
phas.
Sulphate
of
morphine.
6. Codeina. Codeine.
7. Apomorphince Hy4.

Alkaloids.

1.

Morphine
at
least 5 to 8, or g
to 12 per cent, in

a.

good opium.
b.
c.

d.
e.

Codeine.
Papaverine.
Cryptopine.
Thebaine.

/. Paramorphine.
6
g. Narcotine
to 8 per cent.
2.
Neutral crystal-

drochloras.
deri- line bodies.
vative
of
morphine
a. Meconin.
and codeine.
b. Narcein.
3. Acids.
a.

Meconic

per cent.
b. Thebolactic.

Other ingredients.
Extractive mat-

4.

a.

ters.
b.

Resin,

latile oil.
c.

Salts.

gum, vo-

MATERIA MEDICA.
Botanical Source

Name

01

of Plant.

Papaver Rhceas

Nature
Part 0
Plant or Product.

Officinal

Geographical Source

Rhceados

Petala

Active Principles, and

Chief Constituents.

Morphine.

1.

The

Red Poppy.
Indigenous.

fresh petals, col(Attfield says there

lected
immediately is none).
after the
expansion
2. Rhocadin, crystalof the flower.
lisable non-poisonous
alkaloid.

Acids; colouring

3.

matter.

Nat. Ord. CBTTCirERJE.

Cocblearia

Armoracia.

Armoracia

Radix.

Volatile oil is obtained

when horseradish
is
moistened
in sand, in with water = Sulphocyanide
of
Butyl,
formed by a chemical

The fresh root.

It
may be kept fresh by

Horse-Radisb. burying

it

Indigenous.
Cultivated in

decomposition.

Britain.

Brassica Alba
et Nigra.

1.

Sin apis Alice Se-

The

mijia.

seeds.

White and Black

Mustard.

Fixed oil

in

both =

2.

Myrosine

in

Sinapis Nigra; Se- = an albuminous

mina. The dried ripe ment.
2.

seeds.

Indigenous.

dried ripe 25 to 35 per cent.

3.

Sinapis.

The ash

both
fer-

Myronate of pot-

mustard.
seeds of black and
4. Sinalbin, a glucowhite mustard pow- side, in zy/u'/e mustard.
dered and mixed.
5. Sinnpin, an alkaOleum Sinapis. loid, in both, as a sul4.
Volatile oil distilled phocyanide = sulphowith water from black sinapisin.
3.

mustard

seeds, after
the expression of the

ixed

oil.

in black

TABLE OF NATURAL ORDERS.

Wat. Ord.

265

POLYGALACE^.
=

Botanical Source or Officinal Nature

Part of Active Principles, and
Name of Plant.
Chief Constituents.
Plant or Product.
Geographical Source.

Krameria
Triandra
and Ixima.

Senega.

dried root.

Two

Peru and Chili.

Polygala
Senega.

Radix.

Krameria

The

Krameria Acid.
Rhatanin.
Acid =
3. Tannic
about 40 per cent.
1.

2.

varieties

1.

Peruvian.

2.

Savanilla.

The

Senegce Radix.

1.

Senegin or Poly-

dried root stock, with galic Acid.

2. Tannin.
branched tap-root.
3. Resin.
4.

Sugar,

&'C.

North A)nerica.

Nat. Ord.

Iiinum
TXsitatissimum

1.

Lini

Linseed.

I.lNA.CEm.
Semina

The

ripe seeds.

Flax.
Indigenous.

dried

1.

The

which

is

fixed
officinal

oil,

about 20 to 30 per cent.

2. Lini
Farina
2. A peculiar ^Mm))j_v
Linseed Meal.
Lin- matter
or
mucilage
seed reduced to pow- in the envelope or
der.
testa of the seeds,
Lin- which is readily im3. Oleum Lini
seed Oil.
The oil ex- parted to hot water.
pressed in Britain from
linseed without heat.

Nat. Ord. XaAIiVACEJS.

GosBypimn

1.
Gussypinin
CutCotton is a modifiBaxbadense,
ton wool.
The hairs cation of lignin.
and other species. of the seeds, carded.
The other prepara2. Pyroxylin or Gun- tions
will be subseSouth America cotton
made from quently considered.
and India.
cotton-wool.

made
3. Collodium
from pyroxylin.
4. Collodium Flexile
made from collodion.
5. Collodium Vesicans
made from pyroxylin


266

MATERIA MEDICA.
ERTTHROXYLACEJE.

Wat. Ord.
Botanical

Source or
Officinal Nature
Part
of Plant.
Plant or Product.
Geographical Source.

Name

Erythroxylon

1.

Coca.

leaves.

Pent,

chloras. Obtained from

the leaves.

Coca.

dried

The

Nat. Ord.

STEBCTTLIACE^.

Oleum Theobromatis

Cacao

Cacao.

alkaloid, Cocaine.

CocaincB Hydro-

2.

Theobroma

The

Active Principles, and

Chief Constituents.

o;

concrete

Butter.
oil,

Chiefly stearin, with

Aa

little olcin.

obtained

West Indies and by expression and heat

South America.

from the ground seeds.

Nat. Ord.

AVRANTIACEJE.

Aqua Aurantii A small quantity of

Water dis- peculiar volatile oil

Citrus

1.

Bigiradia.

Floris.

from the flowers

of the bitter and sweet
tilled

Seville

and

Bitter Orange.

Citrus

Aurantium.
Sweet Orange.
South Europe.
Spain.

orange.
2. Aurantii
Cortex
Bitter-Orange Peel.
The dried outer part
of the rind of Citrus
Bigaradia.

oil

1.

3.

The

Aurantii Fructus.
ripe fruit.

of Neroli.

2.

Volatile oil.
Bitter extractive

Hesperidin

or

Au-

rantiin.
'

A little gallic acid.


TABLE OF NATURAL ORDERS.

267

Botanical Source or Officinal Nature

Part of Active Principles, and
Name of Plant.
Chief Constituents.
Plant or Product.
Geographical Source.

acid =
1. Citric
Succus 32"5 grains in fl i.
Limoiiis
2. Malic and phosThe
Lemon-juice.
freshly expressed juice "phoric acids.
3. Mucilage; sugar;
of the ripe fruit.

Citnis

Ziimonum.

1.

Iiemon.

The

ripe fruit.

salts.

South Europe.

2.

Limonis Cortex

Oil of Lemon is Lemon-peel. The outer

imported part of the rind of the
chiefly

from

Sicily.

1.

Volatile

2.

Hesperidin.

3.

littte

oil.

gallic

acid.

fresh fruit.
3. Oleum LimonisThe
Oil of Lemon.
oil expressed or distilled from the fresh

peel.

JEglo Marmelos.
Bael.

An

Fructus

Bclce

The

Bael fruit.

astringent prin-

half- ciple, allied to tannin.

ripe fruit, dried.

Malabar and
Coromandel.

CANE I.Z. ACE .S.

Nat. Ord.
Canella Alba.

1.

The

2.

Cortex

Resin.
Volatile oil.
Wliite Canella. dried bark, deprived of
3. Bitter extractive.
its corky layer.
(Does not contairj
West Indies.
tannic or gallic acid.
CanellcE

Canella

Nat.
Garcinia
nxorella or

Hanburii.

Gamboge.
Siam.

Bark.

Ord.

GTJTTirEIl.a!.

Gam- 1. Yellow,
acrid
gum-resin ob- resin Gambogic Acid
tained from the plant. = 75 to 80 per cent.
2. Soluble
gum =
from 20 to 25 per cent.
Cambogia

boge.

268

MATERIA MEDICA.
Wat. Ord.

Botanical Source or

Name

of Plant.

I.

The
Grape-Vine.

Nature
Part of Active Principles, and
Plant or Product.
Chief Constituents.

Officinal

Geographical Source

Vitis Vinifera.

VITACEiE.

Uvce
Raisins.
ripe fruit, dried in

1.

Grape-sugar.

2.

Acid tartrate of

the sun or with arti- potash.

ficial heat.
3. Malic acid.

Spain.

4.

Fixed

oil, in

seeds.

Tannic acid,
seeds and skin.
5.

in

Wat. Ord. ZyGOPirZLLi3LCE.ffi.

Gucdacum
Officinale and

Sanctum.

1.

Guaiaci Lignum

Lignum

Vitce.

Dowingo and
yatnaica.

2.

Resin = 26 per cent.

The

heart-wood.
St.

Wood

Giiaiactim

Gtiaiaci Resina

Guaiacum Resin. The

resin

obtained

from

the stem by natural

exudation, incision, or
heat.

Wat. Ord.

I.
f.2.

3.

Guaiacic acid.
Guaiaretic acid.
Guaiaconic acid.

BUTACEJE.

Bcirosma
I. Buchu
Folia
1. Volatile
oil =
Betulina
Biiclni Leaves.
The about
per cent.
Crenulata; and dried leaves.
2. Bitter extractive
= Barosmin or DiosSerratifolia.
inin.

Succo

or

Buchu,

Cape of Good
Hope.

TABLE OF NATURAL ORDERS.

269

Botanical Source or Officinal Nature

Part of Active Principles, and
Name of Plant,
Chief Constituents.
Plant or Product.
jeographical Source.

Pilocarpus
Fennatifolius.
S. America.

The The alkaloid

I. jfahorandi.
carpine.
dried leaflets.
2. Pilocarpince Nitras.
The nitrate of an alkaloid obtained from
the extract.

Galipoa
Cusparia.

CusparicE
Cortex
Cusparia or Angiistiira
bark.

The

1.

pilo-

Resin.

Neutral
bitter
dried bark. principle = C!s/ian' or

Angus tura
Bark Tree.

2.

Angusturin.
3.

Trace of volatile

oil.

Tropical South

America.

Ruta

Oleum

Graveolens.

of Rue.

Ruta Oil
The volatile

with water
from the fresh herb.

oil distilled

Rue.
'South of Europe.

Wat. Ord.

Picraena
Bxcelsa.

Quassia Lifrnum
1. Neutral
crystalQuassia Wood.
The lisable bitter principle,

wood
Quassia.

SIMARUBACEiE.

in

shavings, rasp-

ings, or chips.

= Quassine.
2.

Some

(Does
yamaica.

tannin.

starch.
not contain

270

MATERIA MEDICA.

Calicyflor^.

B.

BHAMWACEJE.

Wat. Ord.
Botanical Source or

Name

of Plant.

Khamnus

Nature
Part of Active Principles, and
Plant or Product.
Chief Constituents.

Officinal

Geographical Source.

Rhamni

Frangula.

Cortex
Bark.

FrangulcB

The

Frangula

Frangnlin, a glucoside.

dried bark.

Imported from
Holland.

Bhamnus

Rhamni

Furshianus.

Cortex

The

Purshiani.
Sacred
Bark.

Crystalline

1.

neu-

tral principle.

dried bark.

Resinoid bodies.

2.

Cascara
Sag^ada.
S. America.

Nat. Ord. AI7ACARDIACE.S:.

Fistacia
Iientiscus.

Levant.
Island of Scio.

I.

Mastiche

Wat. Ord.

Canarium

Commune.

I.

2.

Mastichic acid.
Masticin.

3.

1.

little

volatile

oil.

AMYIIIDACE.5:.

Elemi.

crete resinous
tion.

Manilla.

Mas-

resinous exudation
obtained by
incision from the stem.
tic.

con-

exuda

1.

crystalline re-

Eleniin

sin,

= 2^

per

cent.

Uncrystallisable
per cent.
oil = io
3. Volatile
to 12 per cent.
2.

resin

4.
ter,

= 60

bitCrystalline,
neutral principle
to 2 per cent.

27I

TABLE OF NATURAL ORDERS.

:

Botanical Source or Officinal Nature

Part of Active Principles, and
Name of Plant.
Chief Constituents.
Plant or Product.
Source.
Geographical

Balsamodendron
IVIyrrha.

Myrrha Myrrh.
gum-resinous exudation from the stem.
I.

4.

I7at.

Gummifer,

= Myrrliin.
oil =

Volatile
Salts.

PapilionacEvE.

1. Liquorice
Glycyrrhiza Radix
sugar
Liquorice root.
The or Glycyrrhizinc.
root and subterranean
2. Asparagine.
stems or stolons, fresh
3. Gum; mucilage.
and dried.
resinous
4. Acrid

Indigenous.

Astragalus

like arabin.

Ord. I.EGVn!III(rOSJS:.
a.

Ziiqtuorice,

'Re.s,\n

3.

Abyssinia.

Glabra.

Gum,

Myrrhol.

Arabia and

Glycyrrhiza

1.

2.

oil.

Tragacan tha
gacantli.

Tra

Arabin

1.

A gummy cent.
from

and other species. exudation

the

53

per

Bassorin = 2'i per

2.

cent.

Asia Minor.

Cytisus or

Sarotliamnus
Scoparius.

Scoparii

Broom
fresh

Cacuniina
tops.

and dried

The

3.

Starch.

1.

Scoparin^a. neu-

tral principle.

tops.

2.
tile

Spartein, a volaliquid alkaloid.

Broom.
Indigenous.

Europe.

Fterocarpus

Pterucarpi

Santalinus.

Red

Red Sandal

heart-wood.

Wood

Lignum

1.

2.

Tree.

or

Santal.

Kino-tannic acid
small quantity.

3.
in

Ceylon.
Coroniandel.

Santalic acid

Sandal-wood. Sanialin = dark-red

The sliced or rasped and crystalline.

MATERIA MEDICA.

272
Botanical Source or

Name

of Plant.

Pterocarpus

Marsupium.

Nature
Part of Active Principles, and
Plant or Product.
Chief Constituents.

Officinal

Geographical Source.

Kino.
Inspissated
1. MimaKino- or
from incisions in Catechu-tannic acid =

juice

the trunk.

75 per cent.

Kino Tree.
Malabar.

Mjrroxylon
Pereirae.

2.

Catecliin.

3.

Red ^k;m = about

24 per cent.

Balsamiim Periivia-

Balsam of Peru.

1.

Neutral

volatile

Cinnamate
of
A balsam exudingfrom Benzyl or Cinnanicin =

nuni

oil

San Salvador, the trunk of the tree, 60 to 70 per cent.

Central America. after the bark has
2. Metacin)iainein, a
been beaten, scorched, crystallisable solid.
and removed.

3. Cinnainic acid=
6 or 7 per cent.
4. Styracinor Cinnamate of Cinnyl.
5. Resins, supposed
to be produced by the

oxidation of the oil;

increase with age.

Mjnroxylon
Toluifera.

Balsamum Tolntanum

Balsam of Tolu.

Similar to balsam of
also contains
Peru
;

balsam exuding from Tolcnc, a

Tolu in New
Granada.

Physostigma
Venenosum.

Physostigtnatis

1.

Faba
Western Africa.

volatile oil.

the trunk of the tree,

incisions have
after
been made in the bark.

The
2.

The

Calabar

Bean.

dried seeds.

Physosiigmina.
alkaloid.

I.

Physostigmine or

Escrine, the alkaloid,

in the cotelydons.
2. Starch, legumin,
.mucilage, etc.

TABLE OF NATURAL ORDERS.

b.

Botanical Source 0

Name

C/ESALPINE^.

Nature
Parto:
Plant or Product.

Officinal

of Plant.

Geographical Source

273

HcBmatoxyli
LigHaematoxylon
Campechianum. num Logwood. The

Active Principles, and

Chief Constituents.

1.

Hcematoxyline, a

crystalline
substance
heart-wood, in logs or = g to 12 per cent.
2. Tannic acid.
from chips.

Imported
Campeachy in Central America,{vom
Honduras
and

3.
4.

Resin.

Colouring matter,

jfatnaica.

Cassia
Xianceolata or

AcutifoUa.

1.

Senna
Alexan1. A
glucoside =
Alexandrian Cathartine or Cathar-

drina
Senna.

Leaflets care- tic acid.

freed from the
2.
j'ellow
flowers, pods, and leal stance identical

fully

Imported from
Alexandria.

stalks,

and

sub-

with

chrysophanic acid.

dried.

3.

crystalline su-

Cassia Elongata
2. Senna
Indica
gar = Catharto-manor AngustifoUa. Indian or Tinnivelly nitc.
Senna.
The leaflets, 4. Traces of volatile
Cultivated in

dried.

oil.

Southern India.

5.

Tartrate and oxaand potash.

late of lime

Cassia Fistula,

Cassia Piilpa. The

1. Cane-sugar
pulp from the pods.
per cent.

Pudding-Pipe

2.

Tree, or
Purging Cassia.
J\ flilf}
J-tt
linn,

\.\/
vv .

Mucilage

60

and

pectin.
3. A substance analogous to tannin.
4. A purgative prin-

Tii/^iae
MILillcS.

ciple.

Tamarindus
Indica.
E. and

W. Indies.

Tamarindus
Ta1. Malic, citric, and
marind.
The pre- tartaric acids.
served pulp of the fruit.
2. Cream of tartar.
3.

Sugar;

gum

&c.

MATERIA MEDICA.

274

Botanical Source or Officinal Nature

Part of Active Principles, and
Name of Plant.
Chief Constituents.
Plant or Product.
Geographical Source.

I. Resin
Copaivic :
acid = about 52 per r
cent.
Copaiva.
I. Copaiba
oil =
2. Volatile
An oleo-resin, ob- ^ about 40 per cent.
Trees.
Copciiva
tained by incision from
3. Soft brown resinthe trunk, or boring.
ous matter=ij to 2 2
W. Indies and
per cent., increasing!
Tropical A merica ;
\with age.
chiefly Valley of
2. Oleum CopaibcB
the Amazon.

Copaifera

Iiangsdorffii,
and other species.

Oil
Oil of Copaiva.
distilled from copaiba.

Andira Araroba.
Brazil.

The

Alexandria.

acid,l

in

and powdered.

C.

E. Africa.
Imported from

Chrysophanic

variable quantity,'
medullary matter of according to age and:
the stem and branches condition.

dried

Acacia Senegal
and other species

Chrysarobinwn
Chrysarobin.

MiMOSiE.

acid or
1. Arabic
Gummi
Acacia:
gum- Arabiii, combined \vit^
Acacia.
my exudation from the lime, magnesia, anc
potash.
stem and branches.

Gum

2.

Water = abou

17 per cent.
3.

Various

salts,

&c

TABLE OF NATURAL ORDERS.

Nat. Ord.
Botanical Source oi

Name

of Plap.t.

Var.,

Bitter

Amara,

1.

Almond
and

Active Principles, and

Chief Constituents.

Amygdala Amara 1. Oil of Almonds =

The about 50 per cent.

Bitter Almond.
ripe seeds.

Oleum A mygda Ice

Oil
.

Emulsine

2.

Amygdala Dulcis
Sweet Almond. The
2.

or ripe seeds.

in both,

an albuminous principle.
3. Sugar, gum, &c.
4. Salts, chiefly phos-

of Almonds. phates.
obtained by
a
5. Amygdalin
Sweet Almond. pressure, from either crystalline glucoside,
sweet or bitter al- in bitter almonds.
Amara chiefly monds.
When moistened,
from Mogadore.
amygdalin is acted
Sulcis, or

Nature
Part o
Plant or Product.

Officinal

Geographical Source

Prunus
Amygdalus or
Amygdalus
Communis.

ROSACEA.

The

oil

upon by emulsine, and

Dulcis imported
'rem

volatile oil of bitter

almonds or hydrate of
benzoyl and hydrocy-

Malaga, and

Jordan
Almond.

<no\vn as

anic acid are formed.

Brayera
Cusso Kousso. The
1. Koussine, a crysiAntlielmintica. dried panicles (chiefly tallizable principle.
of the female flowers).
2. Volatile oil.
Abyssinia.
3. Gum, sugar, &c.

Prunus
Lauro-cerasi Folia
]^auro-cerasuE, Cherry Laurel Leaves. dalin^^'"^'l
The

fresh leaves.

Cherry Laurel.

sine.

Indigenous.
Native of

as

b'"""
almonds.

Emul-"?

2.

3.

Sugar,

4.

fat,

little

&c.
tannic

acid.

Asia Minor.

Prunus
Bomestica.

Pruniim

The
drupe.

Plum-tree.
Imported from
South of France.

dried

Prune.

fruit

Glucose, about 25

1.

or per cent.
2.

Malic acid.

3.

Gum,

4.

pectin, &c.
Purgative princi-

ple of

unknown nature.
T2

MATERIA MEDICA.

276
Botanical Source or

Name

Nature
Part of Active Principles, and
Chief Constituents.
Plant or Product.

Officinal

of Plant.

Geographical Source.

Rosa Canince FrucThe ripe fruit, or

Kosa Canina,

tus.

Dog

Kose.

hips.

2.

3.

4.

Ijidigenoiis.

Bosa

Centifolia.

RoscB CentifolicE Pc-

The

and
Tannic

their salts.
acid.

Sugar, gum, &c.

Traceofvolatile oil.
1.

Volatileoil attai

pe- of roses.
laxative princi
2.
tals, fully expanded.
tala.

Cabbage Kose.

and malic

Citric

1.

acids,

fresh

pie.

Indigenous.

3.

Cultivated.

and

Traces of

4.

Kosa

Gallica.

Ked Kose.

Rosa Gallica Petala.

The unexpanded petals fresh

and

Resin, sugar, &c

Red

1.

colour! rv

matter.
2.

dried.

tannii

gallic acids.

Tannic and g.n..

acids.

Indigenous.

3.

glucoside

4. Volatile
sugar, &c.

Wat.
DSelaleuca

minor.

oi Cajuput.

or

oil

distilled

the leaves.

Oil

The vola-

Moluccas.

Imported from
Bntavia and
Singapore.

Oleum Eucalypti
Oil
of Eucalyptus.
Globulus,
and other species Volatile oil distilled
from the fresh leaves
Australia.

ani

Hydrate of Cajupn
tene.

colourless 0

from obtained by
tion = about |.

Cajeput.

Eucalyptus

oil

Ord. iaYKTACE.a!.

Oleum Cajuputi
tile

Cajuput

Qiiercitrin.

Cultivated.

distilla;

TABLE OF NATURAL ORDERS.

=

Source or
Part of
Officinal Nature
of Plant,
Plant or Product.
leographical Source.
iotanical

Name

Caryophyllus
lAromaticus or

1.

Eugenia

Cloves.

Caryophyllum

The

dried un-

Caryophyllata. expanded flower-bud.

Active

'.

2.

and

Principles,

Chief Constituents.

1.

Volatile
per cent.

oil

2.

Salicylic acid.

3.

Resin.

.4.

Clove.

277

18

Tannin.

Oleum Caryophylli

Oil of Cloves. The

Indian Islands. volatile oil distilled in
Britain from cloves.

Funica
Granatum.

Granati Radicis Cortex

iPomegranate.

1.

Punico-tannic

Ponieo;ranate root acid = 20 per cent.

hark.
I he dried bark
of the root.

2.

Gallic acid.

3.

Mannite.

4.

Punicine.

Mediterranean
Coast.

Eugenia
Fimenta or
Fimenta

1.

W.

Oleum PimentcB

Coloc3mtliis.

Colocynth.
India, Levant.
imported chiefly
'

from

Smyrna,

Trieste, France,
1

and Spain.

Volatile

Fixed

3.

Resin.

^4.

Much

oil.

oil.

tannin.

from pimento.

Indies.

CitruUus

r.

2.

Oil of Pimento.
Oil
distilled
in
Britain

Kat. Ord.

Pimen-

dried unripe
fuU-grov/n fruit.
2.

lAll-spice-tree.

Pimcnta

The

to.

CUCURBIT ACEiE.

Colocynthidis Pulpa

Colocvnthpulp.

1.

Colocynthin.
A
glucoside.
Colocynthitin

The crystalline

dried
peeled
fruit,
2.
freed from the seeds. crystalline.
3. Bitter resin.
bitter principle.
4.

5.

Salts.

278

MATERIA MEDICA.

Botanical Source or

Name

of Plant.

Ecballium

Nature
Part of Active Principles, and
Plant or Product.
Chief Constituents.

Officinal

Geographical Source

Fructus
Squirting Cucumber
Ecballii

1.

Elaterium.

The

fruit.

Squirting

fruit,

pepo, very nearly ripe.

From plants cultivated
in Britain.

Cucumber.
Southern Europe

sediment
from
the
juice of the squirting

I. Elaterin, elatiii,
or momordicine, the
active principle, not
less
than 20 per

cucumber

cent.

Elateritan.

2.

fruit.

Elaterimun

3.

2.

Green

resin.

Elaterin.
The active
principle of elaterium.

Ord. TTIVtBEI.I.IFER.a:.

I?at.

Conium
XSaculatum.
Spotted

Hemlock.
Indisrcnous.

1.

Conii

Folia

Hemlock Leaves. The

fresh leaves and young

1.

Conine, a volatile

2. Methyl-conine,axii
gathered alkaloid.
branches,
British
wild
3. Conic acid, comfrom
plants, when the fruit bined with Conine.
ai
begins to form.
4. Conhydrine,
base.
2. Conii Fructus

The
gathered when

Hemlock Fruit.
fruit,

5.

Non-poisonous s

volatile oil, with odour.

developed, but
green, and

fully

while

still

carefully dried.

Anethum
Graveolens.

1.

Ancthi Fructus

Dill Fruit.
2.

Oil

The dried

fruit.

DHL

Oleum Anethi
Dill.

The

of
volatile oil distilled in
Central and
Southern Europe. Britain from the fruit.
Cultivated in
^
Britain.

liquid alkaloid.

Volatile

oil.

TABLE OF NATURAL ORDERS.

279

Source or Officinal Nature

Part of Active Principles, and
Chief Constituents.
Plant or Product.
Geographical Source.

iBotanical

Name

of Plant.

Fimpinella
Anisiun.

1. Anisi Fructus
The
Fruit.
Anise

dried fruit.

Anise.

2.

Oleum Anisi

of Anise.
Europe.

tilled in

The

Volatile

oil.

Volatile

oil.

Volatile

oil.

Volatile

oil.

Oil

oil dis-

Europe from

the fruit.

Caztim Carui.

Carui Fructus

1.

Caraway
Caraway.

dried fruit.

Oleum

2.

Indigenous.

The

Fruit.

Carui

The

Oil of Caraway.

Mid-Europe.

volatile oil distilled in

Cultivated in
Ens;land and

Britain from the fruit.

Germany.

Camm Ajowan.
India.

Coriandrvun
Sativum.

Thymol. A stearoptene obtained from the

volatile oil.

Coriander

The
Coriander.
Indigenous.
Etirope.

Fennel.
I

Southern Europe.

Fruit.

ripe fruit, dried.

Oleiim Coriandri
Oil of Coriander.

2.

The

volatile

tilled

the

Fceniculum
CapiUaceum.

Fruc-

Coriandri

1.

tus

oil

in Britain

dis-

from

fruit.

Fceniculi Fructus
Fruit.
The
ripe fruit of cultivated
plants, dried.

Fennel

280

MATERIA MEDICA.

Botanical

Name

Source or Officinal Nature

Part of Active Principles, and
Plant or Product.
Chief Constituents.

of Plant.

Geographical Source.

Dorema
Ammoniacum.
Punjaub and
Persia.

Ammoniacum.
A 1. Resin = about
gum-resinous exuda- 70 per cent.
tion from the stem,
2. Gum = about 20
after being punctured per cent.
by beetles.
Volatile oil =
3.
about 4 per cent.

rerula Wurthex Asafoetida. A gumand Scorodosma, resin, exuding from

and probably other the incised living root.
species.

Resin

1.

65

per

cent.

Gum =

2.

per

25

cent.
3.

Afghanistan and
the Punjaub.

Ferula

ly

=
Galbanum.

gum-

Galbaniflua,
resin.
and other species.

Volatile

oil,

chief-

Sulphide of Allyl
about 4 per cent.
1.

Resin

about 65

per cent.
2.

Gum.

Volatile oil = about3*5 percent. does

not contain sulphur.
3.

India

Levant.

Ferula or

Euryang^um
Sumbul.

Sumbul
Radix
Sumbul Root.
The

1.

Balsamic resin =

dried transverse
tions of the root.

sec-

2.

9 per cent.
Volatile oil.

3.

Umbelliferone.

Musk Boot.
Central Asia.

C. COROLLIFLOR/E.
Hat. Ord. CAFIlIFOZ.IACZ:JE.

Sambucus
Nigra.

Sambuci

Flores

Elder Flowers.
fresh flowers.

Elder.
Indigenous.

The

Volatile

oil.

TABLE OF NATURAL ORDERS.

Nat. Ord.

281

BXTBIACEiE or CINCHONACEJE.

Botanical Source or Officinal Nature

Part of Active Princip'es, and
Name of Plant.
Chief Coustituents.
Plant or Product.
Source.
Geographical

Catechu - tannic
1.
Catechu. An extract
of the leaves and3'oung acid.
2. Catechin or Cateshoots.
chuic acid.

XTncaria

Gambler.
Singapore.

3.
4.

Cincbona

Cali-

saya, Officinalis,
Iiancifolia,
other species.

1.

Cinchona

Cortex

CinchonaBark.

The

and dried bark.

2.

hhas

CinchonidincE Sul-

1.

Sulpliate of Cin-

etc.

3.

hhas

CinchonincE

b.

Hydro-

Hydrochloalso be ob- chloras

tained from some rate of Quinine.
species of Remi5. Qninince Sulphas

Sulphate of Quinine.

CtnchoncB
RubrcE
Cortex Red Cinchona
Bark. The dried bark
Cinchona. of the stem and branches
of
cultivated
India.
plants.

Cincliozia

Succirubra.

Cephaelis
Ipecacuanha.

Ipecacuanha.
Brazil.

not less than 2

Sul-

Sulphate of Cin-

(Salts of quinine chonine.

cinchonine
and
4. QiiinincE

may

Alkaloids.
Quinine, chiefly
in yellow bark,

a.

Bolivia, Ecuador, chonidine.

Bed

Mucilage.
Extractive matter.

c.

Ipecacuanha.

The

Cinchonine,
chiefly

in

pale

bark.

!-

Cinchonidine.
Acids.
a. Quinic.
b. Cincho-tannic.
c. Cincho-fulvic.
d. Quinovic.

d.
2.

dried root.

per cent.
Quinidine.

3.

Tannin.

4.

Starch, gum,

oil,

etc.

Emetine, a feeble
almost entirely in the bark=
about I per cent.
2. Cephaelic or Ipecacuanhic acid.
1.

alkaloid,

282

MATERIA MEDICA.
ITat.

VAIiERIANACEJE.

Ord.

Botanical

Source or
Officinal Nature
Part of Active Principles, and
of Plant.
Plant or Product.
Chief Constituents.
Geographical Source.

Name

Valeriana

ValeriancB

Valerian

Officinalis.

Rhizoma

Rhizome.
rhizome
and

The

Volatile

1.

oil

to 2 per cent.

2. Yields about 5 per

collected in cent, of valerianic acid,
autumn and dried when distilled with
from wild plants, and water.
growing on dry soil
3. Resin, gum, expreferred, or cultivated tractive, &c.
in Britain.

Valerian.

rootlets

Indigenous.

Ord. COnXFOSITJE.

irat.

Anthemis

1.

Antheniidis Flares 11. Volatile

Chamomile Flowers.

ITobiliB.

The dried flower-heads,

Chamomile.

single and double, from

cultivated plants.

Indigenous.

2.

oil.

2.

Bitter extractive.

3.

Tannin

in

small

quantity.

Oleum Anthcmidis

Oil
The

of Chamomile.
volatile

oil,

dis-

Britain from
the ilowers.
tilled

Arnica Iffontana.

in

ArniccB

Rhizoma

1.

Arnicin

bit-

Arnica Rliizome. The ter resin.

2. Volatile oil.
Iieopard's Bane. rhizome and rootlets,
dried.
3. Trimethylamine.

Mountainous
Central

parts

of

and

Souther

71

Europe.

Xactuca Virosa.

Lactuca

The

Wild

Lettuce.

Lettuce.

flowering herb of
the wild plant.

2.

Latucic acid.
Lactucin ? crystal-

3.

Lactucone>

1.

line.

Bitter extractive.
5. Resin, sugar, &c.
4.

Indigenous.

TABLE OF NATURAL ORDERS.

283

Botanical Source or Officinal Nature

Part of Active Principles, and
Name of Plant.
Chief Constituents.
Plant or Product.

Geographical Source.

1. Resins = PyrcthRadix
Pyrethri
The rin or Pyrethric Acid ;
PeUitory Root.
and another.
dried root, in pieces.

Anacyclus
PyrethmTH.
PeUitory of

2.

Spain.

3.

Tannin, gum,&c.
Yellow, acrid oil.

Morocco; Spain;
Levant.

Artemisia

1.

nxaritima.

dried

The

Santonica.

flower-heads or capiRussia.

tula.
2.

1.

S antonin = 1^

2.

per cent.
Volatile oil.

unexpanded

Santoninum

Santonin.

to 2

crystal-

line principle.

The

Dandelion Root.

Officinale.

fresh

and dried

Collected in the autumn from indigenous

Indigenous.

plants.

IiObelia Inflata.

Bitter extractive.

Taraxacin, a crys-

roots. talline principle.

Dandelion.

Nat. Ord.

1.

2.

Resin, &c.

3.

IiOBEUACEiE.

Lobelia.
The dried 1. Lobelic
flowering herb.
volatile oil.

Indian Tobacco.

2. Lobeli)ie,
tile

acid,

a vola-

liquid alkaloid.

N. America.
Nat. Ord. RICACE.S:.

Arctostaphylos

Uva

TTrsi.

UvcE Ursi Folia

1. Tannic
acid
Bearberry Leaves. The about 36 per cent.
dried

Bearberry.
Europe.
Indigenous.

leaves.

From

indigenous plants.

2.

Gallic acid.

2.Arbjttinc\ crys) talline.

4. Ursine

284

MATERIA MEDICA.
Nat. Ord.

Botanical Source or

Name

of Plant.

SAPOTACEiE.
=

Nature
Part of Active Principles, and
Plant or Product.
Chief Constituents.

Officinal

Geographical Source.

Sichopsis Gutta,
Gtitta Percha.
The 1. Gutta
and several other dried concrete juice. cent.
trees.

2.

80

per

Resins.

Borneo; Stimatra.

Ord.

HTat.

STYRACACEJE.

St3n:ax Benzoin,
1. Benzoinum
Benand other species. zoin. A balsamic resin,
exuding from incisions
Benjeimin Tree. made in the bark.
2. AcidHin Benzoicum
Eastern
Benzoic Acid. The
Archipeligo
acid
obtained
from
Siatn ; Sumatra. Benzoin by sublima-

/I.
1

2.

1.3.

Benzoic acid=io
to 20 per cent.
Cinnamic acid.
Resin.

tion.

TEBN'STB^raiACE.S:.

Nat. Ord.

Camellia Thea.

Caffeina

1.

feine,

Tlie

Tea Plant.

Theine

Caf-

(also

called

and

Guara-

nine).

An alkaloid obtained
from the dried leaves
Coffea Arabica. also from the dried
seeds ol Coj^ea AraChina.

bica.
2. Caffeina Citras
Citrate of Caffeine.

Hat. Ord. OZ.EACEiE.

Olea Eviropsea.

Oleum
Oil.

Olive.
S. Europe.

Oliva:

Olive

Oleine = 27 per cent.

The oil expressed and margarine.

in the South of Europe

from the ripe fruit.

TABLE OF NATURAL ORDERS.

285

Source or Officinal Nature

Part of Active Principles, and
Chief Constituents.
Plant or Product.
Geographical Source.

Botanical

Name

of Plant.

Manna. A concrete 1. Mannite = 60 to

saccharine exudation 80 per cent.
2. Small quantity of
Sicily. from incisions in the
stems of cultivated bitter matter.
and
3. Extractive
trees.

Traxinus Omus.
Calabria;

suo;ar.

APOCYNACBJE.

Wat. Ord.

Gelsemium

Gelsemiunt.
rhizome
dried

NitidTim.

The

I.

Gelsemine, an al-

and kaloid.
2.

rootlets.

Gelseminic acid.

Yellow Jasmine.
S. America.

Nat. Ord. ASCIii:FIADACi:.a:.

Hemedesmus

Heniidesmi

Hemidesmtts

Indicus.

The

Radix

Hemidesmic
acid.
and crystal-

Root. Volatile

dried root.

lizable.

Indian
Sarsaparilla.
India.
rrat.

Strycbnos
Nux Vomica.

liOGAmACEJC.

Ord.

1.

I.

Koochla Tree. The

Nux

2.

Vomica.

seeds.

4.

Tloids.
j
-

Igasuric or strychnic acid.

2. Strychnina.
An alkaloid obtained
from Nux Vomica.

East Indies.

GENTIANACE.S:.

Nat. Ord.

Opbelia Cbirata.

Chirata

Chirctta.
1. Ophelic acid.
entire plant, col2. Chiratin = a bitlected when the fruit ter resin.
begins to form, and
dried.

The

N. India.

3. Igasitrine

Cbiretta.

Strychnine
Brucine

286

MATERIA MEDICA.

Botanical Source or

Name

Gentiana

Nature
Part of Active Principles, and
Plant or Product.
Chief Constituents.

Officinal

of Plant.

Geographical Source.

Xiutea.

GentiancB

Radix.
The

Gefitian Root.
dried root.

Gentian.

Gentianic

1.

Gentianin.

2.

tral, crystalline.

European

Neu-

The

active principle.

oiintciins.

OUgdi, VUiatllcOll,

Pyrenees.

gum.

irat.

Ipomoea or
Exogonituu
Purga.
Jalap.

Mexico.

Ord. COST VOX. WZ. ACE JE.

Resin = about 18
per cent.
The dried tubercules. 2. Sugar,
starch,
gum, &c.
2. jfalapa; Resina
/i. Convolvulin.
An
acid glucoside.
Exfalap Resin.
tracted from jalap, by 2. Jalapin or Jalameans of rectified
pic acid.
A resin

Jalapa

1.

'I.

Jalap.

.soluble in ether.

spirit.

Convolvulus

Scammonia.

I.

Asia Minor and

Ra-

Scainmonice

1.

Scammony

dix

Scammony.
Syria.

acid.

Crystalline.

The

Root.

Scammonium

2.

Scammony.

root,

hardened

in

the

air.

ScammonicB ReResin. Made by a special

process, from the root
or from scammony.
3.

gum-

resin obtained by incision from the living

sina

dried root.

Scammony

Resin

about 4

per cent.
2. Gum = 6 per cent.
3. Sugar, starch, extractive, &c.

1.

Resin

per cent.

2.

Gum.

80 to 90

TABLE OF NATURAL ORDERS.

Nat. Ord.

soil

287

ANACE JE.

Botanical Source or Officinal Nature

Part of Active Principles, and
Name of Plant.
Chief Constituents.
Plant or Product.
Geographical Source.

Capsicin =

1.

Cstpsicuzii

Capsicum Fruit.

Fastigiatum.

The

dried ripe fruit.

talline alkaloid
tile,

crysvola-

acrid.

Red

2.

Chillies.

ti
;

colouring

matter.

Zanzibar.

Nat. Ord.

Atropa
Deadly
Night-Sbade.
Indigenous.
root is

imported

also
in a

dried state from

Germany.

Belladoniice Folia.
The fresh leaves
and the branches to
which they are attached.
b. The leaves separated, carefully dried,

I.

Belladonna.

The

ATBOFACEiE.

a.

gathered in June
the fruit has
begun to form, from
wild or cultivated
plants in Britain.
2. BelladonncB Radix
Belladoima
Root.

when

I.

tive
all
\

3.

Atropina

Atro-

The

alkaloid

pine.

obtained from Belladonna.

4. Atropines Sulphas
Sulphate of Atro-

pine,

2.

alkaloid,

in

parts.

Asparagine, in the
leaves.

3.

Belladonin,

amorphous

an

alkaloid, in the root.

The dried root, collected in early spring.

Atropine, the ac-

288

MATERIA MEDICA.

Botanical Source or

Name

of Plant.

Hyoscyamus
Niger.

Hyoscyami Folia
Hyoscyamus Leaves.

Indigenous.

1.

Hyoscyamine, an

alkaloid.

The

fresh leaves
flowers, with
the
branches
to
which they are at-

a.

Henbane.

Nature
Part of Active Principles, and
Plant or Product.
Chief Constituents.

Officinal

Geographical Source.

2.

Malic acid.

and

tached.
Collected
from biennial plants,
growing wild or cultivated in Britain,

when

about

two -

thirds of the flowers

are expanded.
u. 1 lie icdvcb separ-

ated from the branches and floweringtops, carefully dried.

Datura
Stramonium.

Stramonii

Styamoniuvi
i lie

Semina

I.

Daturine, an alka-

Seeds. loid.
uiicci iipc bCCUb*

Thorn Apple.
Indigenous.

mcotiana
Tabacum.

Tabaci Folia
bacco

Leaves.

^ToThe

1.

Nicotine, a colour-

less volatile alkaloid.

2.

Nicotianin, a con-

crete volatile

Tobacco.

oil.

Tropical America.

ITat.

Digitalis

Purpurea.
Poxglove.
Indigenous.

Ord.

SCIlOFHTrZ.ABIACE^.

1. Digitalin, a bitter,
Folia
Digitalis
Digitalis Leaves. The neutral, non-nitrogenleaves. Collected from ized principle, a gluplants coside.
wild British
2. Digitalein, bitter,
of the second year's

growth,

when about amorphous.

two-thirds of flowers
are expanded.

TABLE OF NATURAL ORDERS.

I7at.

Botanical Source

Name

oi

of Plar^t.

jeographical Source

Ord. IiABIATiE.

OfBcinal Nature
Part 0
Plant or Product.

Oleum LavandnlcE

Lavandula Vera.

289

Active Principles, and

Chief Constituents.

Oil of Lavender. Vola-

Ziavender.

tile oil distilled in Bri-

tain

from the flowers.

Indigenous.

nentha Piperita.

1.

Oleum Mentha: Pi-

heritcE.

Peppermint.

Mentha
Arvensis.
Indigenous.

Oil of Pepper-

mint.

I.

Menthol.

Volatile oil disV2. Menthene,

tilled in Britain from
quid.
the
fresh
flowering
herb.
2. Menthol. A stearoptene
obtained by
cooling the oil of both

plants.

lentba Viridis.

Oleum Mentha
dis

Spearmint.
Indigenous.

Kosmarinus
Officinalis.

Bosemary.

Viri Oil of Spearmint.

Volatile oil distilled in

Britain from the fresh
flowering plant.

Oleum Rosmarim
Oil of Rosemary.

Vo-

latile oil distilled

from

the flowering tops.

S. Europe.

Thymus
Vulgaris.

Thyme.

Thymol. A stearoptene obtained from the

volatile oil.
{Sec also
Umbellifer/e).

Indigenous.

li-

MATERIA MEDICA.

2go

D. MONOCHLAMYDE^.
Nat. Ord. POLYGONACE^.
Botanical Source or q

Name

Part of Active Principles, and

Nature
Chief Constituents.
Plant or Product.

fficinal

of Plant.

Geographical Source.

Clirysophanic acid.
Oxalate of linie =
5 to 40 per cent.

Kheum

1.

arb Root. The root,

rnore or less deprived
Officinale,
and other species, c)f its bark, sliced and

Falmatum,

2.

iried.

Tannic and

3.
I

gallic

icids.

Rhubarb.

4.

A bitter substance.

Resin.

5.

China, Chinese
Tartary, and
Thibet.

Ord.

Wat.

Daphne
SSezereum

THYMELACE^.
Cortex

Mezerei

Mezercon Bark.

or

1.

dried bark.

Iiaureola.

Daphnin, a crys-

2.

glucoside.
Volatile oil.

3.

Acrid resin.

The tallizable

Spurge Laurel.
Central Europe.

Ord.

Wat.
nSyristica

rragrans.

Nutmeg.
Eastern
Archipelago.

I.

MYBISTICACE^.

Myristica

Nitt-

The kernel
\mcg.
'the seeds, dried.

f I.

Britain from
3.

Oleum

ir

nutmegs
Myristicc

Fatty
1

2. Oleum Myristica
Oil of Nutmeg. The

volatile oil distilled

Volatile

oil.

oi

Express
Imported fron1 Expressum
/
Sumatra, and th ted Oil of Nutmeg.
oil obtaine i
concrete
Islands.
Molucca
from nutmeg by ex
Ipression and heat.

acids,

esi:

pecially Myristicim

TABLE OF NATURAL ORDERS.

Nat.

Ord.

2Q1

XiAUBACEiE.

Botanical Source or Officinal Nature

Part of Active Principles, and
Name of Plant.
Chief Constituents.
Plant or Product.
Geographical Source.

CamCampliora
A stearoptene
obtained
from
the
Campbor Plant. wood, and purified in
this country by subliChina ; yapan. mation.
flinnaTnoTniTm

Camphora.

phor.

Cinnamomum
Zeylanicum.

1.

tex

Cinnamomi

Cinnamon

The

Cinnamon.

CorI.

Bark.
bark of

inner
shoots from the truncated stocks, dried.

Ceylon.

2.

mi

tilled

oil.

3.

4.

Resin.

Oleum Cinnamo-

Oil of

The

Volatile

Tannic acid.
Cinnamic acid.

.2.

Cinnamon.

volatile

oil

dis-

from cinnamon

bark.

Nectandra
Kodiaei.

Bebeeru or
Greenbeart
Tree.
British Guiana.

Sassafras
Officinale.

N. America.

Nectandra Cortex
Bebeeru
Bark. The

f I.

1.

dried bark.

2.

3.

Beberina

alka-

Nectandra S loids.
Tannic acid.
Resin, &c.

BeberincB Sulphas
Sulphate of Beherine.
Prepared from the Bebeeru bark.

2.

Sassafras Radix
r. Volatile oil.
Sassafras Root. The
2. Tannic acid.
dried root, in chips or
colouring
3. Red
shavings.
matter.

U 2

MATERIA MEDICA.

2g2

Nat. Ord. AIIISTOI.OCHLS:.

Botanical Source or Officinal Nature
Part of Active Principles, and
Name of Plant.
Chief Constituents.
Plant or Product.
Geographical Source.

Aristolochia
Serpentaria

ScrpcntaricE Rhizoma

Scrpentary Rhizome.

1.
2.

Volatile
Resin.

oil.

and Reticulata. The dried rhizome 3. Tannic acid.

and rootlets.
4. Amorphous bitter
extractive matter.
Serpentary.
Virginia

United States.

Nat.

Croton Eluteria.
Cascarilla.

Ord.

ETJPHOBBIACEJE.

1. Cascarilliii = bitCascarilla Cortex

The ter, neutral, crystalCascarilla Bark.
line.
dried bark.
2. Resin.

Bahamas.

Croton Tiglium.
Croton Oil
Flant.

3.

Tannic

acid.

4.

Volatile

oil.

fatty
1. Ordinary
Crotonis
Oleum
The oil acids.
Croton Oil.
butyric,
2. Acetic,
expressed in Britain
valerianic acids.
from the seeds.
3.

and

Tiglinic

cro-

tonic acids.

East India.

Kamala. A powder
KEallotus
Pbilippinensis. consisting of minute
glands and hairs obtained from the surWurrus.

1.

= 80

'Resin = Rottlcrin
per cent.

2.

Tannic

acid.

3.

Volatile

oil.

face of the fruits.

India.

Bicinus

Communis.

Oleum Ricinis
tor Oil.

The

Cas-

1.

oil ex-

2.

oleate.

pressed from the seeds.

Castor Oil Flant.

E. India and
America.

Ricinate'
Ricin-

3.

of glycerine.

Ricinstearate.

4.

Acrid res

n.

TABLE OF NATURAL ORDERS.

FIFEBACE^.

Ord.

Nat.

293

BotaniceJ Source or Officinal Nature

Part of Active Principles, and
Name of Plant.
Plant or Product.
Chief Constituents.
Geographical Source.

Fiper Cubeba.

Cubeba

1.

Cubebs.

Cubebs Pepper. The dried unripe

grown fruit.

/I. Volatile oil.

Cubcbin = cry %t.3.\-

2.

full- }

line, inert.
3.

jfava.

Cubcbic acid.
Resin, gum, &c.

Oleo-Resina CuOleo-Resin of
Cubebs.
Obtained
from cubebs by means
2.

beba

of ether.
3.

Oleum

CubebcB.

The

volatile oil distilled in Britain from

cubebs.

Piper

Angus tifolium.

MaticcE Folia Ma1. Artanthic Acid =

Leaves. The dried crystalline.
leaves.
2. Volatile oil and
tico

JMatico.

resin.

Peril.

acid.

Trace of tannic

3.

Piper Nignun.

Piper

Black Pepper.

1.

Acrid resin.

The

2.

Volatile

3.

Pz/cnn = neutral.

Nis;rtim

Black

Pepper.
dried unripe fruit.

oil.

E. Indies.

Nat.

SXorus Nigra.

Mulberry.

MOKACEJE.

Mori Succiis Mulberry Juice. The deep

purple juice of the ripe
fruit.

Indigenous.

Ord.

1.

Sugar.

2.

Malic acid.

3.

Gum,

salts,

&c.

pectin,,

MATERIA MEDICA.

294
Botanical Source or

Name

Ficus

Active Principles, and

Chief Constituents.

Nature
Part of
Plant or Product.

Officinal

of Plant.

Geographical Source,

Ficus

Csirica.

Fig.

Saccharine and mu-

The

cilaginous matters.

dried fruit.

Pig Tree.
Smyrna.
Nat. Ord. CANN'ABin'ACE.a:.

1. Resin = CannaCannabis Indica

The bin.
Indian Hemp.
2. Volatile oil.
dried flowering tops of
the female plant, from
which the resin has
not been removed.

Cannabis Sativa.
India.

Htunulus

Hop.

1.

Volatile

catkins or

2.

Resin and gum.

Lupulus

1.

The

IiUpillUS.

dried

oil.

3. Tannic acid.
A 4. Lupulite or HuLttpulin.
glandular powder ob- mulin, a bitter princitained from the stro- ple.

strobiles.

Kop.

2.

Indigenous.

biles.

Nat.
Salix Alba,
and other species.

Ord.

SAIiICACEiE.

Salicinum Salicine.

crystalline

side,

gluco-

from

obtained

the bark.

Willow.
Indigenons.

Wat.

Ord.

CirPTTLirEILff:.

Common Oak.

Quercus Cortex Oak

Bark. The dried bark
of the smaller branches

Indigenous.

lected in spring from

Querctis Bobur.

and young stems,

trees
tain.

growing

in

col-

Bri-

1.

2.

Qucrco-tannic acid.
Sugar, pectin, &c.

TABLE OF NATURAL ORDERS.

2g5

Botanical Source or Officinal Nature

Part of Active Principles, and
Name of Plant.
Chief Constituents.
Plant or Product.
Source.
Geographical

Quercus

I.

Galla Galls. Ex-

1.

Tannic

acid=25

crescences on the twigs per cent.

acid = 5
2. Gallic
young branches,
or
caused by the punc- per cent.
acid =
3. Ellagic
ture and deposited ova
of the Cynips Galla crystalline.
TlnctoricE, a Hymen4. Gum, starch, &c.
opterous insect.

Iiiisitanica.

Gall or

Dyer's Oak.
Asia Minor.

2. Acidum Gallicum
PreGallic Acid.
pared from galls.
3. Acidum Tannicum
ExTannic Acid.
tracted from galls.

Nat.

Iiiquidambar
Orientalis.

Asia Minor.

Ord.

LIQinDAMBABACEiE.

Styrax Pmparatus
A
Prepared Storax.
balsam prepared from
the
fied
fied

1.

Resin.

2. Volatile oil

inner bark, puri3. Cinnamic acid.

by means of recti- 4. Siyracin = solid
spirit and strain- and crystalline.

ing.

Nat.

Santalum
Album.
India.

Ord.

SANTAI.ACE.S:.

Oleum Santali
of Sandal-wood.
oil

= Si>'-

rol.

distilled

wood.

Oil
The

from the

296

MATERIA MEDICA.

Gymnosperme^.

E.

CONIFERiE

Nat. Ord.
Botanical Source or

Name

of Plant.

Juniperus

Oleum

jfuniperi Oil
Volatile
distilled in Britain

of Juniper.
oil

Jimiper.

PUSACHm.

Nature
Part of Active Principles, and
Plant or Product.
Chief Constituents.

Officinal

Geographical Source.

Communis.

or

from

the full-grown
unripe green fruit.

N. Europe.

JTuiiiperus

Sabina.
Savin.

1.

Cncumina

Tops.
The
fresh and dried tops,

fi. Volatile oil.

1

2.

Resin.

I3. Gallic acid.

collected in spring.
2.

Indigenous.

ScibincE

Savin

Oleum SabincB

The

Oil of Savin.

oil

Britain
from the fresh tops.
distilled

Finus

Iicirix.

Iiarch.

Europe.

in

1.

Turpentine.

Larch Bark. The bark,

2.

Gum.

Laricis

Cortex

collected in spring, de3. Tannic acid.

prived of its outer 4. Larixin or Larixyrough portion,
and nic acj(f = crystalline.
dried.

Pix Burgundica
Finus Ficea or
Abies Excelsa. Burgundy Pitch.

Spruce Fir.

1.

Resin.

2.

exudation
resinous
from the stem, melted

and strained.
Switzerland.

oil.

little

volatile

TABLE OF NATURAL ORDERS.

297

Botanical Source or Officinal Nature

Part of Active Principles, and
Name of Plant.
Chief Constituents.
Plant or Product.
Geographical Source.

Finus Balsamea.

Balm

of

Gilcad FiTa

Canada.

Finns Australis
or Falustris,

Tcrehinthina

Canada

densis
pentine

or

Cana-

1.

Tur-

2.

Resin.
Volatile

oil.

Balsam.

LuiuciiLiiit;

Xiic

tained by puncturing
or incising the baric of
the trunlc and branches.

1.

TliusAinericanum
Frankin-

Ccmmon

The concrete
Taeda, Finaster, cense.
Sylvestris, &c. turpentine scraped off
the trunk of the Pinus
America; France; Palustris and Tceda.
Terebin2. Oleum
Northern Europe.
Oil or Spirit
thince
The
of Turpentine.
oil distilled, usually by
aid of steam, from the

I.

^2.

Resin.
Volatile

oil

about 17 per cent.

I

[turpentine)

oleo-resin

from

obtained
species

all

rectified

necessary.

if

Resina
Resin.
residue left after
the distillation of the
crude
turpentine of
various
species
of
3.

The

Acids = 'P\mc, Sylvia,

and Pimaric.

Pifius.
4.

Oleum Pini

vestris

The
the

Syl-

Fir-WoodOil.

oil

distilled

fresh

from

leaves

of

Pinus sylvestris.
Tar. \
5. Pix Liquida
I. Oil of turpentine,
A bituminous liquid creasote, and other
obtained from the wood [compounds obtained
of Pinus sylvestris and (by distillation.
other species, by de2. Pitch remains =
structive distillation.
/ black resin.

298

MATERIA MEDICA.
II.

ENDOGEN^ ENDOGENS.
Na.t.

Botanical Source or

Name

of Plant.

Nature
Part of Active Principles, and
Plant or Product.
Chief Coustituents.

Officinal

Geographical Source.

Sxnilax

SiaiI.ACEiE.

Ord.

SarscB Radix
saparilla Root.
dried root.

Officinalis.

Sarsaparilla.

Sar-

Jamaica
Central America. parilla, from
as

Sarsaparillin

or
neutral,

crystalline, bitter.

iscommonlyknown

It

1.

The Smilacin

Sarsa-

2.
3.

Volatile oil.
Starch, &c.

having
been formerly obtained
from Central America
by way of that island.

Nat. Ord. ZINTGIBEBACEJE.

Elettaria

Cardaniomi Semina

Cardamomum. Cardamom
Caxdcmioiii.

Malabar.

Seeds. The
dried ripe seeds, contained in their pericarps. The seeds only
are used.

Ginger.

Zingiber

Zingiber

Officinale.

The rhizome,
and

scraped

dried.

1.

Volatile

2.
3.

Acrid resin.
Colouring matter.

oil.

1.

Volatile

2.

Resinous matter.

3.

Starch, &c.

1.

Volatile

2.

Curcumin

oil.

Ginger.

E. and W.

Indies.

{In Appendix).
Iionga.

Curcuma

Cui'cuma

The

Turmeric.

dried rhizome.

oil.

yel-

low colouring matter.

Ceylon.

Nat. Ord.

Crocus Sativus.

Crocus

The
Crocus.
S. Europe.

miDACEJE.

Sajffron.

dried stigmas and

top of the style of the
flower.

Colouring matter.

TABLE OF NATURAL ORDERS.

299

Nat. Ord. IiUiIACE^.

Active Principles, and

Chief Constituents.

ij^tanical Source or Officinal Nature

Part of
Name of Plant.
Plant or Product.

Geographical Source.
1. Aloin of various
kinds = crystalline and

Aloe Vulgaris,
Perryi, &c.

I. Aloe Barbadcnsis amorphous.

Imported from
2. Resin, especially
Aloes.
Barbadoes
Barbadocs and! The inspissated juice in Socotrine.
the Dutch Wesn of the cut leaves of
3. Aloetic acid.
Indian Islands.
4. Trace of volatile
Aloe Vulgaris.
oil.
1. Aloe Socotrina.
Imported prin- Socotrinc Aloes. The
cipally by way_ inspissated juice of the
leaves of Aloe
of Bombay and cut
Perryi, and probably
Zanzibar.
1

other species.
A crys3. Aloin.
talline substance ob-

Urginea

Scilla.

Squill. The
Scilla
bulb, divested of its

dry

Squill.

membranous

scales, cut into

and

S. Europe.

Nat.

Colchicum
Autumnale.

tractive.

4.

Peculiar acrid resin.

Traceof tannic acid.

lOEIiANTHACEJE.

Colchici

Cormiis

Corm.
Colchicum
The fresh corm, colMeadow Safiron. lected about the end
of Juneorearlyin July;
and the same stripped
Indigenous.
coats, sliced
of its
transversely, and dried
under 150.
2. Colchici Semina.
The seeds, collected

when

Bitter resinous ex-

2. Scillitin.

slices, 3.

dried.

Ord.
1.

outer

1.

fully ripe,

icarefully dried.

and

1.

Colchicine =cxys-

talline.
2.

Cevadic acid.

3.

Gum,

starch, &c.

30O

MATERIA MEDICA.

Botanical

Name

Source or Officinal Nature

Part of Active Principles, and
Plant or Product.
Chief Constituents.

of Plant.

Geographical Source,

Scboenocaulon
Officinale, &c.

Mexico.

Sabadilla

1.

Ceva-

dried ripe
seeds. Sometimes imported in or mixed with
their pericarps.

Vcratrina

2.

An

trine.

inixcurc

Veratrina.
Sabadilline.

3.

Acids

Gallic.
Veratric.

(Cevadic.

alkaloid or

oi

obtained

Vera-

2.

/I.

The

dilla.

aiKaioicis

from

Saba-

dilla.

Veratnim

Veratri Viridis RhiGreen Hellebore Rhizome.

The
Hellebore. rhizome, collected in

Viride.

Green

zoma

autumn, and

1.

Veratrina! alka-

2.

Viridia.

5 loids.

dried.

N. America.

BTat.

Triticum
Sativum.

Wbeat.

Farina Tritici
Wheaten Flour. The
grain of wheat ground
and sifted.
1.

Zea Mays,
2.

nsaize.

Ord. GSAnilM'ACE.s:.

Amylum Starch.

from
the
common
of
wheat, maize, and rice.
Procured

grains

Oryza

Sativa.

3.

Rice.

Mica

with wheaten
Indigenous.

Pauls

Crumb of Bread. Made

flour.

/I.

2.

3.

Starch = about 703

per cent.
Gluten = about 10 j
per cent.

Gum,

sugar,

salts",

3OI

TABLE OF NATURAL ORDERS.

iotanical

Name

Source or Officinal Nature

Part of Active Principles, and
Chief Constituents.
Plant or Product.

of Plant,

ieographical Source.

Kordeum
Sistichon.

Barley.

Hovdeum

Gluten, starch, gum,

Decorti-

Pearl Barley. sugar, salts, &c.

catnin
The dried seed, divested of

its

integuments.

Indigenous.

Sacchaxum
OfElcinarum.

Sugar Cane.

1. Saccharum Purijicatnm Refined Sugar.

Pure cane -sugar.

Treacle.
uncrystallized residue of the refining
of sugar.
2.

Theriaca

The

W.

Indies.

ISecale Cereale.

Composition not deErgot.

Ergota
known, but
sclerotium (com- finitely
m5'celium
or most recent researches
pact
spawn) of a vegetable give:
fungus, the Claviceps
1. Ergotinic acid.
2. Sphacelinic acid.
Purpurea, growing between the paleas of the 3. Cornutine \ alkarye, and replacing the
4. Ergotinine ) loids.
grain.
5. Fixed oil (35 per
2. ErgotinumErgo- cent.), colouring mattin.
Purified extract ters, sugar, &c.
of ergot.
I.

The

Common Bye.
Indigenous.

III.

Nat.

Aspidium
FiUx Mas.
Blale Fern.
Indigenous.

FiUx
Fern.

ACROGENS.
Ord.

Male

1.

Volatile

dried rhi-

2.

Fixed

Mas
The

FUICES.
oil.

oils.

zome, with the bases 3. Resin, gum, starch,

of the petioles.
Col- &c.
lected late in summer, 4. Tannin.
divested of its scales,
roots, and all dead portions,
and carefully
dried with a gentle
heat.

MATERIA MEDICA.

302

Hat. Ord.
Botanical Source or

Name

of Plant.

Geographical Source.

Torula
Cerevisise.

Veast Plant.

Ofiicinal Nature
Part of
T^lnnf riT" PrnHiiff

Cetraria

Active Principles, and

Ohief Constituents.

Ferment-

CcrevisicB

um Beer

Yeast.

ferment obtained
brewing beer.

Nat.

Islandica.

FTTNGI.

The
in

IiICHESTES.

Ord.

Cetraria
Iceland
1. Lichcnin or lichen
Moss.
The entire starch.
dried lichen.

2.

Iceland SCoss.

Cetraria acid.

3. Bitter principle

crystalline.

North Europe,
Roccella
Tinctoria, &c.

Lacmtis

Litmus.

(In Appendix).

A blue

pigment prepared from

The Azores.

various species.

ENTIRE PLANT.

GROUPS OF VEGETABLE DRUGS.

student, having- obtained from the precedingr
Tables a general knowledge of the drugs derived
from the vegetable kingdom, may now proceed to
study them more particularly in groups, arranged

The

according

their

to

nature.

In relation

to

indi-

vidual drugs, I have endeavoured, where necessary, to bring out any point of importance in their
mode of preparation ; and also to state prominently
their chief characters, when these are given in the
In the case of the less important drugs,
B.P.
however, the student need not burden his memory
with their full description, if he only knows how to
recognise them.
With respect to Pharmacy, I have followed the
same plan as in the case of the inorganic drugs,

and the remarks made

drugs apply

to those

in relation to that class of

now

to

be considered.

Group I.ENTIRE PLANT.

Name.

3.
4.

Lobelia Lobelia.

2.

Natural Order.

Source.

Iceland Moss.
Chirata Chiretta
Lactuca Lettuce.

1.

Cetraria

Cetraria Islandica.

Lichenes.

Ophelia Chirata.

Gentianacea:.

Lactuca Virosa.

CompositEE.

Lobelia Inflata.

LobeliaceiE.

I. Cetraria
Iceland Moss. The dried lichen.
Description.
a. Foliaceous;
much branched
in an irregular dichotomous manner into obtuse
or truncate flattened lobes.
h. Crisp,
smooth, and usually brownish- or
greyish-white above, whitish beneath, and marked
irregularly with small white depressed spots.

MATERIA MEDICA.

304

c. Almost odourless when dry, but when

moistened with water having- a feeble sea-weed-like

odour
d.

taste mucilag^inous

A strong-

Pharmacy.

and

slig-htly bitter.

decoction gelatinizes on cooling.

Officinal Preparation

Decoctum Cetrarics.
Iceland moss, ?

")

t)

-i

f"''

Distilled waterfo i ] '

after washing with cold water.
make up to
i.

^ m^utes,
Strain,

and

Action.
nutrient.
Dose
2.

Iceland

Of Infusion,

Chirata

moss
fl^

is

demulcent and

to 4.

Chiretta. The dried plant.

Colthe fruit begins to form.

Description.
a. Root, 2 or 3 inches long,
usually unbranched.
b. Stem, 3 feet or more long, rounded below
and slightly quadrangular above, branched in a
dichotomous manner, smooth, orange-brown or
purplish. Except in the lower part it consists of
lected

when

thin woody ring, enclosing a large continuous

easily-separable pith of a yellowish colour.
Leaves ovate, 5-7 ribbed; flowers small,
c.

numerous.
d. No odour; taste, very bitter.
Pharmacy.
Offici7ial Preparations
a. Infusum ChiratcE.

Chiretta, cut small, ^ \

Distilled water, at 120, fl J IC.
h.

Infuse half an
hour, and strain.

Tinctures ChiratcE.

Chiretta, cut small

and bruised, g

2^^

")

j^j^^g

Proof spirit, O i.
J
by maceration for 48 hours, and percolation.
Action. Chiretta is a simple bitter, and is used
as a gastric and general tonic.
Doses Oi Infusion, fl ^ i to 2 Tincture, fl 3 ^ to 2,

ENTIRE PLANT.
3.

No

Lactuca

Lettuce. The

description

Pharmacy.
Exiractum

is

flowering herb.

given in the B.P.

Officinal Preparation

LactuccB.

the juice in the usual

A green

extract,

made from

way.

Action. The extract of lettuce is used as a

hypnotic; and is also sometimes made up into
pills with purgatives, to act as a carminative.
Dose Of Extract, gr. 5 to 15.

4.

Lobelia.

The dried flowering herb.

Description. a. Usually in compressed oblong

rectangular parcels, weighing from half a pound
to one pound, and wrapped in sealed and labelled
papers.
b. The separate pieces are of varying lengths,
yellowish-green, angular, and bearing sessile or
stalked hairy oval irregularly-toothed leaves, together with some flowers and fruits.
c.

Odour somewhat

irritating;

mild, but after chewing,

at

Officinal Preparations :
Tinctura Lobelia.
Lobelia, in No. 40 powder, 5 2l),,

Pharmacy.
a,

taste,

first

burning and acrid.

2 | Made by
Proof Spirit, Ox.
maceration for 48 hours, and percolation.
h.

Tinctura LobelicB ZEiherea.

Lobelia, in coarse powder, ? 2\] , ,
,
r
2
Macerate for
Spirit of ether, O i
j
7 days, strain, and make up to
I.
.

Action. Lobelia is almost solely employed as a

pulmonary sedative and antispasmodic. In
large doses it is irritant to the alimentary
canal,
acting as an emetic and purgative.
It is also
diuretic and diaphoretic. In poisonous
doses
It IS a general
depressant.

DoseOi

either Tincture,

iix

lO to 30.

3o6

MATERIA MEDICA.

Group II. ROOTS

AND RHIZOMES.

Although botanically roots and rhizomes are

not the same, rhizomes being in reality underground stems, and although the B.P. now recognises them separately, they may be conveniently grouped together for practical purposes, and
they are in several instances used together. The
officinal members of this group are very numerous, and the following tabular arrangement may
afford some help in remembering them.

A. Entire Roots and Rhizomes, or Elongated:

Pieces.
Source.

Name.

N.ITURAL
Order.

1.

Aconiti Radix.

Aconitum Napellus.

RanunculacejE.

2.

ArmoraciEe Radix.
BelladonnEe Radix.

Cochlearia Armoracia.

Cruciferje.

Atropa Belladonna.
Gentiana Lutea.

AtropaceE.

3.

5.

GentianEE Radix.
Glycyrrhizae Radix.

6.

Krameria; Radix.

4.

Gentianacea:.

Glycyrrhiza Glabra.

Leguminosa:.

Krameria Triandra and

Polygalaca;.

Ixina.
7. Pareirse

Chondodendron Tomen-

Radix.

MenispermacesEX

tosum.
8.

Podopliylli

Rhizoma.

Pyrethri Radix.
10. Scammoniae Radix.
9.

11.

Taraxaci Radix.

B.

Podophyllum Peltatum.
Anacyclus Pyrethrum.
Convolvulus Scammonia.

RanunculaceEE.

Taraxacum

Compositee.

Officinale.

Composita:.
Convolvulaceffi.

Short Transverse Sections.

CalumbiE Radix.

Jateorhiza Calumba.

Menispcrmacest

12.

Ferula Sumbul.

Umbellifera:.

13.

Sumbul Radix.

ROOTS AND RHIZOMES.

Branched Roots or Rhizomes with Rootlets.

C.
T

(.

Arnicai Rhizoma.
Cimicifugffi

17.

307

Rhizoma.

Arnica Montana.

Composita;.

Cimicifuga Racemosa.

Ranunculaceze.

Gelsemium.

Gelsemium Nitidum.

ApocynaceE.

SenegEe Radix.

Polygala Senega.

PolygalacesE.

18. Serpentariffi

Radix.

Aristolochia

Serpenta-

Aristolochiie.

ria.

ig.

Valeriana: Rhizoma.

Valeriana Officinalis.

Valerianacee.

20.

Veratri Viridis Rhizoma.

Veratrum Viride.

MelanthaceEE.

D. Miscellaneous Group.
21. Filix

Mas.

Aspidiura Filix Mas.

Filices.

22.

Hemidesmi Radix.

Hemidesmus

Asclepiadaceffi

23.

Ipecacuanha.

Cephaelis Ipecacuanha.

Cinchonaceas.

24.

Rheum Palmatum,

Polygonaceae.

25.

Rhei Radix.
SarzE Radix.

26.

Sassafras Radix.

Sassafras Officinale.

Lauracea:.

27.

Zingiber.

Zingiber Officinale.

ZingiberaceiE.

28.

Granati Radicis Cortex.

Smilax

Indicus.

etc.

Officinalis.

Smilacea:.

E. Bark of Root.
Punica Granatum.

Myrtace^.

Having- thus enumerated and classified the drugs

belonging- to this g-roup, they will now be individually considered in alphabetical order.
I.

AcoNiTi

Radix Aconite Root. The

root

collected in the winter or early spring-, before

the
leaves have appeared, from jilants cultivated
in

and carefully dried; or imported in a

dried state from Germany.
Description. a. Usually from 2 to
3 inches
long; and from 1 to
f inch thick at the upper extremity, where it is usually crowned
with the base
Britain,

of the stem.

J.

Conical in form,

much

shrivelled long-itudin-

ally.
c

01

More or

broken

less

covered with the scars or bases

rootlets.

X2

3o8

MATERIA MEDICA.

d. Dark-brown
externally; whitish internally,
and having a central cellular axis with about seven

rays.
e. No marked odour;
taste at first somewhat
bitterish-sweet, but exciting slowly when chewed,
after some minutes, a sensation of tingling and

numbness which

lasts for

some

time.

Pharmacy.
Officinal Preparations
a. Linimentum Aconili.
Aconite root, in No. 40 powder, ^20

Camphor, |

V.

Rectified spirit, sufficient to make A J 30 J

Macerate the root in the spirit for 3 days, and
percolate into a receiver containing the

camphor.
Tinctura Aconiii.
Aconite root in No. 40 powder, l2\\ y, . ,
^^^"^^
Rectified spirit,
i
J
maceration for 48 hours, and percolation.
Action. Aconite root owes its physiological
and therapeutic effects to the aconitine which it
contains. Locally applied it causes numbness and
tingling, and is a powerful anodyne, employed
in the form of liniment.
Internally the tincture is
used as a vascular depressant, antipyretic,
and anodyne. It is also a diaphoretic and diuretic.
In poisonous doses it affects the nerveendings and the spinal cord, causing paralysis.
Dose Of Tincture, lit 5 to 15.
1.

2.

Armoracf^

Radix

Horse-Radish

Root.

The fresh root, from plants cultivated in Britain.

Most active in autumn and early spring, before the
leaves have appeared.
Description. a. Nearly cylindrical, except at the
upper end, where it is enlarged and conical, and
marked in an annulated manner by the scars of

fallen leaves.

3^9

ROOTS AND RHIZOMES.

From \ to about an inch in diameter, and

xommonly a'foot or more in length.
h.

Pale yellowish-white or brownish-white externally, white and fleshy within.

odour when
d. Exhales a characteristic pungent
.scraped or bruised. Taste very pungent.
c.

Pharji ACY.
Spiiilus

Compositus. Sp.

Officinal Preparation

Armoracice.

gr.

about

0'920.

Horse-radish root, scraped"

Bitter-orange peel, cutsmall
^
"
and bruised
j

Nutmeg, bruised, ^ 12

Mix, and
Ci.

(distil

Proof spirit, C i
Water, O 3
Action. Locally applied horse-radish may be
Internally it is a
employed as a rubefacient.
sialagogue, carminative and peptogen, being
frequently used as a condiment.

Dnse Of Compound Spirit, fl 3 1-2.

Rhizoma Arnica Rhizome.
3. ARNiciE

The

dried rhizome and rootlets.

Description. a. Rhizome from i to 2 inches or
more in length, about to ^ inch in diameter; cylindrical and contorted.
b. Dark broWn, rough from the scars of fallen
leaves, some remains of which are usually found
at its upper end, and giving off from its under
surface numerous long dark brown filiform wiry

-5-

(Fewer and less contorted than serpenmore slender than veratrum viride).
apt
c. Peculiar odour and somewhat aromatic
to excite sneezing; acrid and bitterish taste.

rootlets.

tary

Pharmacy.

Officinal Preparation

linctiira Arnicce.

Arnica,
Rectified

in

No 40 powder,

spirit,

^^^^

maceration for 48 hours, and percolation.

'

3IO

MATERIA MEDICA.

Action.

Tincture of arnica mixed with water is

employed as an external application for

chiefly

seldom given, but is

most of the organs.
poisonous doses it acts as an irritant to the
mentary canal, and general depressant.
bruises.

Internally

is

it

garded as a stimulant

Dose
4.

Of Tincture,

fl

to

Belladonna Radix

to

re-

In
ali-

i.

Belladonna Root. The

dried root, collected from plants growing wild or

cultivated in Britain
or imported in a dried state
;

from Germany.
Description.

a.

Rough

branched
upper end by the

irregular

pieces, generally marked at the

hollow bases of the stems.

i to 2 feet long, but usually in shorter

b. From
pieces; \ to i inch thick.
Externally covered with a dirty-grey or
c.
brovi^nish integument, easily scraped off by the

exposed surface being whitish.

Breaks readily with a short fracture surface
then shows a thin cortical portion of yellowish or
pale-brown colour, separated by a dark line
from a large central portion of brownish colour.
and marked throughout by scattered darker-coloured dots, but without evident medullary rays.
i
Pharmacy.
Officinal Preparations
nail, the
d.

a.

Eniplastrum Belladonncc.
Alcoholic extract of belladonna,

plasters by a water-bath,

add the

extract,

and mix thoroughly.

h.
'

Exiraciiim

BelladonncB AlcoJioliciim.M&de by

macerating belladonna root with rectified

water
spirit for 48 hours, and afterwards with
water-bath
a
by
percolating; and evaporating
to a suitable consistence.

3II

ROOTS AND RHIZOMES.

c.

Linimcnhim
Belladonna

BelladofincB.

root, 20~)

^Macerate

Camphor,!

for 3 days,

and

Rectified spirit, 30. j

percolate into

receiver containing

the

camphor.
d.

Uiigtienliim BelladonncB.

Mix

Alcoholic extract of belladonna, i|

2.

Benzoated lard, 9.
Belladonna root is the source

thoroughly,

oS. Airopifie.

The

preparations made from belladonna root are almost entirely used as local remedies, being valuable anodynes, anhydrotics,
and mydriatics. The alcoholic extract may be
given internally, its effects being similar to those
of the other preparations administered internally.
(^See Belladonna Leaves).
DoseOt Alcoholic Extract, gr. J^- to J.
Action.

5.

CALUMBiE

Radix Calumba Root.

The dried

transversely cut slices of the root.

Description. a. In irregular flattish circular

or

somewhat oval slices, from about I to 2 inches or

more in diameter, and ^ to ^ inch or more in
thickness; concave in the centre on both surfaces.
b. The cortical portion is thick, covered by a

wrinkled brownish-yellow coat, and separated

from the central portion by a fine dark-coloured
line.
Colour greyish- or greenish-yellow.
c. The pieces break readily with a mealy fracture, and are easily reduced to powder.
d.

Odour

feeble,

somewhat musty

taste bitter.

Pharmacy.
Officinal Preparaiioiis :
a. Exlractum Calumbce.
Made by twice macerating calumba root, cut small, in proof spirit,
straining and pressing; mixing and filtering
the liquors; recovering the spirit by distillation
and evaporating by a water-bath.
;

312
b.

MATERIA MEDICA.
In/usum

CaliimlcB.

Calumba
Cold
c.

root, cut small,

distilled water, 20.

")

Macerate half an
hour, and strain.

Tinciiira CahanbcB.

Made by ma-

'

Calumba
Proof

root, cut small

spirit, fl ^ 20.

2^1 ceration for 48

1

hours,

and per-

colation.
2.

Calumba

is

contained

in

Mistura Ferri Aro-

matica.

Action.
Calumba is a bitter stomachic
tonic, and acts indirectly as a general tonic.

Doses Of Extract, gr. 2 to lO;

Tincture, fl 3 ^ to 2,
;

Infusion, fl|

to 2

6. CiMiciFUG^ Rhizoma
rhizome and rootlets.

CiMiciFUGA. The dried

Description.
The rhizome
a.
2 to 6 inches long-, and from ^ to
hard.
b.

Somewhat

is
i

about from
inch thick

flattened-cylindrical in form, hav-

upper surface the remains of several

serial stems, and below numerous small wiry
brittle branched rootlets, which in commercial
specimens are more or less broken off.
c. Rhizome and rootlets are brownish-black.
d. Fracture is close, that of the rootlets presenting a thick bark, and a central axis with from
3 to 5, usually 4, converging woody wedges, so
as to assume a triangular, cross-like, or stellate
appearance.
ing on

e.

its

Almost odourless

Pharmacy.
a.

Exiraciuin

taste bitter, slightly acrid.

Officinal Preparations

CimicifugcB Liquidtim.

An

alcoholic

Cimicifuga, in
No. 60 powder, J 20, in Rectified spirit, O2;
percolating; reserving the first fl J 15; evaextract,

made by macerating

3I3

ROOTS AND RHIZOMES.

porating- the remainder by a water-bath to a

dissolving- this in the reserved
soft extract
position
and making- up with spirit to fl J 20.
Tinctura CimicifiigCB.
;

b.

Cimicifuga,

No. 40 powder, | 2I yi^^^Q by

|

in

Proof spirit, O i.
J
maceration for 48 hours, and percolation.
_

2.

Incompatible.

An

infusion

cimicifug-a

of

is

blackened by a persalt of iron.

Action. Cimicifuga is said to be a bitter
stomachic, cardiac tonic, expectorant, and
especially
It is
nervine stimulant or tonic.
used in certain forms of rheumatism and neuralg-ia.
In large doses it causes nausea, vomiting-, depression, headache, and g-iddiness.
Doses OS. Liquid Extract, 11x3 to 30; Tincture,

15 to 60.

TTL

7.

FiLix

Mas

Male

Fern.

The

rhizome, with

the persistent bases of the petioles. Collected late

in the autumn, divested of its scales, roots, and all
dead portions, and carefully dried with a g-entle
heat.
Should not be used if more than a year
old.

Description.

From

6 inches in length,
from \ to i inch in diameter, but being- entirely covered by the hard
persistent curved angular dark-brown bases of the

and the rhizome

petioles,
h.

is

Brown

a.

3 to

itself is

apparently 2 or more inches.

externally; yellowish-white or brown-

ish internally.
c.

ish

Odour

feeble but disagreeable

and astringent

at

first,

taste sweetbut subsequently bitter

;

and nauseous.
Pharmacy.
Officinal Preparation :
Extractum Filicis Liquidiun. An oily extract.
Male fern, in coarse powder, lb 2) -n
P^^-^olate
Ether, O 4. or a sufficiency

'

MATERIA MEDICA.

314

slowly until the ether passes colourless

evaporate by a water-bath, or recover the
ether by distillation.
Action.- Male fern is an anthelmintic, particularly used for tape- worm.
Dose Of Liquid Extract, lix 15 to 30.

8. Gelsemium
-Yellow Jasmine.
The dried
rhizome and rootlets.
Description. a. Nearly cylindrical, from \ an
inch to 6 inches or more in length, and commonly
from \
\ inch in diameter, with small rootlets
attached to, or mixed with, the larger pieces.
b. Light yellowish-brown externally, and marked
longitudinally by dark purplish lines.
c.
Fracture splintery; bark thin, presenting
silky fibres in its liber, and closely attached to a
pale yellow porous woody axis, with evident
medullary rays, and with or without pith.
somewhat narcotic and aromatic;
d. Odour

taste bitter.

Pharmacy.

Officinal Preparations

Made by
with
powder,
macerating Gelsemium, in No. 60
continuing
and
Rectified spirit, O2; percolating,
the percolation with distilled water until O 2 have
been collected and evaporating by a water-bath.
a.

Exiraciu77i

Gelsemii Alcoholicuin.

h.

Tinclura Gelsemii.

Gelsemium, in No. 40 pov^der, 3

by
Proof spirit, O i.
maceration for 48 hours, and percolation.
Action. Applied to the eye, gelsemium acts as
Internally administered, however,
a mydriatic.
myotic.
it produces the contrary effect, being a
nervous
Its chief use is for its action upon the
paralyses
it
system, especially the spinal cord
.

but
the sensory columns, and at first stimulates,
large
In
centres.
subsequently paralyses the motor

ROOTS AND RHIZOMES.

doses it causes various nervous symptoms, and is
a dangerous cardiac and respiratory depressant. "Oelsemium is chiefly employed as a remedy
and
for neuralg-ia, s\ck headache, or rheumatism
by
poisoning
in
antidote
in tetanus^ or as an
;

strychnine.

Bases Oi Alcoholic Extract, gr.

ture, lu 5 to 20.

GentianvE

9.

root.

-J

to 2

Tinc-

Radix Gentian Root. The dried

a.
In more or less cylindrical
Descriptiox.
pieces or longitudinal slices, from a few inches to
a foot or more in length, and from a half to about
an inch thick.
in an annular manner when the
b. Wrinkled
pieces have been derived from the upper part of
the root, and all marked with irregular longitudi-

nal furrows.
c. Deep yellowish-brown externally, yellowish or
Bark thick, reddish, and
reddish-yellow within.
separated from the central woody portion, which
is somewhat spongy, by a dark- coloured cambium

zone.
d.
e.

Tough and brittle when dry.

Odour heavy and peculiar;

taste

at

first

sweetish, but ultimately very bitter.

Pharmacy.
Officinal Preparations
a. Extracluvi Gejiiiana.

Gentian root,

sliced, lb

)
,
r
...
V Infuse two hours;
,.
J
Boihng distilledJ water,
OI
boil 15 minutes; pour off, press, and strain;
evaporate by a water-bath.
r

-r,

b,

Infusum Gentiana. Covipositum.

Gentian root, sliced,
of each
T3-,^
Infuse half
Bitter-orange peel, \
p-r
&
an
hour, and
cut small,
J
Fresh lemon peel, cut small, ^ \ strain.
Boiling distilled water, fl| 10.
1

3i6

MATERIA MEDICA.
Tinctura Gentianm Composita.
root, cut small and\
bruised, I \\

f.

Gsntian

Bitter-orange peel, cut small

Made by maceration for 48

hours,
and
percolation.

and bruised, If

Cardamom
Proof

seeds, bruised,
1\

spirit,

I.

Action. Gentian is a bitter stomachic tonic.

DosesO'i Extract, gr 2 to o; Infusion, fl ^ i to 2
Tincture, fl 3 1 to 2.
i

10.

The
and

GLYCYRRHIZiE

RaDIX

LiQUORICE

RoOT.

root and subterranean stems or stolons, fresh

dried.

Description'.
The following- are the characters
of the fresh and dried roots respectively.

Fresh Root.

Dried Root.

a. In
long
cylindrical
pieces, of varying thickness.

Either peeled or unpeeled.

root resembles the fresh, but is somewhat

h. Smooth and yellowishbrown or somewhat reddish

externally.
c.

a.
h.

The unpeeled

darker,

Yellow and juicy

inter-

nally,
very flexible, easily
cut, and consisting of a thick
cortical portion surrounding

a central woody

which,

axis,

in the case of the stem, contains a small pith.

d. Odour peculiar, earthy,
and somewhat sickly
taste
strong, peculiar, sweet.

furrowed

longitudi-

The

peeled root has a

yellow colour externally.
c. The unpeeled root has a
nally.

slightly

and

acrid,

cases a feebly

in

bitter

some
taste,

combined with the characteristic

there

sweetness
is

no

when

peeled

acridity.

Pharmacy,
i.
Officinal Preparations
Made by macerating
a. Exiraclum GlycyrrhizcB.
liquorice root, in No. 20 powder, in cold distilled
water; straining and pressing; heating to 212;
straining through flannel
and evaporating by a

water-bath.

ROOTS AND RHIZOMES.

h.

Exiraclum

Glycyrrhiza

Liqmdu7n.y[a.Ae

as

above, the strained liquid being evaporated to sp.

one-sixth of its volume of rectified spirit
'Tr. I -160;
the mixture filtered after standingand
added
;

12 hours.
c.

Pulvis GlycyrrhizcB Compodlus.

Senna, in fine powder, 2'

Liquorice root, in fine
Mix thoroughly, pass
powder, 2
fine
a
through
Fennel fruit, in fine powder,

and

sieve,

Sublimed sulphur,
Refined sugar,

in

lightly in

rub
a mortar.

pow-

der, 6.
2. Liquorice

Root

is

an ingredient

in

Confectio

Decoctum Sarss Compositum,

TerebinthinsB,
Infusum Lini, Pilula Hydrargyri, and Pilula Ferri
lodidi.

The

extract

is

contained

in

Confectio Sennae,

Decoctum Aloes Compositum, Tinctura Aloes,

the fluid extract in Mistura
and Trochisci Opii
Sennae Composita, and Tinctura Chloroformi et
;

Morphinae.
Action. Liquorice is used chiefly on account of
its flavour, and for concealing the taste of other
drugs; and as a demulcent. The compound
powder is a useful aperient.
Doses O'i Extract, gr. 5 to 31; Liquid Extract,
fl3 I
Compound Powder, gr. 30 to 60.

Pomegranate Root
II. Granati Radicis Cortex
Bark. The dried bark of the root.
Description. a. In quills or fragments, varying
from 2 to 4 inches in length.
b. Outer
surface yellowish-grey, virrinkled or
cracked with faint longitudinal striae, or more or
inner surface
less furrowed with corky bands;
smooth or nearly so, and yellow.

3i8
c.

d.

MATERIA MEDICA.
Short fracture.
No odour taste astringent and very feebly
;

bitter.

Pharmacy.

Officinal Preparation

i.

Decoctum Granati Radicis.

Pomegranate root bark,
to

I,

sliced,

? 2

strain,

-^O"

.,

]'

and make up

Alkalies,

2. Incompatihles.

O2

Distilled water,

down

to

i.

lime-water,

metallic
deep black-

An infusion becomes
on the addition of a persalt of iron.
Action. Pomegranate root bark is astringent
and anthelmintic.
Dose Of Decoction, fl ^ 2 to 4.

salts, gelatine.

ish-bl ue

12.

Hemidesmi Radix

dried root.

Hemidesmus

Root.

The

a. In cylindrical,
more or less
twisted, longitudinally furrowed pieces, six inches
or more in length.
b. Covered by a thin yellowish-brown or brown
corky layer, which is easily separated from the
other portion of the bark, the latter being fre-

Description.

quently cracked

an annular manner.
resembling that of the
c.
melilot or Tonquin bean; taste sweetish and very

Odour

in

fragrant,

slightly acrid.

Pharmacy.

Officinal Preparation

Syriipus Hemidesmi.
Sp. gr. about r335.
Hemidesmus root, bruised, ^4"^

Vinfuse four
Refined sugar, ^28
Boiling distilled water, O i.
J
hours; strain, set aside, and decant; dissolve
the sugar by a little heat.
Action. Hemidesmus is regarded as an altera-

tive, but

Dose

it is

seldom used.

Of Syrup,

fl

I.

ROOTS AND RHIZOMES.

The dried root.

13. IrECACUANHA.
a. In more or less twisted pieces,
Description.
usually from 2 to 4 inches long, and about the size
of a small writing quill.
central inert
b. Consists of two parts, namely, a
or active
cortical
thick
and
a
axis,
whitish woody
or redgreyish-brown,
brownish,
is
which
portion,
dish-brown, irregularly annulated, and having a
resinous or waxy fracture.
slight and peculiar, more especially
c. Odour
when powdered; taste somewhat acrid and bitter.

Pharmacy.

Officinal Preparations:

i.

cum

a. Pilnla TpecacuatihcB

Compound powder
powder,

Squill, in

Ammoniacum,

in

Scilla.

of ipecacuanha,

3'

j^j^

powder,

Treacle, a sufficiency.
j
powders, and beat them into a mass with the
b.

treacle.
Pulvis Ipecacuanhce.
der.

powder,
powder, i

Ipecacuanha,

Opium,

c.

in

Compositus

in

Dover's

Pow-

~)

>.

Mix

Sulphate of potassium, in powder, 8 J

thoroughly, pass through a fine sieve, and
rub lightly in a mortar.
Tivchisci Ipecacuanha = gr. 1 in each lozenge.

Made

usual way.
MorphincB el Ipecacuanhce.
Ipecacuanha, gr.
each
) in
Hydrochlorate of morphine, gr.
lozenge.
J
Made in the usual way, but contains Tincture of
Tolu.
in the

d. Trochisci

e.

Vinum Ipecacuajihcc.
Ipecacuanha, coarsely powdered, 3
Acetic acid, fl ^ i
Distilled water, a sufficiency
Sherry, O i

i"


320

MATERIA MEDICA.

Macerate the ipecacuanha

in the acid for 24

hours. Percolate with water to O I. Evaporate
to dryness over a water-bath.
Powder the
residue; macerate in the sherry for 48 hours,
with occasional agitation
and filter.
Ipecacuanha is an ingredient in Pilula Conii
;

2.

Composita.
Action. In small doses ipecacuanha is used as
a gastric sedative and an aid to purgatives.
In moderate doses it is a diaphoretic and sedative expectorant. In large doses it is emetic
and is also employed as a specific for dysentery.

The compound powder owes

its effects to the combination of ipecacuanha and opium.

Doses Of Ipecacuanha, as expectorant, gr. \ to 2,
as emetic, gr. 15 to 30; Compound Powder, gr. 5
to 15; Pill of Ipecacuanha with Squill, gr. 5 to 10;
Lozenges of Morphine and IpeLozenges, i to 3
cacuanha, I to 6; Wine, as expectorant, 11x5 to 40,
as emetic, fl 3 i to 6.

14.

Krameri^ Radix Rhatany

dried root.
(i) Peruvian;

There are two

(2)

Root.

varieties,

The

namely

Savanilla.

Description. The two varieties of rhatany present the following characters

:

Savanilla.

Peruvian.
a. In branched or unbranched
pieces, varying in length and

a.

Less irregular and knotty,

and not so long or

thick.

thickness.
h. Bark adheres firmly to the
readily separable,
h. Bark
is smooth and
varying in thickness from about wood beneath
of an inch, rough and thicker; usually marked at irto
scaly except in the smaller regular intervals by deep transor
pieces, dark reddish-brown ex- verse cracks dark purplish
colour.
violet
brownishbright
and
ternally,
red on its inner surface. Hard
brownish- or reddish-yellow
;

^ ^

woody

axis.

ROOTS AND RHIZOMES.

321

c. The bark of both kinds has a strongly astringent taste, and when chewed tinges the saliva red;
The wood is nearly
has no marked odour.
it

tasteless

and odourless.

Pharmacy.
Officinal Preparations
Made by macerating
a. Extractum Kramerice.
rhatany root, in No. 40 powder, in cold water
percolatmg; and evaporating by a water-bath.

Infusum Kramerice.

b.

Rhatany

root, in

No. 40 powder,

Boiling distilled water, 20.

Tinctura Kramerice.

c.

Rhatany

root, in No. 40 powder, J 2|

Proof spirit, O I.
by maceration for 48 hours, and percolation.

Action.
chiefly

Krameria

employed

for

is

its

a valuable astringent,
on the throat and

effects

alimentary canal.

Doses Of Extract, gr. 5 to 20; Infusion, flj

Tincture, fl 3 l to 2.

to 2

15.

root.

Pareir^ Radix Pareira Root.

The dried

Description.
a. In long nearly cylindrical more
or less twisted pieces, from | inch to 2 or more
inches thick.
b. Covered with a thin blackish-brown bark, and
marked externally with longitudinal furrows, and
transverse ridges and fissures.
c. Internally yellowish- or brownish-grey, with
well-marked concentric or more or less eccentric
circles of porous wood, separated into wedgeshaped portions by large medullary rays, and
when cut presenting a waxy appearance.

d.

No odour;

taste bitter.

MATERIA MEDICA.

322

Pharmacy.
Officinal Preparations :
a. Decoctum PareircB.
Pareira root, in No. 20 powder, ^
i

^4

Distilled water, il^ 20.

b.

c.

1 Boil

K^

minutes, strain, and make up to O i.

Made by digesting- pareira
Extractuni Pareim,
root, in No. 40 powder, with boiling water;
percolating; and evaporating by a waterbath,
Extractum Pareirce Liquiduni. Dissolve Extract
of Pareira, 4, in a sufficient quantity of a
r
,(
r f Rectified spirit, I
to form 16
mixture of
| j^j^^ju^^ ^^^^^^ 3}

"l

fiuid parts.

Solution of iodine turns the

Incompaiibles.
cold decoction inky bluish-black.
Action. Pareira is a slight bitter tonic, but
is chiefly employed as a diuretic, and for a supposed specific effect upon the mucous membrane
of the urinary tract.
2.

Doses OS. Decoction,

10 to 20

fi

Liquid Extract,

^
fi

to

Extract, gr.

to 2.

PoDOPHYLLi Rhizoma Podophyllum Rhizome.

The dried rhizome and rootlets.
16.

Description. a. In pieces of variable length,

and from about i to ^ of an inch thick.
Flattened-cylindrical; presenting at varying
are
intervals large irregular tuberosities, which
and
scar,
circular
depressed
marked above by a
brittle
giving off below a variable number of very
off, prebroken
are
these
if
or,
brownish rootlets,
scars.
senting a corresponding number of whitish
reddish-yellow;
or
reddish-brown
Dark
b.

c.

smooth or somewhat wrinkled.

fracture, and internally
d. Breaks with a short
mealy.
whitish and

is


ROOTS AND RHIZOMES.
Odour

e.

faintly narcotic

323

taste bitterish, acrid,

and nauseous.
Pharmacy. Podophyllum rhizome is not used
itself therapeutically, but is merely introduced into

the B.P. as the source of the resin.

Radix

17. Pyrethri
Iried root.

Pellitory

{^See

Resins).

Root.

The

Description. a. In unbranched pieces, from 2

4 inches long-, and ^ to f of an inch thick, cylindrical or somewhat tapering-.
h. Covered by a thickish brown shrivelled bark,
studded by dark-coloured receptacles of resin.
c. Breaks
with a close fracture, the fractured
surface presenting a radiated appearance.
d. Inodorous
but when chewed causes a burning and pricking sensation over the whole mouth
to

and throat.
Pharmacy.
Officinal Preparation :
Tmclura Pyrethri.
Pellitory root, in No. 40
Made by maceration
powder, 4
V for 48 hours, and

Rectified spirit, 20.

Action.

gogue.
18.

Pyrethrum
The

tincture

Rhe UM

deprived of

its

J
is

is

Rhubarb.

percolation.

merely used as a sialamade into a mouth-wash.

The

root,

more or

less

bark, sliced and dried.

Collected
and prepared in China and Thibet.
(Several
varieties of rhubarb are described, but the
B.P.
only gives this general direction, and does
not
recognise them individually).

Description. a. In somewhat cylindrical, barrel-shaped, conical, plano-convex, or irregularlyforrned pieces.

Frequently bored with a

hole

which contains the remains of the cord used

to
suspend them to dry, or the cord has been
removed.


MATERIA MEDICA.

324
b.

Outer surface covered with a bright yellowish-

brown powder, rounded or somewhat angular,

smooth or more or less wrinkled, and marked
beneath the powder with reddish-brown or dark
rusty- Ijrown lines, intermixed in a yellowish-brown
substance, and frequently presenting small scattered star-like spots.
c.

Fracture hard, compact, uneven, presenting a

marbled appearance, and

in

some cases

exhibiting

a ring of star-like spots.

d.

Odour peculiar and somewhat aromatic; taste

and when chewed it feels

bitter, feebly astringent,

gritty

between the

teeth.

PHARMACy.
Offichial Preparaiions :
Made with distilled water
a. Exiracium Rhei.
and proof spirit, from the powdered root.
b. Lifusum Rhei.

Infuse for
,.
^ 1 ~)
root, in thin slices, ? i Ualf
an hour,
Boiling distilled water, fl^^ lO.
J^^^ ^^^^^^^
.

Rhubarb
c.

Piliila

Rhei Composita.

Rhubarb, I

Socotrine aloes, ^ z\
Myrrh, l \\
Hard soap, l\\
Oil of peppermint, fl 3
Glycerine, I
Treacle, about 1
d.

the

powders

with the oil and

the
add
soap
glycerine and suffi;

3.

Mix

cient treacle; and

beat into a uniform

mass.

Pulvis Rhei Composihcs Gregory' s Powder.

in powder, 2^
>Mix thoroughly, pass
Light magnesia, 6
Ginger, in powder, 1. j
in a
through a fine sieve, and rub lightly
mortar.
u
powder be desired, heavy
If a more condensed
magnesia may be employed.

Rhubarb,

ROOTS AND RHIZOMES.

Sp.

g^r. about 1-310.

No. 20 powderl
^^^^ ^
Coriander, in No. 20 powder)
Refined sugar, 24

Syrupns Rhei.

e.

Rhubarb,

in

Rectified spirit, 8
Distilled water, 24
Percolate the rhuliarb and coriander slowly
with the spirit and water previously mixed.
Evaporate to fl^ 14; filter, and dissolve the
sug-ar with the aid of heat.

Tinciura Rhei.

f.

Rhubarb,

in

No. 20 powder,

Cardamom

seeds, bruised,
Coriander, bruised, \
Saffron, \
Proof spirit, 20.
g. Vinum Rhei.

Rhubarb,

in

Canella bark,
Sherry, O i

by

Prepared

2^

maceration

for 48 hours,
I

and percolation.

course powder, ^
in coarse powder,

gr.

60

>.

Macerate for 7 days; strain, press,

make up with sherry to O i.

filter;

and

Action. Rhubarb in small doses is a gastric

tonic, and astringent to the alimentary canal.
In larger doses it acts as a purgative and hepatic
stimulant, but after its purgative action it produces an astringent effect.
Doses
Of Rhubarb, gr. 5 to 20; Extract, gr. 5 to
Infusion,
fl
15
J i to 2; Compound Pill, gr. 5 to lO;
Compound Powder, gr. 20 to 60 Syrup, fl 3 I to 4;
Tincture, as stomachic, fl 3
to 2, as purgative,

fl

to 8

Wine,

fl

to 2.

19. Sars/e
RadixJamaica Sarsaparilla. The
dried root.
Description.
a. Six or more feet
in
length,
usually bent or folded and packed together into
bundles of about 18 inches long, and 4 to 5 inches

326

MATERIA MEDICA.

in diameter, the whole bound together by a long

root of the same drug.
b. Roots more or less furrowed, varying in thickness, but not exceeding that of a goose-quill, with

numerous branched
c.

d.

rootlets.

Colour greyish-brown to deep reddish-brown.

Inodorous
taste mucilaginous,
and when
;

chewed

feebly bitter and faintly acrid.

Pharmacy.
Dec actum

a.

Officinal Preparations
SarscE.

Sarsaparilla, cut transversely, 5 21") -p..

|Uigest 2
ii.
Boiling distilled water,
hours; boil lO minutes; cool; strain; and

make up
b.

to

Decoctum SarscB Compositum.

Sarsaparilla, cut transversely,

Sassafras root, in chips,

Guaiacum wood

turnings,
Dried liquorice root, bruised,
Mezereon bark, ? \
Boiling distilled water, fl^ 30.

^2^

\Made
as

of each

above;

make

up
j

Extractum SarscE Liqiiidum.- An alcoholic

made with proof spirit, sugar, and water.
c.

to

^ 20.
extract,

Action. Sarsaparilla is a stomachic tonic,

but is chiefly used as an alterative.
Doses Of either Decoction, fl| 2 to 10; Liquid
Extract, fl 3 2 to 4.

Sassafras Root.
20. Sassafras Radix
dried root, reduced to chips or shavings.

The

Description. a. In large branched pieces more

or less covered with bark.
Bark rough and greyish brown or rustyb.
internally smooth, glistening,
brown externally
and rusty-brown.
or
c. Wood soft, light in weight, greyish-yellow
;

greyish-red.

ROOTS AND RHIZOMES.

327

Agreeable aromatic odour; taste peculiar,

odour and
aromatic, and somewhat astring-ent
d.

more marked in the bark.

Pharmacy.There are no officinal preparations
Sarsse
of sassafras, but it is contained in Decoctum
taste

Compositum.

Action. Sassafras

is

supposed

to

be an altera-

tive.

ScAMMONi^

21.

Radix ScAMMONY Root. The

dried root.

Description.a. Unbranched, of varying leng-ths

and sizes, cylindrical except at its upper end,
where it is enlarged, and presents usually some
remains of the slender aerial stems.
b.

More

or less shrivelled, longitudinally fur-

rowed.

Greyish-brown or yellowish externally; palewithin, and when fractured small

fragments of pale yellowish-brown resin may often
be seen on the surface of the fracture.
d. Odour and taste faint, somewhat resemblingc.

brown or whitish

jalap.

Pharmacy.

Scammony

root

is

introduced

into

the B.P. as the source of Scammony and Scammony

Resin, the former being obtained from the living
{See Gum-Resins
rool, the latter from the dried root.
and Resins).
22.
root.

Senega Radix

Senega

Root.

The

dried

Description.
a. Enlarged at the upper end
into an irregular knotty tuberosity, which bears
the remains of numerous small stems, and tapering below into a more or less twisted or curved,
branched, and usually keeled root, from ^ to more
than ^ of an inch thick.
Bark yellowish- or brownish-grey, transb.
versely cracked, horny, translucent; enclosing an

328

MATERIA MEDICA.

irregular whitish central

woody column.

Fracture

short, brittle.
c. Odour of bark peculiar, rancid
taste at first
sweetish, but afterwards very acrid, sourish, and
causing a flow of saliva. Wood tasteless and in;

odorous.

Pharmacy.
Officinal Prepa? atw?is
a. In/usum Senega.

Senega

root, in

No. 20 powder,

Boiling distilled water,

fl

? 10.

? i f,

^"^'^^^
\

^"^

(^strain.

Tinciura SenegcE.

b.

Senega

No. 40 powder, ?2i)

root, in

^^^^
Proof spirit, O I.
(
by maceration for 48 hours, and percolation.
Action. Senega is employed as a stimulant
expectorant and cardiac tonic. In large doses
it acts
as an irritant to the alimentary canal,
causing vomiting and purging.
Doses Of Infusion, fl]^ i to 2; Tincture, fl3^

to 2.

23.

SERPENTARIiE

RhIZOMA

SeRPENTARY

The dried rhizome and

Description.
Rhizome twisted, about

ZOME.

RhI-

rootlets.

a.

inch

and \ of an inch in diameter.

above by the remains of former
b. Marked
stems, and giving off below an interlacing tuft
of numerous slender branched rootlets, of from
2 to 4 inches long.
long,

Dull yellowish-brown colour.

Odour aromatic, peculiar, camphoraceous
taste bitterish, aromatic, and somewhat camphoraceous.
(The rhizome of Aristolochia reticulata is a little
and the rootlets are longer, coarser, and
thicker
c.

d.

less

matted together).

ROOTS AND RHIZOMES.

Pharmacy.

i.

Officinal Preparations

Serpentary rhizome,
powder, |1

in

No. 20 ~i

Infuse half

Van hour, and

Boiling distilled water, fl| 10.

j strain.

Tinctura Serpentaria.

b.

Infusiim SerpefilaricB.

a.

Serpentary rhizome, in Made by maceration

No. 40 powder, ^
> for 48 hours, and
percolation.
Proof spirit, O I.
j
2. Serpentary is an ingredient in Tinctura Cinchonse Composita.
Action.
Serpentary is regarded as a gastric
stimulant and tonic, general stimulant, diaphoretic, and alterative.

Doses

Of

Infusion, fl^

to

Tincture,

fl

to 2.

24.

SuMBUL Radix

Sumbul or Musk Root.

Dried transverse sections of the root.

Description.
a.
Varying much in size, but
usually from about I to 3 inches in diameter, and
from \ to more than i inch in thickness.
h. Externally
covered with a papery bark,
dusky-brown, transversely urinkled, and sometimes beset with short bristly fibres.
c. Internally spong-y, coarsely fibrous, dry, farinaceous, and dirty yellowish-brown, mottled with

d.
\

and spots of exuded resin.

Strong musk-like odour; taste bitter and

whitish patches,

aromatic.

Pharmacy.

Officinal

Preparation

Tinctura Sumbul.

Sumbul

root, in No. ^ Made by maceration

V for 48 hours, and
40 powder, 1 2I

Rectified spirit,

I.

percolation.

Action. Sumbul is a carminative, antispasmodic, nervine and cardiac stimulant.

Dose Of Tincture,
10 to 30.

330

MATERIA MEDICA.

25. Taraxaci
fresh and dried

Dandelion

Radix

roots,

collected

Root. The
the

in

autumn

from indigenous plants.

Description. a. When fresh frequently a foot

or more in length, and half an inch or more in
diameter
smooth.
When dried it is more or
less shrivelled, deeply furrowed longitudinally.
b. The fresh root is yellowish-brown externally;
;

the dried root dark-brown or blackish.

c. The fresh
root breaks readily with a short
fracture, and a milky juice exudes, the fractured
surface being whitish, and presenting faint concentric rings.
The dried root also breaks with
a short fracture, and the exposed surface shows a
yellow porous central woody axis, surrounded by
a thick whitish bark, with a variable number of
irregular well-marked concentric rings.
d.

Inodorous

Pharmacy.
a.

taste bitter.

Officittal

Dried

dandelion

sliced

root,

and bruised, J

Distilled water,
h.

Preparations

Decoctiim Taraxaci.

i.

"|

Boil for 10 minutes,

>

strain,

up

to

and make

i.

J
Extractiim Taraxaci.
Made by pressing out:
the juice from the fresh dandelion root; heat-straining; and
ing it to 212 for 10 minutes

c,

evaporating by a water-bath under 160.

Extractum Taraxaci LiquidtnJi. Made by macerating dried dandelion root, in No. 20 powder, with proof spirit and distilled watersuccessively; mixing the liquids evaporating:
by the water-bath and making up to a certain quantity by adding distilled water.
Made by pressing out the
Succus Taraxaci.
adding rectified
fresh
root
the
juice from
for 7 days; and
aside
setting
spirit (i to 3);

d.

>

'

filtering.

33I

ROOTS AND RHIZOMES.

Action. Taraxacum is a bitter stomachic

tonic and laxative. It is only a slight hepatic
stimulant, although it has considerable reputation in the treatment of affections of the liver.

Doses
5

Extract, gr.

Decoction, fl | 2 to 4
Extract, fl Z\ to 2
Liquid
30;

to

Juice, fl3

to 2.

Valeriana Rhizoma Valerian Rhizome.

The dried rhizome and rootlets, collected in autumn
from plants growing wild or cultivated in Britain.
26.

a.
short erect rhizome, entire
or sliced, and giving off numerous slender brittle
shrivelled rootlets, 3 or 4 inches long.
dark yellowish-brown
b. Colour
externally,
whitish internally.
developed in the process of drying,
c. Odour
strong, peculiar, disagreeable; taste unpleasant,

Description.

camphoraceous and

slightly bitter.

Yields volatile
distilled with water.

oil

d.

Pharmacy.
a. In/usum

and valerianic acid when

Valerian rhizome, bruised,

Boiling distilled water,
b.

Officinal Preparations

ValeriancB.

fl

|l

? 10.

for

f^oV'
f
) and strain.

Tinctura Valeriana:.

Valerian rhizome, in No. 40 powder,

J 2^ )
Proof spirit, O
J
Made by maceration for 48 hours, and perco-

lation.
c.

Tinctura Valeriana Ammoniata.

Valerian rhizome,
der,

in

No. 40 pow-'^

l2\

Aromatic spirit of ammonia,

for; days; strain, press,

toOi.

VMacerate

I.

filter;

makeup

MATERIA MEDICA.

332

Action. Valerian is a valuable carminative,

antispasmodic, and nervine stimulant.
Z>(?jfj Of Infusion,
to 2

Ammoniated

27.

Veratri

bore Rhizome.

fl^i to 2; Tincture,
fl 3 ^ to
i

fl

Tincture,

ViRiDis Rhizoma Green

The dried rhizome and

Helle-

rootlets.

Description.
a.
Rhizome is entire or transversely or longitudinally sliced or divided, and
either with or without attached rootlets.
b. When entire is from i to 2 inches or more in
length, and I of an inch or more in diameter;
erect, obconical, obtuse or truncated at the apex.
c.

Colour dark-brown externally, whitish within.

d. Frequently bears at its upper end the concentrically arranged remains of leaves, and gives
off on all sides numerous much-shrivelled yellowishwhite rootlets, several inches long
or the latter

are detached and mixed with it, in which case the

rhizome is marked with corresponding scars.

e. Inodorous, but exciting sneezing when powdered; taste bitterish and very acrid.

Pharmacy.

Officinal Preparation

Tinctiira Verairi Viridis.

Made by maceraGreen hellebore rhizome,

Vtion for 48 hours,
in No. 40 powder, ^ 4
Rectified spirit, Oi.
J and percolation.

Green hellebore

used as a vascular
antipyretic.
It increases most
depressant and
doses
it
is
a powerful irrilarge
In
secretions.
canal,
and
a general dealimentary
tant to the
Action.

Tincture,

ill 5

'

is

pressant.

DoseOi

to 20.

<

ROOTS AND RHIZOMES.

Ginger The

28. Zingiber
rhizome.

Description. a. In
each branch
pieces

scraped and dried

irregularly-branched
at its summit by a

flattish,

333

marked

depressed scar.
d.

Varying-

in length,

but

commonly from

3 to

inches.
c.

Externally pale-buff and somewhat striated

a mealy, short,

fibrous; breaking readily with

but rather fibrous fracture.

and

d.

Agreeable aromatic odour

strong and pun-

gent taste.

Pharmacy.
a.

i.

Officinal Preparaiions

Ginger,

in

powder, J 2^

Rectified spirit,
for 48 hours,
b.

i.

| jy^g^^jg^jy maceration

and percolation.

Tincitira Zingiberis Fortior.

j

Syrupus Zingiberis.

Strong tincture of ginger,

Syrup,
2.

Ginger, in fine powder, I lolp

Rectified spirit, a sufficiency. J
c.

Tincliira Zingiberis.

f1

fl3

6'|Mix with
/agitation.

J 19.

Ginger is an ingredient in several Compound

Powders, Confections of Opium and Scammony, Infusion of Senna, Compound Squill
Pill,

and Wine of Rhubarb.

Action.

Ginger

is

a gastric stimulant and

carminative.

Doses 0[ G\nger,
to 60;

gr. 10 to 20;

Stronger Tincture, nx

5 to

Tincture,

20

Syrup,

li],
fl

15
i.

'

MATERIA MEDICA.

334

Group III. BARKS.

In the following- list only the true barks are considered, namely, those which form the outer covering of the stem or branches of a plant.
Name.

Natural

Source.

Order.

1.

Canellae AlbiE Cortex.

Canella Alba.

Canellaceaa.

2.

Cascarillse Cortex.

Croton Eluteria.
Cinchona Calisaya,

EuphorbiacecE.

(
3.

Cinchonas Cortex.

\ Officinalis,
(

4.

Cinchonse Rubras Cortex.

5.

Cinnamomi

Cortex.

Succirubra,

Cinchonacex.

Lancifolia, etc.

Cinchona Succirubra.
ZeyCinnamomum

LauraceEE.

lanicum.

Rutaces.

6.

Cusparite Cortex.

7.

Laricis Cortex.

Galipea Cusparia.
Pinus Larix.

8.

Mezerei Cortex.

Daphne

9.

Nectandra; Cortex.

and Laureola.
Nectandra Rodiasi.
Quercus Robur.

Cupuliferae.

Rhamnus Frangula.
Rhamnus Purshianus.

Rhamnacea;.
Rhamnacese.

10.

Quercus Cortex.

11.

Rhamni Frangulae
Rhamni Purshiani

12.

I.

The

Cortex.
Cortex.

Canells Alb^

Mezereum

Cortex Canella

ConiferEE.

Thymelaceae.
LauraceEE.

Bark.

dried bark.

Description. a. In quills or irregular pieces,

which are generally more or less twisted and
broken longitudinally.
buff colour,
I. Externally pale orange-brown or
depressions
roundish
by
marked
and commonly
the corky
of
remains
the
sometimes
or scars, and
silvery-grey
as
there
and
here
seen
be
layer may
patches

interncilly whitish or yellowish-white.

odour, somewhat resembling ai

mixture of cloves and cinnamon; taste pungent,,
c.

Agreeable

bitter,

and

acrid.

BARKS.

335

Pharmacy. Canella has no officinal preparations.

It is contained in Vinum Rhei.
Action. Canella is a bitter aromatic, and is
given as a stomachic tonic.

2.
J

Cascarill^ Cortex

dried bark.

Description.

a.

Cascarilla

The

from i to 3 or more
^ an inch in diameter.

In quills

inches in length, from J to

Bark.

b. Covered with a dull-brown easily separable

corky layer, which is more or less coated with a
silvery- or greyish-white lichen.
c.
Fracture brown, short, and resinous.
d. Odour agreeable and
aromatic, especially
when burned taste warm and nauseously bitter.
;

Pharmacy.
a.

i.

Officinal

Prepaiatmis

Cascarilla bark, in No. 20

der, J
b.

pow-

^ Infuse

spirit,

lation.

Incompatibles.

J 2^

Made by maceration
I

half

an hour,
and
strain.
J
>-

Boiling distilled water, fl| lO.

Tmcdira CascariUcB.
Cascarilla bark, in No. 40 powder,

Proof

2.

Infiistini Cascarillce.

for

48 hours, and perco-

Lime-water;

metallic

salts;

mineral acids.

chiefly

to 2.
3.

Cascarilla is an aromatic bitter, and

employed as a stomachic tonic. It is
also believed to be an antiperiodic, and stimulant expectorant.
Doses Oi Infusion, fl^ I to 2; Tincture, fl 3 l

Action.

is

Cinchona

Cortex

Cinchona

Bark. The

dried bark.
No description is given in the B.P.
of the varieties of cinchona bark included
in this
group, from which the peculiar alkaloids of the

,)
:.

MATERIA MEDICA.

336

bark may be obtained, namely, Sulphate of Cinchonidine, Sulphate of Cinchonine, Hydrochlorate

and Sulphate of Quinine.
4. CiNCHONiE RUBR^ CoRTEX
Bark. The dried bark.

ReD

CiNCHONA

Description. a. In quills or more or less incurved pieces, varying- in leng-th from usually a
few inches to a foot or more, the bark itself being-

from about
to ^ of an inch thick.
b. Coated -with the periderm; outer surface more
or less rough from longitudinal furrows and
ridges, or transverse cracks, annular fissures, and
warts, and brownish or reddish-brown in colour;
inner surface brownish-red or deep reddish-brown,
irregularly and coarsely striated.
c.

Fracture nearly close

in

1:

li

il

the smaller quills,

finely fibrous in the larger ones.

d.
e.

Powder brownish or reddish-brown.

Taste bitter and somewhat astringent;

no

marked odour.
Tests. The B.P.

states with regard to this

bark, that "'when used for purposes other than
that of obtaining the alkaloids or their salts, it:
should yield from 5 to 6 per cent, of total alkaloids, of which not less than half should consist of
Methods are given
quinine and cinchonidine."
(See
for estimating the amount of alkaloids.

"

Briiish Pharmacopoeia, p. III).

l.
Pharmacy.
Officinal Preparalions
CinchoncB.
Decocium
a.
lO minutes;
Boil
Red cinchona bark, in
when cold
Vstrain
No. 20 powder, ^
to O i.
up
make
Distilled water, Oi.
J
Made by mab. Extractum CinchoncB Liquidum.
cerating for 48 hours Cinchona bark, in No. 60
powder, 1 20, with a mixture of Distilled water,
;

BARKS.

337

0 5,

Hydrochloric acid, fl 3 S, and Glycerine, fl J 2^,

frequently
exhausting the bark by percolation with water
evaporating to fl J 20
stanstirring

dardising this liquid so that it shall contain 5

grains of alkaloids in every lOO fluid-grains, with
12-5 grains of rectified spirit.
{See B.P. for details).
c.

Infusum

Acidum.
bark, in No. 40

Cincho7icB

Red cinchona

powder, | \
Aromatic sulphuric acid,

fl3

Boiling distilled water, fl^

d.

Infuse for one

hour, and

strain.
10.

Tir.ctuta Cinchoncz.

Red cinchona
powder, 1 4
Proof spirit, O

bark, in No. 40
4.

Made by maceration for 48

hours, and percolation.

e.

Tinchira Cinchona. Composita.

Red cinchona

bark, in No. 40

powder, J 2
Bitter-orange peel, cut small

and bruised,

Made by maceration for 48

hours, and per-

Serpentary rhizome, bruised,

colation.

Saffron, gr. 55

Cochineal, in powder, gr. 28

Proof
2.

spirit.

i.

Red cinchona bark

is

contained

in

Mistura

Ferri Aromatica.

Action. The preparations of cinchona bark

stomachic and general
astringent eff'ect. They
may be used as antiperiodics when
the alkaloids

are chiefly employed as

tonics, havmg also an

cannot be obtained.

Z?.^.^_Of Decoction,
to

10;

n 3 ^ to 2.

fl^

Infusion, flj

to 2;

to

2;

Liquid Extract,
either Tincture,'
z

.,

MATERIA MEDICA,

338
5.

Cinnamon

Cortex

CiNNAMOMi

Bark.

The

dried inner bark of shoots from the truncated

stocks or stools of the cultivated cinnamon tree.

Description. a. In closely rolled quills, each

about f of an inch in diameter, and containing
several smaller quills.
brittle, splintery, and moderately plib. Thin,
able.
c.

Dull

yellowish-brown

lig'ht

and

externally,

scars or holes, and faint shining

marked by
brown on its inner surface.
darker
lines
wavy
sweet, warm, and
d. Peculiar fragrant odour
little

aromatic

taste.

Pharmacy.
Officinal Preparations :
a. Aqua Cinnamomi.
Cinnamon bark, bruised, J 20 \ j^j^i-jj q
Water, C 2.
J
b.
c.

Oleum Citmamomi. (^See Oils).

Cinnamomi Composilus.

Piilvis

Cinnamon

Cardamom

seeds

VMix equal

parts in powder.

Ginger.
d.

J
Ttnctura Cin7iamomi.
I

Cinnamon bark,
powder,

in

2^

Rectified spirit,

i.

coarse

Made by maceration for 48

hours, and per-

colation.

Cinnamon is an ingredient in Decoctum HseComimatoxyli, Infusum Catechu, Pulvis Catechu

Opio,
Pulvis CretcB Aromaticus cum
positus,
Cardamomii,
Pulvis Kino Compositus, Tinctura
and
Composita,
Composita, Tinctura Lavandulae
2.

'

Vinum

Opii.

Aqua Citmamomi is contained in Mistura Cretae,

Galhci.
Mistura Guaiaci, and Mistura Spiritus Vim
Oletm Cinnamomi

Cinnamomi.

is

an ingredient

in

Spiritus

BARKS.

339

Action. Cinnamon is much used as a flavouring'

Medicinally it acts as a carminative and

ag'ent.

astringent.

Doses O^. Cinnamon Water, fl| i to 2;

pound Powder, gr. 3 to 10; Tincture, flS^

Comto 2.

6. CusPARi^ Cortex
Cusparia or Angustura
Bark. The dried bark.
Description. a. In flattish or curved pieces, or
in quills, 6 inches or more in length;
the bark
itself commonly not more than
^ of an inch thick,

and

obliquely cut on its itmer edge.

Coated externally with a yellowish-grey motcorky layer, which may be usually scraped
off by the nail, the exposed surface presenting
a
dark-brown resinous appearance; inner surface
light brown, flaky, and occasionally with strips
of
b.

tled

wood

attached.

Fracture short and resinous, and exhibiting,

especially to the magnifying lens, numerous
white
points or lines.
c.

d. Odour musty and disagreeable

taste bitter
and somewhat aromatic.
e. The fractured surface
touched with nitric acid
does not become of an arterial blood-red
colour.
(This distinguishes cusparia bark from
the bark of
btrychnos Nux Vomica False Angustura
Bark)
;

Pharmacy. I.

Officinal Preparation

Iti/usum CusparicE.

Cusparia bark,
Distilled

No. 40 pow-) Infuse half an

water at

120, flj lo.j

strain.

Incompatibles.mnQraX acids; perchloride

of

2.
,

iron

in

metallic salts.

Action. Cusparia is an aromatic

bitter, and is
used as a stomachic topic.
It is also believed to
oe somewhat antiperiodic.

Dose~0{

Infusion, flj

to 2.

MATERIA MEUICA.

340

Cortex Larch Bark. The bark,

7. Laricis
collected in spring-, deprived of its outer rough
portion, and dried.

Description. a. In flattish pieces or quills of:

varying lengths and sizes.
b. Outer surface dark-red or rosy, and somewhat
uneven; inner surface nearly smooth, and yellowish-white or pinkish-red according to age.
c.
Fracture "close, except the liber, which is
somewhat fibrous, and the fractured surfaces,
except internally, are of a deep carmine-red
colour.
d. Odour slightly balsamic
taste astringent.

Pharmacy.

and terebinthinate

Officinal Preparation
Tinctura Laricis.
Larch bark, in No. 40 powder, ? 2^
. ,
^^^^^
Rectified spirit,
i.
j
by maceration for 48 hours, and percolation.
")

Action. Larch bark is a stimulant expectorant and astringent.

Dose Of Tincture, Vi\ 20 to 30.

Mezerei

Cortex

Mezereon

Bark. The
dried bark.
Description. a. In long thin more or less flattened strips, which are commonly folded or rolled
into disks; or in small quills of various lengths.
externally by an olive-brown or
b. Covered
somewhat reddish-brown, readily separable, corky
layer; inner surface whitish, silky, and very tough.
8.

taste burning and acrid.

c. No marked odour;
l.
Pharmacy.
Officinal Preparation
Extractum Mezerei yEthereum. Made with rectified
An ingredient in Linimentum
spirit and ether.
Sinapis Compositum.
bark is contained in Decoctum
2. Mezereon

Sarsae Compositum.

BARKS.
Action. Mezereon applied externally^ is a
rubefacient or vesicant. Internally it is supposed to act as an alterative.
9.

Cortex

Nectandrje

Bebeeru

Bark.

The

dried bark.

Description. a.
to

In flattish

heavy .pieces, from

2 feet long, 2 to 6 inches broad, J of an inch or

more thick.
b. Very hard and

and the fractured sur-

brittle,

face presents a coarse-grained appearance.

internally darkc. Externally greyish-brown;

cinnamon-brown, and with evident longitudinal

striae.
d.

Taste strongly bitter and astringent; inodor-

ous.

Pharmacy.

Bebeeru

officinal pre-

bark has no

parations, but it is the source of Sulphate of Beheerine.

\See Alkaloids).

Action.
odic.

Bebeeru bark

is

atonic and antiperi-

Cortex Oak Bark. The dried

10. Quercus
bark of the smaller branches and young stems,
collected in spring.

Description. a. In quills of variable length.

b. Covered externally with a corky layer, smooth,
shining, silvery or ash-grey, variegated with brown
internally cinnamon-brown or brownish-red, and
;

longitudinally striated.
c.

d.

Fracture tough and fibrous.

Taste very astringent no marked odour.
;

Pharmacy.

i .

Officinal Preparation

Decoclum Quercus.

Oak-bark, bruised,
-z

i-ii* J
I
r\
Distilled
water,
i.J

rv-

-i
n
Boil

10 minutes,

strain,

and make up
*^

to

I.

342

MATERIA MEDICA.

2, Incompatibles.~M\nQ.r^\ acids; alkaliestallic salts

g-elatine
and alkaloids.
;

me-

Action. The decoction

of oak-bark

is

a local astringent.

used as

Rhamni Frangul^ Cortex Frangula Bark.

Collected from the young trunk
and moderate-sized branches, and kept at least one
II.

The dried bark.

year before being- used.

Description. a. In small quills, the bark itself

being about
of an inch or somewhat more in
thickness.
b. Covered
externally with a greyish - brown
or blackish-brown corky layer, marked with
transverse whitish lenticels; inner surface smooth,
brownish-yellow.

Fracture short and purplish externally, some-

c.

what

and yellowish

No marked

d.

and

fibrous

within.

odour; taste pleasant, sweetish,

slightly bitter.

Pharmacy.

Offict?tal Preparalto?is

Exiractuin Rhamni Frangula.

Made by maceration and percolation of frangula bark, in
No. 40 powder, with proof spirit and water, and
evaporation to a suitable consistence.
a.

b.

Exh'acium Rhamtii Frangula, Liquidum.

Made

by boiling the bark in coarse powder with distilled

water; evaporating; adding rectified spirit when
and
cold
filtering- after standing for some hours
making up to a certain volume with distilled water.
;

Action. This drug is an agreeable and mild

aperient, especially suitable for children, and
chiefly

Doses
fl

employed

in

habitual constipation.

Of Extract,

to 4.

gr. 15 to 60; Liquid Extract,

343

BARKS.

Rhamni Purshiani Cortex Cascara Sagrada

Sacred Bark. The dried bark.
12.

Description. a. In quills or incurved pieces

itself being
various lengths and sizes, the bark
to ^ of an inch thick.
from about
or nearly so, covered witti
b. Externally smooth
usually easily rea g-reyish-white layer, which is
with spots or
marked
moved, and frequently
the surface
Beneath
lichens.
patches of adherent
brownish;
or
reddish-brown,
it is violet-brown,
yellowish-brown,
or
reddish-brown
and internally
and nearly smooth, although somewhat striated
ot

longitudinally.
internally,
c. B'racture short, except
slightly fibrous, more especially in

where
the

it

is

larger

pieces.
d.

No marked odour

taste bitter.

frequently imported in flattened

(This drug
packets, consisting of small pieces of the bark
compressed into a more or less compact mass).
Pharmacy.
Officinal Preparaiions
is

by maExtractuvi CascarcB Sagrada.

in
No. 40
bark,
the
ceration and percolation of
and
water;
distilled
and
spirit
powder, with proof
consistence.
suitable
evaporation to a
Made
b. Exlractum Cascaroe SagradcB Liquidum.
a.

by boiling the bark in coarse powder with water ;

adding rectified spirit when cold
evaporating
and making
filtering after standing some hours
water.
up to a certain volume with distilled
Action. In small doses cascara sagrada is a
stomachic tonic, but it is almost entirely used as
an aperient, in cases of habitual constipation,
being more efficient and certain than the frangula
bark. In full doses it tends to act rather power;

fully.

Z'wM Of
fl3 i to 2.

Extract, gr. 2 to 8

Liquid Extract,

MATERIA MEDICA.

344

Group IV.

WOODS OR STEMS.

Name.
I.

Natural,
Order.

Source.

Guaiaci Lignum.

Guaiacum

Officinale

Zygophyllaceae.

and Sanctum.
Leguminosae.
3.

Pterocarpi Lignum.

chianum.
Pterocarpus Santalinus.

4.

Quassije Lignum.

Picraena Excelsa.

Leguminosae.

Simarubaces.

1. Guaiaci
Lignum
Guaiacum Wood.
The
heart-wood. For use in pharmacy, the wood as
usually imported should be deprived of its sapwood, and the heart-wood reduced to the form of

chips, rasping-s, or shavings.

Description and Tests, a. The chips, raspings,

or shavings are dark greenish-brown.
b. Taste, when chewed for a short time, is acrid
and somewhat aromatic odour, when rubbed,
and more especially when heated, agreeable and
;

faintly aromatic.
c.

When

touched with

nitric acid, the chips

as-

tinge and if moderately heated in a solution of perchloride of

mercury, a bluish-green colour is also produced.
Pharmacy. Guaiacum wood is the source of
guaiacum resin (see Resins); and is an ingredi-

sume a temporary bluish-green

Decoctum Sarsae Compositum.

Guaiacum wood is merely used as an
Action.
alterative, in the compound decoction of sarsaent in

parilla.

HiEMATOxYLi LiGNUM LoGWOOD. The sUccd

heart-wood.
Description. a. The logs are hard, heavy,
blackish-red externally, and internally reddishbrown.
2.

WOODS AND STEMS.

345

(They often
b. The chips are reddish-brown.
present a g^reenish or greenish-yellow lustre).
taste
c. Odour slight, peculiar, and agreeable;
sweetish, astringent.
When chewed the saliva is

coloured a brilliant dark reddish-pink.

Pharmacy.
a.

Officinal Preparations

Decochm HcEmatoxyli.
Logwood, in chips, ^
Cinnamon bark, bruised,

~)

Distilled water,

gr. 55 >.

Boil for 10

minutes; strain; and make up to Oi.

h. Exlracium HcBinatoxyli.
Made by infusing logwood, in fine chips, for 24 hours in boiling
water; boiling; straining; and evaporating
to dryness by a water-bath.
2. hicompatibUs.
Mineral acids
metallic salts
lime-water; tartarated antimony.

Action. Logwood is an astringent, chiefly

used for the alimentary canal.
Doses 01 Decoction, fl j i to 2 of Extract, gr.
;

10 to 30.
3.

The

Pterocarpi Lignum Red Sandal-Wood.

rasped heart-wood.

sliced or

Description.
a. The logs are dense, heavy, irregular; varying in length and thickness; dark
reddish-brown or blackish-brown externally; and
internally, if cut transversely, deep blood-red,

variegated with zones of a lighter red colour.

b. Usually in the form of raspings
or small chips,
of deep reddish-brown colour.
c. Taste very slightly astringent;
odour when rubbed.

faint

peculiar

in

Pharmacy. Red sandal-wood is an ingredient

Tinctura Lavandulae Composita.

Action. Red sandal-wood

colouring agent.

It is

is

mainly used as a

somewhat astringent.

MATERIA MEDICA.

346
4.

Quassia Lignum

Quassia Wood. The

chips,

raspings, or shavings of the wood.

Description. a. The billets or logs vary in

length and size, being frequently as thick as a

man's

thig-h.

Externally covered by a dark-grey bark.

c. The wood is dense, tough,
porous, and of a
pale yellowish-white colour.
b.

d. The chips, shavings, or raspings of the wood

are inodorous; but have an intense and purely bitter

taste.
e. An infusion does not become black or bluishblack on the addition of a persalt of iron.

Pharmacy.
Officinal Preparaimis
a. Extractum Qicassm.
Made w\\h cold water, by
maceration, percolation, and evaporation to a

suitable consistence.
b.

In/usum

QiiassicB.

Quassiawood,

in chips, gr.

Cold distilled water, fl^

c.

55

10.

Maceratefor ^an
hour, and strain.

Ti7ictura Quassics.

Quassiawood inchips,^f|^
Proof

spirit,

I.

>

with occasional agitation; strain, press, and

make up with proof spirit to O i.

filter;

Action. Quassia is a pure bitter stomachic

tonic. As an enema it is employed as a vermicide for thread-worms. In large doses it affects
the nervous system.
Doses
2

Of Extract,

Tincture,

fl

^ to

gr. 3 to 5
2.

Infusion, flj

to

GREEN TOPS AND TWIGS.

Group

V.-GREEN TOPS AND TWIGS.

SabinE Cacumina Savin Tops.

Scoparii Cacumina Broom Tops.

Cacumina

Sabine

Natural

Source.

Name.

I.

347

Okdek.

Juniperus Sabina.

Conifera;.

Cytisus Scoparius.

LegurainosE.

Savin

fresh and
tivated in Britain.

dried, collected in

Tops. The

tops,

spring from plants cul-

Description. a. Twig's densely covered with

minute imbricated depressed leaves, with a large
oval depressed central gland on their back.

Dark-green colour, or when dried yellowish-

b.

green.
c. Strong, peculiar, unpleasant odour, when rubtaste acrid, bitter, and disagreebed or bruised
;

able.

Pharmacy.
Officinal Preparations
{See Oils).
a. Oleum Sabina.
b.

Tinctura Sabince.

and Made by maceraSavin tops, dried

coarsely powdered, ^ 2 ^ > tion for 48 hours.
Proof spirit, O i.
J and percolation.
c.

Ungiientum SabincB.

Fresh savin tops, bruised, 8")

Yellow wax, 3
V. Melt the wax
Benzoated lard, 16
J
and lard in a water-bath
add the savin,
and digest 20 minutes
express through
;

calico.

Savin in the form of ointment is an

irritant, and is used to keep blisters open. Internally it acts chiefly as a carminative, emmenaAction.

gogue, and ecbolic.

to the

Dose

In large doses

alimentary canal.

Of Tincture,

111,

20

to

fl

it is

irritant

348

MATERIA MEDICA.
Cacumina Broom Tops. The

ScoPARii

2.

and dried.
Description. a.

fresh

tops

Branched, straight, with

'

five

wing-Iilce angles.
b. Nearly
smooth, dark-green or yellowishgreen, tough,
c. Leaves, when present,
small, sessile, and simple above
stalked and trifoliate below.
d. Peculiar odour when fresh and
bruised, which
is
lost in the process of drying;
bitter and
;

nauseous taste.
Pharmacy.
Officinal Preparations

a.

Decoctiim Scoparii.
Dried broom tops, j i]Boil lO minutes, strain.
Distilled water,
i.
and make up to O i.
|

b.

Succus Scoparii.
Made by expressing the juice
from fresh broom tops adding rectified spirit,
setting aside 7 days; and filtering.
(,1 to 3)

;^

Action. Scoparium is mainly used as a diureIn large doses it is a purgative.

Doses~0\ Decoction, fl J 2 to 4; Juice, fls to 2.

tic.

Group VI. LEAVES.

The following

includes the leaves which are

In some cases small branches
or flowers are used along with the leaves, but these
may also be considered in this connection.
list

officinal in the B.P.

Name.
1.

Aconiti Folia.

2.

Belladonnas Folia.

Source.

Buchu

Folia.

Order.

Aconitum Napellus.

Ranunculacese.

Atropa Belladonna.

Atropacea;.

Barosma
3.

Natural

Betulina.

Crenulata.

Serratifolia,

Rutaces.

4.

Coca.

Erythroxylon Coca.

Erythroxylaceas.

5.

Conii Folia.

Conium Maculatum.

Umbelliferns.

6.

Digitalis Folia.

Digitalis Purpurea.

Scrophulariacea:.

LEAVES.
7.

Hyoscyami

S.

Jaborandi.

g.

349

Hyoscyamus Niger.

Folia.

Atropaceie.

Pilocarpus Pennatifolius. RutaceiE.

Laurocerasi Folia.

Prunus Laurocerasus.

Rosacea.

10.

Maticse Folia.

Artanthe Elongata.

PiperaceEE.

11.

Senna Alexandrina.
Senna Indica.

Cassia1 Acutitoiia.
Acutifolia.

12.
13.

Tabaci Folia.

Nicotiana Tabacum.

14.

UvE Ursi Folia.

Arctostaphylos

^
1

} ^^Snmi

Angustifolia.

Uva

Atropacete.
Ursi.

Ericaceae.

Aconite Leaves. The fresh

1. AcoNiTi Folia
leaves and flowering'-tops, gathered when about
one-third of the flowers are expanded, from plants
cultivated in Britain.
Description. a. Leaves alternate, with longchannelled stalks, very deeply cut palmately into
5 or 3 segments, which are again deeply and
irregularly divided into oblong acute narrow lobes.
b. Excite slowly, when chewed,
a sensation of.
tingling and numbness.
c. Flowers
large, irregular, deep-blue, in a
somewhat loose terminal raceme.

Pharmacy.
Officinal Preparaimi
Exiracium Aconitt. One of the green exiracis,
made from the juice pressed out of the fresh leaves

and flowering-tops, by the usual process.

Action.

The extract of

internally,

and

the tincture.

BoseOi

its

aconite is administered
actions are similar to those of

{See Aconite Root).

Extract, gr. ^ to
i

BELLAD0NN.a: Folia
Belladonna Leaves.
a. The fresh leaves with the branches to which
they are attached.
L The leaves separated from the branches and
2.

gathered when the fruit has begun

from plants growing wild or cultivated in

carefully dried,
to form,

Britain.

Description. a. Leaves alternate below,

pairs above of unequal size; shortly stalked.
i. From 3 to 8 inches long.
c. Broadly ovate, acute, entire,
smooth.

in


MATERIA MEDICA.

350

Pharmacy. Officinal

Preparations

Extractum BelladonncE. A green extract, made

from the juice expressed out of the fresh leaves
and young branches, in the usual way.
b. Succus Belladonnce.
Made by pressing- the juice
from the fresh leaves and young- branches, mixing
with rectified spirit (i to 3), and filtering in
days.
a.

c.

Tinctura BelladonncE.
Belladonna leaves, in\

No. 20 powder, ^
Proof spirit, O i.

The

1 1
)

Made by maceration

for

48 hours, and percolation.

preparations made from belladonna leaves are intended for internal administration, and they owe their effects to the atropine
which they contain.
The chief actions of this
important drug may be thus briefly summarised
In connection with the nervous system, belladonna
in full doses is at first a cerebral excitant, and
subsequently a narcotic ; an anodyne ; and a

Action.

spinal stimulant and sedative in succesIt further acts as a typical mydriatic.

In
relation to the alimentary canal, it is markedly
anti-sialagog^ue, gastric sedative, and aperislight
sion.

ent, causing increased peristaltic action of the

With reg'ard to the vascular system,
bowels.
belladonna in medicinal doses may be described as
a cardiac sedative at first, slowing the heart's
action, and afterwards as a cardiac stimulant,
the rapidity of the heart's beats being increased,
while their force is unaltered; at the same time
affecting the vessels successively as a vaso-contractor and vaso-dilator. Upon the respiratory
system it acts as a respiratory stimulant, pulmonary sedative, and antispasmodic. It diminishes most secretions, and is conspicuously
an anhydrotic and anti-galactagogue ; with
reference to the urine, however, it seems to have
In relation to the
generally a diuretic effect.

LEAVES.

may also be
employed as a sedative and vesical tonic.
Belladonna is one of the drugs the effects of
which need to be watched. The symptoms indicaing- that its administration must be checked are
Iryness of the mouth and throat, and difficulty of
Lfenito-urinary apparatus, belladonna

swallowing; dilated pupils, with confused vision

of the face, and conjunctival injection

liminished frequency of the pulse; and perhaps
^--iddiness with uncertainty of gait.
It sometimes
auses an eruption like that of scarlatina.
It is
mportant to bear in mind that the external appliation of belladonna will occasionally produce
these effects.
Doses Of Extract, gr. ;| to i
Juice, ^^\ 5 to 15
Tincture, nx 5 to 20.
flushing-

3.

Buchu

BucHu Folia

leaves.

Leaves.

The

dried

Description. The three varieties of buchu have

the following characters in common
a. Smooth
colour dull yellowish-green.
b. Marked on the margins,
and especially on
their under surfaces, with oil-glands.
c. Odour
strong, penetrating, and peculiar;
taste aromatic, bitterish, and mint-like.
:

may be

Their distinctive characters

trasted

B. Betulina.
a.

Length.

From

i to J inch.

B. Crenulata.

From

1 to about i|

thus con-

B. Serratifolia.

From

to ij inch.

inch.
b.

Shape.

Cuneate

or
rhom- Oval-oblongor rhom- Linear - lanceolate,
boid-ovate;
apex
boid-ovate someequally tapering to
very bluntand usuwhat blunt at the
each end
actual
ally recurved.
apex narrowed at
apex truncate.
the base into a
;

distinct petiole.
c.

Margin. Serrate-dentate.

d. Texture.

More

Finely

serrate, or Sharply and closely

crenate-serrate.
serrate.

cartilaginous. Thickish.

Thinner than

in the

other varieties.

352

MATERIA MEDICA,

Pharmacy. Officinal
a.

Preparaiions

Lifusicm Buchu.

Buchu leaves bruised,

Infuse half an
J
Boihng distilled water, fl Jlo.j hour,
and strain.
J
)

Imciura Buchu.

0.

Buchu

leaves, in

powder, l2\
Proof spirit, O I.

Action. Buchu
Oiuretic, and for
the

is

its

No. 20) Made by maceration

I for 48 hours, and
J

unnary mucous membrane.

machic

percolation.

almost solely employed as a

supposed specific effects upon
It

tonic.

Doses Qi

Infusion,

to 4;

is

also a sto-

of Tincture, flj

to 2.
4.

Coca.

The dried leaves.

Description. a. Shortly stalked.

One to two inches or more in length

b.

ing-

of vary-

thickness.

c. Oval or lanceolate, entire,

usually blunt and
emarginate,
d. Quite smooth
midrib prominent, with numerous faint freely anastomosing lateral veins, and on
each side of the midrib a curved line extends from
base to apex.
e. Green above, somewhat paler
beneath.
;

/. Odour faintly tea-like, especially

taste somewhat bitter and aromatic.

when

bruised;

(In commercial specimens the leaves are more

or less broken, and frequently yellowish-green,
yellowish-brown, or brown, and in rare cases the
curved lines are indistinguishable).

Pharmacy.
Officinal Preparations :
a. Extractum Cocce Liquidmn.
Made from coca, in
No. 40 powder, by maceration and percolation
with proof spirit. Part of the product is evaporated to the consistence of a soft extract, and

LEAVES.
i

353

dissolved in the remainder, and the whole made

up to a certain volume by adding- more spirit.
(ySee Alkaloids).
b. Cocaince Hydrochloras.
Coca is administered internally as a
Action.

"

'

stimulant and tonic, and is mainly used to enable

persons to endure muscular exertion without
fatigue, and as a restorative in various conditions.
Doses Oi Coca, 3 i to 2, chewed or infused in
hot water; Liquid Extract, flS^ to 2.
5.

CoNii

Folia

Hemlock

Leaves.

The

fresh

and young- branches; gathered from wild

ileaves

plants when the fruit begins to form.

Description. a. Leaves more or less divided in
la pinnate manner, the lower leaves decompound,
land sometimes 2 feet in leng-th; glabrous.
h. Stem smooth, marked with dark purple spots.
c. Clasping- petioles of varying lengths, those of
:the lower leaves being hollow.
d. Odour strong and very disagreeable, more
especially when rubbed with solution of potash.
:British

'

Pharmacy.

two,
a.

namely

Officinal Preparations

made

preparations

directly from

The

officinal

conium leaves are

Extractum

Conii.

A green

extract

the juice pressed out of the fresh leaves

made from
and young

branches, in the usual way.

b. Succus Conii.
Made by pressing the juice out
of the fresh leaves and young branches, adding
rectified spirit (i to 3), and filtering in
7 days.
From these preparations the following are

'

made
c.

Pilula Conii Composita.

Extract of hemlock, | 2,\

\
Ipecacuanha, in powder, JllMix the extract
Treacle, a sufficiency.
j
and ipecacuanha, and add sufficient treacle
to form a pill mass.
AA

MATERIA MEDICA.

354

Made by evaporating- the

half its volume, and mixing
with a hot linseed-meal poultice.
d.

Calaplasma Conii.

hemlock

juice of
e.

to

Vapor Conince.
Juice of hemlock, fl^ 1
Solution of potash, fls
Distilled water, fl^ I.

Mix.

Put ill 20 on
the sponge in a
steam-inhaler.
Action. Locally applied in the form of cataplasm, conium is believed to act as an anodyne.
Internally it is used mainly as an antispasmodic,
and ultimately becomes a paralyser of muscles,
chiefly by affecting the ends of the motor nerves,
but partly by acting on the spinal cord. It is
also employed as a pulmonary sedative, especially in the form of inhalation.
Doses
Of Extract, gr. 2 to 6 ; Compound Pill,
gr, 5 to 10 Juice, ill 30 to 60.
Folia Foxglove
6. Digitalis
Leaves. The
leaves, collected from wild British plants of the
second year's growth, when about two-thirds of the
flowers are expanded, and carefully dried.
Description." a. From 4 to 12 or more inches
in length, and sometimes as much as 5 or 6 inches
broad, with a wing-ed petiole of varying length.
b. Ovate or ovate-lanceolate, subacute, crenate
or irregularly crenate-dentate.
]

Somewhat

.
.

rugose, slightly hairy and dullgreen above, densely pubescent and paler beneath.
d. Taste very bitter, unpleasant; odour faint,,
agreeable, and tea-like.
c.

Pharmacy.
a, In/usum

Officinal Preparations

Foxglove leaves,

dried, gr.

Boiling distilled water, fl^

b.

Digilalis.
o f Infuse fifteen

2SJ ^.
10.

strain

Tinciura Digitalis.

Foxglove leaves,
powder, 3 2\
Proof spirit, O I.

in

No. 20] IMade by maceration for 4S hours,

and percolation.
j

LEAVES.
Action.

The chief action of

355
digitalis is exerted

upon the vascular system. It is recognised ordinarily as a typical cardiac regulator or tonic,
but in larg-e doses it becomes a cardiac depressant. Moreover, it is at first a vaso-contractor,
but subsequently a vaso-dilator. Indirectly, by its
effects in the circulation, dig-italis is a valuable
diuretic under certain conditions and it may also
It
thus act as a cerebral sedative or hypnotic.
is also regarded as an antipyretic, and emmenagogue ; and has been used empirically in the
treatment of delirium tremens. In excessive
;

doses digitalis not only depresses the circulation,

but is liable to cause derangement of the alimentary canal, indicated by loss of appetite, disordered
digestion, sickness, and sometimes diarrhoea.
Doses Of Digitalis, gr.
Infusion, fl 3 2 to
to
4; Tincture, ill 10 to 30.

7.

Hyoscyami Folia

The

Henbane

Leaves.

leaves and flowers, with the

branches to which they are attached.
b. The leaves separated from the branches and
flowering tops, and carefully dried.
Description.
a.
Leaves varying in length,
sometimes as much as 10 inches, with or without
a.

fresh

stalk, alternate, exstipulate.

h. Triansjular-ovate or ovate-oblong, acute, undulated, irregularly-toothed, sinuated, or pinnatifid.

c. Pale-green, and glandular-hairy, particularly
on their under surface.

d.

The branches are

glandular
e.

The

and a

hairy.

sub-cylindrical,

fresh herb has a strong

and slightly acrid taste.

bitter

Pharmacy.

Officinal Prepatatiojis

and also

heavy odour

Exlractim Hyoscyami. A green extract, prepared from the fresh juice in the usual way.
a.

AA2

MATERIA MEDICA.

356

b. Succus Hyoscyami.
Made by pressing- the
juice out of the fresh leaves, flowering tops, and

young- branches
(i to 3);
c.

and

mixing

it

with rectified

spirit

filtering in 7 days.

Tinctura Hyoscyami.

Henbane

leaves, or flowering-

Made by mace-

ration for 48
hours,
and
Proof spirit, O i.
percolation.
Action. Henbane has more or less the effects
of belladonna, but it is chiefly used as a hjrpnotic,
pulmonary sedative, vesical sedative, and as
tops, in No. 20

powder, J 2|

an aid to purgatives.
Doses Of Extract, gr.
Tincture, fl 3 ^ to i.

5 to

lo; Juice,

fl

^ to

The dried

Leaflets very shortly stalked.

Description.

8.

Jaborandi.

leaflets.

a.

Usually 4 inches or more in length.

c. Oval-oblong or oblong-lanceolate, somewhat
unequal at the base, obtuse and emarginate, slightly
revolute and entire at the margins.
d. Upper surface glabrous, except when young,
b.

under surface paler, often somewhat

dull-green
hairy, with a very prominent midrib, and seen to
be marked irregularly all over with pellucid dots
when held against the light.
;

e.

f.

Coriaceous

in texture.

Odour when bruised

slightly aromatic

taste

and aromatic at first,

on chewing
increasing the flow
pungent
and
subsequently
but
slightly bitter

of saliva.

Pha rm acy.

Officinal Preparaiions

Extractum Jaborajidi.U.a.de from Jaborandi,

No. 40 powder, by maceration and percolation
with proof spirit and water, and evaporation of
a.

in

the product.

LEAVES.

357

In/iisum Jaborandi.

b,

Jaborandi, cut small, | \

Boiling- distilled water, flf

Infuse for half

an hour, and
lO.

strain.

Tinctura Jaborandi.

c.

Jaborandi, in No. 40 powder,

Proof

spirit,

Made by maceration for 48

and
hours,
percolation.

Alkaloids).
eye jaborandi is a
myotic. Internally administered its chief action
It
is that of a rapid and powerful diaphoretic.
is also a sialagogue, and vascular depressant.
d.

PilocarpincB Nilras.

Action.

Applied

to

the

Doses Of Extract, gr. 2 to 10; Infusion,

Tincture, fl 3 ^ to l.
9.

Laurocerasi Folia

The fresh leaves.

Cherry-Laurel

fl

to

Leaves.

Description. a. Thick, coriaceous, 5 to 7 inches

on strong- short petioles.
b. Oblong or somewhat obovate, tapering towards each end, recurved at the apex, distantly
but sharply serrated and slightly revolute at the
margins.
c. Dark-green, smooth and shining above; much
paler beneath, and with a prominent midrib, on
either side of which, towards the base, are one or
two glandular depressions.
d. Inodorous, except on
bruising-, when they
emit a ratafia-like odour.
long-;

Pharmacy.
Officinal Preparation :
Aqua Laurocerasi. Made by distilling the chopped
and crushed fresh leaves with water (lb i to O2I),

passes over.
The product is shaken,
through paper, and its strength adjusted,
either by adding diluted hydrocyanic acid, or
diluting with distilled water, so that it corresponds
to o-i per cent, of real hydrocyanic acid.
until

filtered

358

MATERIA MEDICA.

Action. Cherry-laurel water has

hydrocyanic acid.
Dosen 3 ^ to 2.
10.

{See

the actions of

Hydrocyanic Acid).

Matic^ Folia Matico Leaves.The

dried

leaves.

Description. ^7. From about 4 to 8 inches longvery shortly petiolate.

Oblong-- lanceolate, tapering towards the
6.
apex, cordate and unequal at the base, entire
or minutely crenulate.
c.

Greenish-yellow, reticulated with sunken veins

and tesselated above, the veins prominent beneath,

and the depressions formed by them densely clothed
with hairs.
d. Taste aromatic, bitterish;
odour pleasant,
feebly aromatic.
(The leaves as commonly seen in commerce
are more or less brcken, folded, and compressed
into a brittle mass, and have mixed with them a
variable proportion of the jointed stems, flowers,

and

fruit).

Pharmacy.

Officmal Preparah'oji

Infusu7)i MaticcB.

Matico leaves, cut small, J ^| Infuse -I an hour,

Boiling- distilled water, fl
and strain.
J 10
Action.
Matico is chiefly used as a local
styptic. It is also supposed to be an astringent
j

when given internally.

Dose Of Infusion, fl^

J J

to 4.

Senna Alexandrina Alexandrian Senna.

East Indian Senna.

\ Senna Indica

The

dried leaflets.
Alexandrian Senna

imported from Alexandria,

less contaminated
true senna leaflets
should be carefully separated from all extraneous
is

and sometimes in a more or

condition, in which case the

matters.

LEAVES.

359

East Indian or Tinnivelly Sentia is

plants cultivated in Southern India

obtained from
it is

imported

without admixture of other leaves or extraneous

matters of any kind.

Description. The leaflets of the two varieties of

Senna have the following- characters in common
:

a.
h.
c.

Entire, acute, unequal at the base.

Thin and brittle in texture.
Odour peculiar, faint, tea-like; taste mucila-

:ginous, nauseous,

The

points
contrasted

in

and sickly.
which they

may be

differ

thus

East Indian.

Alexandrian.
.

Length.

b.

Shape.

c.

Colour

^ of an inch to more From about

than an inch.
Lanceolate
or oval-lance- Lanceolate.

About

i to

z inches.

olate.

and Pale

Surfaces.

yellowish-green, evi- Yellowish-green and smooth

dently
veined on lower
above, somewhat
duller
surface, and very finely
beneath, and glabrous or
pubescent or nearly smooth.
slightly pubescent.

The most important adulteraof Senna is C\matichiim argel, the leaves of

'which are distinguished by being- thicker and
stiffer; paler in colour; equal al the base; wrinkled;
land having- a bitter taste.
Other leaves, not met
iwith in this country, are Colutea arborescens;
.Coriaria myrtifolia; and Tephrosia apoUinea.
Adulterations.

tion

Pharmacy.
a.

Officinal Preparations

Confeclio Sennoi.

A mixture

of Senna, in fine

ipowder, with several aperient fruits, coriander

fruit, extract of liquorice, refined sug-ar, and distilled water.
b. Infusum Senna.

Senna, | i
Ginger, sliced, gr. 28
Boiling distilled water, fl^

\
I

lo.j

Infuse half an

hour, and
strain.

36o

MATERIA MEDICA.
Misiiira Semice Composita.

c.

Sulphate of mag-nesium, ^4
Liquid extract of liquorice,
J
Tincture of senna, fl 2I
J

Compound tincture of cardamoms, fl| ill

Infusion of senna, fl^ 15
j
Dissolve the sulphate of mag-nesium in the
infusion of senna with the aid of a little
heat, then add the liquid extract and the
tinctures.

Syrupus Semm. Made by digesting- Senna,

broken small, with distilled water at 120; pressd.

and evaporating-; when cold, adding

and oil of coriander; filtering; and
dissolving refined sugar by the aid of heat,
ing-, straining-,

rectified spirit

Tinciura SenncB.

e.

Senna, broken small,

^21

Raisins, freed from seeds, ^ 2

Caraway fruit, bruised,
Coriander fruit, bruised, J \

Proof

spirit.

Senna

2.

is

Made by

[-48
j

for

hours,

and

'

Or.

ma-

ceration

perco-

lation.

one of the active ingredients

in

Compound Liquorice Powder.

Senna acts as a simple purgative.

Of Confection, gr. 60 120

Action.
Doses

to

Infusion,

Compound

Mixture, fl^ i to i^-; Compound Liquorice Powder, gr, 30 to 60; Syrup, fl3
I
to 4; Tincture, fl 3 i to 4.

flj

to 2;

12,

Tabaci

leaves.

Folia

Leaf

Tobacco.

The

dried

Description. a. Large, being sometimes more

than 20 inches long.
b. Ovate or
ovate-lanceolate, or oval-oblong;
acute, entire.
c.

Brown,

brittle,

glandular-hairy.

Characteristic, heavy, narcotic odour

ous, bitter, and acrid taste.
d.

nause-

LEAVES.
c.

Yield,

when

an alkaline

fluid,

361

distilled with solution

of potash,

which has the peculiar odour of

nicotina, and precipitates with perchloride

of
platinum and tincture of galls.
Action. For therapeutic purposes tobacco is
now only practically used in two ways. In the
form of snuff it is a sternutatory. Smoked it
may act as an aperient in some cases, a cerebral
sedative, and a pulmonary sedative. Used in
excess it becomes an emetic, general depressant,
and narcotic. Tobacco was formerly administered internally and by enema, but is rarely, if
ever, so employed at the present time.
13. UviE Ursi Folia
Bearberry Leaves. The
dried leaves, from indigenous plants.
Description. a. Leaves very shortly stalked.
b. From l to about | of an inch long.
c. Obovate or spathulate; margins
entire and

slightly revolute.
d.
e.

Coriaceous

in texture.

Smooth and shining on the upper surface

'

paler coloured and minutely reticulated beneath.

Odour

faintly tea-like

when powdered;

very astringent.

Pharmacy.
Infusum UvcB

taste

Officinal Preparation

Ursi.

Bearberry leaves, bruised

Boiling distilled water, fl ?

?1
i

finfusefor one

^"^
I

strain.

Incompaiibles.lvon and lead salts ; nitrate of

vegetable alkaloids; gelatine. The infusion gives a bluish-black precipitate
with perchloride of iron.
2.

silver;

Action. Bearberry leaves are astringent,

but
are used almost entirely for this
purpose in diseases
of the urinary tract. They are
also supposed to
be diuretic.
Z>(7w Of Infusion, flj i to 2.

362

MATERIA MEDICA.

Group

VII.

FLOWERING

OR FRUITING
AND BUDS.

TOPS, FLOWERS,

The drugs belong-ing to this group may be

enumerated in alphabetical order according to
the following arrangement
:

Name.
I.

Anthemidis Flores
Chamomile Flowers

Cannabis

2.

Indian

5.

Dried flower-

Nat. Order.
Composita:.

heads
Dried flowering- Cannabinacete.
and fruiting-tops

Indica

Eugenia

Dried flower-bud Myrtaceae.

Caryophyllata

Crocus

Cusso

Anthemis
Cannabis

Indica

Hemp

Clove
4.

Part used.

Nobilis

Caryophyllum

3.

Source.

Saffron

Crocus

Kousso

Dried stigma and IridaceiE.

Sativus

style

Hagenia

Dried panicles

Rosaceas.

Dried strobiles

Cannabinaceae.

Abyssinica
6.

Lupulus

Hop

Humulus
Lupulus

Rhceados Petala

7.

Red Poppy
S.

Petals

Rosas CentifoliE Petala

Cabbage-Rose

Papaver
Rhceas

Fresh petals

Papaveracea;.

Rosa

Fresh petals

RosaceiE.

Centifolia

Petals

Rosas Gallicie

g.

Pe-

tala Red-Rose Pe-

Rosa

Fresh

Gallica

and

dried Rosacete.

petals

tals
10.

Sambuci Flores

Elder Flowers
II.

Sambucus
Artemisia

Santonica

Fresh flowers

Caprifoliacea;.

Nigra
Dried unexpanded Composite.

Maritima

flower-heads

Chamomile Flowers.
Anthemidis Flores
flower-heads or
double
and
single
The dried
I.

capitula.

From

cultivated plants.

TOPS

FLOWERS

BUDS.

363

Description. a. The sing-le chamomile flowers

are those in which the capitula have some yellowtubular florets in the centre, surrounded by a
variable number of those which are white and
ligulate; the double flowers are those in which
all or nearly all the florets are white and ligulate.
b. In both kinds the receptacle is solid, conical,
and densely covered with chaff"y scales,
c. Both varieties, but especially the single, have
a strong aromatic odour, and very bitter taste.

Pharmacy.
Officinal Preparalions
a. Extracium Anihemidis.
Made by boiling chamomile flowers with distilled water; straining,
pressing, and filtering; evaporating to a pilular
consistence; and adding oil of chamomile.
b.

Inftisum Anihemidis.

Chamomile

flowers,

Hnfuse

?l

Boiling distilled water,

fl

? lo.l

fifteen

"^i^^tes,

and

strain.
c.

Oleum Anihemidis.

Action. Chamomile

(^V^'

Oils).

a popular local remedy

used as an anodyne, in the form of a poultice or
fomentation. Internally it is mainly employed as
a bitter and aromatic stomachic tonic.
It is
also anthelmintic ; and emetic when
given in
large quantities. The extract is used
as an ingredient in purgative pills, to act as
a caris

mmative.

Doses~0{
I

Extract, gr. 2 to
an emetic.

to 4, or 5 to 10 as

10

Infusion, fl?

2. Cannabis Indica
Indian Hemp.
(In India
known as Gunjah or Ganga). The dried floweriing or fruitmg tops of the
female plants, grown in
India, and from which the
resin has not been

removed.
Description. a. In small more or less
aggregated masses, from about
\\ to 2\ inches in length.

MATERIA MEDICA.
and

consisting- of the tops of one or more alternate

branches, bearing- the remains of the flowers and
smaller leaves, with a few ripe fruits, and the
whole pressed together by adhesive resinous matter; or composed of straight stiff woody stems,
several inches long, surrounded by the branched

flower-stalks.

Rough

b.

to the touch;

very

brittle;

of a dusky-

green colour.
c. Scarcely any taste;
not unpleasant odour.

faint peculiar

narcotic,

Pharmacy.
Officinal Preparations
Extractum Cannabis IndiccE. hx\ alcoholic extract,
made with rectified spirit, by maceration for 7
days, and evaporation by a water-bath.

a.

Tinctura Cannabis Indices.

b.

Extract of Indian hemp, ^

Rectified spirit,

)
'

Dissolve

Action. Indian hemp is at first a cerebral

excitant, and afterwards hypnotic or narcotic.
It is also supposed to be an anodyne and anti-

spasmodic.
Doses Oi

Extract, gr. ^ to

Tincture, 1115

to 20.

Caryophyllum

3.

Clove. The

dried flower-

buds.

Description. a. Over \ an inch long, and consisting of a dark-brown, wrinkled, sub-cylindrical,

and somewhat angular calyx tube, which tapers

between
is surmounted by 4 teeth,
the
enclosing
petals,
paler-coloured
which the
the
in
up
rolled
are
style,
and
stamens
numerous

below, and

form

of a ball.

strong, fragrant, and spicy; taste very

b.
pungent and aromatic.
the nail.
c. Emits oil when indented with

Odour

FLOWERS

TOPS
Pharmacy.

BUDS.

Officinal Preparations

In/usum Catyophylli.

a.

Cloves, bruised,

Boiling- distilled water,

fl

? lo.i

I"^"^^

f^''

^alf

^"^

^"
strain.

Oleum Caryophylli.

h.

(See Oils).

2. Cloves
are contained in Infusum Aurantii
Compositum, Mistura Ferri Aromatica, and Vinum

Opii.
i).

Incompaiilles.

salts of iron;

acids;

lime-water;

Action. Clove is mainly used as a flavouringagent and carminative.

It is also somewhat
stimulant and astringent.
Z'ojf Of Infusion, fij i to 4.
4.

Mineral

gelatine.

Crocus Saffron.

The

dried

stigma

and

top of the style.

_

IS

Description. a. Each entire portion of saffron

an inch or somewhat more
consists

b.

It

c.

Peculiar

in lenp-th

three thread-like, orange-red

istigmas, thickened and tubular above,
jagged or
notched at their extremities, and united below
to
the top of the yellow style.
It is flexible;
and
.unctuous to the touch.
of

strong

isomewhat aromatic

aromatic

odour;

Tests. Rubbed on the wet finger

lan intense

bitter '

taste.

saffron leaves

orange-yellow lint. When pressed between folds of white filtering

paper, it leaves no
oily stain.
When a small portion is placed in a
:glass of warm water it colours
the liquid orano-e7e low, but should not deposit any
white or
coloured powder.
Ignited with free access of air
lit yields
about 6 per cent, of ash.

MATERIA MEDICA.

366
Pharmacy.

Tinciura Croci.
Saffron, J i

Proof

spirit,

Officinal

"I

Preparation

Made by
hours,

i. J

maceration for 48

and percolation.

an ingredient in Decoctum Aloes

et Myrrhse, Pulvis Cretae
Aromaticus, Tinctura Cinchonse Composita, Tinctura Opii Ammoniata, and Tinctura Rhei.
2.

Saffron

is

Compositum, Pilula Aloes

Action.

Saffron

flavouring agent.

is

used as a colouring and

It is

also

somewhat stimulant.

Kousso. The dried panicles, chiefly

In compressed clusters or more
Description.

5.

Cusso

of the female flowers.

a.

or less cylindrical rolls, usually 10 inches or more

in length, or the panicles are broken up into small
fragments.
b. Brownish or greenish-brown, or reddish in
the case of the female flowers.
separate panicles are much branched,
c. The
zigzag, more or less covered with hairs and
glands, and with a large sheathing bract at the
base of every branch.
d.

Flowers numerous, small,

shortly

stalked,

unisexual, with two roundish membranous veiny

bracts at the base of each flower, which are brownish-yellow in the male, and tinged with red in the
calyx hairy externally, veiny,
female flowers;
with ten segments in two alternating whorls.
e.

Odour herby,

tea-like; taste bitter, acrid, and

disagreeable.

Officinal Preparation
Pharmacy.
Cusso.
Infusum

Kousso,

in coarse

finfuse

for

powder, 3^1 n^jnutes

Boiling distilled water,

fl

^ 8.

15

Not

strained.

TOPS
Action.

FLOWERS

Kousso

is

anthelmintic, used

an

tape-worm.
Doses 01 Kousso, ^ i

BUDS.

chiefly for

to

l; Infusion, flg 4 to

6. LupuLus Hop. The dried

plants cultivated in England.

8.

from

strobiles,

When

Description. a.

entire, about
il inch
compressed and broken.
6. Oblong-ovoid or rounded in form, and consisting of a number of thin greenish-yellow or brownish membranous imbricated scales or bracts
each
of vvhich has at its base a small rounded achene
sprinkled over with brownish-yellow
glands
(iupulin), the whole being attached to
a'^hairy
long-; usually

more or

less

undulated axis.
c.

Odour

agreeably

aromatic;

taste

bitter,

aromatic, and feebly astringent.

Pharmacy.
Officinal Preparations
a. Extractum Lupuli. Ma.de by first
acting upon
hop by recdfied spirit, and preparing a soft alcohohc extract; then making a watery extract of the
residual hop; mixing the two; and
evaporatin-ir
under 140 to a suitable consistence.
b.

Infusiim Lxipuli.
^.P.' ^2.
Boihng distilled water,

c.

Titictura Lupuli.

^OP. I 2I
Proof spirit,

Action. Hop

machic

tonic.

hypnotic.

Or./
is
It

finfuseforihour,
fl

10.

and

strain.

Made by maceration

for

48

and percolation.
an aromatic and bitter stois also somewhat diuretic
and
hours,

-^^-f^^-Of Extract, gr. 5 to 15

2; Tincture, fl3 ^ to
7.

2.

Infusion,

fl

to

Rhceados Petala Red Poppy Petals.

The

fresh petals.

MATERIA MEDICA.

368

Description. a. Of a bright-scarlet
often nearly black at the base.
b.
c.

Unequal in size.
Strong narcotic odour;

and

taste.

Pharmacy.

Officinal Preparation

jR/iceados. Made

slightly

colour,

bitter

by adding

fresh red
water, heated in a
water-bath, frequently stirring; infusing for 12
hours, pressing, and straining; dissolving refined
sugar by means of heat; adding rectified spirit
when nearly cold, and distilled water to a certain
proportion.
Action. The syrup is merely used as a colourSyrupiis

poppy petals gradually

ing agent.
8.

RosiE

Dose

fl3

to

I-

Centifoli^

Petals. The

Petala Cabbage-Rose
From

fresh fully-expanded petals.

plants cultivated in Britain.

Description.a. Large,
b.

thin, delicate petals.

Very fragrant odour;

taste sweetish, slightly

Both odour and taste

astringent, and bitterish.

are readily imparted to water.
Pharmacy. I Officinal Preparalion
.

Aqua RoscB.
Fresh petals of the hundred-leaved^
rose, ffi 10 (or an equivalent
quantity of the petals preserved VDistil
while fresh with common salt)

Water, C 5.
i^ern
is contained in Mistura
2. Rose water
Composita, and Trochisci Bismuthi.
Action. Rose water is employed as a flavouring agent; or for its odour.
Petala Red-Rose Petals.
Q. RosiE Gallic^
trom
The fresh and dried unexpanded petals,
.

plants cultivated in Britain.

TOPS

FLOWERS BUDS.

369

Description.
a. Usually
in
little
cone-like
masses; or sometimes separate and more or less

crumpled

petals.

Fine purplish-red, the colour being retained

after drying; velvety.
b.

Odour

c.

fragrant, roseate, especially developed

bitterish, feebly acid, and astrin-

by drying; taste
gent.

Offidml Preparatmis

Pharmacy.

Cofi/ec/w

<7.

Rosa Galh'ccB.Ma.de by beating the

fresh petals into a pulp in a stone mortar

adding
;
refined sugar (3 to i)
and rubbing well together.
b. Tn/usum RoicB Acidum.
;

Dried red-rose petals, broken

Infuse for half
up, ^1
an
hour,
Diluted sulphuric acid, fl 3 i
and strain.
Boiling distilled water, fl
J ID
c. Syrupus Rosce GalliccE. Ma.de
by infusing dried
red-rose petals in boiling distilled water for
2
hours; squeezing through calico; heating
to the
boiling point; filtering; and dissolving
refined
sugar with heat.

Action. The preparations of the red-rose petals

are used chiefly as colouring and
flavouringagents.
The confection is employed to

make up

The infusion is somewhat astringent.

Doses Onnlusxon, fl^ to 2; Syrup, flj i.

pills.

10.

Sambuci

tresh flowers.

Flores Elder
From indigenous

Description. a.
mches across.
3.

Flowers small;

corolla

flat,

Odour

Ditterish.

corymbose cymes, from

c;

to

calyx superior, s-toothed;

creamy-white, with ?

rotate, 5-sected,

stamens mserted
c

In

Flowers. The
plants.

in the tubes.
fragrant, but somewhat sickly;

taste

MATERIA MEDICA.

370

Pharmacy.
Offianal Preparation :
Aqua Sambuci.
Fresh elder flowers, separated from\
the stalks, lb lo (or an equivalent
quantity of the flowers preserved i-Distil C
while fresh with common salt)
Water, C 5
Action.- Elder flower water is merely used as
flavouring ag-ent.
.

II.

Santonica.

The

d.

dried unexpanded flower-

heads or capitula.
Description.

a.

About

of an inch in length;

oblong--ovoid, obtuse.

Pale g-reenish-brown

nearly smooth.
appearance,
but consist!
c.
of from 12 to 18 imbricated involucral scales, withi
a broad thick yellowish-green midrib, enclosing';
b.

Resemble seeds

3 to 5

in

somewhat tubular

florets.

Odour, especially when rubbed, strong', pecu-taste bitterliar, and somewhat camphoraceous
and camphoraceous.
Pharmacy. Santonica is the source of Santonim
d.

{See

Neutral

Principles).

Action. Santonica is an anthelmintic, affect-ing- the round worm, but it is seldom used, san-tonin being much more suitable as a remedy.
Dose gr. 10 to 60.

Group VIII. FRUITS.

The

officinal frtdis dind

drugs derived from them

may, for practical purposes, be arranged under

but in some cases a mere enucertain divisions
meration will suffice, as the general appearance
of the fruit is well known, and it is quite unneces;

sary for the student to burden his memory with

description of its characters, as given in the B.P.

a:i

FRUITS.
A. Fruits in common use.

fAuRANTII FrUCTUS BiTTER OrANGE.

i.-^AuRANTii Cortex
Bitter-Orange Peel.
Citrus Vulgaris. N. 0. Aura7iHacecB.
(

Aurantii Fructus

is

the ripe

fruit.

It

is

intro-

duced into the B.P. for the purpose of obtaininghe fresh rind, which contains a large number of
:l-vesicles, and is aromatic and bitter.
Aiiraniii Cortex
or pericarp.

Pharmacy. i

is

the dried outer part of the rind

Officinal Preparations

Itifusum Aurantii,

a.

Bitter-orange peel, cut small, ?lf ^"fi^se fifminutes,

Boiling distilled water, fl ? 10
T^^"
(.and strain.

0.

Infimim Aurantii Composittcm.

Bitter-orange peel, cut small, 1 1

Fresh lemon

peel, cut small, gr.

Cloves, bruised, gr. 28

Boiling distilled water, flj 10.
c.

Infuse 15
56 minutes.
\

\
)

and
strain.

Syruptis Aurantii.

Tincture of orange peel,

^
Syrup, 7
'

")

Mix.

Tinctura Aurantii.

d.

Dried orange peel, 5 2

Macerate 7 days;
Proof spirit, O I.
|
strain, press, and filter; and
make up to O i
e.
Tinctura Aurantii Recentis.~Cs.re{n\\y
cnt from
the orange the coloured
part of the rind in thin
Slices, and macerate
^ 6 in Rectified spirit fl? 18
for a week, with frequent
agitation.
Pour

Kt

off the
press the dregs, mix the liquid
products,

iliquid

and

filter.

If necessary add spirit

to make up O
Aurantii.Made in Britain by fermentsaccharine solution to which the
fresh peel
i

/.
,

TO
'to

l^tnurn

n 12
TO
to

^dded.

It

per cent, of alcohol.

BB2

contains

.,

MATERIA MEDICA.

372

B i/ler- orange peel \s

an ingredient in Infusum
Compositum, and Tinctura Gentian,
in Spiritus Armoracise Compositus
Composita
and in Tinctura Cinchonae Composita. The Syiup
2.

Gentianas

is

contained

in

Confectio Sulphuris; the Tinclure

in

Mistura Ferri Aromatica and Tinctura Quininae

and the Wine in Vinum Ferri Citratis and Vinum
;

Quininse.

Action. The preparations of orange peel are:

used as flavouring agents, and also as aromatic;
and bitter stomachic tonics.

Doses 0\
fl

2.

The

either Infusion, fl
fl 3 i to 2.
Tincture,
either

Ficus Fig.
dried

Ficus

to

2;

Syrup,,

N.O. Moracea.

C.^rica.

fruit.

Pharmacy.

Figs

are contained

Confectio:

in

Sennas.
poultice.,

Action. Figs are popularly used as a

Internally they act as a laxative.

LiMONis
\ Limonis
f

3"

Limonum.

Cortex Lemon Peel \

Succus

N.O.

Lemon

Juice

"

Citrus>

AuranliacecB.

Limonis Cortex is the outer part of the rind or;

pericarp of the fresh fruit. It contains numerous
oil-globules,

and

is

aromatic and

bitter.

juice of
Limo7iis Succus is the freshly expressed
yellowish
It is a slightly turbid
the ripe fruit.
It contains from
acid taste.
sharp
a
with
liquid,
gr. 36 to 46 of citric acid in fl| i.

Pharmacy. I.

Officinal Preparations

Oleum Limonis. {See Oils).

Made by heatmg lemon
b Syrupus Limonis.
lemon peel, and
juice to the boiling point, adding
and disfiltering;
allowing the liquid to cool;
heat.
of
aid
the
solving refined sugar with
a.

FRUITS.

373

Tincitira Limonis.

c.

Fresh lemon peel, cut small, | 2I

| Macerate 7
'
Proof spirit, O I.
J
days; strain, press, and filter; make up
to

I.

Lemon peel is contained in Infusum Aurantii

Compositum, and Infusum Gentianse Compositum.
Lemon juice is the source of Citric Acid.
Action.
Lemon peel is a carminative, and
an aromatic bitter. It is much employed as a
flavouring agent.
Lemon juice is chiefly used for making' effervescent draughts, and as a refrigerant.
It is
2.

also administered in cases of scurvy

Ibutic), gout, and rheumatism.
Doses Of Syrup, fl 3 I
Tincture,

Lemon

(antiscorfl

to

Juice, fl|-| to 4.

Mulberry Juice. The juice

4, Mori Succus
of the ripe fruit of Morus Nigra.
N. 0. Moracecx.
Of a dark violet or purple colour ; vj\ih a faint
and

Pharmacy.

odour,
:

taste.

refreshing

acidulous

Officinal Preparation

saccharine

Syrupus Mori.
Made by heating mulberry juice
to the boiling point
filtering when cool
dissolving refined sugar with the aid of heat; and adding
;

rectified spirit.
ja

Action. Mulberry juice is chiefly employed as

flavouring and colouring agent. It is some-

(what refrigerant and laxative.

BoseOl Syrup, fl 3 i

Pharmacy. Prune
5.

Prunum Prune. Prunus Domestica.

The dried drupe.

N.O.

^RosacecE.

is

contained

iSennae,

Action. Prune

is

a laxative.

in

Confectio

MATERIA MEDICA.

374

6. Tamarindus
Tamarind. Tamarindus Indica.
N.O. LegummoscR. The preserved pulp of the fruit.

has an agreeable, refreshing, subacid taste.

piece of bright iron, left in contact with the pulp
for an hour, does not exhibit any deposit of copper.
Pharmacy. Tamarind is contained in Confectio
Sennse.
Action. Tamarind is used as a refrigerant,

It

made

into a drink;

it is

also a laxative.

Uv^

Raisins.
Vitis Vinifera. N.O.
Viripe fruit, dried by the heat of the sun,
or partly by the sun's heat, and partly by artificial
heat.
Imported from Spain.
7.

lacecB.

The

Pharmacy.

Raisins

are contained

Cardamomi Composita, and Tinctura

Action.
flavour.

Raisins

are

merely

in

Tinctura

Sennae.

used

their

for

B. Umbelliferous Fruits.

This division includes the

N.O.

Umbelh'fercB.

cremocarps,

fruits

They are

and each cremocarp

symmetrical halves or
arranged they include

belonging

botanically

mericarps.

to the

named

consists of two

>

Alphabetically*

1.

Anethi

Fructus

Dill

P'ruit.

Anethum

Graveolens.
2.

Anisi

Fructus Anise

Fruit.

Anisum.
3. Carui Fructus Caraway.

Pimpinellai

Carum Carui.

Conium Fruit. Conium

CoNiuM
Maculatum.
Coriandri Fructus Coriander. Coriandrum
Fructus

4.

5.

Sativum.
6.

FcENicuLi

CULUM Dulce.

Fructus Fennel

Fruit.

F(eni-

FRUITS.

375

General Description. The Umbelliferous fruits

as a class have the following- well-defined characters

1. They are all very small seed-like bodies, the

largest being only 3 lines long- {Fennel).

2. They have a more or less elongated shape,

except Coriander, which is globular.
3. Their colour varies from yellowish-brown to
dark-brown, except Conhitn, which is dull-grey.
4. They present Jttga or minute ridges, varyingin number and arrangement; and most of them
have one or more ViUcb or oil ducts.
5. Each fruit has a characteristic and peculiar
odour and taste, which is of an aromatic character,
except in the case of Conium, which, when reduced
to powder, and rubbed with solution of potash,
gives out a very strong and disagreeable odour.
Special Characters.
The several Umbelliferous
fruits are distinguished by their exact shape, size,
and colour the presence or absence, number, and
characters of juga and vittee, and their odour and
taste.
The student may obtain full information on
these points from the B.P.
He ought, however, to
be so familiar with ihe'ir general appeara?ice &x\<l odour,
as to be able to recognise them at once.
Pharmacy. The important facts relating to this
part of the subject may be thus summarised
1. Dill,
anise, caraway, and coriander, each

yield an officinal Volaiile Oil.

2.

There are four

Umbelliferous

fruits,

b.

Aqua Anethi
Aqua Anisi

c.

AquaCarui

a.

{See Oils).

officinal y^^/^iz

made from

the

namely:
12^z.ch

P'-^Pared

Bruised

fWater,

Aqua I'aniculi]
3. Caraway is an ingredient

fruit, lb

C2

Distil

^i.

a.

in Confectio Opii,
Confectio Piperis, Pulvis Opii Compositus,
Tinclura Cardamomi Composita,
and Tinctura Sennce.

MATERIA MEDICA.

376

Coriander is present in Confectio Sennee, Syrupus

Rhei, Tinctura Rhei, and Tinctura Sennai. Fennd
IS contained in Pulvis Glycyrriiizaj
Compositus.
4. Hemlock fruit has one preparation, namely :
Tinctura

Cojiii.

Hemlock

fruit, finely^ Made by maceration

comminuted, J 2I V for 48 hours, and
Proof spirit, O i.
percolation.
j
Action.
i. The aromatic group of Umbelliferous fruits are mainly used as flavouring agents,

and as carminatives.

Dose0{ Aque,
2.

Conium

fruit

fi

to 2.

has peculiar actions, similar to

those of the leaves.

[See Conium Leaves).
Dose Of Tincture, iix 20 to 60.

C. Miscellaneous and Special Fruits.

Name.

Natural

Source.

Order.

Anisi Stellati Fructus.

Illicium Anisatum.

Magnoliaceffi.

Aurantiacea;.

Bel^ Fructus.

.^gle Marmelos.

Capsici Fructus.

Capsicum Fastigiatum.

Solanaceas.

CassiEE Pulpa.

Cassia Fistula.

Leguminosai.

Colocynthidis Pulpa.

Cubeba.

CitruUus Colocyntliis.
Piper Cubeba.

PiperaceE.

Ecballii Fructus.
Papaveris Capsular.

Ecballium Elaterium.
Papaver Somniferum.

PapaveraceiE.

Pimenta.
Piper Nigrum.

Pimenta Officinalis.
Piper Nigrum.
Rosa Canina.

Rose^Caninaa Fructus.

The

fruits

above enumerated

will

Cucurbitacea;.

Cucurbitaces.
Myrtacea;.
Piperacaj.

RosaceiE.

now be

indi-

vidually considered.

Anisi Stellati Fructus Star-Anise Fruit.

The dried fruit. From plants cultivated in China.
Description. a. Is usually composed of eight
fully developed carpels, diverging horizontally in
a stellate manner from a short central, generally
stalked axis.

I.


FRUITS.

Each carpel

b.

beaked,
colour,

c.

is

irregularly

377

boat-shaped, more or less

wrinkled, of a rusty-brown

and commonly

split, to

expose

solitary seed,

flattish,

somewhat oblique,

smooth, shining, reddish-brown.

Odour and

d.

closely

taste

resembling

anise

fruit.

Pharmacy.

This fruit

is

introduced into the B.P.

{See Oils).

as one of the sources of 0/eum Anisi.

2.

Fructus Bael

BELiE

half-ripe fruit.

Fruit.

The

dried

Description. a. Roundish; about the size of a

large orange.
b. Usually imported in dried more or less twisted
slices, or in fragments consisting of a portion of the
rind, and adherent dried pulp and seeds.
c. Rind
about \ of an inch thick, hard, and
covered with a nearly smooth pale-brown or greyish firmly adherent epicarp
the pulp firm and
brittle, and of an orange-brown or cherry-red
colour externally, but when broken it is seen to be
nearly colourless internally.
;

d.

No

odour;

mucilaginous

taste

slightly acid.

and

very

Pharmacy.
Officinal Preparaiion :
Extraclmn BelcB Liquidum. Prepared by first
making a watery extract of bael fruit, by successive macerations; pressing, and filtering the mixed
liquids; evaporating; and adding rectified spirit

when cold.
Action. Bael
used

fruit

is

an astringent; chiefly

diarrhoea and dysentery.

DoseOi Liquid Extract, fl 3 i to
in

3. Capsici
Fructus Capsicum
dried ripe fruit.

2.

Fruit. The

Description. a. From about ^ to

f of an inch
and \ of an inch in diameter.

long,

MATERIA MEDICA.

378
Somewhat
Composed

shrivelled, oblong-conical, obtuse.

of a smooth shining- brittle thin
translucent pericarp, of a dull orange-red colour,
enclosing several small roundish or ovoid flat
seeds.
h.
c.

d. Taste intensely pungent

odour peculiar and
pungent.
The powder of capsicum constitutes
;

cayenne pepper.

Pharmacy.

Officinal Preparation

Tinctura Capsici.

Capsicum

fruit,

Rectified spirit,

Action.

stimulant
Dose Of
4.

Madeby macera-

i.

tion for 48 hours,

and percolation.

Externally capsicum may be used as a

rubefacient.

bruised, ^ |

Internally

it is

in

Tincture,

Cassia Pulpa

^^l

a carminative and
use as a condiment.

it is

common

o to 20.

Cassia

Pulp.

The

pulp ob-

tained from the recently imported pods.

to 2 feet
Description. a. The pods are from
and nearly an inch in diameter, blackishbrown, very hard, marked by two smooth longitudinal bands divided internally by thin transverse
partitions into numerous cells, each containing a
seed, more or less surrounded by pulp, and hence
the pods should not rattle when shaken.
blackish-brown, sweet in
b. The pulp is viscid,
When obtaste, and somewhat sickly in odour.
the
contains
tained separately the pulp frequently
removed
be
should
seeds and dissepiments these
before using it.
Pharmacy. Cassia pulp is contained in Confectio
Sennae.
Action. Cassia is a laxative.

long,

COLOCYNTHIDIS PuLPA CoLOCYNTH PuLP. The

dried peeled fruit, freed from seeds.
5.

FRUITS.

379

Description. a. Usually imported in more or

broken roundish balls, about 2 inches or less
in diameter, consisting of the pulp in which the
seeds are imbedded.
The broken-up pulp freed
from seeds is the condition in which it is officinal.
b.
The pulp is very lig-ht, spongy, tough, and

less

whitish.
c.

No

d.

The powder

odour; taste intensely bitter,

and
is not coloured by iodine
Joes not yield oil when treated with ether, and the
separated ether evaporated.

Pharmacy.

i.

Officinal Preparations

Exttachm Colocynthidis Composittwi. (i) Make

a tincture by macerating Colocynth pulp, ^ 6, in
Proof spirit, C i, for 4 days.
Press, and distil off
a.

the spirit.

r Extract of socotrine aloes, ^ 12

Add-< Resin of scammony, ^4
(^Curd soap, in powder, g 3.
(iii) Evaporate by a water-bath to a pilular consistence, adding Cardamom Seeds, in the finest
powder, 1 i, towards the end of the process.
(ii)

b.

Pilula Colocynthidis Composita.

Colocynth pulp,

Barbadoes aloes, 2
Resin of scammony, 2

in
I

Sulphate of potassium, \

c.

Mix the solids

powder, add

the oil of cloves.

beat into
a
mass
with

and

Oil of cloves, fl3 2

Distilled water, a sufficiency.] water,
Pilula Colocynthidis et Hyoscyami.

Compound pill of colocynth, 2

Beat into a uniExtract of henbane, i,

form mass.
J
Action. Colocynth is a drastic purgative.
")

Doses Q){ Compound Extract,

Pill,

6.

gr. 3 to lO; either

gr. 5 to 10.

CuBEBA CuBEBS. The

grown

fruit.

dried

unripe

full-

38o

MATERIA MEDICA.

Description. a. Globular, about i of an inch in

diameter, and tapering- below into a rounded stalk,
which is continuous with, and permanently attached'
to, the pericarp.
b. Blackish- or greyish-brown, much wrinkled.
Beneath the shrivelled skin is a hard brown smooth
shell, in which the seed is contained in the mature
fruit, but is usually nearly empty.
c. Taste warm, aromatic, and somewhat bitter;
odour strong-, peculiar, aromatic.
d.
decoction when cold is coloured bright
indigo-blue by solution of iodine.

Pharmacy.
a.
d.
c.

Officinal Preparations
Oleo-resina Cubebce.
{See Oleo -Resins).
Oleum CubebcE. {See Oils).

linctura CubebcB.
Ur.
Cubebs,

in

A
powder,

A c
r\
Rectified
Spirit,
r>

.-a

z
?

2i1 r
K-\

i.

'

Made by macerar

tion for
j

o u
48 hours,
.

and percolation.
,

Cubebs

is a gastric stimulant and

small doses, but in large doses ic
becomes an irritant to the alimentary canal. Its
main use is as a diuretic, and for its specific action upon the genito-urinary mucous membrane,
especially the urethra.
It is also an expectorant.
Cubebs may cause a cutaneous eruption.
Doses Of Cubebs, gr. 30 to 120; Tincture, fl3|

Action.

stomachic

in

to 2.

Cucumber
Squirting
Fructus
7. EcBALLii
From plants
Fruit. The fruit, very nearly ripe.
This fruit is not described
cultivated in Britain.
in the B.P. and is merely introduced as the source
of Elaterium.

Papaveris Capsule Poppy Capsules.The

nearly ripe dried capsules. From plants cultivated
8.

in Britain.

381

FRUITS.

Description. a. Roundish, ovoid-rounded, or

somewhat oblong, suddenly contracted below into
a neck, and crowned above by the stellatelyarrang-ed stigmas.
b. From 2 to 3 inches in diameter.
c. Externally yellowish or yellowish-brown, and
frequently dotted with blackish spots.
d. Internally presents a variable number of thin,
brittle parietal placentas, directed towards the
centre of the cavity, and a very large number of
loose, small, reniform, whitish, slate-coloured, or
nearly black seeds.
e.

Inodorous; taste slightly

Pharmacy.
a.

bitter.

Officinal Preparations

Decocium Papaveris.
Boil for 10 mincapsules, bruised, f 2
utes, strain, and
Distilled water,
i^.

Poppy

make up

to

O i.

Exiractiim Papaveris.
Prepared from Poppy
capsules, freed from the seeds, and in No. 20 powder, by making a watery extract with boiling water
by infusion, percolation, and evaporation adding
rectified spirit when cold; and in 24 hours filtering and evaporating to a pilular consistence.
c. Syrupus Papaveris.
Prepared from Poppy capsules, freed from the seeds, and in No. 20 powder, by
infusing in boiling water and percolating; evaporating; when cold adding rectified spirit; filtering in 12 hours; distilling off the spirit, evaporating,
and adding refined sugar,
h.

Ac TioN. The decoction of poppy is used locally

anodyne fomentation. The preparations

as an

intended for internal administration have to a

slight but uncertain degree the effects of opium,
{See Opium).
They are chiefly used as hypnotics

and pulmonary sedatives.

Doses Q)\ Extract, gr. 2 to

Syrup,

fl

i.

MATERIA MEDICA.

PiMENTA

9.

grown

Pimento.

fruit.

The

dried unripe

full-

Description. a. Dry, light, roundish, i of an

inch or more in diameter, and crowned with the

remains of the calyx, in the form commonly of a

raised scar-like ring.
d. Pericarp roughened from the presence of oilglands, brittle, darlv-brown.
c. Two-celled, each cell containing a brownishblack, somewhat compressed, reniform seed.
d. Odour and taste warm, aromatic, and peculiar, but resembling cloves.
Pharmacy.
OJzcmal Preparaimis

a.

Aqua PimentcB.
Pimento bruised,
Water, C 2

Distil

i.

{See Oils),
h. Oleum PimefilcE.
Action. Pimento is employed as a flavouring'
agent, gastric stimulant, and carminative.

It is

one of the condiments.

10.

unripe

Piper Nigrum

Black

Pepper.

The

dried

fruit.

Description. a. Roundish, usually about i of

an inch in diameter.
b. Pericarp thin, blackish-brown, wrinkled, and
containing a hard smooth roundish seed, of a
yellowish-brown or grey colour.
taste pungent and bitter.
c. Aromatic odour
;

Pharmacy.

Officinal Preparation

Confectio Piperis.

Rub

well
together
Caraway
mortar.
i in a
Clarified honey, ^ 1 5
Confectio
in
ingredient
an
is
pepper
Black
2.
Opii and Pulvis Opii Compositus.
Action. Pepper, locally applied, is a rubefacient, and is popularly employed for this purpose.

Black pepper,

powder, | 2^
powder, I 3 [

in fine

fruit, in fine

SEEDS.
Internally

it

is

in

ordinary use as a condiment^

and acts as a sialagogue, gastric and intestinal

stimulant, and carminative. It is also believed
to have some specific effect upon the mucous membrane of the rectum, as well as on that of the
g-enito-urinary tract, similar to cubebs.
Dose Of Confection, 3 i to 2.

II. Ros^ CaninjE Fructus

Fruit of the DogRosE. The ripe fruit.
Description. a. Ovoid or somewhat oval, f of
an inch or more long-.
b. Scarlet or crimson
smooth and shining-.
c. Inodorous
taste pleasant, sweetish, acidu-

lous.

Pharmacy.
Confectio

Officinal Preparation

Rosa

Cajiince.

Hips,

deprived of their seed-like fruit, i \

Refined sugar, 2
J
Beat the hips to a pulp, rub through a sieve, and
mix with the sugar.
Action. The confection of dog-rose fruit is used

for

making up

pills.

It

is

also

somewhat re-

frigerant and astringent.

Group JX. SEEDS.

The

seeds recognised in the B.P.

may be

enu-

merated under the following divisions:

A. Large Seeds.
Namt.

Source.

Natural
Order.

Amygdala Amara
Amygdala Dulcis
Myriatica

Myristica Fragrans

Nux Vomica

Myristicacea;.

Strychnos

Nux Vomica
Physostigma Venenosum

Loganiacea;.

Physostigmatis

Semen

Leguminosa;.

MATERIA MEDICA.

384

B. Small Seeds.
Cardamom! Semina

Elettaria

Colchici Semina

Colchicum Autumnale

Melanthacea:.

Hordeum Decorticatum

Hordeum Distichon
Linum Usitatissimum

GraminaceiE.

Lini Semina
Sabadilla

Sinapis

Albffi

Cardamomum

Zingiberaceic.

Linaces.

Schcenocaulon Officinale
Brassica Alba

Semina

Sinapis Nigraj Semina

Brassica Nigra

Semina
Stramonii Semina

Delphinium Staphisagria
Datura Stramonium

Staphisagriae

c.
Farina Trttici
Sinapis

AtropacecC.

Ground Seeds.
Triticum Sativum
Linum Usitatissimum
Brassica Alba et Nigra.

Lini Farina

Ranunculacea;.

While recog-nising these

more convenient to consider

GraminaceE.
Linaceffi.
Cruciferffi.

divisions it will be
the several drues in

detail in alphabetical order.

[Amygdala Amara Bitter Almond.

( Amygdala Dulcis Sweet or Jordan Almond.
The ripe seed.
Description.
The appearance of almonds is
well-known, but the following- points may be
J

noted

Sweet almond

about an inch or somewhat

more or less compressed, pointed at one end and rounded at the
Bitter almond is broader and shorter.
other.
b. Both varieties have a cinnamon-brown scurfy
coat, easily removed by steeping- in warm water
a.

more

is

in leng^th, nearly oblong-,

{blanched almonds).

kernel forms a white emulsion when

triturated with water.
d. The emulsion of sweet almond has no marked
That of
odour, but a bland sweet nutty taste.
c.

The


SEEDS.

385

bitter almond has an odour like that of ratafia or

peach-blossoms, and a very bitter taste.

Pharmacy.
Officinal Preparalions.
From almonds
directly the following- are obtained
a. Oleitm AmygdalcE.
fi.xed oil obtained by
:

expression from both varieties of almonds.

(See

Oils).
1.

Piilvis Amygdala ComposiUis.

Sweet almonds, blanched and
Refined sug-ar, 4

dried, 8)
L

Gum

acacia, i
j
Rub the almonds to a smooth consistence; add
the sugar and gum gradually; rub the whole
to a

From

coarse powder.
preparation

this

is

made

Mishira Amygdala.

c.

Compound povvderof almonds

Distilled water, 8.

Action.

Sweet almond

[Tnturate, and
i

stram through
muslin.

is

demulcent and nu-

The mixture constitutes a pleasant vehiadministering other drugs.

The bitter
almond is poisonous, as it yields when
moistened
oil 0/ bitter almonds,
which contains hydrocyanic

Itritive.
cle

for

acid;

It is

officinal

DoseOi
2.

npe

merely as a source of the fixed

Mixture, flj

to 2.

Cardamomi Semina Cardamoms. The

dried

They are best kept in their pericarps

imported, but when required
for use they
Should be separated and the
pericarps rejected.
Description.-^. About 1 of an inch
long, irre.gularly angular, transversely
wrinkled
seeds.

as

b.

Dark reddish-brown
""""^

!matic

^^''^^

externally, whitish within

agreeably

warm and
cc

aro-

386

i
.

MATERIA MEDICA.

Pharmacy. i Ojficinal Preparation

TiJichiia Catdamomi Composila.
.

Cardamom seeds, bruised, ^

Caraway fruit, bruised, ^ 1

freed from
11X^111 OV-\^V_iO,
seeds, ^
f 2
Cinnamon bark, bruised, J
Cochineal, in powder, gr. 55

Made by ma-

Raisins,
J-XCXlOlliO,

ceration
I^C^ICLLIUII
i

for'
IVJl

48 hours, and
percolation.

Proof spirit, O I.
Cardamoms are contained

2.
in Extractum Colocynthidis Coinposita, Pulvis Cinnamomi Compositus, Pulvis Cretas Aromaticus, Pulvis Cretae Aromaticus cum Opio, Tinctura Gentianse Composita,
Tinctura Rhei, and Vinum Aloes.
The iinciiirc is an ingredient in Decoctum Aloes
Compositum, Mistura Ferri Aromatica, Misturai

Sennae Composita, and Tinctura Chloroformi Com-posita.

Action.

Cardamoms

carminative.
Dose 01 Tincture,

fl

act as a

i to

stimulant andl

2.

SeMINA COLCHICUM Seeds. The'

3. COLCHICI
seeds collected when fully ripe, commonly about
the end of July or beginning- of August, and care-fully dried.

Description. a. About \ of an inch in diameter,-;

sub-globular, slightly pointed at the hilum.
somewhat rough.
b. Reddish-brown
;

c.

Very hard and

powder.
and acrid.

difficult to

No odour;
Officinal Preparation :
Pharmacy.
Sevmium.
Colchici
Tinctura
finely ~i Made by maceration
seeds,
Colchicum
V for 48 hours, and
comminuted, ^ 2I
percolation.
I.
O
spirit,
Proof
J
Action. The tincture of colchicum seeds acts
as a diaphoretic, diuretic, hepatic stimulant,
and alterative ; having a specific effect in rela-'
d.

taste bitter

SEEDS.

387

tion to g-out.

In full doses it becomes an irritant

alimentary canal, and vascular depres-

to the

sant.
Dose

Of Tincture,

10 to 30.

ii^

4. Farina Tritici
Wheaten Flour. The grain
ground and sifted. Used for making- Caiaplasma

Fcrnmiii.
5.

HoRDEUM Decorticatum Pearl

Barley.

The

dried seed, divested of its integuments.

From
plants cultivated in Britain.
White, rounded with
a trace of the longitudinal furrow, in which
are the
remams of the yellowish-brown integuments.

Taste and odour farinaceous.

Pharmacy.

Freparaiion

Decoctum Hordei,

f^^sh

the barley in cold

water; boil for 20
minutes; and strain.
^' I
Action. ^,
The decoction of barley is used as a
idemulcent drink. Barley is also a
nutrient.

Pearl Barley,

? 2

Distilled water,

Oil

'

BoseOi

Decoction,

fl

to 4.

g fLiNi Semxna -Linseed. The dried ripe seeds.

Lini Farina Linseed Meal.
Linseed re:auced to powder.
DESCRiPTioN.-a. The seeds are small,
from \ to
iot an inch long, more or less flattened,
ovoid

somewhat obliquely pointed.

b

Externally brown, smooth, shining;

internally
^

yellovvish-white.
c.

No

d.

odour;

oily

and mucilaginous

decoction of linseed

when cold

by solution of iodine
Ph>u<macy.-i Offiemal Pteparalions

3lue

a.

Lataplasma Lini.
Linseed meal,
^^4
Boiling water, IT^

jo.

Mix

taste.
is

not

made

with

constant

stirring.

CC 2

388
b.

MATERIA MEDICA.
Itifumin Ltni.

Linseed, gr. 150

Dried liquorice root,

powder, gr. 50

in

Boiling distilled water,

The

Oletcm Liiii.
Oils).
2. Linseed meal

c.

oil

No. 20

! Infuse for

hours,

two
and

strain.
fl

J 10.

expressed from linseed.

(^See

is

an ingredient

in

The

of linseed

several Cata-

plasms.
3.

Inco?npaiibles.~

infusion

compatible with preparations of lead,

most metallic

is

iron,

in-

and

salts.

Action. Linseed-meal poultice is used externally as an emollient and anodyne ; internally

linseed acts as a demulcent and diluent in the
form of infusion.

Myristica Nutmeg. The dried seed divested

of its hard coat or shell.
Description. a. Oval or roundish; varying in
length, but rarely exceeding an inch.
b. Externally greyish-brown, and marked with
reticulated furrows; internally greyish-red, with
darker brownish-red veins, the transverse section
having a marbled appearance.
taste
c. Odour strong, and pleasantly aromatic
bitterish.
agreeably aromatic, warm, and
7.

l
Pharmacy.
Officinal Preparatio?is
A volatile oil. {See Oils).
a. Oleum Myrislicoi.
Oleum Mjrisiicce Expresmm.K concrete oil.
b.
.

(6'ffOiLs).

an ingredient in Pulvis Catechu

Compositus, Pulvis Crete Aromaticus, Pulvis Cretse
Aromaticus cum Opio, Spiritus Armoraciffi Compositus, and Tinctura Lavandulae Composita.
Nutmeg is a carminative and
Action.
stimulant. It is a condiment in common use.
2.

Nutmeg

is

SEEDS.

Nux Vomica, The seeds.

Description. a. Rounded in
outline; from
about ^ of an inch to more than an inch in diameter, and on an average nearly J of an inch
thick; flattish, or concavo-convex, or sometimes
more or less bent or irregular in form rounded or
somewhat acute at the margin
marked on one
surface by a central scar or hilum, from which a
more or less jirojecting line passes to the margin,
where it terminates in a slight prominence.
b. Externally ash-grey or yellowish-grey-green,
and glistening from being covered with short
satiny hairs; internally horny and somewhat
8.

translucent.
c. No odour; extremely bitter taste.
Pharmacy.
i.
Officmal Preparatio?is
a. Extractum Niicis Vomica.
This extract is made
by heating the split Nux Vomica seeds to 212 for
3 hours, and reducing to fine powder; macerating
and percolating this with a mixture of rectified
spirit and distilled water (4 to O; distilling off the
spirit, and evaporating over a water-bath.
The

amount of total alkaloid in the percolated liquid is

estimated by a certain process {see B.P.,
p. 163),
and such quantity taken as will leave an extract
containing 15 per cent, of total alkaloid.
b.

Tinctura Nucis VoiniccE.

Extract of nux vomica, gr. 133
Distilled water, fl ^ 4

Rectified spirit, sufficient to produce [dissolve.

flj20.
j
fluid-ounce contains gr. i of the alkaloids of

nux vomica.

2. Nux Vomica is the source of Strychnine.

(See
Alkaloids).
Action. Nux Vomica owes its properties to the
strychnine which it contains, and its effects
are
similar to those of this alkaloid.
{See Strychnina)

MATERIA MEDICA.

390
Its

preparations are mainly employed, however, as

stomachic and general tonics

and as intes-

tinal tonics, thus acting- as aids to purgative^.

Given beyond a certain point they become spinr
excitants and tetanizers, and produce all thu
poisonous effects of strychnine.
Doses

Of Extract,

g-r.

to

Tincture,

lit

lO to

20.
9. Physostigmatis Semen
dried seeds.

Calabar

Bean.

The

inch long-,
Description. a. From about i to
of
an
somewhat
inch
inch
or
broad,
and
an
5
\

more

in thickness.

h. Oblong and more or less reniform., and withi

a long broad blackish furrow running entirely
along its convex side.
c. Testa hard, brittle, roughish, deep chocolatebrown or brownish-red, and enclosing a closely-adhering nucleus, which principally consists of two
hard white brittle cotyledons, separated from each'
other by a somewhat large cavity.
d. Inodorous
no marked taste beyond that of:
an ordinary bean.
and imperfectly;
e. Yields its virtues to alcohol,
;

to water.

The cotyledons when moistened

solution of potash acquire

colour.

with^

a permanent yellow,

Pharmacy.
Officinal Preparaiions :
extract,
a. Exiradnin Physosiigniaiis.h spirituous
and
powder,
made from Calabar Bean, in No. 40
percolation;
rectified spirit, by maceration and
and evaporating to
distilling off most of the spirit
the consistence of a soft extract.
the extract.
is obtained from
b. Physostigmme
;

(See Alkaloids).

SEEDS.

AcTiox.
Calabar bean, both locally applied
and internally administered, is a myotic.
Internally, it is used mainly as a spinal sedative and
depressant; but it also acts as an irritant to the
alimentary canal in full doses, a cardiac depressant, and a respiratory depressant.
Doses Of Calabar Bean, gr, i to 4; Extract,
o-r J- to i

Sabadilla Cevadilla, The

dried
ripe
The seeds are sometimes imported in, or
mixed with, their pericarps, but these should be
rejected before the seeds are used.
10.

seeds.

Description. a. About \ of an inch or less in

length; narrow, fusiform or somewhat scimitarshaped, prolonged above into a membranous wing,

somewhat compressed.
Shining, wrinkled, blackish-brown.
Taste bitter, acrid; inodorous, but when powdered producing violent sneezing.
Pharmacy. Sabadilla is merely introduced into
the B.P. as the source of Verairine. (&e Alkaloids).
b.

c.

ALBiE Semina \ The dried ripe

White Mustard Seeds, seeds. From
jjJSiNAPis NiGR^ Semina [plants cultivated
'SiNAPis

Black Mustard Seeds.) in Britain.

SiNAPis Mustard.-Black and white mustard seeds, powdered and mixed.
V
Description. The characters of the two varieties of mustard seeds may be thus
summed up
a. Both are roundish, but the
black are scarcely
half the size of thg white, which measure
about -Hof an inch in diameter.
j

b. Externally
they are finely-pitted, the ivhite
having a pale-yellow colour, and the black
being
dark-reddish or greyish-brown. Both are
yellow

internally,

and hard.

MATERIA MEDICA.

392

c.
White mustard is inodorous; taste pungent.
Black mustard is inodorous when dry, even when
powdered, but when triturated with water it exhales a strong- pungent odour, so as to affect the
eyes; taste very pungent.
Test.
decoction of mustard when cooled
not made blue by tincture of iodine.

Pharmacy.
a.

Officinal Preparations

Cataplasma Sinapis.

Mustard, in powder, ^ 2j, or a sufficiency'

Linseed meal, J 2\
Boiling water ) r
u
cc
^^'-^ ^ sumciency
\

Water
Mi.K

the mustard with two or three ounces of

luke-warm water; mix the linseed meal

with

six or eight

add the former

ounces of boiling water;

the latter, and stir them

to

together.
Charta Sifiapis. This is made by mixing
Mustard with Solution of Gutta Percha covering
strips of cartridge paper with a thin coating of the

h.

mixture and drying them by exposure to air.

Oleum Si?iapis. The oil distilled with water
c.
from black mustard seeds. {See Oils).
Action. Mustard applied externally is a most
valuable rubefacient or vesicant. Internally it
and in doses of
is employed as a condiment;
warm water
with
mixed
teaspoonfuls
from I to 4
emetic.
stimulant
handy
and
useful
it acts as a
Seeds.
Stavesacre
Semina
Staphisagri^e
12.
;

The dried ripe seeds.

Description. a. Irregularly triangular or obscurely quadrangular, arched.
when fresh, but becoming
b. Blackish-brown
Testa wrinkled
dull greyish-brown by keeping.

and deeply-pitted; nucleus soft, whitish,

taste nauseously
c. No marked odour
;

acrid.

oily.

bitter

and

SEEDS.
Pharmacy.

393

Officinal Preparation
Uiigiuntum SlaphisagricE.
Stavesacre seeds,
i

Benzoated lard,
macerate them

2.

| ^^^^^ ^^e seeds, and

J

lard kept melted over

Strain through
hours.
a water-bath for 2
calico, and set aside to cool.
This ointment contains about 10 per cent, of oil
of stavesacre.
Action. The ointment of stavesacre is merely
used as a parasiticide, to destroy pediculi.
in the

Stramoxii Semina

13.

dried ripe seeds.

Description.
form, flattened.

b.
c.

a.

Stramonium Seeds. The

About J

of an inch long

reni-

Brownish-black, finely-pitted, wrinkled.

Odour disagreeable when bruised
taste
;

bitterish.

Pharmacy.

Officinal Prepataiions

Made by

first percolating Stramonium Seeds, in No. 40 powder, with

washed ether to remove the oil ; and then slowly percolating the residue with proof spirit until the
powder is exhausted
distilling off most of the
spirit
and evaporating the residue by a waterbath to a pilular consistence.
a.

Exiraciiini Stramonii.

b.

Tinctura Stramonii.

Stramonium
bruised,

seeds,

^2^
Proof spirit, Or.

~)

V-

Made by

maceration for
48 hours, and percolation.

Action. Stramonium has similar actions to

belladonna (mydriatic,
cerebral excitant,
narcotic, anodyne, etc.), but is almost solely
used as a pulmonary sedative. The leaves,
although non-officinal, are smoked for this purpose.
Doses 01 Extract, gr. to ^ Tincture, rix 10 to
;

30.

MATERIA MEDICA.

394

Group

X. SPECIAL PARTS OF PLANTS.

Under this group may be considered a few

drugs which are botanically peculiar.
I.

COLCHICI

CHicuM

CORMUS COLCHICUM CoRM.

AuTUMNALE.

N.O.

CoL-

MelatithacecE.

a. The fresh corm, collected about the

end of
June or beginning- of July.
b. The same, stripped of its coats,
sliced transversely, and dried under 150.

Description.

i.

Fresh Corm.

About

\\ inch long, and an inch broad.

h. Somewhat conical,
flattened on one side,
where it has a new corm in process of development, and rounded on the other.
c. Covered with an outer thin brown membranous coat, and an inner one reddish-yellow.
d. Internally white and
solid, and when cut
yielding a milky juice of a bitter taste and disa.

agreeable odour.
2. Dried Slices.
a. Slices are i or
of an inch thick; moderately
indented on one side and convex on the other, so
that they are somewhat reniform in outline.
b. Yellowish
at the circumference;
surfaces
firm, whitish, amylaceous; breaking readily with a
short fracture.
c.

Taste bitter; no odour.

Pharmacy.

ExtracUm

Officinal Preparaiio7is

Made

from the pressed

out juice of fresh Colchicum Corms, deprived of their
coats and crushed, by allowing the feculence to
subside, heating the clear liquor to 212, straining
through flannel, and evaporating by a water-bath
under 160 to a pilular consistence.
a.

Colchici.

SPECIAL PARTS OF PLANTS.

Exiractum Colchici Acetiaim.
made by a similar process

b.

395

This preparation

to the above, but

before pressing- out the juice, Acetic Acid, fl^ 6, is
added to the crushed corms, lb 7.
is

Viniun Colchici.

c.

Dried sliced colchicum corm, in|

^Macerate for
No. 20 powder, ^4
Sherry wine, O i.
J
press and strain through calico
7 days
and make up to O I.
;

AcTiQX. The preparations of colchicum corm

are much more frequently used than that of the
seeds, and have similar actions, namely, diaphoretic, diuretic, hepatic stimulant, and alterative in relation to gout, in ordinary doses they
are also irritant to the alimentary canal, and
vascular depressant, in large doses.
;

Doses Of Powdered Corm, gr. 2 to 8

Extract, gr. ^ to 2
Wine, ill lO to 30.

either

2.

Jalapa

volvulacecr.

Jalap.
The

Ipomcea Pur.ia.
dried tubercules.

N.O.

Co?i-

Description-.
a. Irregularly oblong, somewhat
ovoid, napiform, or rarely fusiform; varying much
in size, the larger frequently incised, or cut into
halves or quarters.

Externally dark-brown, more or less irregufurrowed and wrinkled, and marked with
paler-coloured transverse lines or scars; internally dirty-yellowish or brownish, and frequently
marked with dark-brown irregular concentric
b.

larly

Hard and compact in texture.

Odour faint, peculiar, and smoky, increased
by rubbing or powdering; taste sweetish, acrid,
and nauseous.

.circles.
.

c.

a
;

396

MATERIA MEDICA.

Test. Treated as for the preparation of Resin o'

Jalap, not less tinan lo per cent, of the resin
should
be obtained, of which not more than
should
be soluble in ether.
Pharmacy. I.
a.
_

Officinal Preparaiions

^:f/ratVz;!/;z/a/rt/);. Prepared

by

:
first

making-

tincture with rectified spirit, by maceratingJalap,

in coarse powder, for
7 days, pressing, and filterinor
distilling off the spirit, leaving a soft extract
;

making a soft watery

extract with the residual jalap;

rnixing the two; and evaporating- under 140" to a
pilular consistence.
b. Ptilvis JalapcB Co??iposihcs.
Jalap, in powder, 5
Acid tartrate of potassium, 9 Mix thoroughly,
-

c.

d.

Ginger, in powder, i.
j
pass the powder through a
rub lightly in a mortar.
JalapcB Resuia.
{^Sce Resixs).

fine sieve,

and

Tiiictura JalapcE.

Made by maceration
I
for 48 hours, and
2|
1
Proof spirit, O i.
percolation.
j
2. Jalap is an ingredient in Pulvis Scammonii
Compositus.
Action. ^Jalap is a simple purgative ; it is
also used as a vermifuge.
Doses Of Jalap, gr. 10 to 30; Extract gr. 5 to
15; Compound Powder, gr. 20 to 60; Tincture,
flSi to 2.
Jalap, in No. 40 powder, ^

3.

SciLLA

Squill.

The

Urginea

bulb, divested of
ous outer scales, cut into slices,

LiliacecR.

Description.

a.

its

and

Scilla.
dried.

Slices are flatfish or

somewhat

from about i to 2 inches long.

transYellowish-white or somewhat pinkish

four-sided, curved;
b.

N'.O.

dry membran-

lucent.

SPECIAL PARTS OF PLANTS.

c.

and easily powdered

Brittle,

if

tough and flexible when moist.

taste disagreeably
d. No odour
;

Pharmacy.
parations

directly

from

squill

very dry, but

bitter.

Preparations.

Officinal

i.

made

397

The

are

pre-

a, Aceliim ScillcE.

bruised, ^ 2\
Diluted acetic acid,

Macerate

Squill,

7 days,
press,

strain,

i.

and

filter.

Pilula ScillcB Composiia

Squill, il

IX

Ginger,

in

Ammoniacum,
Hard soap, i.

the

ingredients

solid

powder, add

treacle,

sufificient

and beat

into

uniform mass.

linclura SciUcE.
Squill, bruised, ^

Proof

spirit,

Made by

2\

I.

The following are made from

d.

Oxymel Scillcz.
Vinegar of squill,

water-bath

Aceiuni ScillcB

and

Mix, and evaporate

Clarified honey, Kj 2.

by a

maceration

for 48 hours,
percolation.

to

sp.

1-32

rr.

when

cold.
e.

Syrupiis Scillcs.

Vinegar of

squill,

Refined sugar, lb 2^.

2.

Squill

also

is

cacuanhee cum

Dissolve with the aid

of a little heat.

an ingredient

in

Pilula

Ipe-

Scilla.

Action. Squill is a diuretic, stimulant expectorant, and cardiac tonic.

In large doses
it
acts as an emetic and irritant to the alimentary canal.

Doses~Oi
HI 15 to 40;

pound

Pill,

Squill, in

powder, gr.

to 3

Vinegar,

Oxymel

or Syrup, fl 3 1 to I
Comto 10; Tincture, ill "10 to 30.
;

gr. 5

398

MATERIA MEDICA.

XL DISEASED

'Group

Ergota

I.

Ergot.

N.O.

PLANTS.
Graminacecs.

The

sclerotium of Claviceps purpurea (a fungous growth),

produced between the pales, and replacing the
grain of Secale cereale the Conunon Rye.

Description.
a. Sub-cylindrical or obscurely
triangular, tapering towards the ends, generally
arched or curved
longitudinally furrowed on
each side, but more especially on that which is
concave, and often irregularly cracked.
h. From \ to
inch in length.
c. Violet- purple
externally, white or pinkishwhite within fracture short.
d. Odour peculiar and disagreeable, especially
if
the powder be triturated with solution of
potash ; taste mawkish and rancid.
;

Pharmacy.
Officinal Preparalions :
a. Exiraciwn ErgotcB Liqiddtm.
Made by twice
digesting crushed ergot in distilled water
pressing, straining, and evaporating the liquors by a
water-bath to a certain quantity; when cold adding rectified spirit and filtering after standing an

hour.
b.

Infusum ErgotcE.
Ergot, crushed, J \
Boiling distilled water, flj

c.

Tmchira Ergota:.
Ergot, finely comminuted,]

Proof
d.
i^See

spirit,

Ergoline

is

Ergotine).

lO.

Made by macera-

i.

made from

the

Liquid Extract.

DISEASED PLANTS.

399

Action. Ergfot is chiefly used as an ecbolic

and hasmostatic.
It is a powerful vaso-contractor, and thus gives rise to various phenomena. It has been employed to check different
secretions, as the urine, sweat, and milk.
Boses

Of

Erg-ot, gr.

10 to 30;
to 30.
2.

Galla

20

Infusion, fl^

111

Galls.

to 30;
i
to 2

N.O.

Liquid Extract,
;

Tincture, 11x5

Excres-

Cupidifera.

cences on Querais Lusilanica or I?j/eclo}ia, caused by

the puncture and deposit of an egg or eggs of
Cynips GalliB iincloria

Description.

an

insect.

Sub-globular, tuberculated on
the surface, the tubercles and intervening spaces
being smooth. Hard and heavy.
b. From ^ to | of an inch or more in diameter.
c. Dark bluish-green or dark olive-green externally
yellowish or brownish - white internally,
with a small central cavity.
a.

d. No odour;
taste intensely astringent,
lowed by some degree of sweetness.

Pharmacy.
a.

Tiiictiira

Galls, in

b.

No. 40 powder,

spirit,

i.

lard, | i.
UngxccnUivi GallcR cum Opio.
Ointment of galls, ? 1

Opium,

in

and

Galls are the source of

Inco7npalibles.~Wmers,\

bonates;

")

j^^^

thoroughly.

1 i,.powder, gr. 32. | ^ix thoroughly.

Acidum Tannicum.
3-

for 48 hours,
percolation.

powder, gr. 80

Benzoated

2.

Made by maceration
[

U7iguenium Galla.
Galls, in fine

c.

Galla.

1 ^2

Proof

Officinal Preparations

fol-

lime-water;

Acidum Gallicum and

acids;

alkaline

salts of iron, lead,

car-

copper.


MATERIA MEDICA.

400

and silver
tartar-emetic
ipecacuanha, opium,
infusions of cinchona, calumba, and cusparia.
;

Action.
fully

The preparations of

astringent, and are

chiefly

for this purpose.

The tincture
tered internally.
Dose Of Tincture, fl 3 ^ to 2.

galls are

power-

employed

may be

locally

adminis-

Group XII. VEGETABLE PRODUCTS.

I include in this group drugs which are not parts
of plants, but obtained or prepared from these in
different ways, and they naturally arrange themselves under certain well-recognised subdivisions.

A. Gums.
Gti7}is are exudations from the stems of plants,
which form a mucilage when mixed with water.
They consist of arahine, which is soluble, and hassorine, which is insoluble, but swells up into a gelatinoid mass, these being combined with magnesium
and potassium to form salts.
I.

AcAcriE

and other

GuMMi

species.

Gum
N.O.

Acacia. Acacia Senegal

LeguminoscB.

A gummy

exudation from the stem and branches.

Description and Tests. a. In roundish, ovoid,
or vermicular tears, or masses, ot various sizes;
or in angular fragments with glistening surfaces.
b. Colourless, or with a yellowish, brownish, or
The tears either opaque, from
reddish tint.
numerous minute fissures, and very brittle, or
more or less transparent and not readily broken
the fractured surfaces vitreous in appearance.
no odour.
c. Taste bland and mucilaginous

GUMS.
d.

401

Insoluble in alcohol, entirely soluble in water,

forming a clear mucilaginous solution.

forms with subacetate
e. The aqueous solution
If an aqueous
of lead an opaque white jelly.
solution of iodine be added to the powder, or to a
solution formed with boiling water and cooled,
there is no appearance of a violet or blue colour.
Pharmacy.
Officinal Preparation

Mucilago AcacicE.

Gum

acacia, in small] Dissolve with frequent

stirring; strain through
muslin, if necessary.
2. Gum Acacia is contained in Mistura Cretse,
Mistura Guaiaci, Pulvis Amygdala Compositus,
Pulvis Tragacanthse Compositus, and all the
Trochisci.
The Mucilage is also present in the
Trochisci, with one exception, namely, T. Opii.
pieces, J 4
Distilled water, flj6.J

3.

Incompatibles.

Sulphuric acid; alcohol; borax;

and subacetate of lead.

Action. Gum Acacia is demulcent and nutrient. It is chiefly used for pharmaceutical purpersalts of iron

poses.

2.
Tragacantha
Tragacanth.
Astragalus
GuMMiFER, and some other species. N.O. LeguminoscE.
A gummy exudation obtained by making

incisions in the stem.

Description and Tests. ^z. In flaky pieces, of

varying length and breadth; thin; irregularly
oblong or roundish; more or less curved, marked
on the surface by arched or concentric ridges.
d. White or yellowish; somewhat
translucent.
c.

Tough, but more pulverizable when heated

to 120.
d.

Very sparingly soluble

swells

in

cold

a gelatinous mass, which

violet or blue by tincture of iodine.
e. Inodorous; and almost
tasteless.
into

water, but
is

tinged

402

MATERIA MEDICA.

f. After maceration in cold water, the fluid

portion is not precipitated by the addition of
rectified spirit.

Pharmacy.

Tragacanth,

b.

Officinal Preparations

Glycerinum Tragacanthcz,

a.

in

powder,

g-r.

no] Mix

the tra-

Glycerine, fl^ i
Igacanth and
Distilled water, fl gr. 74.
glycerine in
]
a mortar, add the water, and rub until a
translucent homog-eneous jelly is produced.
Mucilago TragacanlhcB.

Tragacanth, powdered, gr. 60

Distilled

water,

Rectified

spirit,

~)

V Mix the

lO
fl3 2.

tragacanth with the spirit

then pour
the water, with constant agitation,
;

c.

in

Pulvis TragacanlhcB Cojnpositus.

Tragacanth,

in

powder
j

Gum

acacia, in powder I of each,

Starch, in powder
j

Rub

well

tog-ether.

powder, 3.
ingredient in Confectio Opii,
an
2.
Pulvis Opii Compositus.
and
Sulphuris,
Confectio
Refined sug-ar,

Tragacanth

Action.

in

is

Tragacanth

is

demulcent.

It

is

chiefly used pharmaceutically, for the purpose ot

suspending heavy insoluble powders in liquids.
Dose Of Compound Powder, gr. 20 to 60.

B. Resins.

Resins are more or less solid substances, usually

brittle, not volatilized by heat, insoluble in water,
soluble in rectified spirit.
I.

Elemi

Manilla Elemi.

determined,

N.O.

Botanical source un-

but is referred to Canariuji

Amyridacccc.

Commune.

concrete resinous exudation.

RESINS.
Description and

Tests.

a.

When

fresh,

soft,

granular, resinous, and colourless; but by keeping becomes harder, and of a pale-yellow tint.
b.

Odour

and

strong-

somewhat

frag-rant,

sembling fennel and lemon.

c. Moistened with rectified
into small particles, which,

spirit,

it

re-

breaks up

when examined by

the
microscope, are seen partly to consist ot acicular
crystals.

Pharmacy.
Offichial Preparaimi
Unguentum Elemi.
Elemi, ? 1
Simple ointment, g

Action. Elemi

is

^^It,
]

strain

through

and

stir until

flannel,
i.

the ointment solidifies.

only used as an external

stimulant.
2. GuAiAci Resina GuAiACUM Resin.
Guaiacum
Officinale and Sanctum. N.O. ZygophyllacecB. The
resin obtained from the stem by natural
exudation
by incision, or by heat.
'

Description

and

Tests.a. In roundish or
more commonly in laro-e
masses containing fragments of bark, wood,
and

somewhat oval

tears, or

other impurities.
b. Brownish or greenish-brown
externally, and
when the surface has been rubbed and exposed
air

and

to

covered with a green powder.

c. Brittle, breaking with
a clean glassy fracture
thin sphnters are transparent
and greenish-brown'
d. Powder greyish, but
by exposure becominogreen.
light,

e.

Odour somewhat balsamic;

when

aves an acrid sensation in the throat.

DD

chewed

MATERIA MEUICA.

404
Pharmacy.
a.

Mistura

Officinal Preparaiions

Giiaiaci.

Guaiacum

resin

D
c
J
sugar
Refined

Gum

r
Triturate
to^ i^
roi each,' 5 4
2 gether, gradually

acacia, powdered, J \ adding the cinna-

Cinnamon water,
h.

i.

mon

water.

Tinciura Guaiaci Ammoniata,

Guaiacum resin, in powder, ^4

\
Aromatic spirit of ammonia, a sufficiency J
Macerate in fl J 15 for 7 days, with occasional
agitation, and filter; make up to O i.

'

2. Guaiacum resin is contained in Pilula Hydrargyri Subchloridi Composita.

Mineral acids spirit of nitrous
3. Incompatibles.

ether.

Guaiacum resin is a local stimulant

mouth and throat, and a sialagogue. On
the alimentary canal it acts as more or less ot a
stimulant or irritant, and has been employed as
Remotely it is a diaphoretic,
a purgative.
diuretic, hepatic stimulant, and alterative,
being especially used in certain forms of gout and
Action.

to the

rheumatism.
2

Of Resin, gr. 10
Ammoniated Tincture,

to 30; Mixture,
fl 3 ^ to i.

fl^^

to

Jalaps Resina Resin of Jalap. The resin

obtained from jalap.
Preparation. Digest for 24 hours, heating
^" No. 40 powder, 181^^^^.^^^.
3.

crpntlv IJ^^^P'
gently,
]'
j^g^.jjf^gd spirit, flj 16
I
Add to
wards thoroughly percolate with spirit.
ott
distil
and
fl^4,
the tincture distilled water,
residue
the
Remove
the spirit by a water-bath.
allow it to become
and
dish,
open
an
to
hot
while
the
Pour off the supernatant fluid, wash
cold
dry
and
water,
hot
with
resin two or three times
heat of a stove or
on a porcelain plate by the

water-bath.

RESINS.

Tests. a. In dark-brown
opaque frag-ments, translucent at the edges,
b. Brittle, breaking- with a resinous fracture.
c. Readily reduced to a pale- brown powder.
d. Sweetish odour; acrid in the throat.
of turpentine; easily soluble
e. Insoluble in oil
The powder yields little or
in rectified spirit.
nothing to warm water, and not more than 10 per

and

Description

cent, to ether.

Pharmacy.

Jalap

resin

is

contained

in

Pilula

Scammonii Composita.

Action. Resin of jalap

Dose gr. 2 to 5.

Mastiche

is

a drastic purgative.

Mastich.

Pistacia Lentiscus.
resinous exudation
obtained by making incisions in the bark of the
stem and large branches.
4.

N.O.

Anacardiacece.

A concrete

Description and Tests. a. In rounded, irreguoblong, or pear-shaped tears.

b. Pale-yellow
colour, and either opaque and
dusty on their outer surface, or far more frequently
having a glassy and transparent appearance.
c. Brittle,
and breaking with a vitreous, conchoidal, pale-yellow fracture.
d. Odour agreeable, somewhat balsamic
and
terebinthinous
taste mild and resinous
becoming
plastic when chewed,
lar,

e.

Entirely soluble in ether.

Action. Mastiche is a stimulant^ but is now

only used for temporarily stopping teeth, and as a
masticatory. Pharmaceutically it is sometimes
employed to divide active ingredients in pills,

PODOPHYLLI ReSINA ReSIN OF PODOPHYLLUM.

Resin of podophyllum is prepared
from Podophyllum rhizome, in No. 40 powder, by
exhausting it by percolation with rectified spirit;
5.

Preparation.

4o6

MATERIA MEDICA.

distilling

ofiF the greater part of the spirit

slowly
pouring the remains into three times its volume of
water, constantly stirring allowing the mixture to
stand for 24 hours to deposit the resin washing
it on a filter with distilled water;
and drying in a
;

stove.

Description and Tests. a. An

amorphous
powder, varying in colour from pale-yellow to
deep orange-brown.
h. Soluble in rectified spirit, and in ammonia.
c. Precipitated
from the former solution by
water, from the latter by acids. Partly soluble in
pure ether.
Pharmacy.
Officinal Preparation :

Tinciura Podophylli

gr.

of resin in fl 3 i.
Resin of podophyllum, gr. 160 Dissolve and
Rectified spirit, 61.
filter.
J
i

")

Action. Podophyllum
and hepatic stimulant.
Doses Of Resin, gr. J

fiS

a drastic purgative,

is

to

Tincture,

ill

IS

to

I.

Resina

Resin.

Various species of Pinus.

residue left after the distillation of the oil of turpentine from the crude oleoresin (turpentine).
6.

N.O.

The

Coni/ercB.

Description

and Tests.

lowish, compact,
shining.
b.

Odour and

brittle,

a.
Translucent, yelpulverisable
fracture
;

taste faintly terebinthinate.

Easily fusible, and burns with a dense yellow

flame and much smoke.
c.

Pharmacy.
l
a. Emplastrum
Resin, ^ 4

Officinal Pteparaiions

Resince.

Lead plaster, lb
Curd soap, ^ 2.

1
J

Melt the lead plaster, add

the resin and soap, previously liquefied, and mix.

RESINS.
b.

Unguentum ResmcB.
Resin, in coarse powder, g 8] Melt at a low
temperature,
Yellow wax, 1 4
strain through
Simple ointment, ^ 16
I

'

while
flannel
constantly till cool.
2. licsin or lis piaster is present in several of the
Emplastra.
It is also an ingredient in Charta
Epispastica, and Unguentum Terebinthinae.

Almond
hot,

oil, fl;^ 2.

and

stir

Action. Resin is an external stimulant.

ReSIN OF ScAllMONY.
7. ScAMMONIiE ReSINA
Preparation. Scammony resin is prepared from
Scammony Root, by digesting it in coarse powder
with rectified spirit, moderately heated; percolating until the root is exhausted adding the tincture to water, and distilling off the spirit ; cooling
the residue in an open dish
pouring off" the supernatant fluid; washing the resin with hot water; and
drying it on a porcelain plate with the heat of a
stove or water-bath. It may also be prepared

from Scammony.
Description and Tests.

a.

In

brownish trans-

lucent pieces, brittle, resinous in fracture.

b. Of a sweet and fragrant odour if prepared
from the root.
c. It cannot alone form an emulsion with water.
Ether dissolves it entirely.
d. The tincture does not render the fresh-cut sur-

face of a potato blue (absence of guaiacum resin).

Pharmacy.
l
Officinal Preparations :
a. Confectio Scammonii.

Resin of scammony, in powder, J 6 Rub the

Ginger, in fine powder, J 3
powders
Oil of caraway, fl |
with
the
^
Oil of cloves, fl| 1
syrup and
Syrup, fl J 6
honey inClarified honey, ^ 3.
to a uniform mass, add the oils, and mix

4o8

MATERIA MEDICA.
Pilula Scammonii Composila.
Resin of scammony, ^ i
Resin of jalap, ^ i
Curd soap, in powder, | i

Dissolve with
the aid of a
little

Strong- tincture of ginger, fl^

Rectified spirit,
2.

heat,

and evaporate by the

heat of a water-bath to a pilular consis

tence.
c.

2.

Pubis Scammonii

Compositus.

Scammony

resin,

Mix,

powder, 4
Jalap, in powder, 3
Ginger, in powder,

i.

Resin of Scammony

is

pass

fine

through

a
rub
a mortar.

sieve,

lightly in

an ingredient

tum Colocynthidis Compositum, and

and

in

Extrac-

Pilula Colo-

cynthidis Composita.

Action. Scammony resin is a drastic purgative.

It may be used as an anthelmintic.

Of

Doses
to

30;

Resin, gr. 3 to 8; Confection, gr. 10

Compound

Powder, gr. 10

Pill,

gr. 5

to

15

Compound

to 20.

C. Gum-Resins,

Gum-resins are characterized by forming an

emulsion when mixed with water, the resin being
suspended by the gum. Most of them contain a
small proportion of a volatile oil, as well as salts.
I.

AmMONIACUM

Umbellifem.

An

DOREJIA Ammoniacum.
exudation from the stem.

N.O,

Description and Tests. a. In roundish tears,

varying in size from a coriander fruit to a cherry;
or in nodular masses of agglutinated tears, of
various sizes and forms.

;;

GUM-RESINS.

409

b. Pale yellowish-brown externally when recent,

but darkening' by keeping to cinnamon-brown ;

milky-white and opaque internally.

c. Brittle when cold, breakings with a dull waxy
fracture; softens readily with heat.
d. Faint
but peculiar non-alliaceous odour
taste bitter

and

When

acrid.
triturated with water forms

a nearly
white emulsion.
and a
/. Coloured yellow by caustic potash
solution of chlorinated soda gives a bright orange
e.

hue.

Pharmacy.

Officinal Preparation

Mislura Ammoniaci.

Ammoniacum,

in

coarse powder, f J

|-

Distilled water, fl^ 8

Triturate with the water, gradually added, until

the mixture assumes an uniform milky appearance; strain through muslin.
2. Ammoniacum is contained in Emplastrum Ammoniaci cum Hydrargyro, Emplastrum Galbani,
Pilula Scillsc Composita,

cum

and Pilula Ipecacuanhae

Scilla.

Action. Ammoniacum is a local stimulant,

applied externally.
Given internally it is a

carminative, stimulant, antispasmodic, and

stimulant expectorant, being chiefly used for
the action last mentioned.
Z'(?j^j Of

Ammoniacum,

gr. 10 to

20; Mixture,

fliitoi.

2. AsAFCETiDA
Ferula Narthex Or Narthex
Asafcetida; also Ferula Scorodosma, and probably other species. N.O. Umbelli/ercE. The gumresin obtained by incision from the living root.

Description and Tests. a. Rarely in tears

usually in irregular masses varying- in consistence

410

MATERIA MEDICA.

and

and composed of tears agglutinated

together by darker-coloured and softer
material.
b. When broken or cut,
the exposed surface has
an amygdaloid appearance, the
fractured tears
bemg opaque and milk-white at first, but changing
gradually to purplish-pink or reddish-pink,
and
linally to a dull yellowish brown.
c.
Odour, strong, alliaceous, and persistentsize,

taste bitter, acrid,

and alliaceous.
triturated with water

When

d.

it

forms a white

emulsion.

50

e.

60 per

to

cent, should

be soluble

in recti-

fied spirit.

The

/.

freshly-fractured surface of a tear

when

touched with nitric acid assumes for a short time

a fine green colour.
g. Should yield not more than 10 per cent, of
ash.

Pharmacy.

Enema

a.

Officmal Preparations

Asafoetida, gr. 30
Distilled water, ^

")

4.

Rub

gradually into an
emulsion.

Piltda Asafcctidce. Coniposita.

b.

Asafoetida^

Galbanum
Myrrh

of each, 2

Treacle, by weight,
c.

AsafcetidcE.

i.

Heat by means of a
water-bath, and stir
until they assume a
uniform consistence.

Tinctura AsafcctidcE.
Asafoetida, in small fragments, ? 2i ,
'[Macerate
Rectified spirit, a sufficiency.
in fl^ 15 for 7 days, filter, and make up to
)

I.

2. Asa/cetida is contained in Pilula Aloes et

foetidas, and Spiritus Ammonise Fcetidus.

Asa-

Asafoetida has a powerful stimulant

upon the alimentary canal, and thus becomes
a carminative and purgative. Remotely it acts

Action.

effect

GUM-RESINS.

411

as a nervine stimulant, antispasmodic, and

stimulant expectorant. It is also regarded as

an

emmenagogue.

Doses O^. Asafcetida,

gr. 5 to 20;
gr. 5 to 10; Tincture, fl 3 ^ to I.

Pill,

Compound

Gamboge.

Cambogia

Garcinia Hanburii.
obtained by making
incisions into the stem
or cutting away some of
the bark, and scraping away the juice that exudes.
3.

N.O.

A gum-resin

Giitti/ercB.

It is

collected in

bamboo

reeds.

Description and Tests. a. In cylindrical solid

or hollow rolls, longitudinally striated on the surface, and either distinct or more or less
agglutinated or folded together into masses.
d.
Breaking with a conchoidal fracture, the
fractured surface being opaque, smooth,
glistening, and of a uniform reddish-yellow
colour.
c.

Powder

is

bright-yellow.

No

odour; taste very acrid.

e. Forms a yellow emulsion
when rubbed with
water.
It is completely dissolved
by the successive action of rectified spirit and
water.
/ An emulsion made with boiling water does
not become green with solution
of iodine
(Abd.

sence of starch or flour).

Pharmacy. (9^afl/ Preparation

Pilula CambogicB Composita.

Gamboge,
Barbadoes

in

powder,

aloes, in

Compound powder
mon,

:~

powder

of cinna-

PO"^^he

syrup, and"beat
into a uniform

Hard soap, in powder, 2

Syrup, a sufficiency.

"feiic!"

'^"^

Action. Gamboge
gogue purgative.

^x-

mass.
^

is
It

a drastic and hydraalso employed as a

it i/believed

is

412

MATERIA MEDICA.

Doses

Gamboge,

gr.

Compound

to 4;

gr. 5 to 10.

Pill,

Galbanum Ferula Galbaniflua and Rubri-

4.

CAULis

helli/era.

and probably other

A gum-resin

species.

IV.O.

Um-

probably obtained by cutting

the stick a little above the root, and allowing
the
juice which exudes to solidify.
Description and Tests.
a.
In tears, or in
masses of agglutinated tears.
b. The tears are roundish or irregular
in form,
and vary in size from that of a lentil to a hazelnut, although rarely exceeding that of a pea;
yellowish - brown, orange - brown, or yellowishgreen
more or less translucent usually rough
and dirty on the surface hard and brittle in cold
weather, but softening in the summer, and by the
heat of the hand becoming ductile and sticky.
c. The masses, which commonly contain pieces
of root, stem, and other impurities, are usually
hard, compact, irregular in form, yellowish-brown,
dark brownish-yellow, or rarely greenish.
d. Odour peculiar, aromatic, and not disagreeable
taste bitter, unpleasant, and somewhat al-

liaceous.

Pharmacy.
Officinal Preparation
Emplasirum Galbani.

MeI.toge.har{f^^-.;^_,},ads.rai.

Add.ha.i..ura.o{'--;;3},
2.

pre-

viously melted together, and mix thoroughly.

Galbanum is contained in Pilula Asafoetidse

Composita.
Action. Galbanum is chiefly used as an external stimulant and local alterative. Internally

it

has similar actions to ammoniacum and asafoemainly given as a carminative.

tida, but is

GUM-RESINS.

Myrrh. Balsamodendron Myrrha.

5. Myrrha
N.O. Amyridacea.
A gum-resinous exudation obtained from the stem.
Description and Tests. a. In roundish or irregular tears or masses of agglutinated tears,

varying very much in size.

b. Reddish-yellow or reddish-brown externally,
dry, and more or less covered by a fine powder.
c. Brittle
fractured surface is irregular, somewhat translucent, rich brown, oily, and frequently
marked with opaque whitish spaces or striae.
d. Odour agreeable, aromatic; taste aromatic,
bitter, and acrid.
;

Pharmacy.

Officinal Preparation

Tinciura Myrrhce..

Myrrh,

in

coarse powder,]

Rej;tified spirit,

Made by maceration
for 48 hours,

1 ^2

and

i.

percolation.

contained in Decoctum Aloes Compositum, Mistura Ferri Compositum, Pilula Aloes

et Myrrha^, Pilula AsafoetidcS
Composita, and
Pilula Rhei Composita.
2. jhyrr/i is

Action. Myrrh is often employed as a mouthwash and gargle, acting as a local stimulant and
antiseptic.
Internally it is a stimulant to the
alimentary canal and carminative
a uterine
stimulant and emmenagogue; and a stimulant
expectorant. This drug is also said to increase
the number of leucocytes in the blood.
;

Z>oses~Ol Myrrh, gr. 10

6,

to

ScAMHONIUM SCAMMONY.

30;

Tincture, flji

CONVOLVULUS ScAMA gum-resinous

exudation obtained by incision from the livinoroot, hardened in the air.
Description and Tests. a. Usually in flattish
cakes or pieces of irregular form and varying
sizes.
MONiA.

JV.O.

CofivolvulacecB.

414

MATERIA MEDICA,

h. Ash-grey or blackish-brown
externally, and
sometimes sprinkled over with a greyish-white
powder,
c.

Very

brittle,

and the fractured surface

is

re-

smous, shining, more or less porous, and of a

form dark greyish-black colour.

uni-

d.

Easily triturated' into an

ash-grey powder,

which forms with water a smooth emulsion.

e. Odour peculiar, cheesy; when chewed
causes
a slight pricking sensation in the back of the throat.
/. Does not effervesce with hydrochloric acid,
A cooled decoction is not rendered blue by solution of iodine. (Absence of chalk, starch, or flour).
g. Ether removes about 75 per cent, of resin
what remains is chiefly soluble gum, with a little
moisture.

Pharmacy.
a.

Officinal Preparations

Misiura Scammonii.

Scammony,
Milk, fl^
h.

in

powder,

Resina ScammonicB.

Action.

gr.

2.

Scammony

Triturate to form a
uniform emulsion.

[See Resins).
is

and vermifuge.
Doses Of Scammony,
flj

a drastic purgative
gr. 5

to

10

Mixture,

to 3.

D. Balsams or Balsamic Resins.

These are drugs which consist of a 7-esin mixed

with either benzoic or cifinamic acid, which can be
obtained by sublimation with the aid of heat.
They will first be separately considered as regards
their materia medica and pharmacy, but it will be
convenient to describe their action as a group.

BALSAMS OR BALSAMIC RESINS.

415

I.
Balsamum Peruvianum Balsam of Peru.
Myroxylon Pereir^. N.O. LegummoscE. An exudation from the trunk of the tree, after the bark
has been beaten, scorched, and removed.

Description

and

treacle-like liquid

Tests.

a.

thick,

viscid,

ri37 to IT50.
and opaque; in

of sp. gr.

d. Nearly black in bulk,

thin
layers deep orang-e-brown or reddish-brown, and
transparent.

Peculiar, agreeable, balsamic odour, especislightly bitter aromatic taste ;

leaves a disagreeable burning sensation in the
throat.
c.

when heated

ally

Soluble

d.

in

chloroform or rectified

spirit;

in-

soluble in water.
e. Ten drops triturated with 6 grains of
slaked
lime produce a permanently soft mixture; and
the mixture, warmed until all volatile matter is
given off and charring commences, gives no fatty
odour.
Should not diminish in volume when
shaken with an equal bulk of water.

2.
Balsamum Tolutanum Balsam of Tolu.
Myroxylon Toluifera.
JV.O. LeguminoscE.
An

exudation from the trunk of the tree, after incisions

have been made in bark.

Description and Tests. a.

soft tenacious
becoming harder by keeping, and is then
brittle in cold weather.

sohd,

b.

In thin films
colour.

brown
c.

Highly

warmed;

is

transparent and of a yellowish-

fragrant

taste

odour,

especially

somewhat aromatic and

acid.
d.

Soluble

solution has

in

rectified

spirit

an acid reaction.

and

when

slio-htlv
^

ether.

The

4i6

MATERIA MEDICA.

e. When pressed between pieces of glass with

the aid of heat, it exhibits with a lens an abundance of crystals of cinnamic acid.

Pharmac V.
a.

h.

Officinal Preparaiions

Syrupus Tolulanus. Sp. gr. I "330.

Balsam of Tolu, ^ i J( Boil the balsam in
Refined sugar, lb 2
the water; add water
Distilled water, O I, or" to fl J 16; cool; filter;
a sufficiency.
(and dissolve the sugar.
Tinciura Toluiana.
-rs-

Balsam

of Tolu, 12 4),
^-a A
a-T z ^ by
^ maceraRectified
spirit, fl^ 15 J
filter; and
tion, with occasional agitation
1

Dissolve

-o

with rectified spirit to O I.

2. Balsam of Tolu is an ingredient in Pilula
Phosphori, and Tinctura Benzoini Composita,
Tincture of Tolu is contained in four Trochisci,
namely, T. Acidi Tannici, T. Morphinae, T. Morphinae at Ipecacuanhse, and T. Opii.

make up

Benzoinum Benzoin. Styrax Benzoin, and

probably other species. N.O. SiyracacecB. A balsamic resin. It is generally procured by making
deep incisions in the bark, and allowing the liquid
that exudes to concrete by exposure to the air.
Description and Tests. a. In masses composed
3.

of loosely agglutinated tears, or more generally

the tears are closely compacted together by a deep

amber-brown, reddish-brown, or greyish-brown,

In some specimens the
translucent substance.
tears are an inch or more in length, and when first
broken they have an opaque milk-white appearance, so that the masses then present an almondothers the white substance is
very small in amount, and the masses when broken
resemble reddish-brown granite.
softens readily by the warmth
b. Very brittle
like character;

in

of the mouth.

ACTION OF BALSAMIC RESINS.

c.

Very

little

taste

4I7

agreeable balsamic odour,

resembling- vanilla, or, in

d. Soluble
in rectified
potash.

some

cases, storax.
and solution

spirit

of

e. Gives off, when heated,

fumes of benzoic acid.
Pharmacy.
I.
Officinal Preparations :
a. Acidum
Benzoicum.
{See Special
Organic

Acids).
b. Tinctura Bmzoini Composita
(P>iar's Balsam),
Benzoin, in coarse powder,
Macerate 7
J 2
Prepared storax, ^ ii
days, with ocBalsam of tolu, 1
-casional
\
agfiSocotrine aloes, gr. 160
tation
filter
Rectified spirit, O i.
make up toO 1i.
2. Benzoin is contained in Adeps
;

BeTzoat^ur and

Ung-uentum Cetacei.

Styrax Pr^paratus
4Prepared
Storax
LiQuiDAMBAR Orientalis. N.O.
LiqtddambaracecB.
A balsam prepared from the inner bark.
Purified
by so.ut.on in spirit, filtration,
and evaporation.
Description and TesTsa.
semi-transparent
brown.sh-yel bw semi-fluid balsam,
aboutL the
Lue con
consistence of thick honey.
5 Strong- balsamic odour; ag-reeable
taste.
c. Heated in a
test-tube on the vapour-bath
it
becomes more liquid, but
gives off no moisture
boiled with solution of
bichromate of potasskim and
sulphuric acid, it evolves
an odour resemb n^^that
that

of essential oil of bitter

almonds

ITincturBenTo^'''Pr'''^
iimctura Benzoini Composita.

'^'^"""'"S-

^"^^i"ed

Action of Balsamic Resins.

EE

in

4i8

MATERIA MEDICA,

1. As external applications the balsams may act

under different circumstances as local stimulants,
antiseptics, or sedatives.
They have all been

used, except the

wounds,

Balsam

of Tolu, in the treatment of

ulcers, bed-sores,

and skin-diseases

but
as formerly.
The tincture of benzoin (Friar's Balsam) is a
popular remedy for recent wounds. Benzoin is
present as an antiseptic in Adeps Benzoatus and
Unguentum Cetacei.

are not nearly so

2.

Intertially

much employed now

administered,

all

the balsams are

carminative, but are seldom used for

they are chiefly employed as stimuthis purpose
lant expectorants, the flavour of some of their

more or

less

preparations being- also agreeable. Tincture of

benzoin is not uncommonly used as an inhalation
or spray, to relieve irritable cough. Balsams have
some degree of action as diuretics, and probably
have a specific effect upon the urinary mucous
membrane, but they are not practically given for
these purposes. Prepared storax is only employed
as an ingredient in Compound Tincture of Benzoin.

Doses 01 Balsam

of Peru,

ill

lO to 15

Balsam

of Tolu, gr. 10 to 20; Syrup, fl3 i; Tincture,

to I
Tincture of Benzoin, fl 3
y\\ 20 to 40
;

E. Turpentines or Oleo-Resins.

These are drugs which consist of a volatile oil and

the
a resin the oil can be separated by heating
;

oleo-resin, the resin being left behind.

Copaifera
Copaiba Copaiva or Copaiba.
Legiminosce.
N.
O.
Langsdorffi, and other species.
The oleo-resin obtained by cutting deeply or borI

ing into the trunk.

TURPENTINES OR OLEO-RESINS.
Description
viscid fluid

and

Tests.

a. A

more or

419
less

of sp. gr. 0-940 to about O'gg^-

generally
b. Light yellow to pale golden brown
transparent and not fluorescent, but some varieties
are opalescent and occasionally slightly fluorescent.
c. Peculiar
aromatic odour; persistent acrid
;

somewhat

bitter taste.

small quantity heated until all volatile oil

is removed yields a residue which, when cold, is
hard, and generally easily rubbed to powder; and
the volatilized oil does not smell of turpentine.
e. Almost entirely
soluble in absolute alcohol,
and in four times its bulk of petroleum spirit, the
latter solution only yielding a filmy deposit on
standing.
d.

Pharmacy.
Officinal Preparaiion
Oleum CopaibcB. [See Oils.)
Action. Copaiba is a valuable diuretic, and
has also a specific action upon the genito-urinary

mucous membrane,
urethra.

especially

that

lining

the

stimulant expectorant.
It sometimes produces a rash on the skin,
somewhat resembling that of measles.
It

is

Z'ojf fl3 1 to

also a

I.

Oleo-Resina CuBEBiE Oleo-Resin of Cubebs.

Preparation. This oleo-resin is specially prepared by percolating Cubebs, in coarse powder,
with ether
evaporating or distilling off the ether
and transferring the residue to a closed vessel',
2.

it stand until waxy or crystalline

matter
ceases to be deposited.
Decant the oleo-resin,
and preserve it in a well-stoppered bottle.
Action. The oleo-resin of cubebs is mainly used
as a diuretic, and for its specific effects upon
the
genito-urinary mucous membrane
it
probably
acts also as a stimulant expectorant.

letting

DoseV(\_ 5 to 30.

EE 2

420
3.

MATERIA MEDICA,
Terebinthina Canadensis

Canada

Turpen-

tine or Balsam.
PiNus Balsamea. N.O. Conifera,
The turpentine obtained by puncturing or incisin'^the bark of the trunk and branches.

Description and Tests. a.

pale-yellow and

faintly greenish transparent oleo-resin, of the consistence of thin honey,

b.

Peculiar

agreeable

terebinthinate

odour;

slightly bitter feebly acrid taste.

c. By exposure to the air it dries very slowly into
a transparent adherent varnish, and solidifies
when mixed with about a sixth of its weight of

magnesia.

Pharmacy.
Canada balsam is
Charta Epispastica and Collodium

contained

in

Flexile.

Action. Canada balsam is chiefly used for

pharmaceutical purposes. Locally it is somewhat

stimulant.

Internally it is said to act like oil of

turpentine, but is rarely given.
Dose gr. 20 to 30.

Common Frankincense.
4. Thus Americanum
PiNus australis and TvEDA. N.O. Conifem. The
concrete turpentine which is scraped off the trunks.
Description.

When

fresh

it

is

a softish yellow

opaque tough solid, with the same odour as crude

American turpentine, but by keeping it becomes
dry and brittle, darker in colour, and of a milder
odour.

Pharmacy. Frankincense
plastrum Picis.

Frankincense

Action,
maceutical

stimulant.

purposes,

but

is

is

contained in

Em-

used chiefly for pharalso an external

is

SIMPLE FIXED OILS.

Group XIII. OILS

AND THEIR PRODUCTS.

may

The officinal nrugs included under this group

be considered under the following subdivisions
:

3.

Simple fixed oils.

Aromatic volatile
Concrete oils.

4.

Stearoptenes.

5.

Special

6.

Glycerine.

7.

Soaps.

1.

2.

I.

oils.

fixed and volatile.

oils,

Simple Fixed Oils.

Source and Preparation.

The simple fixed oils

obtained by pressure from certain parts of
plants, and they include
are

all

1.

Oleum Amygdalae Almond

seeds of

Amygdala amara and

From

oil.

dulcis.

the

N.O, Rosa-

ceae.
2.

Oleum LiniLinseed

Britain without heat.

tatissimum.
3.

From

Expressed in

oil.

the seeds of

Limmi

usi-

N.O. Linacese.

Oleum Olivae Olive

fruit of Olea Europaa.

From

oil.

the

ripe

N. O. Oleaceae.

Characters and Properties.

a.

The members

group are liquids of an oily consistence,

linseed oil being rather viscid.
b. Their colour is more or less yellow, linseed
oil
being the darkest ; olive oil is pale yellow or greenish
of

this

yellow.
c. Their odour
almost inodorous.

is

faint, but peculiar ; almond

Taste bland and oleaginous.

oil is

422

MATERIA MEDICA.

d. They are insoluble in water; soluble in ether

only slightly soluble in alcohol. They mix with each
other in all proportions.

e.

They

exposure

are
to

to decompose by prolonged
becoming rancid
olive oil is the

liable

air,

most

Linseed oil
exposure to the air.
Olive
about 36.
stable.

Pharmacy.
Phosphoratum

i.

gradually

thickens by
congeals partially at

oil

Ahnond oil is

and

the solvent in

Oleum

an ingredient in Unguentum
Cetacei, Unguentum Resinse, and Unguentum Simplex and the preparations containing it.
2.
Olive oil is contained in Charta Epispastica,
Enema Magnesii Sulphatis, Linimentum Ammoniae,
Linimentum Calcis, Linimentum Camphorce, and
several Emplastra and Unguenta.

Action.

is

Externally

the

simple

emollient and protective.

fixed

oils

are

almond and
nutrients, and are also
Internally

may be used as
administered as antidotes in poisoning by corrosive
agents and alkalies olive oil is laxative, especially
olive oils

in the

form of enema.

Aromatic Volatile Oils.

2.

Source and Preparation.

The

volatile oils be-

longing to this class are obtained, with one exception,

by distilling certain parts of plants with water, and
Oleum
collecting the oil which passes over; one
Limonis is obtained by mechanical means. Those
recognised in the B.P. may be th*us arranged, and

they

are
Britain

in

most cases directed

to

be

distilled

in

I.

Volatile oils from Umbelliferous

a.

Oleum AncthiOil of
graveolejis.

Dill.

fruits.

From Anethum

'


AROMATIC VOLATILE
b.

423

OILS.

From PimpiOleum AnisiOil of Anise.

from the
(Also
Europe.
in
Anisum,
nclla
of Illicium anisatum or Star Anise, in
N.O. Magnoliacese.)
China.

fruit

c.

d.

Oil of Caraway. From Canun

Carui.
Oleum Coriandri Oil of Coriander. From

Oleum Carui

Coriandrmii sativum.
2.

Volatile oils from N.O. Labiatse.

a.

Oleum LavandulcR Oil of Lavender.

the flowers of Lavandula vera.

b.

Oleum Mentha.

From

Piperita.

fresh flowering

Piperita.
c.

Oleum MentJm

From

Viridis

From

Oil of Peppermint.
peppermintJ/t'wMfl

Oil of

Spearmint.

the fresh flowering spearmint

-Ment/ia

viridis.
d.

Olaun Rosmarini

Oil

the flowering tops of

3.

of Rosemary.

Rosmarinus

From

officinalis,

Volatile oils from N.O. Myrtaceee.

a.

Oil of Cajeput.
mimr.
Caryophylli Oil of

Oleum Cajuputi

From

the

leaves of Melaleuca
b.

Oleum

cloves, the

Cloves.

From

unexpanded dried flower-buds of

Caryophyllus aromaticus.
c.

Oleum Pimentce

Oil of Pimento.
From
pimento, the dried unripe fruit of Pimcnta

officinalis.

4.

Volatile oils from various sources.

a. Oleum Ajithemidis
Oil of Chamomile.
chamomile, the flowers of Anthemis
N.O. Compositse,

From
nobilis,

MATERIA MEDICA.
b.

c.

d.

Oleum Cin?iamomi~ Oil of Cinnamon. From

the inner bark of Cimiamomtim
Zeylanicum.
N.O. Lauracese.
Oleum Limonis Oil of Lemo?i. Obtained by
mechanical means from fresh lemon peel
Citrus Liffionis.
N.O. Aurantiacese,
Oleum Myristicce Oil of Nutmeg.
From

nutmegJ/>77j-//<r Fragrans.

0.

Myris-

ticaceae.

Characters and Properties.

i. All the oils in

division are either colourless, or more or less
yellow or brownish, except Oleum Cajuputi, which is
of a pale bluish-green colour.

this

Each

oil has a powerful and peculiar odour and

the latter being also warm and aromatic, and
usually more or less bitter.
2.

taste,

3.

They

ii alcohol

are slightly soluble in water; completely

fixed oils.

and

Pharmacy. i. Officinal Preparations. There are

three classes of pharmaceutical preparations in which
volatile oils are specially contained, and these must
be separately considered.

A. Aqu^. As already mentioned, there is a class

of aqucB or waters which contain volatile oils, being
prepared either by distilling some part of the plant,
or a volatile oil itself, with water.
It will be useful to
give here a complete list of these preparations, but
only the mode of preparation of those will be mentioned which are not alluded to elsewhere. In several
instances the volatile oils are not recognised officinally
as separate drugs.
a.

Aquse prepared from Umbelliferous

Dill water.
(i) Aqua Anethi
(ii)

(iii^

(iv)

Anisi Anise water,

Carui Caraway water,
Fmniculi Fennel water.

fruits.

AROMATIC VOLATILE
b.

Aquae prepared from Volatile

425

oils.

Peppermint Water.
Spearmint Water.

Aqua Mejithce Piperita

Aqua Mentha Viridis

(i)
(ii)

Volatile

Water,
c.

OILS.

3 ij

oil,

li.

J..
^'^"^
j

p
^

Aquse prepared from Flowers.

Aqua

(i)

Floris Aurantii

Orange flower water.

from flowers of the

Distilled

bitter

and

sweet orange.

Aqua Rosa

(ii)
(iii)

d.

Rose water.
Sambuci Elder-flower water.

Aquse

prepared from various parts of

plants.

Cinnamon water.
Cherry-Laurel
Pirnenta Pimento water.

Aqtia Cinnaniomi

(i)

From

the bark.
Aqua Laurocerasi
From the leaves,

(ii)

water.

Aqica
Pimento.

(iii)

B. Spiritus. These consist of solutions

several volatile oils in rectified spirit

From

of the

a.

Spiritus Cajuputi

Ciwiajnomi

,,

Lavandula

Volatile

d.

Mentha

Rectified

e.

b.
c.

f.

C.

Piperita
Myristica
Rosviarini

Essentia. These

tile oils

in rectified spirit

a.

Essentia

b.

oil,

spirit,

49.

are strong solutions of vola:

A nisi

Vol

Mentha Piperita

Rectified

tile oil

spirit, 4.


426

MATERIA MEDICA.

Other preparations mttaitting

2.

a.

volatile oils,

Tinctura Lavandula Composita.

Oil of Lavender,
Oil of Rosemary,

90
10
Cinnamon, bruised, gr. 150
Nutmeg, bruised, gr. 150
Red Sandal-wood, gr. 300
ITL

Til

Rectified spirit,

Macerate the solid

drugs in the spirit for 7
days ; strain and press
dissolve the oils in th
tincture; filter;

up

2.

b.
Several volatile oils
preparations, as follows

are

to

andmake

with

contained

in

spirit.

special

Oleum Anisi in Tinctura Camphorae Composita

and Tinctura Opii Ammoniata.
Oleum Anthemidis in Extractum Anthemidis.
Oleum Cajuputi in Linimenium Crotonis.
Oleum Carui in Confectio Scammonii and Pilula
Aloes Barbadensis.

Oleum CaryophylU

in Confectio Scammonii, Pilula

Composita, and Pilula Colocynthidis et Hyoscyami.
Oleum Coriandri in Syrupus Sennse.
Oleum Lavandulce in Linimentum Camphorae Com-

Colocynthidis

positum.

Oleum Limonis in Linimentum Potassii lodidi cum

Sapone, and Spiritus Ammonige Aromaticus.
Oleum McnthcB Piperita in Pilula Rhei Composita,
and Tinctura Chloroformi et Morphine.
Oleum Myristica in Pilula Aloes Socotrinae, and
Spiritus Ammonice Aromaiicus.
Oleutn Rosmarini in Linimentum Saponis.
c.

Some

of the aqua are contained in special pre-

parations, namely

Piperita in Mistura Ferri Aromatica.

Mistura Ferri Composita, and
in
Trochisci Bismuthi.

Agua Me?itha
Aqua Rosa


CONCRETE
Cinnamomi

Aqua

427

OILS.

Mistura

in

Mistura

Gretas,

Guaiaci, and Mistura Spiritus Vini Gallici.

Aqua Aura?itii Floris in
;

(i)

Syrupus Aurantii

Floris.

Dissolve the sugar in

the water by heat

Orange-flower water, fl 5 S
Refined sugar, lb 3

and when nearly cold, add

Distilled water,

the

fl

5 16,

or a sufficiency.

Action.

strain,

orange-flower water

and

distilled

make

the product

water

to

= lb

4^.

the volatile oils in this group have

Externally they are antiseptic,
disinfectant, stimulant, and rubefacient, or are
employed on account of their odour.
Internally they

similar

-All

actions.

as gastric stimulants, carminatives, and

antispasmodics. Many of them are chiefly used
act

as flavouring agents.

Doses
Spiritus,

Of iVolatile

of Lavender,
fl

to

fl

Oils,

3 ^ to 2

fl

Aquse, ad lib.
10 to 20; Tincture
Syrup of Orange Flower,

ni

Essentiag,
;

to 4

ill

I-

Concrete Oils.

3.

Oleum

I.

Oil of

Myristicse

Nutmeg.

Expressum

Expressed

concrete oil obtained

by means

of expression and heat from nutmeg.

_

Gharacters.

sistence

or

less

nutmeg.
acid

This is a substance of firm conorange -brown or orange-yellow colour, more

mottled; and fragrant odour, like that of'
It

consists

and some

in

of fixed

fat,

yielding myristic

volatile oil.

Pharmacy. Expressed oil of nutmeg is contained

Emplastrum Galefaciens and contained in Emplas-

trum

Picis.

428

MATERIA MEDICA.

Action. Expressed oil of nutmeg is an external

stimulant, but is chiefly used for pharmaceutical
purposes.

Oleum Theobromatis Oil

2.

Cacao

A coticreU

butter.

Theobroma

of

obtained by expression and heat from the ground seeds of Theooil

broma Cacao. N.O. Byttneriaceae.

Characters. a. Oil of theobroma

is of the conof a yellowish colour with a clean

fracture, presenting no appearance of foreign matter.
b. Odour resembles that of chocolate ; taste bland

sistency of tallow

and agreeable.
It

c.

and
d.

the

usually

melts

at

temperatures between 86"

95.
It

does not become rancid from exposure to

air.

Pharmacy.
Oil of theobroma is used in the
preparation of several of the Suppositories.

Action. Oil of theobroma is an emollient, but

seldom used for that purpose.
Internally it is said
to be nutrient; and has been recommended as a
substitute for cod-liver

Stearoptenes.

4.
I.

oil.

Camphora Camphor.

stearoptene ob-

from the wood of Cinnamovmm Camphora.

N. 0. Lauracese. Imported in the crude state, and
tained

by sublimation.
Characters. a. Camphor occurs

purified

less

numerous
b

It

is

fissures

It

masses,

when of any

has

which

present

readily

powdered

if

rectified spirit, ether, or chloroform.

powerful,

characteristic,

odour and a pungent, somewhat

by a sensation of cold.
;

in solid colour-

size.

somewhat tough, but

moistened with
c.

crystalline

translucent

penetrating

bitter taste, followed

STEAROPTENES.

429

on water; burns readily with a bright

volatihzes somewhat rapidly even at
ordinary temperatures; and sublimes entirely when
d.

It

floats

smoky flame

heated.

very slightly soluble in water, but readily

spirit, ether, or chloroform.
(When
camphor is rubbed with carbolic acid crystals (3 to i),
or with hydrate of chloral (equal parts), liquids are
formed, which are used therapeutically.)
e.

It is

soluble in rectified

Pharmacy.
a.

Aqua

i.

Officinal Preparations

Camphor water.

Canij)hor<z

Macerate

Camphor, 3 \

for at least 2

days

in a closed bottle, enclosing the

Distilled water,

crushed camphor in a musliii

I.
I

bag.

Linimentiim Camphora

Camphor,
Olive

oil, 4.

j^j

Linijnent of Camphor.

Lifiimentum Camphorce Compositum.

Camphor,

52^

Oil of lavender, fl 3 i
Strong solution of

ammonia, fl 5 5
Rectified spirit,! 515.
d.

Spiritus

Camphora

Camphor,
Rectified
c.

Spirit of Camphor.
)

spirit,

Dissolve the camphor

oil in the spirit, add
the solution of ammonia
gradually, shaking them
together until a clear
solution is formed.

and

ta-

9.!

Tindura Catnphorcs Composita Paregoric Elixir

Opium, in powder, gr. 40
Macerate 7 days,
Benzoic acid, gr. 40
with occasional agiCamphor, gr. 30
tation,
filter,
and
Oil of anise, fl 3
^
make
up
to
i.
O
Proof spirit,

i.

MATERIA MEDICA.

430
Camphor

2.

\%

an ingredient in several Liniments;

and in Unguentum Hydrargyri Compositum, Camphor water is the solvent in Injectio Apomorphinse
Hypodermica, Injectio Ergotini Hypoderraica, and
Liquor Atropinse Sulphatis.

Camphor is an important drug, and is

used for various purposes.
Externally it acts
as an antiseptic, stimulant, and rubefacient.
Action.

much

Internally it is employed as a carminative, general

stimulant, antispasmodic, expectorant, diaphoretic, and anaphrodisiac. In full doses it is
liable to cause cerebral excitement, and a form of

intoxication

while in poisonous doses

it

produces

symptoms of general depression, with convulsions and

coma.
Doses
fl

vcy

Of Camphor,

to 2

15 to
2.

fl

Camphor Water,
Compound Tincture,

to lo
;

I.

Menthol.

C10H20O. ^A

tained by cooling the

Mentha

gr.

lo to 30

Spirit, Til

Arvefisis,

oil distilled

stearoptene

ob-

from the fresh herb

and of Mentha

Piperita.

N.

O.

Labiatse.

Characters and Tests.

a.

Menthol

is

in colour-

less acicular crystals, usually more or less moist

adhering oil ; or in fused crystalline masses.

from

should not exceed 110.

The
hardest masses do not melt below 108.
It has the odour and flavour of peppermint, proc.
ducing warmth on the tongue, or, if air is inhaled, a
sensation of coolness.
d. It is sparingly soluble in water, and nearly soluble in rectified spirit, the solution having a neutral
b.

Its melting-point

reaction.

Boiled with sulphuric acid diluted with half its

volume of water, menthol acquires an indigo-blue or
It
ultramarine colour, the acid becoming brown.
e.

STEAROPTENES.
should be entirely dissipated by the heat of a waterbath.

Menthol

Action.

anodyne.
Internally

It

may

it

Dose
3.

is

gr.

to

Thymol.

local
chiefly used as a
regarded as an antiseptic.
be given as a carminative.
is

also

2.

C10H13HO. A

stearoptene

ob-

from the volatile oils of Thy^mis vulgaris,

Monarda punctata, and Canitn Agowan, by saponifying with caustic soda, and treating the separated soap
with hydrochloric acid, or from a distilled fraction of
the oil by exposure at a low temperature.
It may be
purified by recrystallization from alcohol.
tained

Characters and Tests.

a.

Thymol

is

in large

oblique prisniatic crystals.

b. They have the odour of thyme, and a pungent
aromatic flavour.
c.
They sink in cold water, but on heating the
mixture to a temperature of 110 to 125, they melt
and rise to the surface.
d. Slightly soluble in cold water ; freely soluble in
alcohol, ether,
e.

The

and solutions of

alkalies.

crystals volatilize completely at the tempera-

ture of a water-bath.
/.

solution of thymol in half

acetic acid,
acid,

its

bulk of glacial

warmed with an equal volume of sulphuric

assumes a reddish-violet colour.

Action. Thymol is a deodorant, disinfectant,

and antiseptic.
It is not only used locally, but
also as an inhalation in connection with the respiratory system.
Internally thymol is eliminated by the
respiratory and urinary organs, and has been used for
its antiseptic efi'ect upon these organs.

Dose

gr.

to 2.

MATERIA MEDICA.

432

Special Oils.

5.

Several important drugs belong to this group, and

they must be considered separately, as each oil has
its own special action and therapeutic
uses.
It will
be well to enumerate them at the outset, in the order
in which they will be discussed
:

Special

Fixed

oils.

Castor

Oleum Ricini

oil.

CrotoiiisCrotoii oil

Eucalypti Oil of Eucalyptus.

Juniperi Oil ofJuniper.

Oil of Rue. Wood

Sabince Oil of Savin.
Santali Oil of Sandal Wood.
Sinapis Oil of Mustard.
Oilof

Oleum Copaibce Oil of Copaiva.

Cubeba Oil of Ciibebs.

Special

Pi7ii sylvestris

Volatile oils.

Fir-

oil.

RtitcB

TerebintJmice.

A. Special Fixed

Turpeiitin e.

Oils.

I. Oleum
Ricini Castor Oil.
The oil expressed from the seeds of Ricinus communis, either
without {cold-drawu) or with the aid of heat.
N.O.
Euphorbiacese. The seeds yield about 25 to 30 per
cent, of oil.
It is composed mainly of ricinic, ricin-

oleic,

and

ricin-stearic acids,

combined with glycerine

with some acrid resinous matter.

Characters.

a.

Castor

oil

is

viscid

and colour-

less or pale straw-yellow.

b. It has scarcely any odour; and a mild taste at
first, but subsequently acrid and unpleasant.
Entirely soluble in rectified spirit (i in 2)
c.
in
absolute alcohol (r in i).
;

SPECIAL OILS.

433

Pharmacy. Castor oil is contained in Collodium

Flexile, Linimentum Sinapis Compositum, and Pilula
Hydrargyri Subchloridi Composita.

Action.

Externally castor

emollient

and

aperient.

JDose'^ 3

oil

protective.
i

may be

used as an
it
is an

Internally

to 8.

Oleum Crotonis Croton Oil. The

2.

oil ex-

pressed in Britain from the seeds of Croton Ti^lium.

N.O. Euphorbiaceae. The kernels of the seeds
yield about 50 to 60 per cent, of oil.
It consists of
an active fixed oil and a volatile oily Yvmi^crotonic
'

acid.

Characters.a;. Croton oil is brownish-yellow to

dark reddish-brown, fluorescent, with
a viscid consistence which is increased by age.
b.

Faint,

odour
c.

somewhat

peculiar,

and

taste oily

rancid,

disagreeable

acrid.

Entirely soluble in alcohol.

Pharmacy. (^^-^/a/ Preparation :~

,

Limmenttim

Croton

Oil of Cajeput, 3!
Rectified spirit, 3^

Crotonis.

AcTiON.-Externally croton
internally

it

acts as a powerful

DoseV(y ^

t^-f;/!-^^
dtstillahon
several oils

to

oil,

oil

is

Mix.
j

a pustulant.

drastic purgative.

i.

"'^^

and the principal

may

all

facts

obtained by

relating

to

the

be readily summarized.
E^ch has a
peculiar and characteristic
odour and taste.
I.

Oleum Copaibae Oil

Legummosae

40 per cent, of

of Copaiva.

From
oil.

NO

Copaiva, which yields aboui

Colourless or pale-yellow.

FF

MATERIA MEDICA.

434
Action.

The

Dose

effects of the oil of

copaiva

to those of

2.

:
,

HI

copaiva are similar

{See Copaiba.)

itself.

5 to 20.

Oleum Cubebse Oil

in Britain

of Cubebs,
N. 0. Piperacese.

from Cubebs.

Distilled

Colour-

less or greenish-yellow.

Action.

The

3.

oil

Dose

{See Cubebs.)

of
in.

cubebs acts

cubebs.

like

5 to 20.

Oleum Eucalypti Oil

Eucalyptus.

of

From the fresh leaves of Eiualyptiis Globulus, Eucalyptus Amygdalince, and probably other species.
N. 0. Myrtacese. Colourless, or pale straw-coloured,
becoming darker and thicker by exposure. It has an
aromatic odour, and a spicy and pungent flavour,,

It is;
leaving a sensation of coldness in the mouth.
Soluble
Sp. gr. about o 900.
neutral to test-paper.
in about an equal weight of alcohol.

Pharmacy.

Officinal Preparation

Unguentum Eucalypti.
Oil of Eucalyptus,
weight, I
Soft Paraffin, 2
Hard Paraffin,

by

Melt the
the

paraffins,

oil,

and

stirt

^^^-j ^^j^^
2.

valuable:
Action Externally oil of eucalyptus is a
used as-:
also
is
it
and
antiseptic and disinfectant;
Internally

an inhalation.
septic, and

is,

it

is

pyretic and antiperiodic.

4

employed

as an anti-

moreover, believed to be an

Oleum Juniperi Oil

Dose\\\

anti--

to 4.

of Juniper.

Distilled

'

unripe green fruit of:

Britain from the full-gro^vn
Colourless.^
N.O. Coniferse.

Juniperus communis.

or pale greenish-yellow.

SPECIAL OILS.
Pharmacy.

435

Officinal Preparation

Action. Oil of juniper is a carminative and

stimulant, but is chiefly used as a diuretic.
DosesOf: Oil,
i to 4
Spirit,
30 to 60.

Oleum

Pini Sylvestris
Fir-Wood Oil.
leaves of Finus sylvestris.
N.O.
Coniferse. Colourless or nearly so, with an aromatic
lavender-like odour, and a pungent but not unpleasant
flavour.
Sp. gr. not below 0-870.
Soluble in about
seven tmies its volume of rectified spirit.
Pharmacy. Officinal Preparation
Vapor Olei Pini Sylvestris.
5.

From

the

fresh

Rub

the oil with

carbonate, and
gradually add sufii-

the

Fir-Wood Oil, tn 40
Light Carbonate of Mag- "^""^ 7^^^^ to P^^^e fl 5 i.
One
nesium, gr. 20
^"'^ drachm to be
Water, a sufficiency.
used with O^ each of
cold water and boil-

yng
Action. -Fir-wood
tion, acting as

oil

water.

only used as an inhala-

is

stimulant and antiseptic.

^^^^-Oil

of Rue.

^trb oi Ruta graveolens.

yellow when recent,

From

the fresh

A^aRutace^.

Pale

^ stimulant and
carminative, antispasmodic, emmenagogue, and
oxytocic.
Dose
I to 4.

ni wi^^"~;^''^T"'^"^
rubefacient.
Internally

^
it

is

7-

Oleum Sabinse Oil

of Savin.

Distilled

of>..>..':^St'
^v.a Coniferae. Colourless
S^^"conit*r^r\^P^
or pale yellow.
FF

MATERIA MEDICA.

436
Action.

Oil

of savin

is

emmena-

used as an

Dose

gogue and oxytocic.

to 4.

iTi i

Santali Oil of Sandal Wood.

N. 0. Santaof Santalum album.
Thick in consistence, pale yellow strongly
laceae.
aromatic odour, pungent and spicy flavour neutral or

Oleum

8.

From

the

wood

slightly acid in reaction. Sp. gr. usually

about 0*96.

Readily soluble in alcohol.

Action.-

-Oil

wood

of sandal

ternally for its specific effect

Dose

membrane.

1T\,

administered

in-

10 to 30.

Oleum Sinapis Oil

9.

is

upon the urinary mucous

of Mustard.

Distilled

with water from Black Mustard seeds Sinapis nigra,

N. O. Cruciferse.
after expression of the fixed oil.
product of the action of myrosine on myronate of
potash; and consists chemically of sulphocyanide of
Sp. gr. 1-015 to
Colourless or pale yellow.
ally I.
Has an intensely penetrating odour, and a
I -020.
Dissolves readily in alcohol
very acrid burning taste.

and

ether,

to a slight extent in water.

and

Pharmacy.

Officinal Preparation

Lini77ientuin Sinapis Compositum.

Oil of Mustard,

Mezereon,

Camphor,
Castor

gr.

oil,

Rectified

fl

fl

of

Extract

Ethereal

Dissolve the extract

40
120

gr.

spirit,

camphor in the
and add the oils.

3 5

spirit,

fl

4,

'is only used externally.

vesicant more or less
powerful
a

Action. Oil of mustard

When

strong

diluted

10
tine."

it

will

it is

stimulant.
act as a rubefacient or

Oil

Terebinthinse
Distilled, usually by aid

Oleum

of Turpen-

of steam, from the

from Pinus AustraTurpentine or Olco-resin obtained

and Sylvestns,
Tada, and sometimes Pinaster

ils

SPECIAL OILS.

437

N.O. Coniferse. Limpid, colourless; with a strong

peculiar odour, which varies in the different kinds and
a pungent bitterish taste. It commences to boil at
about 320, and almost entirely distils below 356,
little or no residue remaining.
Pharmacy. Officinal Preparations
;

a.

Co>ifectio Terebinthince.

Oil of Turpentine, fl 5 i
Liquorice root, in powder,
s I
Clarified
b.

Enema

Rub the oil with

the liquorice, add
the honey, and mix.

Honey, 5

2.

Terebinthince,

Oil of Turpentine,

fl

Mucilage of Starch,

Linimentum

fl

Mix.
15.

Terebinthince.

Soft soap, 5 2
Distilled water,

Camphor, 5

fl

Oil of Turpentine,

fl

1 6.

Mix the soap with

the water; dissolve
the camphor in the
turpentine ; and rub
together until thoroughly mixed.

d.

Litiimentum Terebinthifice Aceticiim.

Oil of Turpentine, 4
Glacial acetic acid, i

Liniment of Camphor,
e.

Unguentim

Mix.
4.

Terebinthince.

Oil of Turpentine, fl i
Resin, in coarse powder,

Melt by the heat

of a steam or water-

gr- 54
bath, and stir the
Yellow wax, 5 ^
mixture constantly
Prepared lard, 5 i.
while it cools,
Action.
Externally oil of turpentine may be
employed as an antiseptic, vesicant, rubefacient,
or stimulant.
Internally it has numerous actions,
and is employed for various purposes, namely,
as a
carminative, stimulant, diuretic, anthelmin-


MATERIA MEDICA.

438

antispasmodic,

tic,

haemostatic,

and

expec-

has also been administered as an antidote

in poisoning by phosphorus.
In large doses turpentine
causes symptoms of depression, with a tendency to
stupor or coma.
It is useful in the form of inhala-

torant.

tion, as

Doses

It

an antiseptic and expectorant.

Of

Oil,

6.

Glycerinum

ill

lo,

3 4; Confection,

fl

gr.

60

to 120.

Glycerine

is

Glycerine.

a sweet principle, 3115(110)3, obtained

by reaction of fats and fixed oils with aqueous

and containing a small percentage of water.

Characters and Tests.

a.

Glycerine

is

colourless fluid, oily to the touch ; sp. gr. about

b. It is without odour ; of a sweet taste.
It is freely soluble in water and alcohol.
c.
d.

When decomposed by

heat,

fluids,

a clear
i

'

250.

evolves intensely'

it

irritating vapours.
e.
Its solution is not affected by nitrate of silver,
sulphydrate of ammonium, oxalate of ammonium, or
chloride of barium ; and does not alter the colour of
moistened blue or red litmus paper. Shaken with an
equal volume of sulphuric acid, no coloration, or only

a very slight straw coloration, should result. When

gently heated with diluted sulphuric acid, no rancid
odour is produced.

Glycerine

very serviceable for dissolving, suspending, and incorporating various drugs,

as well as for its taste, and hence is much used in

Pharmacy.

is

pharmacy.
I.

The

include
a.
h.
c.

officinal

group of Glyccrina or Glycerines

Glycerinum Acidi Carbolici

|

Acidi Gallici
Acidi Tannici

|=

in 4.


SOUPS.
Glycerinum Aluminis = i in
Amyli = i in 8.

d.
e.

Boracis

/,
g.
A.

is

Linimentum

Unguentum
3.

_
^-3irii4

an ingredient in Extractum

also

all

Linimentum

the Lamellae,

cum Sapone, Mel

Myrrhs, Pilula Rhei Com-

Potassii lodidi

Boracis, Pilula Aloes et

posita, Pilula

in 6.

Tragacanthffi

Cinchonse Liquidum,
lodi,

=i

5.

Plumbi Subacetatis

Glycerine

2.

439

Saponis Composita, Tinctura Kino, and

lodi.

Glycerine of Starch

is

an ingredient

in

some of

the Suppositories.

Dose

fl

to

2,

Action. Externally and locally applied, glycerine

an emollient, and is also supposed to be somewhat
antiseptic and stimulant. It is very useful as a
is

and for aiding the absorption

through the skin of some important agents. Internally
glycerine is much employed as a flavouring agent
;
it may be given as a laxative, and is also regarded
as a nutrient.
solvent of other drugs,

7.

There are three

1.

Sapones

Soaps.

officinal soaps,

namely

Sapo Animalis Curd Soap.

soda and a purified animal

fat

Made

with

consisting principally

of stearin.
2.

and
3.

Sapo Durus Hard Soap.

olive

Sapo Mollis Soft Soap.

and olive

Made

with soda

oil.

Made

with potash

oil.

Characters and Tests. Curd soap is white or

with a very light greyish tint
dry, horny, and pul;
verizable when kept in dry warm air. Easily moulded

MATERIA MEDICA.

440
when

heated. Soluble in rectified spirit. Soluble also

in hot water, the solution being neutral or only very
faindy alkaline to test-paper.
It does not impart a

greasy stain to paper.

Incinerated

it yields an ash
soap has similar
characters, but is greyish-white. Soft soap is yellowishgreen and of a gelatinous consistence. Soluble in
rectified spirit
not imparting an oily stain to paper.
Incinerated it yields an ash which is very deUquescent,
All the soaps should be inodorous.

which does not deHquesce.

Hard

Pharmacy. i. Officinal Preparatmis. The named

preparations containing soap in the B.P. include
:

a.

Einplastrum Saponis.

Curd
Lead

Melt the lead plaster

a low temperature
add the soap and resin,

soap, 6

at

plaster,

Resin,

36

liquefied

i.

evaporate, con-

stantly stirring.

Einplastrum Saponis Fuscum.

/

Curd soap,

in

pow-

ID
Yellow wax, 5 12^
Oxide of lead, 5 15
Olive oil, O i
Vinegar, C i.
der,

Boil the vinegar and

oxide together by the.
heat of a steam bath,
constantly stirring
add
the soap, and evaporate
;

/
\

by boiling; add the wax

and oil, melted together;
evaporate,

con-

stirring

tinuously, to the

consis-

^tence of plaster.
c.

Liniinentum Saponis.

Hard

soap, in
shavings, 5 2

Camphor,

^
5
^
^

Add

fine

Oil of rosemary, fl 3 3
Rectified spirit, fl 5 16
Distilled water, fl 3 4.

dients
.

the other ingreto the mixed

mawater and spirit;

^
cerate for 7 days under
with occasional
70,
J

agitation

and

filter.

CONCRETE JUICES AND EXTRACTS.

Pilula

d.
I

in 6 nearly.

Sapotiis

{See

Composita.

Contains

Opium,

Opium.)

other preparations in which the different

orrns of soap are contained are as follows
a. Curd Soap in Emplastrum Resinas, Extractum

The

2.

Colocynthidis Compositum, Linimentum Potassii cum

Sapone, Pilula Phosphori, Pilula Scammonii Composita,
and the Suppositories made with soap.
b. Hard Soap in Emplastrum Saponis, and Emplastrum Calefaciens.
c.
Soft Soap in Linimentum Terebinthinse.

d.

Linifne?itum Saponis in

Action.

Soaps

Linimentum

are chiefly

employed

ceutical purposes, but are also valuable

and emollients.
aperient enemata.

Soap

is

often

Opii.
for

pharma-

detergents

administered

Grqup XIV. concrete JUICES

in

AND

EXTRACTS.
This group includes certain drugs which are of
or less complex composition, and cannot
be referred to any of the groups already considered.
Each drug must be discussed separately, and they
may be taken in alphabetical order.
a more

Aloe

Aloes. This is the juice, when inspiswhich flows from the transversely cut bases of
the leaves of certain species of Aloe. N. O. Liliacese.
There are two officinal varieties, namely :
a. Aloe Barbadcnsis
Barbadoes Aloes, obtained
from the Aloe vulgaris.
Imported from Barbadoes
and the Dutch West Indian islands, and known in
commerce as Barbadoes and Curagoa Aloes.
b. Aloe SocotrinaSocotrine
Aloes, obtained from
Aloe Perryi, and probably other species.
Imported
prmcipally by way of Bombay and Zanzibar,
and
known m commerce as Socotrine and Zanzibar Aloes.
I.

sated,


MATERIA MEDICA.

442

Characters. Aloes occurs in masses of various

and the characters of the two officinal varieties

sizes,

may be

thus contrasted

Barbadoes.

Socotrine.

a. Colour varying from deep

reddish-brown or chocolatebrown to dark brown or almost
black.
Opaque in mass, but

Colour of various shades

reddish-brown, darkening
by exposure to the air.
In
films
thin
transparent and
orange-ruby-red
or
orangea.

of

translucent and
of an orange-brown tint.
6. Fracture usually dull and
waxy, or sometimes smooth
in thin films

and
c.

d.

brown.

glassy.

Powder
Odour

agreeable
nauseous.

dull olive-yellow.

strong
taste

and

dis-

bitter

and

d.

Fracture usually smooth

and
and

resinous, or rarely rough

irregular.

Powder

c.

bright

tawny

reddish-brown.
d. Odour strong and somewhat agreeable ; taste very
bitter.

other cases Socotrine

(In
aloes is more or less opaque
and liver-coloured, and is then
known as hepatic aloes.)

(The Cura5oa variety is commonly more glassy and translucent, and has a distinctive
odour.)

e. Both varieties of aloes when moistened with rectified spirit

and examined in a thin stratum under the microscope, exhibit
numerous crystals. They are almost entirely soluble in proof

spirit.

Pharmacy. i. Officinal Preparations : The officinal

preparations of aloes are numerous, but they may be
conveniently arranged as follows
:

A. Preparations

common

Neutral

a.

Aloin.

(See

6.

Enema

Aloes.

to both varieties.

Principles.)

Aloes,

gr. 40
j
Carbonate of potassium, gr. 15 1
Mucilage of starch, fl 3 10.
J
_

c.

.J

Extractum Aloes

j^^j^

^ub

tgo-ether.

Barbadensis.

watery extract, made by thoroughly mixing

Barbadoes or Socotrine

aloes, in small frag-

CONCRETE JUICES AND EXTRACTS.

443

ments, with boiUng distilled water C i setting

aside for 12 hours; pouring off the clear
liquid stirring the remainder ; and evaporating the mixed liquors by a current of warm
;

air to dryness.
,

Ftiula Aloes

\
{

Barbadetisis.

iiocolnjice.

Barbadoes or Socotrine Aloes, in

powder, 5 2
Hard soap, in powder, 5 i
Oil of caraway (in Barbadoes), fl 3 i
Oil of

nutmeg

(in Socotrine),

Confection of roses, 3

Pilula Aloes

roughly
mixed.

Barbadoes Aloes,

et Ferri.

Barbadoes aloes,
powder, 2

in

Powder the

Sulphate of iron, i\
Compound powder of

sulphate,

rub with
the other
powders, add the con-

and make into

fection,

cinnamon, 3

a uniform mass.

Confection of roses, 4
C.

all

i.

B. Special Preparation of
a.

fl

Beat

together
until tho-

Special Preparations of Socotrine Aloes.

a.

Decodum Aloes Compositum.

Extract of Socotrine\
aloes,

.1

-i

Boa

vie.)

the solid mgredients (except saffron)

gently with O i of water

5I

Myrrh
Saffron

for

Carbonate of
potassium
Extract of Liquorice,

cardamoms,

fl

five

5 15
a

minutes

add

the saffron ; cool ; add

the tincture of carda-

moms

Compound tincture of
Distilled

(Baume de

macerate for 2
strain through
flannel ; and pour water

hours

over the contents of the

water,

strainer to

sufficiency.
^

make

fl

5 50.

MATERIA MEDICA.

444

This preparation should be kept in vessels

from
air is excluded as far as possible.

which

Pihda Aloes

et AsafoetidcB.

Socotrine aloes, in powder,

Asafoetida,

Beat

Hard soap, in powder, i

Confection of roses, about
c.

Pihda Aloes

et

to-

i.

Triturate the aloes,

Myrrh, i
Dried saffron, ^

myrrh, and saffron together add the trea-

Treacle, i
Glycerine,

cle

and

and

glycerine,

beat into a uniform

mass.

suffi-

ciency.
Tinctiira Aloes.

Socotrine aloes, in coarse

Macerate

powder, 5 \

in

Extract of Liquorice, 5

Proof spirit, a
e.

all

gether until thoroughly mixed.

Myrrh(p.

Socotrine aloes, 2

d.

Vinum

filter

and

to

i.

Aloes.

^
Socotrine aloes, 5
Ginger, in coarse pow-

der, gr,

8q

Cardamom

>

seeds,

Macerate
days

for

filter

make up

bruised, gr, 80

Sherry,

press

make up

sufficiency.

for 7 days
spirit

5 15 of

fl

to

and

0 2.

2.

The

other preparations in which aloes or

are
contained, are as follows
preparations
2.

Barhadoes
Aloes in

its

Pilula Cambogias Composita.

,,
,,

Colocynthidis Composita.

et

Hyoscyami.

Extractum Colocynthidis Compositum.

Socotrine

Aloes in

Pilula

Rhei Composita.

Tinctura Benzoini Composita.

CONCRETE JUICES AND EXTRACTS.

Aloes

445

a stomachic tonic; purgaespecially on the colon

and
tive,
hepatic stimulant and emmenagogue.

Action.

is

slowly

acting

Doses Oi Aloes, gr. 2 to

Compound Decoction, fl 5 J
10

2.

Tincture,

fl

Catechu

to 2

Extract, gr.

to 6

either Pill, gr. 5 to

Wine, fl 3 i to 2.
to 2

Catechu. An

extract of the leaves

and young shoots of Uncaria Gambier. N.O. CinChonaceae. Catechu consists chiefly of catechutannic acid and catechin, mixed with gum.
^
.

Characters.

a.

Catechu occurs

in

cubes, about

or in masses of variable size, formed

of more or less agglutinated cubes.
b. Externally deep reddish-brown ; internally pale

an inch square

cinnamon-brown.
c. Dry breaking readily with a dull, earthy fracture.
;

d.

Entirely soluble in boiling water.

Taste at first bitter, and very astringent, but

e.
subsequently sweetish no odour.
/. The decoction, when cooled, is not rendered blue
by iodine. (Absence of starch.)
g. Under the microscope presents myriads of very
small acicular crystals.
;

Pharmacy.
a.

i.

Officinal Preparations

Infusum Catechu.
n fl

II

half

nour,and

stram.

Pulvis Catechu Compositus,

Powder

Catechu, 4
Kino, 2
Rhatany,, 2

Cinnamon,
Nutmeg, I.

and

mix

thoroughly ;
pass
through a fine sieve ;
and finally rub lightly
in a mortar.

446

MATERIA MEDICA.
c.

Tinctura Catechu.

Catechu, in coarse powder,

2*

5 I
Proof

and make up
spirit,

Each lozenge contains

Licompatibles.

2.

is

days

strain,

press,

filter

to

i.

i.
J

Trochisci Catechu.

d.

Macerate

Cinnamonbarkjbruised,,

Made

gr. i

in the ordinary way.

of Catechu.

Alkalies

metallic salts

gelatine.

Action. Catechu is a powerful astringent, and

used both locally and internally for this purpose.

Doses Oi Catechu, gr. 10 to 30 Infusion, fl 5 i

Compound Powder, gr. 20 to 40 Tincture,
;

to 2
fl

3 i to 2

Lozenges,

to

6.

Elaterium. A sediment from the

Cucumber fruit.
Ecbalium

3.

Squirting

N. O. Cucurbitacese.

juice of the
offici7iaru}n.

Its active principle is Elaterin.

a neutral substance.

Preparation. Cut the very nearly ripe fruit lengthand lightly press out the juice. Strain through
a hair-sieve, and set it aside to deposit.
Carefully
pour off the supernatant liquid pour the sediment on
a linen filter and dry it on porous tiles in a warm
wise,

The decanted fluid may deposit a second

portion of sediment, which can be dried in the same
way.
place.

Characters and Tests.

light,

friable,

flat

a.

Elaterium occurs

or slightly curved,

opaque

in

cakes,

about yig- inch thick.

b. Colour is pale green, greyish-green, or yellowishFracture finely granular.
grey, according to age.
c.

d.

Odour

feint, tea-like

Elaterium yields half

fied spirit.

taste bitter
its

and

acrid.

weight to boiling

recti-

CONCRETE JUICES AND EXTRACTS. 447

Boiled with
does not effervesce with acids.
iodine, it
with
treated
mixture
water and the cooled
yield
should
It
colour.
blue
25 per
affords little or no
elaterin.
of
cent,
per
20
than
less
cent., or not
e.

It

Adulterations.

Chalk and

Elaterium

starch.

not now made into any

the source of Elateofficinal preparation, but
Principles.)
Neutral
(See
rin.

Pharmacy.

is

it

is

Action. Elaterium is a powerful hydragogue

purgative. Dose gr. yV to i4.

Gutta Percha.

and of
Sapotaceae.

giitta;

The

several

concrete juice of Dichopsis

other trees of the N.O.

Characters. a. Gutta percha is in tough, somewhat flexible pieces, of a light brown or chocolate
colour; plastic above 120.
b. Insoluble in water, alcohol, alkaline solutions, or
dilute acids ; but almost entirely soluble in chloroform, and entirely so in oil of turpentine, carbon
disulphide, or benzol.

Pharmacy.

Officinal Preparation

Liq^ior Gutta Percha.

Dissolve Gutta Percha, in
thin sHces, 5 r, in Chloroform, fl 6; add Carbonate
of Lead dissolved in Chloroform, fl 5 2 ; shake several
times; set aside until the insoluble matter has sub-

decant the clear liquid, and keep it in a well;

stoppered bottle.
Liquor gutta percha is used in the preparation of

sided

Charta Sinapis.

Action. The solution of gutta percha is protective, a film remaining after the evaporation of the
chloroform.
Gutta percha is much used in surgical
practice.

448

MATERIA MEDICA.

KmoThe juice

5.

obtained from incisions made

trunk of Pterocarpus Marstipium, inspissated

in the

without

N.O. Leguminos^.

artificial heat.

consists mainly

of kino-tannic acid,
gum, and other substances.

Characters.
b.

small

in

'

angular

fragments.

brittle

and

Kino occurs

Kino

with kino-red

Glistening, opaque, reddish-black

at the edges, transparent

in thin laminae,

and ruby-red.

Almost

entirely soluble in rectified spirit.

It
or nothing to ether.
d. Inodorous;
very astringent taste, and when
chewed sticks to the teeth, and tinges the saliva bloodc.

yields

little

red.

Pharmacy. I.

Officinal Preparations

Pulvis Kino Compositus.

a.

Kino

Powder and mix

ic,

roughly

Opium I
Cinnamon

tho-

pass through a
"""^ '^S^^'y

>

in a mortar.

Tinctura Kino.

Kino, in coarse powder,

Glycerine,

3 3
Distilled wat?r, fl 5 5

Rectified

2.

^''^ ^^^^^

bark, 4.
\

b.

Ki7io

is

^^^^rate

^21,days

fl

spirit,

fl

filter

and

"^^^.^ l^P ^^^h

g^^^^^^^ ^P^"' t
.

?2.

an ingredient

in Pulvis

Catechu Com-

positus,
3.

Incompatibles.

carbonates

Mineral

metallic salts

acids

alkalies

Action. Kino is an astringent, both

and internally administered.

Of

Dose
gr. 5 to

20

Kino,

gr.

Tincture,

10 to 30;
3 ^ to 2.

fl.

and

their

gelatine.
locally used

Compound Powder,

CONCRETE JUICES AND EXTRACTS. 449

6.

Manna.

tained by

concrete saccharine

exudation ob-

making

incisions in the stems of cultivated

trtts, oi Fraxitius Or?ius.
N.O. Oleacese. It consists principally of Mannite, C6H6(HO}6 (from 60
to

with common sugar and indefinite

contains about 10 per cent.,;of moisture.

80 per cent),
matter.
_

It

Characters and Tests. . Manna forms

titic

pieces, varying in length

convex,
b.

flat

Of a

stalac-

and thickness, irregularly

or concave on their inner surface.

pale yellowish-brown colour, and

nearly

white externally.
c.

Manna

is

crisp, brittle, porous,

and

crystalline in

texture.
d.

Odour

honey-like,

faint,

resembling honey ; taste sweet and

with a slight acridity and bitter-

combmed

ness.
-

e.

/.

Manna

is

readily soluble in water (about

Mannite may be extracted

in 6).

by boiling manna
spirit, from which it will

with 15 or 16 parts of rectified

afterwards separate on cooling in colouriess,
shining
crystals ; it requires
5 parts of cold water for its solution, and this does not undergo
vinous fermentation
in contact with yeast.

Action. Manna

is

Dose

i.

gr.

60 to 5

a pleasant laxative.

7-. Opium. TheyWr^ obtained in Asia

Minor bv
mcision from the unripe capsules of
Papaver somni\ferum, inspissated by spontaneous
evaporation
JV.O
f Papaveraceae.
Opium is a very complex substance'
consisting of several alkaloids,
acids,
_

neutral princi-

gum, resin, salts, extractive matters

&c
There are several known varieties
of opium, including Turkey (Smyrna and
Constantinople), Egvptian
East Indian, Persian, and
European
The B P
directs that any ordmary
variety of opium may
be
employed as a source of alkaloids
ples,
,

but,

GG

otherwise

MATERIA MEDICA.

450
used

recognised purposes, opium must be

and must be of such a
strength that, when dried and powdered and the
powder heated to 2 1 2, until it ceases to lose moisture,
and the product tested by any trustworthy method, it
shall yield, as nearly as practicable, 10 per cent, of
morphine ; that is, 100 parts of such dry powdered
opium shall yield not less than 9 5 parts, and not
more than 10 5 parts of morphine.
for officially

that obtained in Asia Minor,

a. Opium occurs in rounded, irregumasses, varying in weight,

or
flattened
larly-formed,
about
eight
ounces to two pounds,
from
commonly
but
usually covered with portions of poppy leaves, and
scattered over with the reddish-brown chaffy fruits of

Characters.

a species of Rumex.
b.

When

and internally somewhat

and reddish- or chestnutbut becoming harder by keeping, and darkenfresh

coarsely

moist,

brown

plastic,

it is

granular,

ing to blackish-brown.
c.

Odour

strong, peculiar, narcotic

taste nauseously

bitter.

Impurities and Adulterations.

Opium

differs

various specimens, and the

its strength in
B. P. describes fully a quantitative test to determine

widely in

contains the due proportion of morphine

mentioned above. {See B. P., p. 296.) Moreover,
that

it
it

it

sometimes has
sold

is

its

active principles removed before

also contain certain adultera-

and may

namely, vegetable extracts ; sugar and treacle

mechanical admixtures (sand, clay, stones, bullets,
and water.
&c.)
tions,

Pharmacy,

i.

Officinal Preparations

preparations containing opium are numerous,

and it will be well to give a complete list of theni
those will
here, with the proportion in each, but only
elsewhere.
to
be considered fully which are not alluded
They may be arranged in the following way :

The

CONCRETE JUICES AND EXTRACTS.

45

A. Preparations for External Use.

a.

Emplastnim Opii=\

in 10.
(

Opium,
Resin

powder,

in finest

plaster, 9.
(

b.

Melt the plaster

by a water-bath,
and mix the opium
by degrees.

Linimentitm Opii = i of Tincture in

Tincture of Opium, i ) n^j
o
\ Mix and
T
Lmmient^ 01r boap,
i.

2.

r^^
filter.

c.

Ungiientum Gallce cum Opio=i in i4f.

B. Preparations for Internal Use.

a.

Confedio Opii=

in 40, nearly.

Compound powder
Syrup,
b.

of opium, gr.

Mix.
\

3.

Opii.
gr. ^-^ about gr. i of opium.
Should yield about 20 per cent, of morphine.
Made by three successive macerations of

Extractic77i

powdered opium
pression
flannel
c.

in distilled water, and exmixing the liquors ; straining through

and evaporating by a water-bath.

Extradum Opii Liquidiun =

22 grains of Extract
Should yield about i per
Sp. gr. 0-985 to 0*995.
Macerate the exExtract of opium, i
tract in the water for
Distilled water, fl 5 16
an
hour,
stirring

in

5 I, nearly.
cent, of morphine.
fl

Rectified

spirit,

fl

frequently; add the

4.

spirit

Pilula Saponis Composita

Opium,

in powder,

in

6,

and

filter.

nearly.
^^^^

Hard

soap, in powder, 4
Glycerine, a sufficiency.

opium

""^^ ^^P'

into a unifomi

'

with glycerine.

GG

beat

mass

MATERIA MEDICA.

452
e.

Filula IpecaaiafihcB aim Scilla,

Made with
Dover's powder = i of opium in 23, nearly.

f.

Pihila Pluinbi cum Opio

g.

Pidvis Cretce Aromaiicus

h.

Pulvis IpecacuanhcR Compositus \ in

Pulvis Opii Compositus

in 8.

mm

Pulvis Kino Compositus j.

Opio=

in 20.

=1

in 10.

in 40.
10.

Opium, 3
Black pepper, 4
Ginger, 10

Caraway

fruit,

Tragacanth,
k.
/.

Powder separately,
and mix.

12

i.

Tindiira Camphorcz Composita =

gr. i in

fl

5.

Tindura Opii contains the soluble matter of 33

of opium, nearly, in fl 5 i = gr. 1
in nt i4f ; or about 3*3 grains of morphine i;
fi
5 i about o*75 per cent, of morphine,
per cent, of bimeconate of moror about
phine, besides the other alkaloidal salts of
grains

opium.

Macerate

Opium,
Proof

days

in powder, 5

spirit,

O i.

and

filter

make up
m.

strain, press,

and

to

i.

Tindura Opii Ammojiiata contains the soluble

matter of o' 62 of opium in fl 3 i, or gr. 5 m

= gr.

imn

I
96.
gr. 100''
powder,
in
Opium,
gr.
180
small,
cut
Saffron,
Benzoic acid, gr. 180
fl

Oil of anise, fl 3
Strong solution

ammonia,
Rectified

fl

spirit,

agitation

of

5 4
fl

16.

7 days
occasional

Macerate
with
press,

and

filter;:

and make up

I.

strain,

toi

CONCRETE' JUICES- AND EXTRACTS.

Trochisci Opii=gi.

^ of

each lozenge = gr.

with

of

tincture

acacia,

453

Extract of Opium
Made
of morphine.

tolu,

refined

sugar,

gum

and extract of liquorice.

Vmiim Opii contains

gr.

22 oi Extract of Opium,
gr. \ of morphine in

= about

nearly, in fl 5 i
fl3 I.
Extract of opium, 5

Macerate

Cinnamon, bark, bruised,

gr-

7 days,

with occasional agi-

75

Cloves, bruised, gr. 75

i.
Sheny wine,

tation,

and

filter.

C.

Preparations administered per rectum.

Enema

a.

Opii.

Tincture of opium, fl 3 J
Mucilage of starch, fl 5 2.

b.

Suppositoria Pliimbi Composita

2.

Opium

and codeine

is
;

j^j^

= gr.

i in

each.

the source of the alkaloids, morphine

also of meconic acid.

and

The

chief drugs chemically inare alkaline carbonates ;

lime-water ; salts of lead, iron, copper, mercury, and
zinc
preparations of arsenium ; and vegetable astringents.
It is often given, however, in combination
with some of these incompatibles.
Incompatibles.

3.

compatible

with

opium

Action. Opium

is one of the most important

Pharmacopoeia, and its actions are
numerous and somewhat complicated. Externally it
is
employed as an anodyne and sedative, and
some of its ofiicinal preparations are intended for this
purpose.
Internally its effects may be considered in
relation to the different systems.
In connection with
the alimentary canal opium acts as an anodyne,

drugs

in

the

MATERIA MEDICA.

454

sedative, and anti-spasmodie, and under certain

is valuable as a paralyser of the
intestines ; moreover it diminishes all the digestive
secretions, and is much employed as an astringent.

circumstances

Minute doses of tincture of opium are said to act

sometimes as an aperient (Brunton). The enema and
suppository are of much service as local sedatives
or anodynes in connection with the rectum and
anus.
Some of the most prominent effects of opium
are produced upon the nervous system, this drug
being at first a cerebral stimulant or excitant,
and subsequently an anodyne, hypnotic, or narIn some animals opium
cotic, according to its dose.
is a marked spinal stimulant, at the same time
exciting the motor nerves, and thus muscular disorders of a spasmodic or convulsive character are
produced in man more or less muscular excitement
may be caused for a short time, but subsequently the
motor centres and nerves tend to become depressed,
and opium is consequently used as an anti-spasmodic. In connection with the eyes, opium acts as
;

It is not,
a myotic when administered internally.
however, used for this purpose, but the degree of
contraction of the pupils affords an indication as to
how far the system is under the influence of the drug.
With regard to the circulatory system, opium is temporarily a cardiac and vascular stimulant, but
afterwards becomes a sedative, and ultimately a

cardiac depressant; it acts

haemostatic in many cases. It

a sei-viceable
a valuable pul-

as
is

sedative, being sometimes smoked for this

purpose, and also diminishes the bronchial secretion
in large doses, and under certain circumstances even
in small doses, it becomes a dangerous pulmonary
depressant. The only secretion or excretion which

monary

opium does not diminish is the sweat, this drug

being a diaphoretic, especially in certain combinaIt may be used as an anti-diuretic ; and has
tions.

455

ALKALOIDS.
many cases a remarkable influence
amoun/of sugar passed with

in

m lessenmg the
^

J
supposed to be due to its
diabetes, this effect being
of
function
glycogenic
modifying influence upon the
relation
In
metabolism.
Sie Uver and upon general
regarded as an
is
opium
organs,
sexual
the
to
.

which need
of the drugs the effects of
there are
dose
full
a
After
to be closely watched.
a clammy or dry
usuaUy unpleasant symptoms, namely,
appetite, conmouth, furred tongue, thirst, loss of
point, or
certain
Beyond a
stipation, and headache.
as a
dangerous
it becomes

''^OiTumTone

under special conditions,

depressant.
narcotic poison, and cardiac and respiratory
is an
pupils
the
of
state
the
As already mentioned,
the
on
opium
of
effects
the
of
important indication
sex,
age,
by
influenced
much
are
These
system.
habit, nature of the disease, and idiosyncrasy.

^oses^Of Opium,

gr.

i to

Extract, gr. i to 2 ;
Compound Soap PiU, gr. 3 to 5

20

Confection,

gr. 5 to

Liquid Extract, lU 10 to 40

of Ipecacuanha
Opium, gr. 3
with
Lead
Pill
of
10
to
with Squill, gr. 5
gr. 10 to
Opium,
and
Chalk
of
Powder
Aromatic
to 5
;

Pill

gr. 5 to
15;
40; Compound Ipecacuanha Powder,
Compound Kino Powder, gr. 5 to 20 Compound
Opium Powder, gr. 2 to 5 Compound Tincture of
Camphor, Til 45 to fl 3 i ; Tincture of Opium, 1U 5
Ammoniated Tincture, fl 3 i to i ; Lozenges,
to 40
I to 6 ; Wine, ttl id to 40.
;

Group

XV.ALKALOIDS.

Several alkaloids are recognised in the B.P. as

separate drugs, either alone or in the form of salts,
which will now be enumerated in alphabetical order.


MATERIA MEDICA.

456

Name.
Aconitina

Source

Aconiti Radix.
Apomorphinse Hydrochloras Morphina or Codeina.
_
^ ..
Atropina
Belladonnse Radix.
Atropinse Sulphas
Atropina.
BeberinEe Sulphas
Nectandree Cortex.
Caffeina .
Camellia Thea (leaves) and
Caffea Arabica (seeds).
.

CafFeinas Citras

7.

Caffeina.

Cinchonidinse Sulphas
9. Cinchoninse Sulphas
10. Cocainse Hydrochloras
8.

Jcinchonas Cortex.

Codeina
{Morphinse Acetas
Morphinae Hydrochloras
Morphinse Sulphas
13. Physosdgmina
11.

Pilocarpinse Nitras
/Quininse
v^uinmse nyaroci
Hydrochloras
J
-'\Quininag Sulphas
16. Strychnina
17. Veratrina
14.

Erythroxylon Coca

(leaves).

Opium.
jOpium.

Faba (Alco-

Physostigmatis

holic Extract).
Jaborandi (Extract)-

J,

|cinchonse Cortex.

Nux Vomica.
Sabadilla.

In discussing these alkaloids it will be more convenient to bring together those which are obtained

from the same source, and also certain derivatives.

A. Alkaloids obtained from Opium.

I.

Morphina

Morphine. Ci^HigNOg.

Morphine is the principal alkaloid present in Opmm.

N.O. Papaveracese. There are three of its salts
separately recognized in the B.P., namely
:

Morphinse AcetasAcetate of Morphine.

CnHi9N03,HC2H302,3HoO.
1.

2.

of

Morphinse Hydrochloras

Hydrochlorate

Morphine. Ci7Hi9N03,HCl,3H20.

Sulphas^ Sulphate of Mor3. Morphinse

phine. (CnHi9N03)2H2S04,5H20.,
.

457

ALKALOIDS.

Preparation. I. The Hydrochlorate of Morphiiie

ordered to be prepared directly from opium, by the
following process

is

in successive quantities
to strong pressure
finally
it
subjecting
of cold water,
unite the decanted liquors; evaporate; and stram

Macerate sliced opium

a.

through calico.
(A concentrated infusion of mcconates and sulphate;,
resins,
of morphine and codeine is obtained, with
extractive matters, &c.)

a solution of chloride of calcium, and

b. Add
evaporate until the solution becomes solid on cooling.
{Hydrochlorate of inorplmie and codeine are formed.)
Subject the mass to powerful pressure, enveloped
double fold of strong calico, preserving the dark
Triturate the squeezed cake with
fluid which exudes.
boiling distilled water ; wash it well on a paper filter
with more boiling water evaporate the filtered liquids
c.

in a

as before, cool, solidify,

and press

and

if

the mass

be still much coloured, repeat this process again,

always preserving the expressed fluids.
(The dark liquid contains colouring matters, &c.,
with a small proportion of alkaloids.)
d. Dissolve the pressed cake in boiling distilled
water ; digest with purified animal charcoal for 20
minutes filter, and wash the filter and charcoal with
;

boiling distilled water.

(The colouring matters are removed.)

e.

Add

solution of

ammojiia in

slight excess.

Col-

which separates as the

Hquid cools on a paper filter, and wash with cold

lect the crystalline precipitate

distilled

water until the washings cease to give a pre-

cipitate with solution of nitrate silver acidulated

by

nitric acid.

{Morphine
tion

is

precipitated, codeine remains in solu-

and the morphine

is

washed

free

from codeine.)

MATERIA MEDICA.

458

/. Dififuse the morphine through boiling distilled

water in a porcelain capsule, kept hot add dilute
;

hydrochloric acid carefully, constantly stirring, until

the morphine is entirely dissolved, and the solution is
neutral.

(A solution of pure hydrochlorate of morphine

obtained.)

is

drain and dry

g. Set aside to cool and crystallise
More crystals may be
the crystals on filtering paper.
obtained by further evaporating the mother liquor and
;

cooling.
h. A small quantity of morphine may be obtained
from the dark expressed liquids, by diluting them
with water precipitating with solution of potash in
;

much

excess ; filtering ; supersaturating the liltrate

with hydrochloric acid ; digesting with a little animal
and adding solution of
charcoal, and filtering;

ammonia.

This salt is usually preAcetate of Morphine.

pared from the hydrochlorate, by precipitating the
2.

morphine by solution of ammonia; collecting, washing,

and dissolving in dilute acetic acid to neutralization;
evaporating by the heat of a water- bath, maintaining
acetic acid in slight excess, until it concretes on
cooling; drying at a slight heat; and reducing to
powder.
Acetate of morphine may also be prepared from
direct
acetic acid and the pure morphine obtained
the
with
connection
in
described
as
opium,
from
hydrochlorate.

Sulphate of Morphine.^"ms salt is prepared by

weight of boilmg
diffusing morphine in about twice its
fluid, kept hot,
the
distilled water, and adding to
with constant
and
gradually
sulphuric acid,
3.

diluted

entirely disso that the morphine may be

Set aside
obtained.
is
solution
solved, and a neutral
stirring,

459

ALKALOIDS.

on
Drain and dry the crystals
oy
obtamea
be
may
More crystals
naper
agam
liquor, and
eva'po'ating the mother

and

to cool

filterina

toher^

crystallize.

head

this

""^Characters and TESXS.-Under

may be considered
three trte ofmorphine

aH

'"^

is

white powder or
is in

the

together._

a white powder,
-^^'^^^/mI
.^^^f
Su/J>/iaie
lustre.
thin prisms of a silky

crystals.
colourless, silky, acicular
water {acefate
soluble

i in 2,,
d They are all
and
The
/^ydroc/J-afe and sulpM^e i in 24).
the
spirit,
in rectified
hydrochlorate are readily soluble

sulphate only sparingly.

precipitate with solution of
c They eive a white
Moistened with strong
potksh, soluble in excess.
iitric acid, they

become orange-red and

;

^vl

solutior^

The several
greenish-blue.
of perchloride of iron,
acids.
respective
their
of
tests
salts yield the usual
air, the salts oi
of
access
free
with
d. Ignited
morphine leave no residue.
form

OuANTiTATiVE TESTS. I. Acetate. 20 grains

turbid solution,
with I drachm of water a slightly
of i gram ot
addition
the
which is rendered clear by
with ammixed
when
solution
and this
acetic acid
;

monia

which, after
in slight excess yields a precipitate

washing with a little cold water and drying

bath, weighs 15 grains.
2.

Hydrochlorate.

a water-

20 grains dissolved in ^ an ounce

slightest
of warm water, with ammonia added in the
precipicrystalline
a
cooHng
possible excess, gives on
tate which,

when washed with a

little

cold water and

dried in a water-bath, weighs i5 grains.

Pharmacy.
a.

Injectio

tion of

Officijial

Preparations

Morphince Hypodermica.

acetate

prepared

i.

of morphine-

from a solution

gx.

of the

in

^^This is

a solu-

10.

It is

ill

hydrochlorate,

by


46o

MATERIA MEDICA.

precipitating the morphine by solution of ammonia

heating this gently with distilled water in a porcelain
dish ; carefully adding acetic acid until the morphine
is dissolved, and a very slightly acid
solution is formed
and then adding sufficient distilled water to make the
solution of proper strength.
Filter and preserve the

product in a stoppered bottle excluded from the

light.

IAceiatis.
Bimeconatis.
Hydrochloratis.

The strength of the Sohitmis of Acetate and Hydrochlorate of Morphine is about i in loo, and they are
made by dissolving 9 grains of the respective salts in
a mixture of

Diluted Acetic or Hydrochloric acid,

Rectified

spirit,

fl

Distilled water,

fl

ITL

18

5 ^
5 i^.

The B.P. directs that the acetate of morphine

employed should be recently prepared, and of such
quality that 20 grains will form a clear solution with

of water by the help of not more than gr. i of

Solution of acetate of morphine may
also be prepared by diluting go minims of Injectio
MorphincB Hypodermka with sufficient of a mixture
of one volume of rectified spirit and two volumes of
water to form 2 fluid ounces of the solution.
The Solution of Bimeconate of Morphitie contains
fl

acetic acid.

about

per cent, of the

salt,

or 5^ grains in

As regards meconate of morphine,

same strength as tincture of opium.

it

fl 5 i.
about the
prepared by

is

It is

precipitating the morphine from a solution of 9 grains

of the hydrochlorate by solution of ammonia ; mixing
this with sufficient distilled water to produce A 5
;
adding rectified spirit, fl 5 ^, and meconic acid, gr. 6 ;

and

dissolving.
c-

c.

J.J.

-J

Suppositoria

Morphince.
j^^^^/>,^ cum Sapone.

461

ALKALOIDS.

These preparations both contain the Hydrochlorate

Suppositoria Morphina
of Morphine = %x. \ in each.
Suppositoria
theobroma.
of
oil
are made up with
starch, curd
of
glycerine
with
Sapone
aim
Morpki?ia
starch.
and
soap,

d.

Irochisa

Morphines,

Mgypkincz

et

Ipecacuanha.

These lozenges also contain the Hydrochlorate of

in each, combined in the latter with
MorphineThey are made up with tincture
Ipecacuanha, gr. tW.
of tolu, refined sugar, gum acacia, and mucilage.
2.

Hydrochlorate of Morphine

Tindura Chlorofonni
3.

Incompatibles.

et

is

Morphincn =

-Alkalies

astringent vegetable infusions

an ingredient
gr,

in

fl

in

i.

and alkaline earths;

and decoctions.

Action. Morphine possesses most of the actions

of opium, which owes its chief effects to this alkaloid
At the same time there are certain
{See Opium.)
differences to be noted in this respect, as well as
It is questionable whether
in their modes of use.

morphine can be absorbed by the entire skin, but it

applied as an anodyne, and
is sometimes thus
an oleate (non-officinal) is especially used for this
purpose.
The alkaloid was formerly much employed
endermically, but this practice is now seldom carried
Morphine is considered to be more irritating to
out.
certain

mucous

opium, and the

surfaces, such as the conjunctiva,

latter is therefore preferred as

than
a local

application to these structures.

Internally morphine has decidedly less action upon
the alimentary canal than opium, except, perhaps, as

a gastric sedative or anodyne, and is much less

to cause constipation and other digestive
derangements.
It is, however, on this account of far
less value
therapeutically in connection with this
apparatus.
The alkaloid is more quickly absorbed.

likely

MATERIA MEDICA,

462
and

its

remote

more

effects are therefore

rapidly pro-

As a rule morphine
duced, but of shorter duration.
is to be recommended in preference to opium as an

anodyne, hypnotic,

or

anti-spasmodic, and

it

has none of the excito-motor or convulsant action

which belongs to some of the other constituents of
It has also the advantage that it
this complex drug.
can be administered hypodermically. Morphine is less
diaphoretic than opium, but at the same time a
full dose will sometimes produce a very free action of
the skin. This drug is very valuable as a pulmonary
in certain respects an
the two drugs are now
often administered together, especially subcutaneously
while they are also employed as mutual physiological
antidotes in cases of poisoning by the alkaloids them-

cardiac sedative. It is
antagonist to atropine, and

or

selves, or

by opium or belladonna

Mormentioned

respectively.

phine is not much

under opium, in relation to the urinary system, &c.
used

for the other effects

Doses Of Acetate, Hydrochlorate, or Sulphate of

Morphine, gr. \ to ^; Solution of Acetate or Hydrochlorate, in, 10 to 60 ; Solution of Bimeconate, vc^to
40 Hypodermic Injection, tn i to 5 ; either Lozenge,
;

to 6.

Codeina Codeine. CjgHaiNOa.HaO.

Source and Preparation. An alkaloid con2.

tained in Opium, and separated from the ammoniacal

liquors from which morphine has been obtained, by
evaporating, treating the residue with water, precipitating with caustic potash, and purifying the precipitated alkaloid

Characters

by

recrystallization

and

Tests.

a.

from

In

ether.

colourless

or

nearly colourless octahedral crystals.

b.

Soluble in 80 parts of water and of solution of

ammonia,
acids.

readily

soluble

in

spirit

and

in

diluted

ALKALOIDS.
solution has a bitter taste

The aqueous

c.

and an

alkaline reaction.
d.

The

alkaloid dissolves in sulphuric acid, forming

warmed
a colourless solution, which, when gently
molybdate of ammonium or a trace of perchloride of
Moistened with
iron, assumes a deep blue colour.
but
not red.
yellow
strong nitric acid it becomes
with

Codeine

employed in the treateffect in diminishmarked

ment of diabetes, having a
and in some
urine,
the
sugar
in
quantity
of
ing the
cases curing the disease. It is also a pulmonary sedative,
Action.

is

chiefly

reheving cough.

Dose

3.

gr.

to

2.

Preparation. The hydrochlorate of

HydrochloApomorphinse Hydrochloras
rate of Apomorphine. Ci^Hi^NOa, HCl.
Source and

alkaloid, obtained by heating morphine or codeine

in sealed tubes with hydrochloric acid.

an

Characters and Tests.

a.

Small, greyish-white,

shining, acicular crystals, turning green

to light

and

on exposure

air.

b. Inodorous ; with a very faint acid reaction on

moistened litmus paper.
c.

Soluble in

parts

of water, and 50 parts of

decomposed, with produc-

alcohol, the solutions being

tion of a green colour,

From

when

boiled.

of sodium throws
a precipitate which becomes green on standing,
and then forms a purple solution with ether, violet
with chloroform, and bluish-green with alcohol. With
dilute solution of perchloride of iron it gives a deep
red, and with nitric acid a blood-red coloration.
d.

down

solutions, bicarbonate

MATERIA MEDICA.

464
Pharmacy.

Officinal Preparation

Injedio ApomorphincE Hypodei'mica.

Hydrochlorate of apomorphine,

Camphor

water,

ttl

gr. 2

100.

Dissolve

and filter.

Action. Apomorphine is chiefly employed as an.

indirect emetic. In minute doses it is also given
It must be used with caution,'
as an expectorant.
as it may cause dangerous prostration and interference
It is
with the respiratory and cardiac functions.
generally administered hypodermically.

Dose

Of Hypodermic

Injection,

Ttl 2

to 8.

B. Alkaloids obtained from Cin.chona.

I.

Two
namely

Quinina

salts

Quinine. C20H24N2O2.

of quinine are

now

officinal in the B.P;,

Quininse Hydrochloras HydrocMorate of

Quinine. C20H24N2O2HCI, 2 H2O.
Quinine.
2. Quininse Sulphas Sulphate of
1.

{(C2oH24N202)2H2S04)2,ISH20.
Source and Preparation. The

salts of quinine
Cincho7ia and
of
kinds
various
from
obtained
are

N.O. Cinchonaceae. With regard

Reniijia bark.
the B.P. merely states that they
preparation,
their
to
powder of the bark, by extrac-'
the
from
prepared
are
addition of lime, or by the
the
after
spirit
with
tion
aqueous infusion,
acidulated
an
on
alkali
an
of
action
alkaloid
by hydrothe
of
with subsequent neutralization
purification
and
respectively,
chloric or sulphuric acid
The hydrochlorate may be conof the resulting salt.
dissolving it together
verted into the sulphate by
ten
of sodium
sulphate
of
equal weight

with an
distilled water, and setting the
times its weight of hot
half-an-hour.
60
for
mixture aside at

ALKALOIDS.

a. The salts of quinine

occur in filiform, silky, snow-white crystals, those of
the hydrochlorate being generally somewhat the

Characters and Tests.

larger.
b. The sulphate is sparingly soluble in water (i in
700 or 800), the solution being fluorescent, presenting

a peculiar bluish tint ; in rectified spirit (i in 40)

entirely soluble in water acidulated by sulphuric acid.
It dissolves in pure sulphuric acid, with a feeble
yellowish tint, and undergoes no further change of
colour when gently warmed.
The hydrochlorate is
much more soluble in water (1 in 34), and in spirit
(about I in 3), and very soluble in the boiling liquids.
c.

Quinine has a pure intensely

bitter taste.

When

a solution of either salt is treated with

chlorine water, and then with ammonia, an emerald
green colour is produced.
Solution of ammonia gives
a white precipitate of quinine, soluble in excess, and
d.

in ether.
e.

Dried

at

sulphate lose
9 per cent

25 grains of freshly prepared

grains ; the hydrochlorate loses

212,

3 8

/. Ignited with free access of

without leaving any residue.

air,

both

salts

burn

Impurities. The B.P. gives details for testing the

amount of cinchonine, cinchonidine, quinidine, and
cupreine in sulphate of quinine.
{See B. P., p. 343.)
It states that this salt should not contain much more
than 5 per cent, of sulphates of other cinchona alkaloids.

Pharmacy. i. Officinal Preparatio7ts

a. Tindura Quininm.
Hydrochlorate of quinine,
gr- 160
Tincture of Orange peel,

Dissolve with a
heat; filter
after
standing
three days.

little
I

HH

466
h.

MATERIA MEDICA.
Tinctw'a QuinincE Ammoniata.
Sulphate of quinme,
Dissolve in the spirit
gr. 1 60
with a little heat, am'
Solution of ammonia,
add the solution oi
ainmonia.
Proof
spirit,

c.

115171

Vifuem QiiinincE.

Sulphate
gr. 20

of quinine,\

Dissolve

and

Citric acid, gr.

Orange wine,

30

i.

the

citric

then

the

quinine;
filter
aftei
standing three days.

2. Quinine, precipitated from the sulphate,

tained in Ferri et Quininae Citras - 16 in 100.

is

con-

Action. Locally applied, quinine is a valuable

antiseptic and disinfectant
and is used in
certain special conditions, on account of its influence in checking the development and growth of
;

organisms.
Internally, according to the dose adminisquinine is chiefly employed as a stomachic
tonic, general tonic, antipyretic, or antiperiodic, having also a marked curative influence in
relation to the effects of malaria upon the system.
It further checks the movements of leucocytes, and
Quinine has
thus tends to diminish suppuration.
It is a
been recommended as an emmenagogue.
drug that needs caution in its administration ; it not
uncommonly disturbs the digestive organs, causing
tered,

disorders, nausea or
digestive
loss
of appetite,
vomiting; while in large doses it gives rise to the
phenomena termed "cinchonism" or "quinism,"
namely, headache, a feeling of frontal tension, noises
in the ears,

or less deafness, disorders of vision,

from still larger doses more dangerous

more

and giddiness
symptoms occur, such as delirium, muscular weakness,
In some persons
convulsions, and cardiac failure.
of these effects.
less
or
even small doses produce more
;

ALKALOIDS.

467

They may often be obviated by administering the

quinine with hydrobromic acid.
Doses.
gr.

AVine,

Of Hydrochlorate or

to
fl

10 or more
5 i to

Sulphate of Quinine,

either Tincture,

3 ^ to 2

fl

i.

Cinchonidinae Sulphas
Sulphate of
Cinchomdine.-(C2oH24N20)2,H2SO3H20.

2.

Source and Preparation.

The

sulphate of an

alkaloid obtained from the bark of various species of

Cinchona.
N.O. Cinchonaceae.
It

may be

obtained from the mother-liquors of the

by further con.

crystallization of sulphate of quinine

centration, purified by crystallisation

and

finally

from alcohol,

from hot water.

Characters and Tests,a;. In

colourless

silky

crystals, usually acicular.

b.

Soluble

in

water,

alcohol,

and ether; almost

msoluble in chloroform or in solution of

ammonia

readily soluble in diluted acids.

c. The solution in water has
a bitter taste
neutral or faintly alkaline reaction.

d.

It twists

a ray of polarised light to the

'

and a

left,

and

when acidified is not distinctly fluorescent.

e.
The solution yields a white precipitate with
solution of tartarated soda, and in the
filtrate from
this mixture solution of ammonia
occasions not more

than a slight turbidity.

It dissolves in pure sulphuric
production of not more than a faint yellow
coloration, and the fluid undergoes
no apparent
change when gently warmed.
acid, with

25 grains of the salt lose 1-76 grains of moisture

at 212.
When ignited in air no ash
remains.

on drying

HH

468

MATERIA MEDICA.
3.

Cinchoninse Sulphas Sulphate of

Cinchonine. (C2oH24N20)2,H2S04,2H20.

Source and Preparation. The sulphate of an

alkaloid obtained from the bark of various species of
Cinchona and Remijia. N.O. Cinchonaceae.
It may be obtained from the mother-liquors of the
crystallization of the sulphate of quinine, cinchonidine,

and quinidine, by precipitating

caustic soda, washing

other

alkaloids,

purifying

after

it

with

the

spirit

alkaloid

with

until free

from

dissolving in sulphuric acid, and,

the solution with animal charcoal,

allowing to crystallize.

Characters and Tests.

a.

Hard,

colourless,

short, prismatic crystals, with a vitreous lustre.

in water and in chloroform ; almost
b. Soluble
insoluble in ether and in solution of ammonia ; readily
soluble in rectified spirit and in diluted acids.
c.

The aqueous

solution has a bitter taste^

and a

neutral or faintly alkaline reaction.

d.

The

solution twists a ray of polarized light to the

is not fluorescent.
pure sulphuric acid without
change of colour, and the fluid undergoes no apparent

right
e.

its

The

acidified solution

salt dissolves in

change when gently warmed.

25 grains of the salt should lose 1-26 grains of
moisture when dried at 212, and should then almost
wholly dissolve in 4 ounces by weight of chloroform.
When ignited in air no ash remains.
/.

Action. The sulphates of cinchonine and cinchonidine have actions similar to those of quinine,
they
for which they are employed as substitutes, but
effects.
are much less powerful and certain in their
Cinchonine is said to be from a third to half as
powerful as quinine.

{See

Quinine.)

Z'(7J<? Of either Sulphate, gr.

to 10.

ALKALOIDS.
C.
I.

Alkaloids from various sources.

Aconitina
Radix.

Acoiiiti

469

Aconitine.
Obtained
N. O. Ranunculacese.

from

Preparation.- a. Coarsely powdered aconite root

is heated to ebullition with
rectified spirit;
then
cooled, and macerated for 4 days ; and finally percolated until the root
b.

The

c.

The

is

exhausted.

greater part of the spirit

the remainder is evaporated.
residual extract

boiling distilled water, and,

through

paper.

(An

is

is distilled off,

and

thoroughly mixed with

on cooling,

infusion

this is filtered

containing

salts

of

aconitine is formed.)
d.

Sohction

of ammonia

liquid in slight

excess,

is
added to the filtered
and the mixture is gently

heated over a water-bath.

(Impure aconitine

is

pre-

cipitated.)

The

precipitate is separated on a filter, dried,

powdered, and macerated in successive
portions of pure ether, with frequent agitation.
The
e.

coarsely

several products are decanted, mixed,

distiUed

and the ether

off.

/. The dry extract (almost picre aconitine) is dissolved

warm water, acidulated with sulphuric acid.
(A solution of sulphate of aconitine is formed.)

When

the solution is cold, solution

of ammonia
with 4 times its bulk of distilled water
is
cautiously added to precipitate the aconitine
which
IS washed on a filter with
a small quantity of cold
distilled water ; and dried by slight
pressure between
folds of filtering paper and subsequent
g.

diluted

exposure to

Characters and Tests.a. Aconitine

usually amorphous, solid.

is

white

MATERIA MEDICA,

470

h. It possesses strongly alkaline properties, and is

precipitated from solutions of its salts by the caustic
alkalis, but not by carbonate of ammonium or the
bicarbonates of sodium or potassium.

Soluble in cold water (i in 150); boiling water

50) ; and much more in alcohol, ether, and
chloroform.
c.

in

(i

d.

It

melts

flame, leaving

when

heated, and burns with a smoky

if ignited with free access of

no residue

air.

Pharmacy

Officinal Preparation:

Unguentum

Aco7iiiina.

Aconitine, gr. 8
Rectified spirit,

Benzoated

Action.

anodyne
numbness.

Dissolve the aconi-

and
mix thoroughly with
tine in the spirit,

fl

lard,

Aconitine

is

3 5
i-

the lard.

only used externally as an

causes a sensation of tingling and
it
Internally it is a powerful poison.

2. Atropina
Atropine. Ci,H23N03. Obtained
from Belladonna Radix. N.O. Atropaceae.

Preparation.- a. Recently dried belladonna root,

coarsely powdered, is macerated in rectified spirit for
24 hours, with frequent stirring and then exhausted
by slow percolation. (The tincture contains salts of
;

and resinous matters, &c.)

added to this tincture in a bottle,

atropine, with colouring

Slaked lime is
shaken
is then occasionally
(Colouring matters are precipitated.)
b.

which

several

times.

Filter ; add diluted sulphuric acid in very slight

c.
(The excess
excess to the filtrate and filter again.
of lime is neutralized.)
;

Three-fourths of the alcohol is distilled off, and

water added to the residue, which is rapidly evaporated
until the liquor is reduced to one-third its volume, and
d.

ALKALOIDS.
no longer smells of alcohol, and then allowed to cooL
(A watery solution of salts of atropine, resins, sulphuric
acid, and calcic sulphate is formed.)
e. Solution of carbonate of potassium is added very
constant stirring, nearly to neutraliSet aside for six hours (resin precipitated)
filter; and add carbonate of potassium to a decided
{Atropine is precipitated.)
alkaline reaction.
cautiously, with
zation.

/ The whole is mixed with chloroform in a bottle,

by frequent brisk agitation, and the mixed liquids
poured into a funnel furnished with a glass stop-cock.
(The chloroform dissolves the atropine)
g.

When

drawn

the chloroform solution has subsided,

it is

by the stop-cock, and the chloroform

on a water-bath.

dis-

off

tilled off
/i.

The

residue of atropine is dissolved in warm

digested with animal charcoal (to de-

rectified spirit ;

it) ;
and the solution filtered, evaporated,
and cooled, until colourless crystals are obtained^
which are those of atropine.

colorize

Characters and Tests. a. Atropine

form of colourless acicular crystals.
b.

Sparingly

in water (i

soluble

in rectified spirit (i in 8)
c.

The

and

solution in water

is

in

in the

is

500)

more

in ether (i in 20).

alkaline

and has a

bitter taste.
d.

Atropine leaves no ash

access of

when burnt with

e.
It gives a citron-yellow precipitate
chloride of gold.

Pharmacy.
a.

Officinal Preparations

Atropince. Sulphas.

atropine,

free

air.

which

is

made

This

is

with

per-

an important

in the following

way

salt of


472

MATERIA MEDICA.

sulphuric acid gradually, stirring until the alkaloid

is
and the solution is neutral. Evaporate to
dryness under ioo
Sulphate of atropine is nearly colourless crystalline
;
or pulverulent ; soluble in water, the solution bein<^
dissolved,

neutral.

b. LamcllcR Atropines.
Discs of gelatine, with some
glycerine, each weighing about
grain, and containing soVs- grain of sulphate of atropine.

c.

Liquor Atropina Sulphatis =

^
d.

per cent.

Dissolve.

Unguentum Atropine.
Atropine,
Rectified

gr.

spirit,

Benzoated

lard,

3
51.
fl

|
)

Dissolve the atropine

the spirit, and mix
thoroughly with the lard.
in

Action. The effects of atropi.ie upon the system

are described under belladonna, whi^.h owes its activity
to this alkaloid.
(See Belladonna Root.)
Atropine
only used for the following purposes
Externally it is a powerful anodyne, and is employed in the form of ointment. Applied to the eye,
either in the form of solution or disc, it is a mydriatic.
Administered internally, or by subcutaneous injection, the solution acts as an anhydrotic and cardiac
sedative. Atropine is regarded as an antagonist to
morphine and eserine, and is consequently employed
in poisoning by opium or calabar bean.
A minute
quantity is also administered hypoderraically with
morphine, to prevent the injurious effects of this drug.
itself is

to
Of Solution of Sulphate,
Beberinse Sulphas Sulphate of Beberine.

Dose
3.

Ttx i

4.

Prepared from the bark of Nectandra Rodicei., the

Bebeeru tree. N.O. Lauracese. It is probably a

ALKALOIDS.

473

mixture of sulphates of beberine (C36H42N2O6), nectandrine (CjoHigNaOg), and other alkaloids.

Preparation. a. Coarsely powdered bebeeru bark

moistened thoroughly with sulphuric acid mixed with
allowed to macerate for twentywater (fl 5 i to C i)
four hours ; and then percolated with the remainder
(A solution of sulphate of
of the acidulated water.
is

formed.)
concentrated ; cooled ; milk of
lime gradually added, with agitation, but taking care
and
that the fluid still retains a distinct acid reaction
the mixture allowed to stand for two hours.
(Colouring matters are precipitated.)
c.
Filter through calico ; wash the precipitate with
a little cold water ; and to the filtrate add solution of
ammonia until it has a faint ammoniacal odour.
beberine, with colouring matters, &c., is
b.

The

solution

is

(Impure beberine

precipitated.)

is

Collect the precipitate on a cloth ; wash with cold

water, squeeze gently with the hand, and dry by a waterbath ; pulverize ; exhaust by boiling with successive
portions of rectified spirit ; and mix them together. (A
solution in spirit of nearly pure beberine is obtained.)
d.

e.

Add

distilled

water

distil to

recover the spirit

and add by degrees, with constant

stirring, diluted
sulphuric acid, till the fluid has a slight acid reaction.
(This is a solution of nearly pure sulphate of beberine.)
f. Evaporate to dryness on the water-bath ; pulverize ; pour on the powder gradually cold distilled water,

stirring diligently; filter

syrupy consistence
lain or glass

through paper; evaporate to a

and dry in thin layers on porceplates under 140

Preserve in stoppered
;

bottles.

Characters and Tests. . Sulphate of beberine

occurs in thin scales, dark brown, translucent, yellow
when in powder.
b. It is soluble in water, yielding
a clear brown
solution

and

in alcohol.


MATERIA MEDICA.

474
c.

has a strong bitter

It

taste.

The watery

d.

solution gives with caustic soda a

precipitate, wiiich is dissolved by

yellowish-white
agitating the mixture with twice its volume of ether.
The ethereal solution, separated by a pipette and
evaporated, leaves a yellow translucent residue, en-

tirely soluble in dilute acids.

e.

Ignited with free access of

air,

'Sulphate of bebe-

rine burns without residue.

Action. Sulphate of beberine acts as a bitter

tonic, antiperiodic, and antipyretic.

Dose
I

^"
I

gr. i to lo.

Caffeina

Caffeine.
Caffeinae Citras Citrate of Caffeine.

Source and Preparation.

i.
Caffeine is an
C8Hi(),N402,H20, (also named Theme and
Guaranine), usually obtained from the dried leaves of
Camellia T/iea, N.O. Ternstrcemiaceae, or the dried
seeds of Coffea Arabica, N.O. Cinchonacese, by
evaporating aqueous infusions from which astringent
and colouring matters have been removed.

alkaloid,

is a weak compound of caffeine

CgHioN^OajHgCgHjO^, and is made
the following way

2.

and
in

Citrate of caffeine

citric acid,

DissolvelS^^^.^,7^'5^'fl
Distilled water, fl
(

\,

and

stir

)'

Evaporate to
Caffeine, 5 i, into the heated solution.
dryness in a water-bath, constantly stirring towards
Reduce to a fine powder.
the end of the operation.

Characters and Tests.

less,

silky,

acicular crystals.

a.

Caffei7ie is in colour-

The

citrate is

a white

powder.
preparations are inodorous, but have a
b. Both
faintly bitter taste, the citrate being also acid.
c.
Caffeine is neutral, but the citrate has an acid

'

reaction on litmus.

ALKALOIDS.

475

Caffeine is soluble in 80 parts of cold water

more soluble in boiling water and rectified spirit, and
very soluble in chloroform ; sparingly soluble in ether.
The citrate is soluble in a mixture of 2 parts of
d.

With a
chloroform and i part of rectified spirit.
water it forms a clear syrupy solution, which on
dilution yields a white precipitate of caffeine that
redissolves when 10 parts of water have been added.
e.
At 212 the crystals of caffeine lose 8*49 per
cent, of their weight, and at a higher temperature
The
melt and volatihze without decomposition.
citrate, heated in the air, chars and burns, leaving a
littie

mere

trace of ash.

Tannic acid gives a white precipitate in an

aqueous solution, soluble in excess. Treated with a
crystal of chlorate of potassium and a few drops of
hydrochloric acid, and the mixture evaporated to
f.

dryness in a porcelain dish, a reddish residue results,

which becomes purple when moistened with solution

of ammonia.
These tests apply to caffeine and its
citrate.

The

latter gives the usual test for citric acid.

Action. Caffeine may be used as a cerebral or

nervine stimulant. It is chiefly employed, however, as a cardiac tonic and diuretic, especially
in the treatment of certain forms of dropsy.
Doses Of Caffeine, gr. i to 5 ; Citrate, gr. 2 to 10.

5.

Cocainse Hydrochloras Hydrochlorate of

Cocaine. Ci7H2iN04,HCl.
Source and Preparation. -The hydrochlorate of

an alkaloid obtained from the leaves of Eryt/iroxylon

Coca. N.O. Erythroxylacese.
It may be obtained
by agitating with ether an aqueous solution of an
acidulated alcoholic extract, made alkaline with carbonate of sodium
separating and evaporating the
ethereal liquid, purifying the product by repeating the
;

treatment with acidulated water, carbonate of sodium,

476

MATERIA MEDICA.

and ether

decolorizing

chloric acid,

neutralizing
recrystalUzing,

and

with hydro-

Characters and Tests. a. In almost colourless

acicular crystals or crystalline powder.
b. Readily soluble in water, alcohol, and ether.
c. Its solution in water has a bitter taste, and
produces on the tongue a tingUng sensation followed by
numbness.
d. The solution gives a yellow precipitate with
chloride of gold ; and a white precipitate with carbonate of ammonium, soluble in excess.
e.
The salt dissolves without colour in cold concentrated acids, but chars with hot sulphuric acid.
Ignited in the air it burns without residue.

Pharmacy.
LajnellcR

Officinal Preparation

Discs

of gelatine, with some

grain, and containof hydrochlorate of cocaine.
CocaincB.

glycerine, each weighing about

ir^g

Wo

gi"-

Action. Cocaine is mainly used as a local anoor anaesthetic, having a remarkable effect on
mucous surfaces when applied to them it speedily
paralyses the sensory nerves, and causes anaemia by
contracting the small vessels.
It has been more
especially employed in connection with the eye,
throat, and larynx, but is now made use of in surgical
practice in the performance of operations upon other

dyne

mucous

affect the skin, but

extensive anaesthesia when
administered,
Internally
injected subcutaneously.
the hydrochlorate of cocaine acts as a stimulant or

surfaces.

It

produces more or

restorative,

Dose

gr.

does not

less

like coca.
3-

to

i.

Physostigmine or
C15H21N3O2.
Source and Preparation. An alkaloid obtained
6.

Physostigmina
Eserine.

from

the

Alcoholic Extract of

Calabar Bean, by

477

ALKALOIDS.

adding bicarbonate of
dissolving the extract in water,
ether, and evaporasodium, shaking the mixture with
ting the ethereal liquid.

Characters and Tests.a.

or

colourless

In

pinkish crystals.
readily soluble
Slightly soluble in water,
b.
acids.
diluted
in
alcohol and
an alkalme reaction.
c The aqueous solution has
with dilute solution of
i. When warmed or shaken
evaporated to
potash it becomes red, and when
residue, the
bluish
a
leaves
dryness over a water-bath
dichroic,
beautifully
is
which
of
acidified solution

m
.

being blue and red.

Pharmacy.

Officinal Preparations

Discs of
Lamella Physostigmince.
about
weighing
each
glycerine,
some
containing

gelatine,

with

grain,

and

of physostigmine.

gr. yoijo

Action. Physostigmine

has

similar

actions

to

Calabar bean, but is principally used as a myotic,

It has also been employed
locally applied to the eye.
a spinal depressant,
as
injection
subcutaneous
by
in the treatment of certain convulsive diseases ; and
as an

7.

antagonist

and

to atropine

Pilocarpinge

chloral.

Nitras Nitrate of Pilocar-

pine. CaHieN^O^.HNOa.
Source and Preparation.

The

nitrate of

an

obtained from Extract of Jaborandi, by

shiking it with chloroform and alkali, evaporating the
chloroformic solution, neutralizing the product with

alkaloid

nitric acid,

and purifying by

powder or

in acicular crystals.

recrystallization.

Characters and Tests.

a.

In a white crystalline

in 8 or 9 parts of water at common

b. Soluble
temperatures sHghtly soluble in cold, freely soluble
in hot rectified spirit.
;

478

MATERIA MEDICA.

Strong sulphuric acid forms with it a

yellowish
on addition of bichromate of potassium, gradually acquires an emerald-green colour.
c.

solution, which,

Action. Pilocarpine is a powerful diaphoretic,

and it is for this purpose that it is generally employed
on the other hand, in very minute doses it is recomrnended as an anhydrotic. It increases other secretions, such as the saliva, nasal, and bronchial secretions,
and may thus be of service as a sialagogue or
expectorant. Pilocarpine is regarded as an antagonist to atropine.

Dose 01 Nitrate,
8.

gr.

-^-^

to \.

Strychnina Strychnine C21H22N2O2. An

prepared from Niix Vomica.

ganiacese.

alkaloid

N.'o.

Lo-

Preparation. a. Heat the split seeds to 212 for

3 hours, and then reduce them to powder.
b. Digest the
powder for 12 hours with rectified
spirit and distilled water (2 to i), gently heating;
strain through linen, express strongly, and repeat this
process twice.
(A tincture of salts of strychnine and
brucine, with colouring matters, &c.,
c.

and

Distil olf the spirit

filter

when

is

obtained.)

evaporate the watery residue

cold.

d. Add a solution of acetate of lead, so long as it

produces any precipitate ; filter ; and wash the precipitate with cold water, adding the washings to the
(Colouring matters, &c., are precipitated.)
filtrate.
e. Evaporate the clear liquid ; when it has cooled,
add solution of ammonia in slight excess, stirring thoroughly ; and let the mixture stand 12 hours.

(strychnine

and

brucine,

with

other matters, are

precipitated.)

Collect the precipitate on a filter ; wash it with

cold Avater ; dry in a water-bath or hot-air chamber
/.

479

ALKALOIDS.

spirit, till the

boil with successive portions of rectified
most of the
off
distil
;
bitter
fluid scarcely tastes
cool.
to
aside
set
and
evaporate \
spirit
;

{Strychnine, with a
white adherent crust

hrucine, crystallizes out as a

bnici?ie remains in solution.)

little
;

mother liquor ; and wash

g. Cautiously pour off the
the crust on a paper filter with a mixture of rectified
spirit and distilled water (2 to i), till the washmgs
cease to become red on the addition of nitric acid.
(Bntcine is thus separated.)
Dissolve it by boiling in

rectified spirit,

h.

aside

to

crystallize.

More

by evaporating the mother

crystals

may be

and

set

obtained

liquor.

Strychnine occurs in
or prisms
octahedrons
minute crystals = right square

Characters and Tests.

a.

colourless.
It has no odour ; but an intensely bitter taste.
Sparingly soluble in cold water (i in 5760), but
imparts to the solution its bitter taste ; boiling water
(i in 2500); soluble in boiling rectified spirit and in
chloroform, but not in absolute alcohol or in ether.
d. It leaves no ash when burned with free access
b.

c.

of

air.
e.

acid.

is not coloured by sulphuric or nitric

With sulphuric acid and bichromate of potas-

Strychnine

sium

acquires an intensely violet

it
passing through red to yellow.

Pharmacy.

Officinal Preparation

gr-

Diluted
acid,

hydrochloric
TTL

Rectified

14
spirit,

Distilled water,

fi
fl

5 i^-

speedily

Liqiior Strychnina Hydi'ochloratis

Strychnine, in crystals^

hue,

= shout

in 100.

Dissolve the strychnine in the acid,

mixed with fl 3 4 of
water, by the aid of
heat; add the spirit
and remainder of the
water.

48o

MATERIA MEDICA.

Action. Strychnine may be given as a stomachic

and general tonic. Its most obvious physiological
eiTect is that of a spinal stimulant or excitant,
causing increasing reflex muscular activity, and ultimately becoming a tetanizer. Strychnine further
acts as a respiratory stimulant, and a cardiac
stimulant and tonic. It is regarded as an antagonist to morphine, physostigmine, and chloral, and
has been recommended in cases of poisoning by these
agents.

Dose-Oi Strychnine,

gr.

^ ^
to

Solution,

Tti

to ID.

9.

Veratrina

Veratrine.

ture of alkaloids obtained from

pure.

An

alkaloid or mix-

Cevadilla, not quite

N.O. Melanthacese.

Preparation. a. Separate the seeds from the

capsules, after macerating cevadilla in boiling water,
squeezing, drying, and beating in a mortar, and grind

them
b.

in a coffee-mill.

Make them

into a thick paste with

7-ectified spirit,

and percolate until the spirit ceases to be coloured.

(A tincture containing gallatc of veratrine, resins, and
other ingredients

is

formed.)

Concentrate by distillation so long as no deposit

forms, and pour the residue, while hot, into twelve
c.

times

its

volume of cold

distilled water.

(Resins are

precipitated.)

through calico ; wash the residue on the

distilled water until the fluid ceases to
filter
precipitate with ammonia, and to the united filtered
liquids add solution of ammonia in slight excess.
(Impure veratrine is precipitated.)
Collect the precipitate on a filter, and wash it
e.
with distilled water till the fluid passes through
Diffuse the moist precipitate through
colourless.
d.

Filter

with

distilled water,

and add gradually hydrochloric

acid.

ALKALOIDS.
diligently stirring, sufficient to

make

the fluid feebly

(A solution of impure hydrobut persistently acid.

chlorate of veratrine is formed.)
/. Add purified animal charcoal^ and digest with a
(The solulittle heat for 20 minutes, filter, and cool.
tion

is

decolorized.)
solution of

ammonia in slight excess colon a filter, and wash it until the

washings cease to be affected by nitrate of silver
Dry the precipitate, first
acidulated with nitric acid.
by imbibition, with filtering paper, and then by the
g.

Add

lect the precipitate

application of warmth.

Characters and Tests.

a.

Veratrine

is

amor-

phous and pale grey.

b.

It

has no odour, but, even in the most minute

is powerfully irritating to the nostrils
the
strongly and persistently bitter, and highly

quantity,
taste

is

acrid.

Insoluble in water ; soluble in rectified spirit

II), ether (i in 6), and dilute acids, leaving
traces of an insoluble brown resinoid matter.
d. Veratrine dissolves in nitric acid, yielding a yellow
solution ; and in sulphuric acid, forming a deep red
solution, which exhibits a green fluorescence by reflected light.
Warmed with hydrochloric acid, it dissolves with production of a blood-red colour.
Heated with access of air, it melts into a yellow
e.
liquid, and at length burns away, leaving no residue.
c.

(i

in

Pharmacy

Officinal Preparation

Unguentiun Veratrina.

Rub
Veratrine,

Hard

gr. 8

Paraffin,

5 \

Soft Paraffin,
5 ^
Olive Oil, fl 3 I.'

and

oil

the
veratrine
together ; melt

the paraffins, and during cooling mix the

whole thoroughly
mortar until cold.
II

in

MATERIA MEDICA.

482

Action. Veratrine is merely employed externally

local anodyne, in the form of ointment. Internally it is a powerful irritant and depressant poison,

as a

and

is

never given.

Group XVI. NEUTRAL PRINCIPLES.

I.

Source and

CigHisO,.
Preparation. A
Aloin.

crystalline

sub-

stance extracted from Aloes by solvents, and purified

by crystallization. As obtained from the different
varieties of aloes, the products differ slightly, but their

medicinal properties are similar.

Characters.

a.

Aloin occurs usually in

tufts of

acicular crystals, of a yellow colour,

b. Inodorous ; having the taste of aloes.
Sparingly soluble in cold water, more so in cold
c.
Inrectified spirit, freely soluble in the hot fluids.

soluble in ether.
d.

Aloin

solutions

Action.

is

not readily altered in acidified or neutral

rapidly altered in alkaline fluids.

Aloin

is

given as a purgative, acting

on the lower bowel.

Dose

2.

gr.

to

2.

Elaterin. C20H28O5.
Preparation.

Elaterinum

Source and

Elaterin

is

the active

by
It may be
of Elateriiun.
to
ether
adding
exhausting elaterium with chloroform,
precipitate,
the
collecting
the chloroformic solution,
the latter with ether, and purifying by reobtained

principle

washing

crystallization

from chloroform.

Characters and Tests. .

small colourless crystals.

Elaterin

occurs

in

NEUTRAL PRINCIPLES.
It

b.

insoluble

is

sparingly

water,

in

soluble

in

rectified spirit.

has a bitter

It

c.

taste.

Heated with access of air, it first melts and then

burns, leaving no residue.
e. With melted
carbolic acid it yields a solution
which, on the addition of sulphuric acid, acquires a
d.

crimson colour, rapidly changing to

scarlet.

is not precipitated from solution by tannic

nor by the salts of mercury or platinum.

It

/.

acid,

Pharmacy.

Officinal Preparaiioji

Pulvis Elatei'ini Compositiis.

Elaterin,

Sugar of milk, 39.

Action. Elaterin
purgative.

Of

Doses
Powder,

gr.

3.

Source

Elaterin,

is

gr.

hydragogue

powerful

-^^

to

Compound

to 5.

Salicin. CiaHigO^.
Preparation. A

Salicinum
and

crystalline

glu-

coside obtained by treating the bark of Salix alba

and other species ; and the bark of various species of
Poptclus, with hot water, removing tannin and colouring matter from the decoction, evaporating, purifying,

and

recrystallizing.

Characters and Tests. ^.

Salicin

is

in the

form

of colourless shining crystals.

b.

It

has a very bitter

taste.

Soluble in about 28 parts of water or spirit at

common temperatures ; insoluble in ether.
d. Sulphuric acid colours it red.
A small quantity
heated with a little red chromate of potassium, a few
c.

II 2

MATERIA MEDICA.

484

drops of sulphuric acid and some water, yields

vapours of an oil having the odour of meadow-sweet.
The crystals melt when heated, and emit vapours
e.
having the odour of meadow-sweet. On ignition in
air they leave no residue.

Action. Salicin is chiefly employed as an antipyretic, and especially in the treatment of acute
Its action is similar to that of salicylic

rheumatism.
acid, but
it

it is

not

does

powerful ; it has the advantage that

tend to cause so much vascular de-

less

pression.

Dose

4.

gr. 3 to 20.

Santoninum

Santonin. CisH^sOa.

Source and Preparation.

crystalline princi-

N.O. Compositse.
ple prepared from Santonica.
a. Boil bruised Santonica with two successive portions of slaked lime and distilled water; strain through a
stout cloth, and express strongly ; and mix the strained
(A solution of santonin and oily matters, in
liquors.
combination with lime, is formed.)
decant the
b. Let the mixture setde
;

rate

with

fluid

to the liquor, while hot, add

diligent stirring, until the fluid

evapo-

hydrochloric acid,

has become

slightly and permanently acid ; and set aside for 5

{Santonin is precipitated ; oil separates on the
days.

surface.)
c.

Skim

off the

oil

carefully decant the greater

paper
part of the fluid; collect the precipitate on a
distilled
cold
with
filter; and wash it in succession
water, diluted solution of ammonia (fl. 5
and again with cold distilled water.

to

_fl.

(Acids

5),

and

colouring matters are removed.)

scrape it from the filter
d. Dry the precipitate
mix it with purified animal charcoal; digest with
;

NEUTRAL PRINCIPLES.
an hour, and boil for 10 minutes.
wash the charcoal with boiling

rectified spirit for half

hot;

while

Filter

the filtrate for 2 days in a

5 i) ; set aside
More ciystals may be
cool dark place to crystallize.
{Sa7iliquor.
mother
the
obtained by concentrating
spirit

(fl

tonin crystallizes out.)

Drain the

e.

in boiling spirit

crystals

and

purify

Santonin occurs in
rhombic prisms, colourless, but sunlight renders

Characters and Tests.

them
b.

Preserve in a bottle pro-

filtering paper in the dark.

tected from light.

flat

them by re-dissolving
and dry them on

recrystallizing

a.

yellow.
It

has a feebly bitter

taste.

Scarcely soluble in cold water, sparingly in

boiling water, but abundantly in chloroform and
boiling rectified spirit ; not dissolved by diluted
c.

mineral acids.
d.

Added

to alcohoHc solution of potash

it

yields a

violet-red colour.
e. Ignited with free excess of
leaving any residue.

Pharmacy.

air, it

Officinal Preparation

burns without

Trochisci Santonini = gx. i in each.

Made in the
usual way, with refined sugar, acacia, mucilage, and
distilled water.

Action. Santonin is an anthelmintic, especially

used to destroy the round worm. It sometimes causes
yellow vision, as well as unpleasant nervous and other

symptoms.

Dose

Of Santonin,

gr. 2 to 6

Lozenges,

to

6.

486

MATERIA MEDICA.

Group XVII, SPECIAL

ORGANIC

ACIDS.

In

this group are included certain peculiar acids

derived from the vegetable kingdom, which are officinal in the B.P.

IAcidum Gallicum Gallic

H3C,H305,H,0.

Acidum Tannicum

Acid.

Tannic Acid or
Tannin. C27H22O1,.
Source and Preparation. These two acids are

obtained from Galls, in which tannic acid exists in the

proportion of about 35 per cent., but gallic acid only
amounts to about 5 per cent. The former therefore
is merely extracted from the galls;
the latter is
prepared by a process by which the tannic acid is

changed into

gallic acid and glucose.

The methods
of obtaining the two acids may be thus contrasted
:

Tannic Acid.

Gallic Acid,

a. Expose poivdered galls to

a damp atmosphere for 2 or 3
days, and afterwards add sufficient ether to form a soft paste.

a. Boil r part of coarselypoivdered galls with 4 fluid

parts of diluted sjilphuric acid
for half an hour ; then strain
through calico while hot.
b. Collect the crystals that
are deposited on cooling, and
purify these with animal charcoal and repeated crystalliza-

b. After standing in a wellclosed vessel for 24 hours,

submit this paste to strong pressure, enveloped in a linen cloth;
powder the pressed cake ; again
form a soft paste with ether
bulk of
its
mixed with
water ; and press as before.
c. Evaporate the mixed expressed liquids, first spontaneously, and subsequently by the
aid of a little heat, to the
consistence of a soft extract
and dry on earthen plates or

dishes,

in

under 212.

a hot-air chamber

tion.

4^7

SPECIAL ORGANIC ACIDS.

.

Characters and Tests.These may

also be preorder to indicate in what

sented in a tabular form, in
and differ from each
respects the two acids resemble
other.

Gallic Acid.

Tannic Acid.
a.

In

vesicular

thin scales.
b.

Pale yellow colour

glis-

tening.

acicular

in

a. Crystalline,

or

masses

prisms or silky needles.

of pale fawn
b. Generally
nearly
sometimes
colour ;
white.

Strongly astringent taste ;

and acid reaction.
d. Readily soluble in water
and rectified spirit ; very spar-

c.

c.

ingly in ether.

Taste

much

Much

less soluble

d.

water
water
spirit

The aqueous

solution precipitates solution of gelatine

yellowish-white, and the pere.

a bluish-black

salts of iron of

in lOo)
(i in 3);
I in 8).

(i

/.

free access

Heated with

Pharmacy.

The

/.

The

dried

at

cold

in boiling
in rectified

crystalline acid when

212 loses 9-5 per

It leaves
cent, of its weight.
no residue when burned with
free access of air.

Officinal Preparations

i.

astrm-

solution
aqueous
gives a bluish-black precipitate
with persalts of iron, but no
precipitate with gelatine.
e.

colour.

of air, it partly melts, swells

up, blackens, and finally burns
away, leaving no residue.

less

gent.

are chiefly made from

They
tannic acid, there being only one of gallic acid.
may be arranged thus

The

officinal preparations

a.

tively

Glycerinum

by

Made respec

stirring

?:nnicl1d \ 5

^'

together

in

porcelain

^1>^-^^^^' ^ 5

4,

dish

and apply-

ing a temperature not exceeding that of a water-bath

until complete solution is effected.
Made with oil of
b. Suppositoria Acidi Tannici.

theobroma,
tannic acid.

each suppository

containing

gr.

of

488

MATERIA MEDICA.

c.
Suppositoria Acidi Tannici cum Sapone.
Made
with glycerine of starch, curd soap, and starch.
Each
suppository contains gr. 3 of tannic acid.
d. Trochisci Acidi
Tannici.
Made with refined
sugar, gum acacia, mucilage, and tincture of tolu.
Each lozenge contains gr. \ of tannic acid.

Licompatibles.

2.

alkalies

of iron

a. Tannic acid.
Mineral acids;
of antimony, lead, and silver ; persalts
vegetable alkaloids ; gelatine
and emul-

salts

sions.
b.

Gallic acid.

Metallic salts

of nitre.

spirit

Action. Both gallic and tannic acids are powerful

astringents and styptics. Tannic acid acts best
locally

gallic acid

is

considered preferable as

an

internal astringent.

Of either Acid,

Dose
2.

gr. 2 to

10

Lozenges,

to

6.

Acidum Benzoicum Benzoic Acid.

An acid obtained from Benzoin, and pre-

HC7H5O2.

pared by sublimation.

Not chemically

Character and Tests.

a.

pure.

Benzoic acid

light, feathery, flexible, crystalline

plates

is

in

and needles,

nearly colourless.
It has an agreeable aromatic odour, resembling
that of benzom.
Benzoic acid is sparingly soluble in water, but
c.
readily in rectified spirit ; soluble also in solutions of
the alkalies and of lime, forming benzoates, and it is
precipitated from these by hydrochloric acid, unless
the solution be very dilute.
d. It melts at 248, boils at 462, and then passes
off in vapour, leaving only a slight residue.

Pharmacy. I.

Officinal Prepa^-atio^i

Trochisci Acidi Benzoici.

gum
gr.

acacia,

and mucilage.

^ of benzoic

acid.

Made

with refined sugar,

Each lozenge contains

SPECIAL ORGANIC ACIDS.

489

Benzoic acid is used in the preparation of Ammonias Benzoas and is also an ingredient in Tinctura
Camphorte Composita, and Tinctura Opii Ammoniata.
2.

Action. Locally benzoic acid has been used as an

antiseptic and germicide. Internally administered,
as an antiit is supposed to act on the general system
septic and antipyretic. In connection with the
a stimulant expectorant.
the urinary apparatus it acts as a diuretic
also increases the acidity of the urine, in which

respiratory organs

Upon
and

it

it

is

appears partly as hippuric acid.

it

Z>^;j^ Of Benzoic Acid, gr. 10 to

I

15; Lozenges,

to 5.

3.

Acidum
An

H3C7HO,.

Characters and Tests.

micaceous

in

b.

Meconic

Meconicum

Acid.

acid obtained from Opium.

a.

Meconic acid occurs

crystals, nearly colourless.

sparingly soluble in water, readily soluble

It is

in alcohol.

The

c.

solution in water has a strong acid taste

and

reaction.
d. This solution is coloured red by neutral solution
of perchloride of iron, the colour being discharged by
strong but not by diluted hydrochloric acid.
It gives

no

precipitate with solution of iodine

and iodide of

potassium.

Pharmacy.

Meconic

into the B.P. for the

acid is merely introduced

purpose of making Liquor Mor-

pldnce Bimecoiiatis,

4.

Acidum Oleicum Oleic

Source and Preparation.

Acid.

fluid

HC18H33O2.
fatty

acid,

obtained by the saponification of olein, or by the action

of superheated steam on fats, with subsequent separa-

MATERIA MEDICA.

490

tion from solid fats

pure.

by

Usually not quite

pressure.

Characters and Tests.

Oleic acid

a.

is

a straw-

0*860 to 0*890.
b. It is nearly tasteless and odourless, and with not
more than a very faint reaction. Unduly exposed to
the air, it becomes brown and decidedly acid.
coloured liquid; of

c.

sp. gr.

but readily soluble in

It is insoluble in water,

alcohol, chloroform, and ether.

d. At 40 to 41 oleic acid becomes semi-solid,
melting again at 56 to 60.
e.
It should be completely saponified when warmed
with carbonate of potassium, and an aqueous solution
of this salt neutralized by acetic acid, and treated with
acetate of lead, should yield a precipitate which, after
washing in boiling water, is almost entirely soluble in

ether.

Pharmacy.

Oleic acid

B.P. for the purpose of

and Zinc.

5.

Acidum

is

only introduced into the

making the Oleates of Mercury

Salicylic

Salicylicum

Acid.

HC7H5O3.
Source and Preparation.

crystalline

acid

obtained by the combination of the elements of carbolic

acid with those of carbonic acid gas, and subsequent
purification ; or from natural salicylates, such as the
oils of wintergreen {Gaiiltheria procui7ibens) and sweet
birch {Betula lenta).

Characters and Tests.

in white acicular crystals.

b. It is inodorous, but light

then irritating to the nostrils

then acid.
c.

It

ordinary

a.

and
;

Salicylic acid occurs

easily diffused,

taste at first

and

sweetish,

soluble in 500 to 700 parts of water at

temperatures; readily soluble in alcohol,

is

SPECIAL ORGANIC ACIDS.

ether,

491

and hot water; soluble also in solutions of

ammonium, phosphate of sodium,

citrate or acetate of

or borax.

about 311, and below 392

decomposition.
volatilize without
The aqueous solution gives with solution of
e.
An
perchloride of iron a reddish-violet colour.
alcoholic solution allowed to evaporate spontaneously
should leave a perfectly white residue.
d.

The

crystals melt at

Pharmacy.

i.

Officinal Preparation:

Unguentum Acidi

2.

Salicylici.

Salicylic Acid, i

Soft Paraffin, 18

Salicylic

Acid

is

Melt the paraffins, add the

and stir constantly

acid,

used in making Sodii Salicylas.

Action. Externally salicylic acid is an antiseptic

and disinfectant, being extensively used in surgical
it is also a local anhydrotic.
practice
Internally
employed as an antipyretic, and is
it is chiefly
looked upon almost as a specific in rheumatic fever
it is also given as an antiseptic and antiperiodic.
Remotely it increases the acidity of the urine, and has
hence been employed for its effect upon the urinary
passages it is liable to irritate the kidneys, and may
;

cause albuminuria or hsematuria.

Salicylic acid is a
hepatic stimulant, but tends to make the bile more
wateiy, and has consequently been recommended as a

remedy

gall-stones.
In full doses this drug is
cause unpleasant or dangerous symptoms,
such as headache, noises in the ears, deafness, and
giddiness; or symptoms of depression of the cardiac and
respiratory functions, which may come on suddenly,
with collapse.
It may produce a skin-eruption, like
that of measles.
The salicylate of sodium is generally
given in preference to the acid.
liable

for

to

Dose

gr. 5 to 30.

MATERIA MEDICA.

492

Group XVIIL MISCELLANEOUS DRUGS.

There are a few officinal therapeutic agents derived
from the vegetable kingdom, which cannot be classified under any of the foregoing groups, and these
must be considered itidividually.
1. Gossypium Cotton
Wool.The hairs of
the seed of Gossypium Barbadense and other species,
from which fatty matter and all foreign impurities have

N.O. Malvaceae.
Characters and Tests. Cotton wool

been removed.

is

in white

each consisting of an elongated tubular

cell, appearing under the microscope as a flattened
twisted band, with slightly thickened rounded edges;
inodorous and tasteless.
It should readily be wetted
by water, to which it should not communicate either
an alkaline or acid reaction. On ignition in air it
soft filaments,

burns, leaving less than

per cent, of ash.

Pharmacy. Cotton wool

purpose of making pyroxylin.
tective.
2.

mg

Pyroxylin.
iir

in the

is

It

This substance
-

Cotton Wool, 5

m
-

i,

B. P. for the

is

a valuable pro-

is

made by immers-

Suliihuric acid,

^^^^^

^^^^^

^ ^

fl

^ 5
^

},

porcelain mortar, and stirring for 3 minutes with a

washing with water, by repeated affusion,
;
agitation, and decantation, until the washings give no
draining the proprecipitate with chloride of barium
duct on filtering paper ; and drying in a water-bath.
glass rod

Tests.

Pyroxylin

of ether and

readily soluble in a mixture

rectified spirit; it leaves no residue

when exploded by

is

heat.

Pharmacy. Pyroxylin is introduced into the B.P.

Collodium
for the purpose of making Collodium,
Flexile,

and Collodium Vesicans.

MISCELLANEOUS DRUGS.
(

493

Collodium Collodion.
Collodium Flexile Flexible Collodion.

^"
1

Preparation.
Pyroxylin, 5

i,

i.

Collodion

prepared by adding
^^"'^^^

to

j|^^SeVspirit, fl 5 12
a few days ; and decanting, if necessary.

aside for

2.

is

Flexible collodion
a mixture of

Collodion,

is

5 12

^^^^^^ q-,^
^

Characters.

fl

^^^^^

forms of collodion are

colourless liquids ; highly inflammable.
b. They have a strong ethereal odour.
They dr^' rapidly upon exposure to the air, and
c.
leave a thin transparent film, insoluble in water or
rectified spirit. Collodion contracts in drying flexible
collodion does not contract.

Both

Action. Both forms of collodion are used as

protectives ; they are also slight styptics.
4.

Kamala Wurrus.

powder which

consists

of the minute glands and hairs obtained from the

surface of the fruits of Mallotiis Fhilippine?isis {Rottlera
tinctorid).

N.O. Euphorbiacese.

Characters and Tests.

a.

Kamala

is

granular mobile powder, of a brick-red or

fine

madder

colour.
b.
c.

It is nearly tasteless and inodorous.

Water has scarcely any effect on

it,

boiling temperature, but it forms deep-red

with alcohol, ether, or chloroform.

even

at a

solutions

d. Under the microscope it is seen to consist of

irregular spherical flattened or depressed garnet-red
glands with wavy surfaces, mixed with nearly colourless thick-walled stellate hairs.
e.

On

ignition in air

most 10 per

cent, of ash.

it

should yield 4 or

5,

or at

::

494

MATERIA MEDICA.

Action. Kamala
tor

tape-worm

it

is

has

an anthelmintic, emploveu
the advantage of actin- as

a purgative at the same time.

Dose^. 30 to 5 i

Liquida
5. Pix
Tar. A bituminous liquid
obtamed from the wood of Pimis sylvestris and
other
species, by destructive distillation.
N.O. Coniferse.

Characters.

Tar is a dark-brown or blackish

substance, of a well-known
peculiar
aromatic odour. Water agitated with it acquires
a
pale-brown colour, sharp empyreumatic taste, and
acid reaction.
semi-liquid

Pharmacy.

Officinal Preparaiion

Ungue?itwn Picis'Liquidce.

Yellow wax, 2.
Melt the wax at a low temperature, add the
and stir the mixture briskly while it cools.
(

tar,

Action. Tar is chiefly used in the form of ointment, as a stimulant application in certain skindiseases.
It
may be inhaled as a stimulant

expectorant.

6. Cerevisise Fermentum
Beer Yeast. The
ferment obtained in brewing beer, and produced by
Saccharomyces {Toriila) CerevisicR.
It is a viscid,
semi-fluid, frothy substance, exhibiting under the
microscope numerous isolated roundish or oval cells, or
short branched filaments composed of united cells ;

odour peculiar,

Pharmacy.

taste bitter.

Officinal Preparation

Beer yeast,
I

Mix

Wheaten
Water at

fl

5 6

flour,

514

100,

fl

the yeast with the water, and stir in the

Place the mass near the fire till it rises.

6.

flour.

'

MISCELLANEOUS DRUGS.

495

Action. The poultice of yeast is antiseptic and

sedative. Yeast itself has been administered internally as an antiseptic.

5 i

Dose

to

I.

Mica Panis

7.

part of bread

Crumb

of bread.

made with wheaten

flour.

The
It

soft

is

an

ingredient in Cataplasma Carbonis.

Amylum

8.
Starch. The starch procured from
the grains of common wheat, Triticimt sativum or
vulgare ; maize, Zea Mays ; and rice, Oryza sativa.

Characters and Tests. Starch occurs in fine

powder, or in irregular angular or columnar masses,
which are readily reduced to powder ; white, inodorous.
When rubbed with cold distilled water, the
mixture is neutral in reaction, and the filtered liquid is
not coloured blue with iodine.
Mixed with boiling
water and cooled, it gives a deep blue colour with
iodine.
Under the microscope the different forms of
starch present characteristic appearances.
(See B P
p. 48.)

Pharmacy.

i.

Officinal Preparations

Starch,
I

Stir together in

Glycerine, 5
Distilled water,

3.

a porcelain dish, and apply heat,

ring constantly until a translucent jelly is formed.
b.

stir-

Mucilago AmyliA

J^^'^'F

I Distilled water, fl
10.
Triturate the starch with the water, gradually
added
then boil for a few minutes, constantly stirring.

Starch is used in making two of the

Suppositories '
contained in Pulvis Tragacanthte Compositus.
Glycerine of starch is used in the
preparation of
2.

and

is

three Suppositories.

MATERIA MEDICA.

496

Mucilage of starch

Enemata except one

Action.
Internally

Starch
it is

is

an ingredient

in all the officinal

(Asafoitida).

is

demulcent and emollient.

nutrient.

Theriaca

Treacle.

The

uncrystallized

residue of the refining of sugar.

9-

SaccharumPuriflcatum

Refined Sugar.

N.O. Graminacese.

Characters and Tests.

Treacle

is a well-known
not crystallizing
by rest or spontaneous evaporation. Sp. gr. about

thick, fermentable syrup, very sweet

It is free

40.

from empyreumatic odour or

or "lump sugar,"
loaves, compact, white, and crystalline.

Refined sugar,

is

in

flavour.

conical

Readily and

completely soluble in water, forming a clear bright

no red or yellowish precipitate, or

trace,
on
a
heating it to near the boiling
scarcely
point of water for a short time with a little solution of
sulphate of copper and excess of solution of potash.
syrup, which yields

Pharmacy.

i.
(

j_

Syrtcpus.
-j

Officinal Preparation
Refined sugar, tb

i;

Distilled water,

2.

Dissolve with the aid of heat, and after cooling add

Sp. gr.
distilled water to make the weight = lb 7^.
I-330Treacle

2.

Pills

and

is

Morphinge.

is used in the preparation of several

an ingredient in Tinctura Chloroformi et
Sugar or syrup is an ingredient in many

confections, lozenges, mixtures, pills, powders, syrups,

and other preparations, being intended to give cohesion
or consistence, to suspend substances, to preserve from
chemical changes, or to act as a flavouring agent.

Action.

Treacle

trient, and
chiefly

is

demulcent

used for

its taste.

Sugar is nuform of syrup j it is

an aperient.
in the


THE ANIMAL KINGDOM.

497

THE ANIMAL KINGDOM.

The therapeutic agents derived from the Animal
kingdom may be conveniently discussed according to
the following plan

I.

Living Animal.

Hirudo The Leech.

I.

Class, Annelida.

The

leech has a soft body, smooth, 2 or more inches

long,
tapering to each end, plano-convex, WTinkled
transversely; back olive -green, with 6 rusty-red
longitudinal
stripes.
There are two varieties of leech, namely :
(a)

Satigtiisuga 7nedicmalis, the speckled leech

which

has a greenish-yellow belly, spotted with

black.
{b) S. officinalis, the green leech
; in which the belly
IS ohve-green and not
spotted.

Leeches are collected in Spain, France, Italy,

and
Hungary. They are used for the local
removal of
blood, each drawing from i to 2 drachms.

II.
I.

Dead

Insects.

Cantharis Cantharides.

tharis

Vestcatoria,

Blister

Beetle,

The
or

dried CauSpanish Fly

Or6tr Coleoptera. Chiefly collected

in Russia, Sicily
and Hungary.
These insects swarm on the trees
about May or June, and are collected
by shaking the
branches or brushing them off
by masked persons,
^^*s
they are then

wfpn't

,^^^^^f''^^^-~^-^^'^^'^^r[dLe^ is from about | to

an inch long, and
i inch broad.
It has two long
elytra or wing-sheaths,
of a

KK

MATERIA MEDlCA.

498

shining coppery-green colour, under which are two

brownish, transparent, membranous wings.
The powder is greyish-brown, and contains
c.
shining green particles of the elytra.
d. The odour is peculiar, strong, and disagreeable
the taste burning.

thin,

Composition.
rides are

The

chief constituents of cantha-

Cantharidine, the active principle

a crystalline,
chiefly
soluble
in
ether,
chloroform,
;

a.

volatile substance

and

glacial acetic acid.

b.
e.

Oily and fatty principles.

Green and yellow colouring matters.

Adulterations and Impurities.

Cantharides is
coloured
glass
tubes
and
beads ; and
with
adulterated
The powder should be free
with the golden beetle.
from mites as an impurity.

Pharmacy.
a.
I

Officinal Preparations

Acetum Cantharidis.

Brown;

sp.

gr.

about

060.
-

(,)

Digest for Jwo

hours at 200

Cantharides, in powder, ^ 2

^ .^^

(.j^^.^j
I

Acetic acid,

fl

13.

when

cold ; pour acetic acid, fl 5 5,

over the residuum ; press and filter the product mix
the liquids and add acetic acid to make O i.

Percolate

(ii)

Charta Epispastica

b.

Blistering paper.
White wax, 5 4

(i)

Digest in a waterbath for 2 hours,

stirring constantly.

(ii)

Strain,

Spermaceti,
Olive oil, fl 5 2
Resin, 5 J
Cantharides, in powder, 5
Distilled water, fl 5 6.

and separate the

plaster from the watery

|

.fluid.

THE ANIMAL KINGDOM.

Melt the plaster in a shallow

(iii)

with

it

Canada balsam, 5

499
and mix

vessel,

^.

(iv) Pass strips of paper over the surface

of the
hot liquid, so that one side of the paper shall receive
a thin coating of plaster.

may

It

be convenient to employ paper ruled so as

each of which is a square inch.

to indicate divisions,

Blistering

Emplastnim Cantkartdis

c.

(i)

Liquefy by
water-bath

Add

(ii)
(iii)

Resin,

i,

T^^'
Prepared suet,
Prepared lard,

2,

previously melted.

Mix thoroughly

and contmue

plaster.

Cantharides,

to stir the mixture until

powder

in
it is

'

'

cold.

Emplastriim Calefacie7is~Warming plaster.

d.

Infuse for ( Cantharides, in coarse

powder ^ 4I
6 hours
\ Boiling water,
i
squeeze strongly through calico and
;
evaporate by a
water-bath to one-third.
(i)

(\\\
(11;

AdH
Add

'

Expressed oil of nut'

meg, 5 4
Yellow wax, 5 4
^^^.^^

"^

54

Soap plaster, ft 2
Resin plaster, ft

e.

(i)

Melt by a waterand
Wstir until

bath,

^iO.

Vl,J_l,J.i

thoroughly mixed.
J.

Liquor EpispasticusBlistering
Liquid.

Mix and pack

percolator

in

Cantharides,
|
)

in

powder,

3 5
Acetic ether,

fl
(
5 3.
In 24 hours percolate slowly
with acetic
until fl. 5 20 are obtamed.

(ii)

ether,'

Collodium VesicansBlistering
Collodion.
Dissolve by shaking in
a ( Pyroxylin, 5 i
stoppered bottle
\

Blistering'lfquid,
KK. 2

fl

5 20.

MATERIA MEDICA.

500
g.

Tincture of Cantharides.

Tindiira Cantharidis

Cantharides,

powder, 5 \
Proof spirit, O
h.

in

coarse

[
\

i.

Unguentum

Macerate 7 days strain,

and filter and make
up to O i.
;

press,

Ointinent

Cantharidis

of Caiitha-

rides.

Infu
n u ef

(i)
;

'"'^^^

2 )
r 12

pla-ce

the

vessel in boiling

Qa,ntharides, ^ i
hours in a covered y^,a '^'^^
Olive oil, n =j 6
vessel,
'

water
for
^
minutes.

i ^

(ii) Strain through muslin with strong pressure

the product to yellow wax, 5 i, previously melted
stir constantly while the mixture cools.

;
;

add
and

Action. Cantharides is chiefly employed exteran irritant, being either rubefacient or

vesicant, according to the preparation used. Internally it acts as a stimulant diuretic, and aphrodisiac, but tends to cause dangerous irritation of the
kidneys and genito-urinary mucous membrane ; it
may also produce an emmenagogue effect.
nally, as

Dose Of Tincture,

well-diluted,

Cochineal.

m5

to 20.

The

dried female
Reared on
Class Hemiptera.
insect, Coccus Cacti.
is
Cochineal
species.
Opuntia cochinillifera and other
female
the
When
Teneriffe.
brought from Mexico and
insects are fecundated, they are swept off the trees,
2.

killed

Coccus

by immersion

in boiling water,

and

dried.

about i inch
or concave
long; somewhat oval in outline,
wrinkled
transversely
convex above ;
beneath,
to
reduced
easily
purplish-grey;
purphsh-black or
When
puce-coloured.
or
powder, which is dark-red
macerated in water no insoluble matter is separated.
more than
Ignited with free access of air, not much
I per cent, remains.

Character and Tests. Cochineal

is

flat

THE ANIMAL KINGDOM.

Cochineal contains a colouring matter, known as
ca7-mmic acid.
is a dibasic acid

carmine, which

Pharmacy.

i.

Tinciura Cocci

Officinal Preparation

Tincture of

Cochijieal.

Macerate
I

filter

up

days

press,

stain,

and

to

and

make

I.

2.
Cochineal is contained in Tinctura Cardamomi
Coraposita, and Tinctura Cinchonse Composita.

Action.

Cochineal

is

chiefly used as a colouring

supposed to act as a
tive in whooping-cough.
agent.

III.

I.

It is

pulmonary seda-

Parts of Animals, Modified or

Prepared.

Adeps Praeparatus Prepared

purified internal fresh fat of the

abdomen
Ungtclata.
The

Sns

Scrofa.
Class,
directions for its preparation, but
purpose to describe them here.

Characters and Tests.

it

lard.
of the
B.

The

Hog

P. gives

can serve no useful

Lard

is

a white,

soft,

fatty substance,

melting at about 100.

should not have a rancid odour.

b.

It

c.

It dissolves entirely in ether.

d. Distilled water, in which it has been

boiled, when
cooled and filtered, gives no precipitate with nitrate
of silver, and is not rendered blue by the addition
of
solution of iodine.
This shows the absence of salt
and starch, used as adulterations.

Pharmacy.

I.

Officinal

Preparation

Adeps Benzoatus Benzoated Lard. Melt prepared

lard, I lb., by the heat of a water-bath
add Benzoin,
;

502

MATERIA MEDICA.

140, reduced to coarse powder ; continue the

application of lieat for two hours, frequently stirring

gr.

remove the
2.

in

residual benzoin

by

straining.

Prepared lard is contained in four Ointments, and

Bcnzoatcd lard is used

Emplastrum Cantharidis.

in the preparation of the larger majority of the officinal

Ointments.

Action.
2.

Lard

Class,
103.

an emollient and protective.

Sevum Praeparatum Prepared

internal fat of the

Suet

is

is

abdomen

of the sheep

The
Suet.
Ovis Aries.

Unznlata purified by melting and straining.

white, smooth, almost scentless ; fusible at
It is composed almost entirely of stearine, with
oleine and palmitine, being the hardest of all

a little
the solid

fats.

Pharmacy.

Prepared

plastrum Cantharidis, and

suet

is

contained in EmHydrargyri.

Unguentum

Isinglass is recognised in the Appendix of the

This substance is the swimming-bladder or
sound of various species of Acipenser (Sturgeon), preIt consists of gelatine.
pared and cut into fine shreds.
It
for tannic acid.
test
employed
as
a
A solution is
demulcent.
and
is nutritious
3.

B. P.

4.

Os Ustum Bone

ash.

This

is

the residue

of bones which have been burned to a white ash in

It consists principally of phosphate
contact with air.
of calcium, mixed with about 10 percent, of carbonate
of calcium, and a little fluoride of calcium, silica, and
phosphate of magnesium.

Pharmacy. Bone Ash is used in the preparation

of Phosphate of Calcium, and Phosphate of Sodium.

THE ANIMAL KINGDOM.

IV. Secretions or their Constituents.

Lac Milk.

1.

fresh milk of the

Class, Ungulata.

Taurus.
for

The

It is

Cow

Bos

only used in the B.P.

making Mistura Scammonii.

Saccharum Lactis

2.

Sugar

of Milk.

sugar Lactose, obtained from the whey

It is usually in cylindrical
of milk by evaporation.
with a cord or stick in
diameter,
masses, 2 inches in
the axis
or in fragments of cakes ; greyish-white and
translucent ; crystalline on the surface and in its
texture ; hard, and gritty when chewed faintly sweet
scentless.
Soluble in about seven parts of water at
common temperatures, and in about one part of boiling
crystallized

water.

Pharmacy. Sugar of milk is introduced into the

B.P. for the purpose of conveniently dividing the dose
of elaterinum in Pulvis Elaterini Compositus.
3.

Mel

posited
tnellifica.

Honey.

in

the

saccharine

secretion

honeycomb by the Hive

Class, Hymenoptera.

bee

deApis

Its characters are

so

known, that they need no description. It is

liable to be adulterated with starch, which is detected
by water with which it has been boiled for five minutes,
and allowed to cool, becoming blue with solution of
well

Incinerated, it should not yield more than

0-2 per cent, of ash, the solution of which in water
acidulated with nitric acid should not afford more
than a slight turbidity with solution of chloride of
iodine.

barium.

Pharmacy. I. Officinal Preparations

Mel depicratmn Clarified honey. Prepared by

a.

melting in a water-bath, and straining, while hot,

through flannel, previously moistened with warm water.

504
b.

MATERIA MEDICA.
Oxyniel.
Clarified honey,
5
Acetic acid, fl 5 5

Distilled water,

Lose
2

Mel
_

fl

40

Liquefy the honey by

and mix with the

heat,

65 5,

acid and water.

to 2.

Clarified honey is contained in three Confections,

Boracis, and Oxymel Scillae.

Action. Honey may be used

lient.

Internally

it

is

locally as an emola flavouring agent, laxative,

and nutrient.
4.

Cera Flava et Alba Yellow and White

The honeycomb melted in boiling water and

Wax.

cooled constitutes yellow wax.

When this is bleached
by exposing it to moisture, air, and light, it forms white
wax. The appearances of these two forms of wax are
sufficiently familiar.
They should not be unctuous
to the touch.
They should be readily and entirely
soluble in hot oil of turpentine ; but should not yield
more than 3 per cent, to cold rectified spirit, and
nothing to water or to a boiling solution of soda.
They are liable to be adulterated with lard, suet,
tallow, resin,

and

starch.

Pharmacy.- y(?//(7zc/ wax

is used as an ingredient
Ointments and Plasters, and in Pilula PhosThe ointments keep for a longer time without

in several
phori.

becoming

than

rancid,

if

made

with

white

wax.

(Squire.)

White

wax

Unguentum

is an ingredient in Unguentum Cetacei,

Simplex, and Charta Epispastica.

Unguentum Simplex.
White wax, 5 2
Benzoated lard, 5

Almond

oil,

fl

3-

THE ANIMAL KINGDOM.

Action.Wax
employed

5.

an emollient.

is

It

chiefly

is

to give consistence to ointments.

Cetaceum

Spermaceti.

concrete

fatty

substance, obtained, mixed with oil, from the head of

the Physeter Macrocephahis, or Sperm Whale, belongIt is separated from the oil by
ing to the Cetacea.
It
filtration and pressure, and afterwards purified.
consists of nearly pure Cctine or palmitate of

and

Characters

Tksts.

crystalline substance, scarcely

cetyl.

Spermaceti is a
a.
unctuous to the touch.

b.

It is pearly-white, glistening, translucent.

c.

It

d.

has but

It is

little

taste or odour.

powder by the addition of a

reducible to

little rectified spirit.

Melting-point 111 to 122.

Insoluble
in water ; soluble in ether, chloroform,
/.
and boiling rectified spirit.
e.

Pharmacy

Officiiial

i.

Unguentiim

Preparation

Cetacei.

Spermaceti, 5
White wax,

52

Almond

oil,

\;

add

Benzoin, in coarse powder, 5 \, and continue the

heat for 2 hours, frequently stirring; strain the
residual benzoin, and stir constantly until cold.
2.

Spermaceti

is

contained in Charta Epispastica.

Action.

Spermaceti

mulcent.

It is chiefly

is

an emollient and de-

used externally.

6. Pepsin.
preparation of the mucous lining
of the fresh and healthy stomach of the pig, sheep, or
calf.
It is made by cleansing the mucous membrane
scraping it with a blunt knife or other suitable in;

5o6

MATERIA MEDICA.

strument; and quickly drying the viscid pulp thus

obtained under ioo, spread over the surface of glass
or glazed earthenware.
Pepsin thus prepared is a
light yellowish-brown powder; with a faint, but not
disagreeable odour, and slightly saline taste.
Very
soluble in water or spirit.
Two grains with
Distilled water, fl ^ i
(
...
1

little

Hydrochloric acid,

m5

^'^^ ^^''^^^^

^^^^t

100

grains of hard-boiled white of egg, passed through

wire gauze of a certain mesh, when well mixed,

and well

digested,

stirred

together

30 minutes

for

at 130.

Action,

Dose

7.

Fel

Pepsin

is

a digestant.

gr. 2 to 5.

Bovinum Purificatum Purified Ox-

The

Ox Bos

Taurus.
It
prepared by evaporating fresh ox-bile, mixing with
rectified spirit, decanting and filtering, distilhng off
most of the spirit, and evaporating by the heat 0 f
a water-bath to a pilular consistence.
Ox-gall is a yellowish-green substance ; with a
sweet and bitter taste ; soluble in water and spirit.
Its watery solution gives no precipitate on adding
bile.

purified gall of the

is

rectified spirit.

as

Action. Ox-gall
an aperient.

Dose
8.

is

a substitute for

bile,

and

acts

gr. 5 to 10.

Moschus Musk.

The

dried secretion from

the preputial follicles of the Moschus moschiferus, the

Musk Deer, belonging to Ungulata. Each sac yields
from 103 to 200 grains. There are two varieties of
musk imported, namely, China or Thibet, which is
It is in the
the better, and Russian or Siberian.

>

THE ANIMAL KINGDOM.

form of somewhat unctuous, irregular grains ; of a dark
reddish-brown or reddish-black colour ; with a strong,
peculiar, diffusible, penetrating,

and persistent odour

contained in a roundish
and a bitterish taste.
or oval sac, from about i J to 2 inches in diameter,
nearly smooth on one side, and covered on the other
or outer side by brownish-yellow or greyish adpressed
bristle-like hairs concentrically arranged around a
Musk is soluble in water and
nearly central orifice.
alcohol.
It consists of a peculiar odorous principle,
It is

volatile oil,

ammonia,

albumen, and

salts.

cholesterine, stearine,

oleine,

It

should be free from earthy

stimulant and anti-spas-

impurities.

Action.

Musk

is

modic.

Dose

V.
I.

gr. 5 to 10.

Preparation from an Organ.

Oleum Morrhuae

Cod-liver

oil.

The

oil

extracted from the fresh liver of Gadus Morrhua, the

Cod. Class, Pisces. It is obtained by the application
of a heat not exceeding 180.
Cod-liver oil contains
glycerine, oleic, margaric, butyric, and acetic acids
gaduhi, a peculiar substance ; biliary principles ; a
small quantity of iodine, with traces of bromine,
chlorine, phosphorus, and salts.
The best oil is paleyellow, with a slight fishy odour, and bland fishy
taste.

Action. Cod -liver oil is a valuable nutrient,

and thus indirectly becomes a tonic and hsematinic ;
it is also an alterative in certain conditions.

Dose?L 3

to 8.


5o8

MATERIA MEDICA.

VI.
The

Ovum

Egg.

egg of Ga//us Bandiva, the Coimnon Fowl.

Is officinal in the following forms

Class, Aves.
1.

Ovi

Albumen Egg Albumen.

The

liquid

white of the egg.

2. Ovi
Vitellus
Yolk of egg, which
ingredient in Mistura Spiritus Vini Gallici.

Action.
cent.

White of egg may be used

Internally eggs are nutrient.

as a

is

an

demul-


SUMMARY OF OFFICINAL PREPARATIONS. 509

Section IV.

SUMMARY OF OFFICINAL PREPARATIONS.

The

have already
Their general nature,

officinal preparations of the B.P.

been considered as regards

and the methods of preparing the several groups.
In the pre2. The preparations of particular drugs.
:

i.

intended to give a summary of the

to each group, also indicating the
proportions of their important ingredients, where this
and the doses of the preparations used
is needed ;
sent section

it

is

members belonging

for internal administration.

AcETA

I.
1.

Acetum

Vinegar.

Dose

fl

to

fl

2.

,,

Cantharidis (for external use).

3.

Scillge.

1 1

1.

2.

3.

by

Vinegars,

Aqua

Simple
^

Waters.

a.

b.

Camphorse

{See

volatile

\b.

oils,

,,

fl
fl

5 ^ to
5 i to

Poultices.

Cataplasma Fermenti.

Lini.

2.
2.

and prepared

Volatile Oils.)

Cataplasmata
I

15 to 40.

Distilled water.

Waters containing

III.

nt

Aqua Chloroformi Dose

distillation.

I.

Aqu.e

Destillata

Solutions
in water.

Dose

i-

5IO
2.

MATERIA. MEDICA,

special

b.

ingre.

IV.

Sinapis.

^.

Sinapis

V.

Simple.

/a.
2.
b.

Containing

Mustard paper.

(Used

a.

pills.)

active

Confections.

Confectio Rosse Canine.

Gallice.

Confectio Opii =
40 nearly
Confectio Piperis

Scammonii

Papers.

Blistering paper.

Confectiones

making up

Soclge Chlorinatse.

Charts

Charta Epispastica

2.

for

Conii.

^.

dients.

I.

Cataplasma Carbonis.

a.

Containing

Dose,

in
gr.

5-20.

gr.

60-120.
10-30.
60-120.
60-120.
60-120.

gr.

,,

Sennse

e.

Sulphuris

gr.

V/.

Terebinthinse

gr.

ingredients,

Decocta

VI.

gr.

Decoctions.
Dose,

a.

Decoctum

b.

Cetrariae

fl

Cinchonse
Granati Radicis
HEematoxyli

fl

fl

c.

d.

e.

,,

Hordei

fl
fl

5 1-4.
3 1-2.
0 2-4-5 1-2.

5 1-4.

Simple

f-

Papaveris (for external use).

Decoctions,

g-

11

Pareirse

h.

11

Quercus

i.

Jk.

fl

5 1-2.

(for external use).

Sarsae

fl

Scoparii

fl

Taraxaci

fl

5 2-10.
5 2-45 2-4.

'

SUMMARY OF OFFICINAL PREPARATIONS.

I I

Dose.

Compound

a.

Decoctum Aloes Comp.

fl

SarsaeComp.

.5

4-2-

1152-10.

Decoctions.

Emplastra

VII.

Plasters.

Emplastrum
1.

Ferri.

Simple plasters,
used for protec-

Plumbi.

tion or support.

Saponis.

Resinse.

Saponis Fuscum,

Emplastrum Ammoniaci cum

Hydrargyro.
2.

Stimulant

and

Galbani.
Hydrargyri.

alterative plasters.

Picis.

Plumbi
Rubefacient or
vesicant plasters.

3.

4.

Anodyne

or se-

3.

Emplastrum Calefaciens.

Emplastrum Belladonnae.

Clysters.

Enema Aloes = gr. 40 in fl 5 10.

Asafoetidse = gr. 30 in

5 4
Magnesii Sulphatis = 51

fl

fl5

of Starch,

of cold water.
in

with

fl

5 15 of

Olive

Oil,

I.

Opii =
fl.

5.

Opii.

Enemata

Mucilage

4.

Cantharidis.

,,

1 b.

VIII.

2.

a.
b.

j a.

dative plasters.

1.

lodidi.

fl

3 i of Tincture of Opium, with

of Mucilage of Starch.

= fl 5
Mucilage of Starch.

Terebinthinse

with

fl

15 of


MATERIA MEDICA.

IX.

Essentia

Essentia Anisi.

1.

2.

Menthse

Piperitse.

Essences.

Solutions of

Rectified Spirit =

Dose

X. ExTRACTA

itl

Oil in

Volatile

in 4.

10 to 20.

Extracts.

Green Extracts.

A.

Dose.

From

I.

fresh leaves

and flowering
fresh

tops.

t-

"

and young

V'

Extractum Aconiti

i-i

gr.

^^^'^^^"^^

iSvS f
^'

branches.

5^1
^O"'^

Hyoscyami

g^-i-i
gr. 2-6
gr. 5-10

(Flowering tops of Hyoscyamus also used.)

From

3.

flowering

Extractum Lactucse

gi'.

5-15

gr.

5-30

gr.

2-6

gr.

2-6
10-30

herb.

From

4.

a.

<

f.

fresh corm.

5.

,,

Aceticum

From
root

Extractum Colchici

Extractum Taraxaci

B.

Aqueous Extracts.

a.

Extractum Aloes Barba-

b.

Aloes Soco-

PareircB

I.

densis

Digested
in boiling

trinre

water.
c.

gr.

'

SUMMARY OF OFFICINAL PREPARATIONS.

Dose.

Infused

2.

boiling
and

in

f^z.

water,

b.

Extractum Gentianee
Hsematoxyli

gr.

2-IO
10-3

gr.

2-10

gr.

then boiled.
3.

id
and

Boiled,
volat
volatile

Extractum Anthemidis

added.

oil

a.

Extractum

Glycyrrhizas

3
gr.

5-20

gi-.

1-2

gr.

3-5

Krameriae

Macerated

(also percolated)

in cold

Opii
Quassise

c.

water.
d.

C.

Prepared with

a.

rectified

b.

Alcoholic Extracts.

I.

Extractum Cannabis Indicse

Physostigmatis

gr.

tV-

Extractum Belladonnas Alcoholicum

gr-

tV-

Gelsemii
Alcoholicum

gr-

Jalapse

gr.

4-2
5-1

gr.

5-1

gr.

l-i
2-5

spirit.

{ a.

Prepared with
2.

recti
spirit

df
and

fi

water.

Prepared
with proof
spirit.

,,

c.

c.

a.
tj-

Lupuli
Nucis Vomicae
Papaveris

(Boiling water used.)

Extractum Calumbae

gr.

gr. 2-11

Colocynthidis
gr.

Compositum
LL

3-1

SH

MATERIA MEDICA.
Dose.
*a.

Extractum Cascarse Sagradae

b.

4-

Prepared
with proof (

and

spirit

Jaborandi
Rliamni
Fran-

c.

guise
d.

e.

gr.

15-60
5-15

gr.

Rhei

Stramonii.
(Oil

previously removed by

gr.

washed

gr. 4

water.

2-8
2-10

gr.

ether)

D. Ethereal Extracts,
1.

Extractum

2.

Filicis

Liquidum

15-30

Ttt

Mezerei ^thereum (made with

fied spirit

and

recti-

ether).

E. Liquid Extracts.
1.

Made
a.
b.

with water atid

Extractum Belae Liquidum

Cascar^ Sagradae

quidum
c.

e.

/i.

3 5-2

fl

^2

fl

Extractum Opii Liquidum. (Made

from the Extract)
Liquidum.
Pareirse
Extractum
(Made from the Extract)
Extractum Rhamni Frangulse Li-

Made with

rectified spirit.

Made with proof spirit.

Extractum Cocse Liquidum

5-10
10-30

ill

ill

Extractum Cimicifugae Liquidum

3.

Extractum Ergotae Liquidum

Glycyrrhizae Liquidum

quidum
2.

fl

Cinchonse Liquidum
(Hydrochloric Acid and Glyce-

g.

Li-

Extractum

rine also used)

d.

rectified spirit.

ni 10-40

A 3 5-2
fl

3 i""4

m 3-30
fl

3 \r'^

SUMMARY OF OFFICINAL PREPARATIONS.

Dose,

with proof spirit and water.

a. Extractum SarsEe Liquidum
Taraxaci Liquidum
b.
,,
Made with ether.
Extractum Filicis Liquidum.

Made

{See

X
I.

Glycerina

Glycerines.

Glycerinum Acidi Carbolici

>)

,,

Gallici

3-

It

,,

Tannici

4-

5-

Alumini

I
I

in 5
in 8

in 6

)i

Boracis

))

Plumbi Subacetatis

8.

))

Tragacanthte

XII. Infusa

3 in 14

Infusions.

A. Simple Infusions.
Infusum Cascarillse
.

Sennas.

Ginger, gr. 28)

.

fl

fl
fl

Aurantii

,,

Buchu

,,

fl

^ 1-2

(Contains

/Infusum Anthemidis

in 4

Amyli

7-

fl5 10

I
[

6.

flSio

3 2-4

Ethereal Extracts.)

2.

51m

fl

fl

Calumbas (cold water)

Cinchona
Acidum.
(Contains Aromatic

fl

Sulphuric Acid, fl 51.)

CusparijE (water at 120)

Jaborandi
Kramerise
Lupuli
Maticje
Senegae
Uvag Ursi.

fl
fl

fl
fl
fl
fl
fl

fl

LL

D 1-2
5 1-4
5 1-2
5 1-4
1-2

5
5
5
5
5
I
5
l

-2

-2

-2

I--2
I--2

I--4
I--2
I-2

5i6

MATERIA MEDICA.
Dose.

2 i"

Infusum Cusso

i6o

Infusum

Catechu.

infl1 5 lo t

fl

(Contains

Cinnamon,
Infusum

150 in
5 10

gr.

fl5 4-8

Lini.

gr.

30)

(Contains

Liquorice, gr. 50)

I

n 5 2-4

Infusum Caryophylli

5>

5 1-4
5 1-2
5 1-2

fl

Chiratas (water at 120)

Ergotas

Rhei

fl5I-2

fl

...

fl

fl5I-2

Rosce Acidum. (Contains

Diluted Sulphuric Acid,

fl.

n 5 1-2
fl 5 1-2

i)

Serpentariae

Valerianse.
grfl

gr.
fl

55 in
5 10

28 in
5 10

Infusum Quassise (cold water)

Infusum

B.

Compound

Gentianse

fl

2.

Injectio

gr. 2 in

,,

3.

= gr,

in 2

Injectio
I

flg 1-2

Injections.

Apomorphinse Hypodermica

ni 100

Injectio

3 2-4

Infusions.

XIII. Injectiones
1.

1-2

Digitalis

Infusum Aurantii Compositum

^ 1-2

fl

Ergotini
.

Morphinse

ITI

2-8

Hypodermica
.

TTl

3-10

ill

1-5

Hypodermica

of Acetate of Morphine in

ill

10


SUMMARY OF OFFICINAL PREPARATIONS.

XIV. Lamella
1. Lanielte
Atropine.

Atropinge

2. Lamellae Cocainse
Cocaine.

= gr.

-goVff

= gr.

of

Sulphate

of

of Hydrochlorate of

Lamellse Physostigminse

3.

Discs.

of Physo-

gr.

stigmine.

XV. LiNiMENTA
I.

a.

Mixtures

Linimentum Amraonije.
tion of

with or solub.

tions in Olive

Embrocations.
Ammonia

Linimentum

Calcis.

(i

of Solu-

to 3.)

(An equal pro-

portion of Solution of Lime.)

Oil.
c.

a.

Linimentum Camphorse =

i to 4.

Linimentum Chloroformi.

(Equal

parts.)

Linimentum Terebinthinae
Mixtures
with or solu2.

tions in Lini-'

ment of
Camphor.

Aceti-

cum.
(Four parts of Oil of
Turpentine
and Liniment of
Camphor, with i part of Glacial
Acetic Acid.)

Linimentum Hydrargyri.
(Equal
parts of Ointment of Mercury,
Solution of Ammonia, and Camphor Liniment.)

3.

Prepared by macera-

and percolation
with Rectified Spirit,
Camphor being then
added.
tion

a.

Linimentum

Aconiti,

Belladonnae.

'

5i8

MATERIA MEDICA.
'

Special
liniments,
of
4.

more or less
complex com-

a.

Linimentmii

b.

c.
(

d.

situm.
Crotonis.
lodi.

Potassii

Saponis.
Sinapis Compositum.
Terebinthinae.

a,

Linimentum

Opii.
(An equal proTmcture of Opium.)

portion of

XVI. LiQUORES
This

is

parations,

Liquor Iodi =
Potassium,

gr.

following

practically useful^ both for

for reference.

22 in

fl

(Contains Iodide of

i.

gr. 33.)
a.

Solutions of
or yielding

The

difficult to classify.

may be found

remembering them and

2.

Solutions.

a very large group of pharmaceutical pre-

and one

arrangement

I.

cum

lodidi

Sapone.

position.

5.. Mixture
with Liniment
of Soap.

Camphorse Compo-

Liquor Chlori = gr. 2*66 in

fl.

i.

Calcis Chlorinatse = about

2 per cent, of free Chlorine.
Sodse Chlorinatce = about
2\ per cent of available

b.

free

Chlorine.

Chlorine.
Dose.

la.

Liquor Ammonise Fortior =

gr. 15

fl3

"83 of

NH3

gas in

Solutions
of Alkalies
and Alkaline

Liquor Ammoniae^gr. 5*2

Earths.

Liquor Potassge

3.

of

I.

NH3

gas in

fl

I.

= gr.

27 of
in
Potassium
of
Hydrate
fl

15-60

SUMMARY OF OFFICINAL PREPARATIONS. 519

Dose.
id.

Solutions
of Alkalies
3.

and Alkaline^
Earths.
/.

(continued)

Liquor Sodse = gr. 18 -8 of

Hydrate of Sodium in fl 5 i
Liquor Calcis = gr. \ of Lime
in fl.
5 4-4
Liquor Calcis Saccharatae =
lU 15-60
gr. 7-11 of Lime in 5 i
Liquor Ammonii Acetatis
25-75
Fortior
Liquor Ammonii Acetatis. fl 3 2-6^
.

(a.
4.

Solutions

of
Carbonates,
Acetates,

and Citrates

b.

Ammonii

Fortior

c.

Liquor Ammonii

e.

,,

Earths.
\i.

I
a,
b.

Solutions
containing

5.

Citratis

fl
fl

Lithite Effervescens
,,

Sodse

Magnesii Carbonatis
Citratis

Potassse

gyri Iodidi

et

^cid
Hydrar-

= about

3 3-1 i
3 2-6

flgs-io

fl

5 1-2

fl

5 5-10

Liquor Arsenicalis]~ ^^^1

cent, of
A
Arsemci
A.^enious
Hydrocnloricus

Liquor Arsenii

preparations of

Citratis

of
Alkalies and
Alkaline

W
I

per

by weight of Arsenious Iodide, and of Mercent,

Arsenium.

curic Iodide.

ITI

10-30

Ill

5-10
10-30

Liquor Sodii Arseniatis = i

per cent, of Arseniate of

Sodium
la.

6.

c.

d.

e.

f.

tior

Solutions

containing
preparations
of Iron.

Liquor Ferri Dialysatus

Acetatis For
Liquor Feni Acetatis

Fortior.

iri

Til

1-8

5-30

ITL

10-30

Perchloridi

Liquor Ferri Perchloridi

Pernitratis

Persulphatis

ni 10-40


520

MATERIA MEDICA.
Dose.
la.

Liquor Hydrargyri Nitratis

Acidus.

Solutions
of Salts of

Liquor Hydrargyri Perchlo-

7.

ridi

= gr. J

fl.
5 i, with
Chloride

in

Ammonium

Mercury.

Liquor Arsenii
gyri lodidi,

Solutions
containing
Lead.

fl

3 I-2

Hydrar{See Arsenium.)
et

8.

a,
b.

Liquor Plumbi Subacetatis.

Dilutus.

)}

(a. Liquor Acidi Chromici.

9. Miscellaneous
solutions of
Inorganic

Antimonii Chloridi.
Bismuthi et Ammonii

b.

,,

c.

d.

Dose
Liquor

Citratis.

^i.

Calcii Chloridi.

Potassii

,,

Compounds,

fl

Permanganatis

Dose

per cent.

fl

3 1-2.

Liquor Sodii Ethylatis.

Zinci Chloridi.

Liquor Atropinse Sulphatis

Morphinse Acetatis

Morphinse
Bime
conatis = about
i^ per cent.
Morphinas Hydro

10. Solu-

tions of

Alkaloids
or their

salts.

Usual

chloratis

strength

chloratis

Special

j a.

solutions.

1 b.

II.

2.

Liquor Epispasticus.
Gutta perch a.

XVII. LoTioNES
1.

Lotions.

Lotio Hydrargyri Flava (Yellow wash).

10-60

ni 5-40
iri

10-60

Strychninae Hydro-

per cent.

nx 1-4
ill

Hydrargyri Nigra (Black Wash).

ni 5-10

SUMMARY OF OFFICINAL PREPARATIONS.

XVIII. Mellita
1.

Mel Depuratum

2.

Mel

52

Honeys.

Purified honey.

Boracis.

XIX. MisTURiE

Mixtures.
Dose,

Mistura Ammoniaci

fl

Amygdalse

fl

Creasoti
Cretse
Ferri Aromatica
Ferri Composita

,,

Guaiaci

fl

fl
fl

fl3 1-3

5 1-4
fl5 1-2

Sennee Composita
Spiritus Vini Gallici

,,
,,

XX.

h-^
1-2
1-2
1-2
1-2
1-2

Scammonii

1.

fl

,,

5
5
5
5
5
5

MuciLAGiNEs

Mucilago Acacias.

Mucilages.

Used

Used

2.

,,

Amyli.

3-

Tragacanthse.

in

making lozenges.

in enemata.

XXI. Olea Oils.

These preparations have been already fully disand it will suffice here to sum them up in the
following way
cussed,

1.

Oils from the Vegetable

2.

Cod-liver

oil.

Kingdom.


522

MATERIA MEDICA.

Phosphoratum.
3. Oleum
A solution of phosphorus in almond oil = about i per cent, of Phosphorus.

Dose

Tn,

5-10.

XXII. Oleata

Oleates.

Oleatum Hydrargyri.

1.

Zinci.

2.

XXIII. OXYMELLITA

OxYMELS.
Dose.

1.

Oxymel

2.

,,

Scillse

fl

3 1-2

fl

3 i-i

XXIV. Pilule. Pills.

These preparations may be arranged thus
/ a. Pilula Aloes Barbadensis \

I.

d.

c.

d.

Aperient

tidae

or

Purgative

<?.

Pills.

/.

,,

Aloes et Ferri
Aloes et Myrrhse
Cambogiag Composita

All contain
A/oes, except the

g.

Colocynthidis

Colocynthidis

Composita

last in

the

Aloes Socotrinae
Aloes et Asafoe-

//.

list.

/.

,,

/.

et

Hyoscyami
Rhei Composita
Scammonii Composita

SUMMARY OF OFFICINAL PREPARATIONS. 523

Dose.
2.

Pills
a.

containing
Iron salts.

\b.

3. Pills

a.

containing
Mercury.

b.

4.

Pills

Pilula Ferri Carbonatis

Ferri lodidi

Pilula Hydrargyri

5-20
3-8

gr.

3-8

gr.

5-10

gr.

5-r
3-5
3-5

Subchloridi

gr.

gr.

Composita
^

a.

Pilula

containing
Scilla.

Opium,
b.

alone or
with other

c.

Pilula Plumbi cum Opio

Saponis Composita

(Opium

is

gredient
a.

= about

gr.

gr.

gr. i in 6.)

Com-

Asafoetidse

Pilula

the only active in-

ingredients.

5. Miscellaneous
group.

cum

Powder.)

either

combined

Ipecacuanhse

(Made with Dover's

posita

c.

Phosphori

d.

Scillae

XXV.

5-ro
S-io
2-4
5-15

gr.

Conii Composita

b.

gr.

Composita

PuLVERES

gr.

gr.

Powders.

These preparations must be studied individually,

but for mere reference they may be grouped thus
:

Dose.

Inactive

Amygdalae

a.

Pulvis

powders,
chieHy used
for pharma-"

b.

positus
Pulvis Cinnamomi

ceutical

c.

1.

positus

purposes.
2.

Powder,

containing

Antimony

a.

Pulvis Tragacanthse
positus
.

Cora-

Com.

gr.

3-10

gr.

20-60

(Con-

Pulvis Antimonialis.
tains

Com-

Oxide of Antimony
in 3)

gr.

3-5

MATERIA MEDICA.

524

Dose.
3.

Mild

astringent
b.

powders.

la.

Pulvis Catechu Compositus gr. 20-40

Pulvis Cretse Aromaticus . gr. 10-60

Pulvis

Aromaticus
in 40
Pulvis Kino Compositus =
I in 20
Pulvis Ipecacuanhae ComCretse

cum Opio =

Powders

4.

containing

Opium.
d.

positus = I in 10
Pulvis Opii Compositus

V
fa.

Pulvis

Pulvis

c.

d.

i-5

Comgr.

30-60

....

gr.

10-20

Spirits.

Spiritus Rectificatus.

Ether

Tenuior.
Vini Gallici.

Spiritus

chloro-

form group.

a.

Ammonia
group.

gr-

(Contains Sen-

Spiritus

3.

2-5

Scammonii Compo-

situs

XXVI.

and

S-15

2.

gr-

Pulvis Jalapae Compositus.

(Contains Acid Tartrate
of Potassium)
gr. 20-60
Pulvis Rhei Compositus
gr. 20-60

e.

Alcoholic
group.

5-20

Compo-

40

Glycyrrhizse

positus.

I.

in

na and Sulphur)

5.

gr.

gr-

Elaterini

10-40

gr.

in 10

situs

Purgative
or aperient
powders.

^theris
Compositus
Nitrosi

,,

Spiritus

tidus

lit

Ammoniac Aro-

maticus
b.

fl3i-2
20-60

Chloroformi

Spiritus

tn 30-90

fl3i-i

AmmoniEe

Foe-

SUMMARY OF OFFICINAL PREPARATIONS. 525

Dose.

/
Solutions
of Volatile

Spiritus Cajuputi

a.

Cinnamomi

c.

Juniperi

d.

Lavandulae

Menthse

Myristicse

b.

4.

oils in

Rectified
Spirit
I

5.

fl

3 4-1

Piperitee

to 49.

Miscel-

laneous
group.

Armoracise
Compositus

a.

Spiritus

b.

Spiritus

fl

Rosmarini

Camphors

ITt

3 1-2

10-30

XXVII. Succi Juices.

I.

Fresh expressed juices

a.

of ripe fruits.
2.

Expressed

a.

juices pre-

b.

served with
Rectified

Spirit.

1.

2.

3.
4.'

d.

',

5-15

Hyoscyami

fl

3i-i

Scoparii

fl

3 1-2

Taraxaci

fl

3 1-2

SUPPOSITORIA S UPPOSITORIES.
cum Sapone = gr.

Suppositoria Acidi Carbolici

Succus Belladonna
Conii

e.

X XV III.

Limonis Succus
Mori

Tannici

)j

i.

cum Sapone
Unguentum
of
5
)

Hydrargyri = gr.

Hydrargyri
5.

Suppositoria lodoformi
,^

= gr.

3.
1

6.

Morphmse

7-

"

8.

,,

c""^ Sapone
(

Acetate of Lead,

Opium,

gr. i

2 of

^ydroj

Plumbi
Composita

^^(^^^^^^
gr. 3

526

MATERIA MEDICA.

XXIX.
I.

byrupus

Mixtures

wifn or solutions in Syrup,

3.

Syrups
from

made

Lemon

Syrups
from

3 *-2

fl

3 1-2

631

,,

Rosee Gallicae
Sennge

fl

fl

fl

fl

Syrupus Aurantii Floris

(from
Orange-flower
Water)
Syrupus Scillae
(from
Vinegar of Squill)
Syrupus Tolutanus (from
Balsam of Tolu)
.

fl

containing

Syrupus Ferri lodidi =

gr. 4-3 in fl 3 I
Syrupus Ferri Phosphatis
.

b.

Iron-salts.

XXX.

= gr.

in

fl

Tablets.

= gr.

each

Tabellse Nitroglycerini

yig- in

3
3

A 3

fl

i
i

3 2-1
3

or

fl

Tabell^

3^2

fl

a.

3 1-4

3
3

3 1-4

fl

pre-

Syrups

fl

Rhei
Rhoeados

parations.

6.

fl

Peel).

Syrupus Hemidesmi
Papaveris

Syrups
from

special

Syrupus Mori.

'a.
5.

Syrupus Zingiberis = i of
Strong Tincture in 25

parts of plants.

made

Syrupus Limonis (with]

juices of fruits.

4.

Dose.

sugar.

Syrupus Aurantii = i of
Tincture in 8
Syrupus Chloral = gr. 10
in 3

c.

made

Syrups.

Solution of refined
a.

2.

Syrupi

SUMMARY OF OFFICINAL PREPARATIONS. 527

XXXI.
It

any satisfactory

difficult to give

is

classification

Tinctures, but the follomng

afford some aid in remembering

many

of the

Tinctures.

TiNCTUR/E

Officinal

arrangement may
them, as well as for purposes of reference.
A. Tinctures of Inorganic

{Made with

Drugs.

Rectified Spirit.)

Dose.

Tinctura Ferri Acetatis

ni 5-30

Perchloridi = i of Strong

Solution of Perchloride in 4
Tinctura lodi = i in 40.
(Contains Iodide
of Potassium)
.

.....

B.

{a)

ni 2.

in 3iin 5.

in 8.

10.

with Rectified

Aurantii Recentis

Pyrethri.

5-20

in 20.

m 5-20
fl

3 1-2

,,

Veratri Viridis

Aconiti

m 5-20
m 5-15

Asafoetidae

fl3 4-i

Cubebffi

,,

Laricis

fl3i-2
tn 20-30

,,

Myrrhse

Sumbul

TTl

Tolutana

ITl

Zingiberis

,,

Kino

(Glycerine

,,

10-30
20-40

15-fl 3

and

Distilled water also used)

Tinctura Arnicse
I

tn,

Spirit.

\
I

Made

Tinctura Zingiberis Fortior

10-30

Simple Alcoholic Tinctures of Vegetable

Drugs.

Ttl

fl3i-2
fl3i-i

Cannabis Indicae. (Made

with Extract)

m 5-20

MATERIA MEDICA.

528

Dose.
I

in 27. Tinctura Capsici

11x10-20
Tinctura Nucis Vomicae = gr. 133
of Extract in O i.
(Distilled
water also used)
.ill 10-20
.

= gr.

Tinctura Podophylli
in

fl.

{b)
I

in

4^

I in

5.

Made

of Resin
,

fl3 i-i

fl3i-2

Cinchonae

/ Tinctura Buchu
Calumbse

fl

Catechu

(contains
fl3 1-2

Cinnamon)

fl3i-2

Chiratae

Cimicifugae

Cinnamomi
Seminum
.

Gelsemii

m 5-20

Digitalis

Gallse

fl3i-i
fl3i-2
fl3i-2

Hyoscyami
Jalapae

Krameriae
Limonis
>)

J)

)>

J)

in 15-60
fl3 4-2

in 10-30
in 20-60
in 10-30
fl3 4-2

Colchici
Conii

3 1-2

fl3i-2
fl3i-2

Cascarillse

in 8.

m 5-30

in 15-fl 3

with Proof Spirit.

Tinctura Ergotse
Jaborandi

J)

fl3^2

m lo-flsi

Lobeliae

Lupuli

Sabinae

ScillcB

SenegEe

Serpentariae

Stramonii
Valerianae

fl3i-2
in 20-fl 3
in 10-30

fl3i-2
fl3i-2
in 10-20
fl 3 1-2

SUMMARY OF OFFICINAL PREPARATIONS. 529

Dose.

Tinctura Aurantii

I in 10.
I in

13^. Tinctura Opii

^-

I in

40

\
I

Tinctura Belladonnse
Croci
.

Tinctura Quassije

I in 27.

.1

.}

5-40

^^5-20

^2

fl

fl

3 1-2

Ex.

Ammoniated Tinctures.

C.

Tinctura Guaiaci Ammoniata

Tinctura Valerianae Am.

fl

3 J-i

fl

3 J-i

fl

3 J-i

moniata
Strong Solution of

Tinctura

Ammonia and

Am-

monia and Proof

= i in 96. (A
Compound Tincture)
.

Am-

Tinctura Quininse

moniata =

(31

Spi"t.

Ammo-

Opii

niata

Rectified Spirit.

Solution of

ITI

Tinctura Aloes (contains

tract of Liquorice)
.

3 1-2

fl

gr.

in

fl

fl

3 i-2

D. Tinctures made with Special Menstrua.

....

Tinctura Lobelias ^therea,

Spirit of Ether
1

mctura

Qmnms, made

Wme = gr.

jj

Made

fl

A 3 4-2

with Rectified

Spirit.

Til

20-60

m s-io

Morphinae
Lavandula Composita
)

lo-fl 3

Compound Tinctures,

Tinctura Benzoini Composita

Chloroformi Composita

with

with Orange

of Hydrochlorate in

E.
(a)

made

et

fl3 4-2

MM


MATERIA MEDICA.

530
{b)

Made

with Proof Spirit.

Dose.

Tinctura Camphorse

Composita,

(Con-

tains Opium = gr. i in

Cardamomi Composita

fl
.

5 J) v\ 15-fl 3 i
I-2
fl 3
,

Cindionee .Composita
Gentianae Composita

fl3i-2
fl

"

Rliei

fl

Sennce
F.

flo 1-4

Tinctures of Animal Drugs.

Made

with Proof

Tinctura Cantharidis
Cocci
,,

XXXIL

ill

Spirit.

5-20

Trochisci

Lozenges.

= gr. J
Tannici = gr. \
Bismuthi = gr. 2
Catechu =:gr. i
Ferri Redacti = gr. i
Ipecacuanhse = gr. \ .
Morphinae = gr. -^^ of Hy-'^

Trochisci Acidi Benzoici

I.

2.

3-

4-

5.

6.

7-

3 i-2
3 1-8

1-5

1-6

1-3

drochlorate

Morphinse

et

Ipecacuanhse

9-

10.

1 1.

12.

and
= gr.
Opii = gr. yijj of

1-6
Extract

Potassce Chloratis
Santonini = gr. i
Sodii Bicarbonatis

XXXIII. Unguenta
For practical purposes the
be grouped thus

= gr.

= gr.

Ointments.

officinal

ointments

may

I.

Unguentum Simplex, a mixture

Wax, and Almond Oil.

Lard, White

of Benzoated

SUMMARY OF OFFICINAL PREPARATIONS. 53 I

a.

Containing

Unguentum Acidi

b.

Acids.

,,

c.

Unguentum

Borici.

Carbolici.

Salicylici.

Containing
Iodine or

lodi (contains Iodide

of Potassium).
lodoformi.
Sulphuris lodidi.

Iodides.

Hydrargyri

a.

,,

lodidi

Rubi-i.

4.

Plumbi

Unguentum Antimonii Tartarati,

/ a. Unguentum Hydrargyri,
),

Compositum.

))

Oxidi Rubri.

i,

Nitratis.

Nitratis

tum.
lodidi

^'

c.

5.

lodidi.

Potassii lodidi.

d.

Containing

e.

Mercury or
its
com-

f.

pounds.

Dilu-

Rubri
mentioned
under Iodides).
(also

^ h.
la.
6.

Containing

c.

fZmc.
.

Unguentum
a.

Unguentum

b,

\c.
a.

Containing
Sulphur or
a Sulphide.

^'

Glycerini

Plumbi

Subacetatis.

Containing
conipounds

Acetatis.

Carbonatis.
lodidi
(also

mentioned under Iodides).

of Lead.

Unguentum Plumbi

b.

compounds

Subchloridi.

Ammoniati.

Unguentum
"

CalaminEe..

Zinci (Oxide of Zinc).

Oleati.

Sulphuris.

lodidi (also

mentioned under Iodides).

c Unguentum Potasste Sulphurate

MM

MATERIA MEDICA,

532

I a.

9.

Containing parts
of plants,
or
vegetable products or

i.
c.

d.
Id.

Containing
we r ful

b.

Alkaloids.

c.

Containing
products of
distillation of

11.

wood.

2.

Vapor

Lime with

h.

Staphisagrise.

Atropinse
Veratrinse

= gr.
5

Unguentum

I).

Picis LiquidcS.

c.

d,

,,

Resinae.
Terebinthinse.

Cantharidis.

Cetacei.

Vapores

8 in
I

Creasoti.

Unguentum

it

drugs.

fl

Sabinae.

a.

Vapor Acidi

Acid with

cum Opio

g-

a.

XXXIV.
1.

Gallae

Containing

Animal

Gallse.

e.

Unguentum Aconitins

a.

p 0

12.

Belladonnae,
(Alcoholic Extract).
Unguentum Chrysarobini.
Elemi.
Eucalypti (Oil),

preparations.

10.

Unguentum

Inhalations.

Hydrocyanici

TTl

10 to 15

of

of cold water.

Chlori.

Made by

moistening Chlormated

water.

Made

with Juice of Hemlock,

Solution of Potash, and Water.
3.

Vapor

Coninse.

4.

Vapor

Creasoti

m 12 to

fl

Vapor lodi = Tincture of

Water fl 5 i, heated gently.
5.

5 8 of boi/ing water.
Iodine, & z

witli

Made with Fir-wood

gr. 20,
Magnesium,
of
Oil,"
40, Light Carbonate
and Water.
6

Vapor Olei Pini

Sylvestris.

SUMMARY OF OFFICINAL PREPARATIONS. 533

XXXV. VinaWines.
Dose.
t.

Vinum

Simple Wines

^*

Aurantii.

Xericum.

Vinum Antimoniale = gr.

2.

Wines

containing
inorganic
drugs.

in

3.

Wines

drugs.

fl

b.
c.

f a,

containing
vegetable

of Tartarated Antimony

Vinum

Citratis. (Made

with Orange Wine)

,,

c.

d.

e.

fl3 1-4

fl3 1-2

Vinum Aloes

b.

m s-fl 3

fl3 1-4

Ferri

Colchici

TH,

10-30

TTl

10-40

Ipecacuanhae
Opii (i of Extract
in 20)
Quininas.

(Made

with Orange Wine) = gr.

I of Sulphate in fl i
(Contains
/. Vinum Rhei.
V
Canella Bark.)
.

fl

3 1-2

MATERIA MEDICA.

534

APPENDIX.
The

B.P. gives a

more

or less detailed account in its

substances and solutions
testing purposes.
Anyone desiring fuller

Appendiof: of

different

tlie

used for
information on

must refer to the Pharmabut it may be worth while to

enumerate here the agents which are thus officially
recognised, and they may be grouped under the
following divisions
copoeia

(p.

this subject
et seq.)

475

I.
1.

Copper Foil

Metals.

pure metallic copper, thin and

bright.
2.

Fine Gold, free from metallic impurities.

a.
I

4.

h.

Flatiniim Foil,

Platinum Black,
minute division.

in

state

Granulated Tin, in small fragments.

II.

Non-Metallic Compounds.

1.

Sulphuretted Hydrogen Gas.

2.

Oxalic Acid of commerce, not quite pure.

III.
1.

Metallic Salts.

Acetate of Sodium.

2.

Chloride of Barium.

3.

Ferricyanide of Potassium.

4.

6.
7.

8-

Hyposulphite of Sodiw7t.
Oxalate of Ammoniuvi.
Subacetate of Copper.

Sulphate of Copper, anhydrous.

Sulphide of Irou.

of


APPENDIX.

535

Organic Substances.

IV.
1.

Benzol, obtained from coal-tar.

2.

Benzolated

Amylie Alcohol =

htdigo, a blue
species of Indigo/era,
3.

4.

3 to

i.

pigment obtained from various

N. O. Leguminosse.

Isinglass.

Litmus, a blue pigment prepared from various

species of Rocella, N. 0. Lichenes.
5.

a.

6.
7.

Paper

Petroleum Spirit, obtained from petroleum.

Phefiol-phthaleitie,
a.

8.

Litnius

Tincture.

Curcuma Tonga,

Turmeric, the dried rhizome of

N.O. Zingiberaceae.
a.

Turmeric Paper.

b.

Turmeric Tincture,

V. Test Solutions.
I.

Solution of Bromine

2.

Solutions of Acids

3.

rn,

10 in

fl

5.

a.

Boric Acid.

b.

Tartaric Acid.

Solutions of Metallic Salts.

a.
b.
c.

d.
e.

f.
g.

Acetate of Copper.

Potassium.

Sodium.

Ammonio-Nitrate of Silver.
Ammo7iio- Sulphate of Copper.

Magnesium.

Carbonate of Amt7wniu.tiu


MATERIA MEDICA.

536
h.

Chloride of

A mmonium.

Barium.

Ferricyanide
j.
of Potassium.
k.

Ferrocyanide of Potassium.

Iodide of Potassium.
?n. Oxalate of Ammoftium.
I.

n.

Perchloride of Gold.

Platinum,
p. Phosphate of Sodium,
0.

q.
r.

Stannous Chloride,

s.

Sulphate of Iron,

Calcium,

t.

u.
V,

4.

Potassio-Mercuric Iodide,

Sulphydrate of Ammoniufn.
Yellow Chromate of Potassium,.

Solutions of Organic Substatues.

a.

Albumen, recently prepared.

b.

Isinglass

50 in

fl

5 5.
Litmus, for making papers.
d. Sulphate of Indigo.
Indigo dissolved in
phuric acid = gr. 5 in fl 5 10.
c.

VI.
1.
2.

3.

4.

^Volumetric Test Solutions.

Bichromate of Potassium,
Hyposulphite of Sodium.
Iodine.
(Contains Iodide of Potassium.)
Nitrate of Silver.

5.

Oxalic Acid,

6.

Soda.

sul-

537

INDEX.
Alcohol, Amylic, 236

Absorbents, 31
Aceta, II, 509
Acetum, 102
Acid, Acetic, 102
Benzoic, 488

Ethylic, 237

Almond, 275, 384

Almonds, Oil of, 421
Aloes, 299, 441
Aloin, 482

Boric, 99
Carbolic, 254

Chromic, loi
Citric, 104
GaUic, 486
Hydrobromic, Dilute, 98
Hydrochloric, 92
Dilute, 94
Hydrocyanic, Dilute, 235
Lactic, 108
Meconic, 489
Nitric, 93
Dilute, 94
Nitro-hydrochloric,
lute,

Di-

95

Oleic,

489

Phosphoric, 97
Salicylic,

490

Sulphuric, 93

Dilute,

94

Sulphurous, 64
Tannic, 486
Tartaric, 106
Acids, summary of, 90
(Therapeutic group), 32
Aconite, 261
Leaves, 349
Root, 307
Aconitine, 469
Active principles, 6
Adulterations, 52
/Ether group, 241

Alteratives, 34
Aluminium, Alum, 149
Ammoniacum, 280, 408

Ammonium

group,

10

Bromide

of, 83
Sulphydrate

66

Amyl

Nitrite,

253

Anaesthetics, 36

Analgesics, 36
Anaphrodisiacs, 45
Anhydrotics, 44

Anise Fruits, 279, 374

Oil of, 423
Anodynes, 36
Antacids, 32
Antagonists, 47
Anthelmintics, 41
Anti-diuretics,

44

Antidotes, 46

Anti-emmenagogues, 45
Anti-galactogogues, 46
Antimony group, 164
Anti-parasitics,

46

Anti-peptogens, 39
Anti-periodics, 33
Anti-pyretics, 33
Anti-septics, 46
Anti-sialics,

38

Anti-spasmodics, 37
Aphrodisiacs, 45

MATERIA MEDICA,

538

Apomorphine, Hydrochlorate
of, 463
Apyi-etics, 33

Aqua, 56
Aque, II, 509
Arnica Rhizome, 282, 309
Arsenium group, 174
Astringents, 32
Asafoetida, 280,

409

Bael Fruit, 267, 377

Balsam of Peru, 272, 415

Tolu, 272, 415
Barley, Pearl, 301, 387
Bearberry Leaves, 283, 361
Bebeeru Bark, 291, 341

Beberine, Sulphate of, 472

Belladonna, 287
Leaves, 349
Root, 310
Benzoin, 284, 416

40

Bismuth, 180
Bone Ash, 502
Brandy, French, 238
Bread, Crumb of, 495
Bromine and Bromides, 82
Buchu Leaves, 268, 351
Broom Tops, 271, 348
Butyl-chloral, Hydrate of, 252

Cacao Butter, 266

Caffeine, Citrate of, 284,

474

Cajeput, Oil of, 276, 423

Calabar Bean, 272, 390
Calcium, 15

Hypophosphite

of,

88,

Calumba Root, 262, 311

Camphor, 291, 428
Canada Turpentine, 297, 420
Cannabis Indica, 294, 363
Canella Bark, 267, 334
Cantharides, 497
Capsicum Fruit, 287, 377
Caravi'ay, 279, 374

of,

423

Cardamom,

298, 385
Cardiac Sedatives, 42
Stimulants, 42

Tonics
and Regu42
Carminatives, 38
Cascara Sagrada, 270, 343
Cascarilla Bark, 292, 335
Cassia Pulp, 273, 378
Castor Oil, 292, 432
Cataplasmata, 11, 509
Catechu, 281, 445
Cathartics, 39
Caustics, 30
Cerebral Stimulants, 35
Cerebral Sedatives, 35
Cerium, 158
Cevadilla, 300, 391
Chalk, 154
Chamomile Flower, 282, 363
Oil of, 423
Charcoal, 58
Chartae, 11, 510
Cherry Laurel Leaves, 275,
lators,

Atropine, 470

Bile-expellents,

Caraway, Oil

357
Chiretta, 285, 304
Chloral, 251
Chlorine and Hypoclilorites,

69
Chloroform, 247
Cholagogues, 40
Chrysarobin, 274
Cimicifuga, 262, 312
Cinchona Barks, 281, 335, 336
Cinchonidine, Sulphate of, 467
Cinclionine, Sulphate of, 468
Cinnamon Bark, 291, 338
Oil of, 424
Clove, 277, 364
Oil of, 423

Coca, 266, 352

Hydrochlorate
Cocaine,
266, 475
Cochineal, 500

Codeine, 462
Cod Liver Oil, 507

of,

INDEX.
Elder Flowers, 280, 369
Elemi, 270, 402
Elutriation, 27
Emetics, 39

Colchicum, 299

Corm, 394
Seeds, 386
Collodion, 493
Colocynth Pulp, 277, 378
Confectiones, 12, 510

Emnienagogues, 45
Emollients, 31
Emplastra, 12, 511
Emulsion, 17
Enemata, 12, 511

Conium, 278
Fruit,

374

Leaves, 353
Copaiva, 274, 418
Oil of, 433
Copper, 186
Coriander, 279, 374

Epispastics, 30

Ergot, 301, 398

Escharotics, 30
Essentia, 13, 512
Ether group, 241
Eucalyptus, Oil of, 276,

Oil of, 423

Cotton Wool, 492
Creasote, 257
Croton Oil, 292, 433
Cubebs, 293, 379

Dandelion Root, 283, 330

Decantation, 27
Decocta, 12, 510
Demulcents, 31
Deodorants, 46

Fir-wood Oil, 297, 435

Flour, 300, 387
Foxglove Leaves, 288, 354
Frangula Bark, 270, 342
Frankincense, Common, 297,

Diaphoretics, 44
Digestants, 39
Digestion, 27
Digitalis Leaves, 288, 354
Dill Fruit, 278, 375
Oil of, 422
Diluents, 32
Disinfectants, 46
Distillation, 27

44

Febrifuges, 33
Fennel Fruit, 279, 374
Fig, 294, 372
Filix Mas, 301, 313
Filtration, 28

Depletants, 33
Depresso-motors, 36
Detergents, 31

Diuretics,

434

Evaporation, 28
Excito-motors, 36
Expectorants, 41
Extracta, 13, 512

Oil of, 434

Oleo-resin of, 419
Cusparia Bark, 269, 339

Distillation, Destructive,

539

27

420
Galactagogues, 46

Galbanum, 280, 412

Galls, 29s,

399

Gamboge, 267, 41
Gastric Sedatives, 38
Tonics, 39

Gelsemium, 285, 314

Gentian Root, 286, 315
Ginger, 298, 333

Drastic Purgatives, 40

Glycerina, 14, 515

Glycerine, 438

Ecbolics, 46

Grape, 268

Egg, 508

Guaiacum Wood, 268, 344

Elaterin, 482

Elaterium, 446

Gum

Resin, 403
Acacia, 274, 400

MATERIA MEDICA.

540
Gum

Tragacanth, 271, 401

Gutta Percha, 284, 447

Larch Bark, 296, 340

Lard, 501
Lavender, Oil of, 289, 423

HEemostatics, 32

Hellebore

Laxatives, 40

Rhizome,

Green,

Lead, 221
Leech, 497

300, 332

Hemidesmus Root,

Lemon,

285, 318

Hemlock, 278
Leaves, 353
Fruit,

374

Henbane Leaves,

288, 355
Hepatic Stimulants, 40
Honey, 503
Hop, 294, 367
Horse-radish Root, 264, 308
Hydragogue Purgatives, 40
Hyoscyamus, 288, 355
Hypnotics, 35

Hypodermic

Injections,

516
Iceland Moss, 302, 303
Impurities, 52
Incompatibles, 3
Indian Hemp, 294, 363
Indigo, 535
Infusa, IS, 515
Injectiones, 15, 516
Intestinal Sedatives, 40
Iodine and Iodides, 74

Iodoform, 250
Ipecacuanha, 281, 319
Iron, 188
Irritants,

Isinglass,

Lettuce, 282, 305

Lime and its Solutions, 152
Chlorinated, 70
'

Linimenta, 15, 517

Linseed and Meal, 265, 387
Oil, 421
Liquores, 16
Liquorice Root, 271, 316

Litmus, 302
Lithium, 148
Lithontriptics,
Lixiviation, 28

44

Lobelia, 283, 305

Local Refrigerants, 31
Sedatives, 37

Logwood,

273, 344
Lotiones, 16, 520

Lupulin, 294
Lupulus, 294, 367

Maceration, 28
Magnesium, 159
Male Fern, 301, 313

Manna, 285, 449

Counter, 30

Mastiche, 270, 405

Matico Leaves, 293, 358
Measures, 24

502

Mellita, 16, 521

30

Jaborandi, 269, 356

Jalap, 286, 395

15,

267, 372
Oil of, 424

Resin

Juniper, Oil

of,

of,

404
296, 434

Menthol, 289, 430

Mercury, 208
Mezereon Bark, 290, 340
Milk, 503
Sugar of, 503
Misturse, 17, 521

Kamala, 292, 493

Morphine, 456

Kino, 272, 448

Kousso, 275, 366

Mucilagines, 17, 521

Lamellse, 15, 517

Mulberry Juice, 293, 373

Musk, 506
Mustard, 264, 391

INDEX.
Mustard, Oil

of,

Pitch, Burgundy, 296

436

Podophyllum Rhizome,

Mydriatics, 37
Myotics, 38

Myrrh, 271, 413

Narcotics, 35
Natural Orders, Table

of,

261-

302
Nervine Tonics, 37
Non-officinal, 5
290, 388
Oil of, 424

Expressed Oil

of,

Bromide
Iodide

427

of,

of,

83

76

Precipitation, 28

Nutrients, 34

Nux Vomica,

Resin of, 405

Pomegranate Root Bark, 277,
317
Poppy, 263
Capsules, 380
Petals, Red, 367
Potassa Sulphurata, 66

Potassium group, 121

Nutmeg,

261,

322

Proof

285, 389

Spirit,

237

Protectives, 31

Oak

Prune, 275, 373

Bark, 294, 341

Pulmonary Stimulants, 41

Officinal, 5
Olea, 17, 521

Sedatives, 41
Pulveres, 18, 523
Purgatives, 39
Pustulants, 30
Pyroxylin, 492

Oleata, 18, 522

Olive Oil, 284, 421
Opium, 263, 449
Orange, 266, 371
Wine, 238, 371

Ox

Bile,

Quassia wood, 269, 346

Quinine, salts of, 281, 464

506

Oxymellita, 18, 522

Oxytocics, 46
Paraffins,

Raisin, 268, 374

Rectified spirit, 237
Refrigerants, 33
Resin, 297, 406

258

Parasiticides,

46

Pareira Root, 263, 321

Pellitory Root, 283, 323
Pepper, Black, 293, 382

Peppermint, 289
Oil
Pepsin, 505
Peptogens, 39
Percolation, 28

of,

423

Pharmaceutical Operations, 27
Phosphorus and Hypophosphites, 86
Physostigmine, 272, 476
Pilocarpine,

Nitrate

477
522
Pimento, 277, 382
Pilulge, 18,

Oil

of,

423

of,

269,

Rhatany root, 265, 320

Rhubarb, 290, 323
Rose, 276
Fruit, 383
Petals, 368
Rosemary, Oil of, 289, 423
Rubifacients, 30
Rue, Oil of, 269, 435
Sacred Bark, 270, 343
Saffron, 298, 365
Salicine, 294,

483

Saline Purgatives, 40
Sandal-wood, Red, 271, 345
Oil of, 295, 436
Santonica, 283, 370

MATERIA MEDICA.

542
Santonin, 484

Sudorifics,

Sarsaparilla, 298, 325

Sassafras Root, 291, 326

Suet, 502

Saturation, 28

Savin Tops, 296, 347

Oil of, 435

Scammony,

286, 413
Resin, 407

Root, 327

Senega Root, 265, 327

Senna, 273, 358
Serpentary Rhizome, 292, 328
Sherry Wine, 238
Sialagognes, 38
Silver, 77

Soaps, 439
Soda, Chlorinated, solution

of,

71

Hypophosphite, 88

Sodium group, 138

Bromide of, 83
Hypophosphite of, 88
Hyposulphite of, 68
Iodide

of,

78

Soporifics, 35

Spearmint, Oil of, 289, 423

Spermaceti, 505
Spinal Sedatives, 36
Stimulants, 36
Spiritus, 19, 524
Squill, 299, 396
Cucumber Fruit,
Squirting
278, 380
Star Anise Fruit, 262, 376
Starch, 300, 495
Stavesacre seed, 262, 392
Sternutatories, 41
Stimulants, 33
Stomachic Sedatives, 38
Tonics, 39
Storax, prepared, 295
Stramonium, 417
Seeds, 288, 393
Strychnine, 478
Styptics, 32
Sublimation, 29
Succi, 19, 525

'

'

44

Sugar, refined, 301, 496

Sulphite of Sodium, 65
Sulphur, 61
Sulphur, Iodide of, 79
Sulphurated Lime, 66
Potash, 66
Sulphuretted Hydrogen and
Sulphides, 65
Sulphydrate of Ainmonium,66
Sumbul Root, 280, 329
Suppositories, 19, 525
Syrupi, 20, 526

Tabella, 21, 526

Tamarind, 273, 374
Tar, 297, 494
Taraxacum, 283, 330
Tests, 51, 534
Theobroma,' Oil of, 266,

42S

Thymol, 279, 289, 431

Tinctures, 21, 527
Tobacco; 288, 360
Tonics, 34
Treacle, 301, 496
Trituration, 29
Trochisci, 22, 530

Turmeric, 298
Turpentine, Oil

of,

297, 436

Unguenta, 22, 530

Uva

Ursi, 283, 361

Valerian Rhizome, 2S2, 331

Vapores, 23, 532
Vascular Sedatives, 43
Stimulants, 43
Tonics, 43

Vaso-Contractors, 43
Vaso-Dilators, 43
Veratrine, 480
Veratruin, 300, 332
Vermicides, 41
Vermifuges, 41
Vesical Sedatives, 45
Stimulants, 45

INDEX.

54

Water, 56
Wax, 504
Weights and Measures, 24

Vesical Tonics, 45
Vesicants, 30
Vina, 23, 533
Vinegar, 1 03
Volatile Oils, 422, 433

Yeast, 302, 494

Washing, 29

Zinc, 227

I,

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LEWIS'S PRACTICAL SERIES.

Under
series of

this title Mr. Lewis purposes publishing a complete

Monographs embracing the various branches of Medicine

and Surgery.
The volumes, written by well-known Hospital Physicians and Surgeons
recognised as authorities in the subjects of which they treat, are in active preparation. The works are intended to be of a thoroughly Practical nature,
calculated to meet the requirements of the general Practitioner, and to present
the most recent information in a compact and readable form
the volumes
will be handsomely got up, issued at low prices, varying with the
size of the
;

works.

THE FOLLOWING ARE NOW READY.

BODILY DEFORMITIES AND THEIR TREATMENT: A
Handbook of
Practical Orthopiedics. By H. A. REEVES, F.R.C.S. Ed
Senior Assistant Surgeon and Teacher of Practical Surgery at the
London
Hospital, Surgeon to the Royal Orthopa:dic Hospital, etc.
With numerous Illustrations, crown 8vo, 8s. 6d.

*.* Prospectus of the Series, with

Specimen pages,

etc,

post

free

application.

LEWIS'S POCKET MEDICAL VOCABULARY.

[Ill

the press.

12

Catalogue of

J.

S.

Works

LOMBARD,

Formerly Assistant Professor

M.D.

of Physiology in

Harvard College.

I.

EXPERIMENTAL RESEARCHES ON THE REGIONAL TEMPERATURE OF THE HEAD,

under

Conditions of Rest, Intellectual Activity and Emotion.

With

Illustrations, 8vo, 8s.

II.

fjN

THE NORMAL TEMPERATURE OF THE

HEAD.

8vo, 5S.

WILLIAM THOMPSON LUSK,

Professor of Obstetrics and Diseases of

Women

A.M., M.D.
in the Bellcvue Hospital

Medical College, &c.

TiHE SCIENCE
Edition, with

AND ART OF MIDWIFERY.

numerous

Second

Illustrations, 8vo, i8s.

JOHN MACPHERSON,

M.D.

Inspector-General of Hospitals H.M. Bengal Army (Retired).

Author of" Cholera in its Home," &c.

ANNALS OF CHOLERA FROM THE EARLIEST

PERIODS TO THE YEAR

1817.

With a map.

Demy

7s. 6d.

DR.

V.

MAGNAN.

Physician to St. Anne Asylum, Paris; Laureate of the Institute.

ALCOHOLISM, THE VARIOUS FORMS OF

HN
^ ALCOHOLIC DELIRIUM AND THEIR TREATMENT.

Translated by

8vo, 7s. 6d.

W.

S.

Greeni-ield, M.D., M.R.C.P.

13

Published by H. K. Lewis.

A.

COWLEY MALLEY,

B.A.,

M.B.,

B.CH. T.C.D.

DHOTO-MICROGRAPHY including
^
Wet Collodion and Gelatino-Bromide

a description of the
Processes, together
Microscopic
with the best methods of mounting and preparing
IllustraObjects for Photo-Micrography. Second Edition, with
published.
[jfnst
6d.
7s.
8vo,
crown
Photographs,
and
tions
;

PATRICK MANSON,

M.D.,

CM.

Amoy, China.

THE
J-

FILARIA SANGUINIS HOMINIS AND CERNEW FORMS OF PARASITIC DISEASE IN

TAIN

INDIA, CHINA,

AND WARM COUNTRIES.

with Plates, Woodcuts, and Charts.

Demy

Illustrated
8vo, los. 6d.

PROFESSOR MARTIN.

MARTIN'S ATLAS OF QBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY.

Edited by A. Martin, Docent in the University

Translated and edited with additions by Fancourt
Barnes, M.D., M.R.C.P., Physician to the Chelsea Hospital
and to
Obstetric Physician to the Great Northern Hospital
Medium 4to,
the Royal Maternity Charity of London, &c.
Morocco half bound, 31s. 6d. net.

of Berlin.

J.

F.

MEIGS, M.D.

Consulting Physician to the Children's Hospital, Philadelphia.

AND

W. PEPPER, M.D.
Lecturer on Clinical Medicine in the University of Pennsylvania.

^A

PRACTICAL TREATISE ON THE DISEASES

OF CHILDREN.

roy. 8vo, 28s.

Seventh Edition, revised and enlarged

14

LateFvnn.'

WILLIAM MARTINDALE,

F.C.S.

AND

W.

WYNN WESTCOTT,

Deputy Coroner

M.B.

LOND.

for Central Middlesex.

PHARMACOPCEIA

of Unofficial Drugs and

T'^Che^J.Tl'^^
Chemical and Pharmaceutical Preparations.
With References
to their Use abstracted from
the Medical Journals,

and a Thera!
peut.c Index of Diseases and
Symptoms. Third Edition! revised
with numerous additions, limp roan,
med. 24mo,
7s.

[Now

WM. JULIUS MICKLE

Mn MRPP
and Ire-

land. Member of the Cnn.^^^^^^^^^^^

''&S/e^tr'"of'l^ec"F^4'^

QENERAL PARALYSIS OF THE

KENNETH W. MILLICAN,

ready.

INSANE.

CANTAB., M.R.C.S.

B.A.

-pHE EVOLUTION OF MORBID GERMS

bution to Transcendental Pathology,

STEPHEN MONCKTON,

8vo, los.

M.D.,

Contri-

Cr. 8vo, 3s. 6d.

F.R.C.P.

rpHE METAPHYSICAL ASPECT OF

HISTORY. Illustrations, imp. i6mo, 2s.

NATURAL

E. A. MORSHEAD, M.R.C.S.,
LR.C.P.
Assistant to the Professor of Medicine in University
College, London.

CABLES OF THE PHYSIOLOGICAL ACTION OF

DRUGS.

Fcap. Svo.is.

A. STANFORD MORTON, M.B., F.R.C.S. ED.

Senior Assistant Surgeon, Royal South London Ophthalmic
Hospital.
.

OF THE EYE
P EFRACTION
Correction of
Errors, with
its

Second Edition.

Small 8vo,

2s. 5d.

Its Diagnosis, and the

Chapter on Keratoscopy.
:

Published by H. K. Lewis.

15

WILLIAM MURRELL, M.D., F.R.C.P.

Lecturer on Materia Medica and Therapeutics at Westminster Hospital;
Examiner in Materia Medica in the University of Edinburgh.

WHAT

TO DO IN CASES OF POISONING.

Edition, revised

and enlarged, royal 32mo,

Fourth

3s. 6d.

II.

N ITRO-GLYCERINE AS A REMEDY FOR ANGINA

PECTORIS.

Crown

8vo, 3s. 6d.

WILLIAM NEWMAN,

M.D., F.R.C.S.
Surgeon to the Stamford Inlirmary.

CURGICAL CASES

Mainly from the Wards of the

Stamford, Rutland, and General Infirmary.
8vo, paper
boards, 4s. 6d.
:

DR. FELIX

VON NIEMEYER.

Late Professor of Pathology and Therapeutics Director of the Medical

Clinic
of the University of Tiibingen.
;

TEXT-BOOK OF PRACTICAL MEDICINE, WITH

PARTICULAR REFERENCE TO PHYSIOLOGY AND

PATHOLOGICAL ANATOMY.

Translated from the Eighth

German Edition, by special permission of the Author, by George

H. Humphrey, M.D., and Charles E. Hackley, M.D. Revised
Edition, 2 vols., large Svo, 36s.

C.

F.

OLDHAM,

Surgeon H.M. Indian Forces;

WHAT
y
the

IS

M.R.C.S., L.R.C.P.
late in Medical charge of the
Dalhousie
Sanitarium.

MALARIA? AND

WHY

INTENSE IN HOT CLIMATES

IS

An

IT MO<=iT

explanation of

Nature and Cause of the so-called Mansh Poison,

with
the Principles to be observed for the Preservation
of Health in
Tropical Climates and Malarious Districts.
Demy Svo 7s
6d

16

Catalogue of

G.

OLIVER,

Works

M.D,, M.R.C.P.

WATERS:

T^^n.u^'^^^^'^^'^E
Therapeutical,

Data

Chemical and

with notes on the Climate of Harroo-ate.

Addressed to the Medical Profession.
Crown 8vo, with Map of
the Wells, 3s. 6d.

QN BEDSIDE URINE TESTING

the Observation of Urine in course of

considerably enlarged, fcap. 8vo, 3s.

JOHN

S.

a Clinical Guide to
Third Edit.,
[yust published

Work.

PARRY, M.D.

Obstetrician to the Philadelphia Hospital, Vice-President of the Obstetrical

and Pathological Societies of Philadelphia, &c.

XTRA-UTERINE PREGNANCY;

Its Causes, Species,

Pathological Anatomy, Clinical History, Diagnosis, Prog-

nosis and Treatment.

E.

8vo, 8s.

RANDOLPH PEASLEE,

Late Professor of Gynascology

lege

President of the

M.D., LLD.
Medical Department of Dartmouth ColYork Academy of Medicine, &c., &c.

in the

New

QVARIAN TUMOURS:

Their Pathology, Diagnosis, and

Treatment, especially by Ovariotomy.
Illustrations, roy.

Svo, i6s.
G. V. POORE, M.D., F.R.C.P.
Professor of Medical Jurisprupence, University College; Assistant Physician
and Physician
charge of the Throat Department of University
College Hospital.

ECTURES ON THE PHYSICAL EXAMINATION

OF THE MOUTH AND THROAT. With an appendix

of Cases.

Svo, 3s. 6d.

R. DOUGLAS POWELL, M.D., F.R.C.P., M.R.C.S.

Physician to the Hospital for Consumption and Diseases of the Chest
Brompton, Physician to the Middlesex Hospital.

at

OF THE LUNGS AND PLEURAE.

niSEASES
^
Third Edition, re-written

and enlarged, with

Illustrations,

[In

Svo.

tlic

press.

C. H. RALFE, M.A., M.D.CANTAB., F.R.C.P. LOND.

Assistant Physician to the London Hospital; late Senior Physician to the
Seamen's Hospital, Greenwich.

"I^ISEASES

OF THE

KIDNEY

AND

MORBID

CONDITIONS OF THE URINE DEPENDENT ON

FUNCTIONAL DERANGEMENTS. Illustrations, crown Svo.

Lcivis's Practical Series'}.

[In

(lie

press.

Publistied

by H. K. Lewis.

AMBROSE

RANNEY,

L.

Adjunct Professor of Anatomy

TiHE APPLIED

in the

17

A.M., M.D.
University of New York, &c.

ANATOMY OF THE NERVOUS

being a study of this portion of the Human

Body from a stand-point of its general interest and practical
utility, designed for use as a Text-book and a work of Reference.
With 179 Illustrations, Svo, 20s.

SYSTEM,

H. A. REEVES, F.R.C.S. ED.

Senior Assistant Surgeon and Teacher of Practical Surgery at the London
Hospital Surgeon to the Royal Orthopsedic Hospital, c&c.
;

DODILY DEFORMITIES AND THEIR TREATMENT: A

numerous

Handbook of

Illustrations,

crown Svo,

With
Practical Orthopasdics.
[Now ready.
8s. 6d.

Lewis's Practical Series]

RALPH RICHARDSON, M.A., M.D.

Fellow of the College of Physicians, Edinburgh.

QN THE NATURE OF LIFE An Introductory Chapter

^ to Pathology. Second Edition, revised and enlarged,
:

Fcap. 4to, los. 6d.

W. RICHARDSON,

M.A.,

M.D., M.R.C.P.

DEMARKS ON DIABETES, ESPECIALLY

FERENCE TO TREATMENT. Demy

SYDNEY RINGER,

IN RE-

Svo, 2S. 6d.

M.D.,

Professor of the Principles and Practice of Medicine in University College

Physician to, and Professor of Clinical Medicine in, University
College Hospital.

'

I.

HANDBOOK OF THERAPEUTICS.
revised, Svo.

Eleventh Edition,
[/ the press.

II.

HN THE TEMPERATURE OF THE BODY AS A

^ MEANS OF DIAGNOSIS
PHTHISIS.

AND PROGNOSIS

Second Edition, small Svo,

2s. 6d.

IN

18

Catalogue of

FREDERICK

T.

ROBERTS,

Works
M.D., B.SC, F.R.C.P.

Ry='l College of Surgeons Professor of Thera^"^^'^i""-'"

peutics in University College Physician to University
College Hospital
Physician to the Brompton Consumption Hospital, &c.
,^^.'^''=i".<=

'

I.

HANDBOOK OF THE THEORY AND PRACTICE

OF
MEDICINE.

one volume, large 8vo,

21s.

Sixth Edition, with Illustrations, in

i^ust published.
II.

MOTES ON MATERIA MEDICA AND PHARMACY.

Fcap. 8vo,

7s. 6d.

D. B. ST.

[iVow ready.

JOHN ROOSA,

M.A., M.D.

Professor of Diseases of the

Eye and Ear in the University of the City of New

York Surgeon to the Manhattan Eye and Ear Hospital Consulting
Surgeon to the Brooklyn Eye and Ear Hospital, &c., &c.
;

PRACTICAL TREATISE ON THE DISEASES OF

THE EAR, including the Anatomy of the Organ. Sixth
_

Edition, Illustrated by
large 8vo, 25s.

W.

H. 0.

wood engravings and chromo-lithographs,

SANKEY, M.D. LOND.,

F.R.C.P.

Late Lecturer on Mental Diseases, University College, and School of Medicine, London
Formerly Medical Superintendent (Female Department) of
Hanwell Asylum President of Medico-Psychological Society, &c.
;

ECTURES ON MENTAL DISEASE.

tion,

with coloured plates, Svo,

ALDER SMITH,

12s. 6d.

Second Edi-

{Now

ready.

M.B. LOND., F.R.C.S.

Resident Medical Officer, Christ's Hospital, London.

"piNGWORM: ITS DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT.

Third Edition, rewritten and enlarged, fcap. 8vp.
[In the press.

PubUshed

LEWIS SMITH,

J.

H. K. Lewis.

toy

M.D.

Diseases,
Physician to the New York Infants' Hospital Clinical Lecturer on
of Children in Bellevue Hospital Medical College.
;

TREATISE ON THE DISEASES OF INFANCY

AND CHILDHOOD. Fifth Edition, with Illustrations,

large 8vo, 21s.

FRANCIS W. SMITH,

M.B., B.S.

LEAMINGTON WATERS:

Chemically, Theraand Clinically Considered with Observations

on the Climate of Leamington. With Illustrations, crown 8vo,

T^HE

peutically,

2s. 6d.

JAMES STARTIN,
Surgeon and Joint Lecturer

M.B., M.R.C.S.

to St. John's Hospital for

Diseases of the Skin.

ECTURES ON THE PARASITIC DISEASES OF

THE SKIN. Vegetoid and Animal. With Illustrations,,

crown 8vo,

3s. 6d.

LEWIS

A.

STIMSON,

B.A.,

M.D.

Professor of Pathological Anatomy ini

to the Presbyterian Hospital
York.
the Medical Faculty of the University of the City of

Surgeon

New

MANUAL OF OPERATIVE SURGERY.

three hundred
los. 6d.

HENRY
Examiner

R.

and thirty-two

SWANZY,

Illustrations.

Post

With
8vo,.

A.M., M.B., F.R.C.S.L

Ophthalmic Surgery University

National Eye and Ear Infirmary, Dublin

Surgeon
Ophthalmic Surgeon

of Dublin;

in

to the

to the Adelaide Hospital, Dublin.

TJANDBOOK OF DISEASES OF THE EYE AND

_

THEIR TREATMENT.

Illustrated with

Wood En-

gravings, Colour Tests, etc., large post 8vo, los. 6d. \_Now ready

20

Catalogue of

Works

HUGH OWEN THOMAS,

M.R.C.S.

I.

KNEE, AND ANKLE

D^^^mx^l
T^^Deformities,
JUIW IS, with their
treated by a new
^^P'

cient

method.

l-.K.C.b.,

and

With an

Lecturer

on
Second Edition, 8vo,

Liverpool.

effi-

Introduction by Rushton Parker,

Surgery at the School of Medicine,
25s.

II.

(CONTRIBUTIONS TO MEDICINE AND SURGERY:

Part i. Intestinal Obstruction
tion of Remedies.

"

2. The

with an appendix on the Ac-

los.

Principles of the Treatment of Joint Disease,

Inflammation, Anchylosis, Reduction of Joint Deformity,

58.

Bone

Setting.

5s.

On Fractures of the Lower Jaw.

The Inhibition of Nerves by Drugs.

is.

Pr

hibitory Nerve-Fibres do not exist,

is

(Parts 3, 4, 6, 7, 9, 10, are expected shortly)

J.

ASHBURTON THOMPSON,

M.R.C.S.

TREE PHOSPHORUS
^

IN MEDICINE WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO ITS USE IN NEURALGIA.

contribution to Materia Medica and Therapeutics. An account

of the History, Pharmaceutical Preparations, Dose, Internal
Administration, and Therapeutic uses of Phosphorus
with a
Complete Bibliography of this subject, referring to nearly 200
;

works upon

it.

Demy

J.

Svo, 7s. 6d.

C.

THOROWGOOD,

M.D.

Assistant Physician to the City of London Hospital for Diseases of the Chest.

THE CLIMATIC TREATMENT

^

AND CHRONIC LUNG

post Svo, 3s. 6d.

OF CONSUMPTION

DISEASES.

Third Edition,

Published by H. K. Lewis.

EDWARD

T.

TIBBITS, M.D. LOND.

Physician to the Bradford Inarmary and to the Bradford Fever Hospital.

MEDICAL FASHIONS

THE NINETEENTH

IN

including a sketch of Bacterio-Mania and

Crown 8vo, 2S. ed.
the Battle of the Bacilli.

CENTURY:

LAURENCE TURNBULL,

M.D., PH.G.

Aural Surgeon to Jefferson Medical College Hospital, &c., &c.

ARTIFICIAL ANAESTHESIA

A Manual

of Anesthetic

Agents, and their Employment in the Treatment of Disease

Second Edition with Illustrations, crown 8vo, 6s.

W.

H.

VAN BUREN,

M.D., LL.D.

Professor of Surgery in the Bellevue Hospital Medical College.

"nlSEASES OF THE RECTUM:

-'^

Lower Bowel.

and the Surgery of the

Second Edition, with Illustrations, 8vo,

14s.

RUDOLPH VIRCHOW, M.D

Professor in the University, and Member of the
Berlin, &c.

TNFECTION-DISEASES
Wound

Fever,
Translated from the
Fcap. 8vo, IS. 6d.

Typhoid,

IN

Academy

of Sciences of

THE ARMY,

chiefly

and Diphtheria.
German by John James, M.B., F.R.C.S.
Dysentery,

ALFRED VOGEL,

M.D.

Professor of Clinical Medicine in the University of Dorpat, Russia.

PRACTICAL TREATISE ON THE DISEASES

'^
M.D.

OF CHILDREN.
From

Translated and Edited by H. Raphael,

by six

the Fourth German Edition, Illustrated

lithographic plates part coloured, large 8vo, i8s.

22

Catalogue of "Works

DUNBAR WALKER,

A.

CM.

M.D.,

rpHE PARENTS' MEDICAL NOTE

BOOK
Ublong
post 8vo, cloth,

is. 6d.

JOHN R. WARDELL, M.D., F.R.C.P.

Consulting Physician to Tunbridge Wells
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,riONTRIBUTIONS TO PATHOLOGY AND THP

^ PRACTICE OF MEDICINE. M.^ln^L^^TtlJp^S.
DE

WATTEVILLE, M.A., M.D.,- B.SC, M.R.C.S.

Physician in Charge of the Electro-therapeutical
Department of St. Marv's
A.

Hospital.

PRACTICAL INTRODUCTION TO MEDICAL

ELECTRICITY.

Second Edition,
larged, copiously Illustrated, 8vo, gs.

Surgeon

to the

re-written

and en-

W. SPENCER WATSON, F.R.C.S., M.B.

Great Northern Hospital Surgeon to the Royal South London
Ophthalmic Hospital.
;

I.

gYEBALL TENSION:

its

Effects on the Sight

8vo, 2S. 6d.

and

its

With Woodcuts, post

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II.

TJISEASES OF THE NOSE AND ITS ACCESSORY

CAVITIES.

Profusely Illustrated,

demy

8vo, i8s.

III.

AN ABSCESS AND TUMOURS

^
Post 8vo,

OF THE ORBIT.

2S. 6d.

FRAf^ClS

WELCH,

F.R.C.S.

Surgeon-Major, A.M.D.

"PNTERIC FEVER:

its Prevalence and

Modifications;
Pathology and Treatment
as illustrated by
Data at Home and Abroad. Demy 8vo, 5s. 6d.

Etiology

Army

23

Published by H. K. Lewis.

DR.

F.

WINCKEL.

Formerly Professor and Director of the Gynecological Clinic

at the

Univer-

sity of Rostock.

mHE PATHOLOGY AND TREATMENT OF CHILDTrans-

BED. A Treatise for Physicians and vStudents.

lated from the Second German Edition, with many additional
notes by the Author, by J. R. Chadwick, M.D. 8vo, 14s.

EDWARD WOAKES,

M.D.

Senior Aural Surgeon and Lecturer on Aura! Surgery at the London Hospital
Senior Surgeon to the Hospital for Diseases of the Throat.

f\N

DEAFNESS, GIDDINESS, AND NOISES IN

THE HEAD.

Part I. POST-NASAL

CATARRH, AND DISEASES

OF THE NOSE CAUSING DEAFNESS.

trations,

crown 8vo,

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GIDDINESS, AND NOISES

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B.M. OXON., F.R.C.P.

LOND.

Physician to the Cheltenham General Hospital and Dispensary.

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HOW

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