Chapter C: W. HEATON, F.I.C., F.C.S., Lecturer on Chemistry at the (1)

Charing Cross Hospital.

EDMUND NEISON, F.I.C., F.C.S.

WILLIAM PRITCHARD, Professor of Anatomy in the Royal Veterinary
College.

A. E. SANSOM, M.D. Lond., M.R.C.P., Physician to the Royal
Hospital for Diseases of the Chest.

J. B. SIMONDS, Principal of, and Professor of Pathology in, the
Royal Veterinary College.

JOHN SPILLER, F.I.C., F.C.S.

JOHN STENHOUSE, LL.D., F.R.S., formerly Lecturer on chemistry in
St. Bartholomew's Hospital.

ABBREVIATIONS, ETC., USED IN THIS WORK

These, for the most part, consist of the first syllable, or the initial letter or letters of the words they stand for. As _Prep._, preparation; _Pur._, purity; _Purif._, purification; _Obs._, observations; _Var._, varieties, &c.--Ph., stands for _pharmacop[oe]ia_; B. P., for _British Pharmacop[oe]ia_; Ind. Ph., for _Indian Pharmacop[oe]ia_; Cod., for _Codex._--L., E., D., P., U. S., &c., associated with the last two abbreviations, are the initial letters of the cities and countries which produced the respective works; as, London, Edinburgh, Dublin, Paris, United States, &c. When no dates are given, the last editions of the pharmacop[oe]ias are referred to.

_lb._, _oz._, _dr._, respectively represent the _pound_, _ounce_, and _drachm_ (1/8 oz.), AVOIRDUPOIS WEIGHT. This is the only weight employed in the British and last Dublin Pharmacop[oe]ias.

lb., oz., dr., and gr., refer to the _pound_, _ounce_, _drachm_, and _grain_, APOTHECARIES' or TROY WEIGHT.

The word '_drop_' in all cases indicates a measured drop or minim.

The _names of individuals_ which appear in this work are those to whom the immediately attached information or formula is usually attributed, or on whose recommendation or authority it has been selected.

' denotes the _accented vowel_ or _syllable_.

'' that the following consonant coalesces with the preceding
letter in utterance.

[dagger] that the name or the definition to which it is attached is
'_obsolete_,'

* that the name or the definition to which it is attached is
'_obsolescent_,' little used, or objectionable.

[double-dagger] that the name or the definition to which it is
attached is '_colloquial_,' or popular, or used only in trade.

§ that the name or the definition to which it is attached is
'_vulgar_,'

A CYCLOPÆDIA OF PRACTICAL RECEIPTS, PROCESSES, AND
COLLATERAL INFORMATION

A--ABBREVIATION

=A-, ab-, abs-.= [L.] In _composition_, from, denoting distance, departure, separation, or opposition; as in _aberration_, _abstraction_, _abnormal_, &c.

=A-, an-.= [Gr.] In _composition_, no, not, without, denoting the absence or loss of some quality or thing; as in _achromatic_, _anhydrous_, _amorphous_, &c.

=AB'ACA= (k[)a]h). A species of vegetable fibre, of several varieties, obtained in the Philippine Islands, and remarkable for its brilliancy, strength, and durability. The finer kinds are woven into muslins, and other delicate fabrics; the coarser are formed into mats, cordage, and sail-cloth. It has been recently employed in Paris for the manufacture of various articles of furniture and dress; including bonnets, tapestry, carpets, network, hammocks, &c. The fibre, and fabrics made of it, may be bleached and dyed in a similar manner to flax and linen.

=ABATTOIR=. A public slaughter-house for cattle, &c., usually erected within the walls or precincts of a continental town or city.

=ABBREVIATION=. One or more of the earlier letters of a word used to express the whole.

1. Abbreviations in general use:--

A.B., Bachelor of Arts.
A.D., In the year of our Lord.
A.I.C., Associate of the Institute of Chemistry.
A.I.C.E., Associate of the Institute of Civil Engineers.
A.M., Master of Arts.--Before noon.
A.R.A., Associate of the Royal Academy.
B.A., Bachelor of Arts.
Bart., Baronet.
B.C., Before Christ.
B.D., Bachelor of Divinity.
B.Sc., Bachelor of Science.
C.B., Companion of the Bath.
C.E., Civil Engineer.
C.S., Civil Service.
D.C.L., Doctor of Civil Laws.
D.D., Doctor of Divinity.
D.G., By the Grace of God.
Dr., Doctor.--Debtor.
D.Sc., Doctor of Science.
D.V., God willing.
Ed., Editor, or Edition.
e.g., for example.
F.C.P., Fellow of the College of Preceptors.
F.C.S., Fellow of the Chemical Society.
F.G.S., Fellow of the Geological Society.
F.I.C., Fellow of the Institute of Chemistry.
F.L.S., Fellow of the Linnean Society.
F.R.A.S., Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society.
F.R.C.P., Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians.
F.R.C.S., Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons.
F.R.G.S., Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society.
F.R.S., Fellow of the Royal Society.
F.R.S.E., Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh.
H.M.S., Her Majesty's Ship.
H.R.H., His (or Her) Royal Highness.
i.e., That is.
Inst., Instant (the present month).
I.H.S., Jesus the Saviour of Man.
K.B., Knight of the Bath.
K.C.B., Knight Commander of the Bath.
K.G., Knight of the Garter.
Knt., Knight.
K.St.P., Knight of St. Patrick.
K.T., Knight of the Thistle.
L.A.C., Licentiate of the Apothecaries' Company.
Lat., Latitude.
L.D., Licentiate in Dentistry.
LL.D., Doctor of Laws.
L.M., Licentiate in Midwifery.
Loc. cit., The part referred to.
Lon. or Long., Longitude.
M.A., Master of Arts.
M.B., Bachelor of Medicine.
M.C., Master of Surgery.--Master of the Ceremonies.
M.C.P., Member of the College of Preceptors.
M.D., Doctor of Medicine.
M.I.B.A., Member of the Institute of British Architects.
M.R.C.P., Member of the Royal College of Physicians.
M.R.C.S., Member of the Royal College of Surgeons.
M.R.C.V.S., Member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons.
M.R.I., Member of the Royal Institution.
M.R.I.A., Member of the Royal Irish Academy.
MS., Manuscript.
MSS., Manuscripts.
Mus. Doc., Doctor of Music.
N.B., Mark well.
Nem. con., Without opposition.
O.H.M.S., On Her Majesty's service.
Op. cit., The work quoted.
Per cent. (often expressed by the sign %), By the hundred.
Ph.D., Doctor of Philosophy.
P.M., Afternoon.
Prox., The next (month).
P.S., Postscript.
Q.C., Queen's Counsel.
Qy. (?), Query, Question.
R.A., Royal Academician--Royal Artillery.
R.E., Royal Engineers.
R.H.A., Royal Horse Artillery.
R.M., Royal Marines.
R.N., Royal Navy.
Tr., Translator.
Ult., The last (month).
v. or vide, See.
W.S., Writer to the Signet.
&, _ampersand_, and.
&c., et cetera, And so on.

2. Abbreviations used in Prescriptions:--

_A. aa._, _ana_ (Greek), of each. Equally by weight or measure.
_Abdom._, _abdomen_, the abdomen, the belly.
_Abs. febr._, _absente febre_, fever being absent.
_Ad 2 vic._, _ad secundum vicem_, to the second time; or _ad duas
vices_, for two times.
_Ad gr. acid._, _ad gratam aciditatem_, to an agreeable acidity.
_Ad def. animi_, _ad defectionem animi_, to fainting.
_Ad del. an._, _ad deliquium animi_, to fainting.
_Ad libit._, _ad libitum_, at pleasure.
_Add._, _adde_, or _addantur_, add, or let them be added; _addendus_, to
be added.
_Adjac._, _adjacens_, adjacent.
_Admov._, _admove_, _admoveatur_, _admoveantur_, apply, let it be
applied, let them be applied.
_Ads. febre_, _adstante febre_, while the fever is present.
_Alter. hor._, _alternis horis_, every other hour.
_Alvo adstr._, _alvo adstrictâ_, when the bowels are confined.
_Aq. astr._, _aqua astricta_, frozen water.
_Aq. bull._, _aqua bulliens_, boiling water.
_Aq. com._, _aqua communis_, common water.
_Aq. fluv._, _aqua fluviatilis_, river water.
_Aq. mar._, _aqua marina_, sea water.
_Aq. niv._, _aqua nivalis_, snow water.
_Aq. pluv._, _aqua pluviatilis_, or pluvialis, rain water.
_Aq. ferv._, _aqua fervens_, hot water.
_Aq. font._, _aqua fontana_, or _aqua fontis_, spring water.
_Bis ind._, _bis in dies_, twice a day.
_Bib._, _bibe_, drink.
_BB._, _Bbds._, _Barbadensis_, Barbadoes, as _aloë Barbadensis_.
_B.M._, _balneum mariæ_, or _balneum maris_, a warm-water bath.
_B. P._, or _B. Ph._, British Pharmacop[oe]ia.
_But._, _butyrum_, butter.
_B.V._, _balneum vaporis_, a vapour bath.
_Cærul._, _cæruleus_, blue.
_Cap._, _capiat_, let him (or her) take.
_Calom._, _calomelas_, calomel, subchloride of mercury.
_C. C._, _cornu cervi_, hartshorn; it may also signify cucurbitula
cruenta, the cupping-glass with scarificator.
_C.C.U._, _cornu cervi ustum_, burnt hartshorn.
_Cochleat._, _cochleatim_, by spoonfuls.
_Coch. ampl._, _cochleare amplum_, a large (or table) spoonful; about
half a fluid ounce.
_Coch. infant._, _cochleare infantis_, a child's (or tea) spoonful.
_Coch. magn._, _cochleare magnum_, a large spoonful.
_Coch. med._, _cochleare medium_, } a middling or moderate spoonful;
that is,
_Coch. mod._, _cochleare modicum_,} a dessert-spoonful--about two fluid
drachms.
_Coch. parv._, _cochleare parvum_, a small (or tea) spoonful; it
contains about one fluid drachm.
_Col._, _cola_, strain.
_Col._, _colatus_, strained.
_Colet._, _coletur_, _colat._, _colatur_, let it be strained;
_colaturæ_, to the strained liquor.
_Colent._, _colentur_, let them be strained.
_Color._, _coloretur_, let it be coloured.
_Comp._, _compositus_, compounded.
_Cong._, _congius_, a gallon.
_Cons._, _conserva_, conserve; also (_imperat. of conservo_) keep.
_Cont. rem._, or _med._, _continuentur remedia_, or _medicamenta_, let
the remedies, or the medicines, be continued.
_Coq._, _coque_, boil; _coquantur_, let them be boiled.
_Coq. ad med. consumpt._, _coque_ or _coquatur ad medietatis
consumptionem_, boil, or let it be boiled to the consumption of one
half.
_Coq. S. A._, _coque secundum artem_, boil according to art.
_Coq. in S. A._, _coque in sufficiente quantitate aquæ_, boil in a
sufficient quantity of water.
_Cort._, _cortex_, bark.
_C. v._, _cras vespere_, to-morrow evening.
_C. m. s._, _cras mane sumendus_, to be taken to-morrow morning.
_C. n._, _cras nocte_, to-morrow night.
_Crast._, _crastinus_, for to-morrow.
_Cuj._, _cujus_, of which.
_Cujusl._, _cujuslibet_, of any.
_Cyath. theæ_, _cyatho theæ_, in a cup of tea.
_Cyath._, _cyathus_, vel, a wine-glass; from an ounce and half...
_C. vinar._, _cyathus vinarius_; to two ounces and half.
_Deaur. pil._, _deaurentur pilulæ_, let the pills be gilt.
_Deb. spiss._, _debitur spissitudo_, due consistence.
_Dec._, _decanta_, pour off.
_Decub. hor._, _decubitûs horâ_, at the hour of going to bed, or at
bedtime.
_De d. in d._, _de die in diem_, from day to day.
_Deglut._, _deglutiatur_, let it be swallowed.
_Dej. alv._, _dejectiones alvi_, stools.
_Det._, _detur_, let it be given.
_Dieb. alt._, _diebus alternis_, every other day.
_Dieb. tert._, _diebus tertiis_, every third day.
_Dil._, _dilue_, _dilutus_, dilute (thin), diluted.
_Diluc._, _diluculo_, at break of day.
_Dim._, _dimidius_, one half.
_D. in 2 plo._, _deter in duplo_, let it be given in twice the quantity.
_D. in p. æq._, _dividatur in partes æquales_, let it be divided in
equal parts.
_D. P._, _directione propria_, with a proper direction.
_Donec alv. bis dej._, _donec alvus bis dejecerit_, until the bowels
have been twice opened.
_Donec alv. sol. fuer._, _donec alvus soluta fuerit_, until the bowels
have been loosened.
_Donec dol. neph. exulav._, _donec dolor nephriticus exulaverit_, until
the nephritic pain has been removed.
_D._, _dosis_, a dose.
_Eburn._, _eburneus_, made of ivory.
_Ed._, _edulcorata_, edulcorated.
_Ejusd._, _ejusdem_, of the same.
_Elect._, _electuarium_, an electuary.
_Enem._, _enema_, a clyster.
_Exhib._, _exhibeatur_, let it be administered.
_Ext. sup. alut. moll._, _extende super alutam mollem_, spread upon soft
leather.
_F._, _fac_, make; _fiat_, _fiant_, let it be made, let them be made.
_F. pil._, _fiant pilulæ_, let pills be made.
_Fasc._, _fasciculus_, a bundle.
_Feb. dur._, _febre durante_, during the fever.
_Fem. intern._, _femoribus internis_, to the inside of the thighs.
_F. venæs._, _fiat venæsectio_, let venesection be performed.
_F. H._, _fiat haustus_, let a draught be made.
_Fict._, _fictilis_, earthen.
_Fil._, _filtrum_, a filter.
_Fist. arm._, _fistula armata_, a clyster-pipe and bladder fitted for
use.
_Fl._, _fluidus_, fluid.
_F. L. A._, _fiat lege artis_, let it be made by the rules of art.
_F. M._, _fiat mistura_, let a mixture be made.
_F. S. A._, _fiat secundum artem_, let it be made according to art.
_Gel. quav._, _gelatina quavis_, in any jelly.
_G. G. G._, _gummi guttæ gambæ_, gamboge.
_Gr._, _granum_, a grain; _grana_, grains.
_Gr. vj pond._, _grana sex pondere_, six grains by weight.
_Gtt._, _gutta_, a drop; _guttæ_, drops.
_Gtt. quibusd._, _guttis quibusdam_, with some drops.
_Guttat._, _guttatim_, by drops.
_Har. pil. sum. iij_, _harum pilularum sumantur tres_, of these pills
let three be taken.
_H. D._, or _hor. decub._, _horâ decubitûs_, at bedtime.
_H. P._, _haustus purgans_, purging draught.
_H. S._, _horâ somni_, at the hour of going to sleep.
_Hor. un. spætio_, _horæ unius spatio_, at the expiration of one hour.
_Hor. interm._, _horis intermediis_, in the intermediate hours.
_Hor. 11mâ mat._, _horâ undecimâ matutinâ_, at 11 o'clock in the
morning.
_Ind._, _indies_, daily.
_In pulm._, _in pulmento_, in gruel.
_Ind. Ph._, Indian Pharmacop[oe]ia.
_Inf._, _infunde_, infuse.
_Inj. enem._, _injiciatur enema_, let a clyster be thrown up.
_Jul._, _julepus_, _julapium_, a julep.
_Kal. ppt._, _kali præparatum_, prepared kali (_potassæ carbonas_).
_Lat. dol._, _lateri dolenti_, to the affected side.
_M._, _misce_, mix; _mensurâ_, by measure; _manipulus_, a handful;
_minimum_, a minim.
_Mane pr._, _mane primo_, early in the morning.
_Man._, _manipulus_, a handful.
_Min._, _minimum_, a minim, the 60th part of a drachm measure.
_M. P._, _massa pilularum_, a pill mass.
_M.R._, _mistura_, a mixture.
_Mic. pan._, _mica panis_, crumb of bread.
_Mitt._, _mitte_, send; _mittantur_, let them be sent.
_Mitt. sang. ad [oz]xij, mitte sanguinem ad [oz]xij_, take blood to
twelve ounces.
_Mod. præscr._, _modo præscripto_, in the manner directed.
_Mor. dict._, _more dicto_, in the way ordered.
_Mor. sol._, _more solito_, in the usual way.
_Ne tr. s. num._, _ne tradas sine nummo_, do not deliver it without the
money.
_No._, _numero_, in number.
_N. M._, _nux moschata_, a nutmeg.
_O._, _octarius_, a pint.
_Ol. lini s. i._, _oleum lini sine ligné_, cold-drawn linseed oil.
_Omn. hor._, _omni horâ_, every hour.
_Omn. bid._, _omni biduo_, every two days.
_Omn. bih._, _omni bihorio_, every two hours.
_O. M._, or _omn. man._, _omni mane_, every morning.
_O. N._, or _omn. noct._, _omni nocte_, every night.
_Omn. quadr. hor._, _omni quadrante horæ_, every quarter of an hour.
_O. O. O._, _oleum olivæ optimum_, best olive oil.
_Ov._, _ovum_, an egg.
_Oz._, the ounce avoirdupois.
_P. æ._, _part. æqual._, _partes æquales_, equal parts.
_P. d._, _per deliquium_, by deliquescence.
_Past._, _pastillus_, a pastil, or ball of paste.
_P._, _pondere_, by weight.
_Ph. D._, _Pharmacop[oe]ia Dubliniensis_.
_Ph. E._, _Pharmacop[oe]ia Edinensis_.
_Ph. L._, _Pharmacop[oe]ia Londinensis_.
_Ph. U. S._, _Pharmacop[oe]ia of the United States_.
_Part. vic._, _partitis vicibus_, in divided doses.
_Per. op. emet._, _peractâ operatione emetici_, the operation of the
emetic being over.
_Pocul._, _poculum_, a cup.
_Pocill._, _pocillum_, a small cup.
_Post sing. sed. liq._, _post singulas sedes liquidas_, after every
loose stool.
_Ppt._, _præparata_, prepared.
_P. r. n._, _pro re nata_, occasionally.
_P. rat. ætat._, _pro ratione ætatis_, according to the age.
_Pug._, _pugillus_, a pinch, a gripe between the thumb and the two first
fingers.
_Pulv._, _pulvis_, _pulverizatus_, a powder, pulverised.
_Q. l._, _quantum lubet_, } as much as you
_Q. p._, _quantum placet_,} please.
_Q. s._, _quantum sufficiat_, as much as may suffice.
_Quor._, _quorum_, of which.
_Q. V._, _quantum vis_, as much as you will.
_Red. in pulv._, _redactus in pulverem_, reduced to powder.
_Redig. in pulv._, _redigatur in pulverem_, let it be reduced into
powder.
_Reg. umbil._, _regio umbilici_, the umbilical region.
_Repet._, _repetatur_, or _repetantur_, let it, or them, be repeated.
_S. A._, _secundum artem_, according to art.
_Scat._, _scatula_, a box.
_S. N._, _secundum naturam_, according to nature.
_Semidr._, _semidrachma_, half a drachm.
_Semih._, _semihora_, half an hour.
_Sesunc._, _sesuncia_, half an ounce.
_Sesquih._, _sesquihora_, an hour and a half.
_Si n. val._, _si non valeat_, if it does not answer.
_Si op. sit_, _si opus sit_, if it be necessary.
_Si vir. perm._, _si vires permittant_, if the strength allow it.
_Signat._, _signatura_, a label.
_Sign. n. pr._, _signetur nomine proprio_, let it be written upon, let
it be signed with the proper name (not the trade name).
_Sing._, _singulorum_, of each.
_S. S. S._, _stratum super stratum_, layer upon layer.
_Ss._, _semi_, a half.
_St._, _stet_, let it stand; _stent_, let them stand.
_Sub fin. coct._, _sub finem coctionis_, towards the end of boiling,
when the boiling is nearly finished.
_Sum. tal._, _sumat talem_, let the patient take one such as this.
_Summ._, _summitates_, the summits or tops.
_Sum._, _sume_, _sumat_, _sumatur_, _sumantur_, take, let him or her
take, let it be taken, let them be taken.
_S. V._, _spiritus vini_, spirit of wine.
_S. V. R._, _spiritus vini rectificatus_, rectified spirit of wine.
_S. V. T._, _spiritus vini tenuis_, proof spirit.
_Tabel._, _tabella_, a lozenge.
_Temp. dext._, _tempori dextro_, to the right temple.
_T. O._, _tinctura opii_, tincture of opium.
_T. O. C._, _tinctura opii camphorata_, camphorated tincture of opium.
_Tra._, _tinctura_, tincture.
_Ult. præscr._, _ultimo præscriptus_, last prescribed.
_U. S. Ph._, United States' Pharmacop[oe]ia.
_V. O. S._, _vitello ovi solutus_, dissolved in the yolk of an egg.
_Vom. urg._, _vomitione urgente_, the vomiting being troublesome.
_V. S. B._, _venæsectio brachii_, bleeding from the arm.
_Zz._, _zingiber_, ginger.

See FORMULA, PRESCRIPTIONS, SYMBOLS, &c.

=ABDO'MEN.= [Eng., Fr., L.] In _anatomy_, the belly, or lower belly; the great cavity of the body extending from the thorax, or chest, to the bottom of the pelvis. It contains the stomach, intestines, liver, spleen, kidneys, bladder, &c.; and in the female, the uterus, ovaria. &c.

=AB'ERNE'THY MEDICINES.= These originally consisted of a calomel pill, and subsequently of a mercurial or 'blue' pill, to be taken over-night, followed by an aromatised black draught in the morning. The quantity of either of the former, for an adult, was about 3 gr. to 3-1/2 gr., increased a little in bulk by the addition of some liquorice powder; that of the latter, from 1 to 1-1/2 fl. oz. As, however, when frequently taken, these pills sometimes occasioned salivation, which proved prejudicial to their sale, a little compound extract of colocynth (_Ph. L._, 1836) was introduced into their composition, by which this objection was obviated. Ultimately, their composition was settled at 3 gr. of mercurial pill, and 2 gr. of compound extract of colocynth; and these proportions are still followed as the best by those who prepare and sell them. Persons who object to black draught, will find a dose of castor oil, or of any other mild purgative medicine that may be more agreeable to them, equally efficacious.

The occasional use of these medicines seldom fails to prove highly beneficial to the plethoric, bilious, and dyspeptic. In ordinary cases of constipation, headache, &c., arising from deranged stomach or liver, wherein the administration of mercurials is not contra-indicated, they will be found of great service. It need scarcely be added that these medicines are named after Mr Abernethy, the celebrated surgeon, who is said to have frequently employed them in his practice.

=ABERRA'TION.= [Eng., Fr.] _Syn._ ABERRA'TIO, L. A wandering or deviation from the usual course, or from the normal condition. In _optics_, the deviation of the rays of light from the true focus, when inflected by a lens or speculum. This arises from a difference in the physical nature of the rays, from the figure of the lenses or specula, or from the nature of the materials of which the media traversed are composed. See ACHROMATISM, LENS, &c.

=Aberration of mind.= Mental alienation or wandering; insanity. A term frequently applied, in familiar language, to a mild form of incipient insanity or dementia, which is more or less occasional or continued, trifling or severe, according to circumstances. The studious, nervous, slothful, and those who are engaged in sedentary occupations and spend much of their time in ill-ventilated apartments, or who indulge in irregular or vicious habits, as well as 'fast livers,' are the most liable to this affection. It also frequently arises from disordered physical health.

_Treat., &c._ Change of scene, out-door exercise, agreeable company, pleasing and continued mental occupation, and due attention to diet, clothing, ventilation, &c., with the judicious use of some mild aperient medicine and tepid bathing, will generally alleviate, and frequently effect a cure. For the prevention of its accession, or its recurrence, care should be taken to promote the general health, and also, where necessary, to elevate the spirits and to divert the mind.

=ABLU'TION.= [Eng., Fr.] _Syn._ ABLU'TIO, L. In a _general sense_, washing, cleansing, or purification by water.

=Ablution.= In _hygiène_ and the _toilet_, a washing of the whole body, or any part of it. The value of frequent and copious affusions of pure water to the surface of the body is well known. During life, the skin is continually subjected to abrasion, and the processes of reproduction and decay, by which the cuticle, its exterior portion, is being constantly thrown off as effete and useless matter, in the shape of very minute scales or dust. This, mingling with the oily and saline products of the skin, acquires sufficient adhesiveness to attach itself to the surface of the body and clothing, as well as to attract the waste particles of the dress, and the dust and soot floating in the atmosphere. In this way, if occasional ablutions be not had recourse to, the channels of perspiration will become choked, and the clothing itself rendered unwholesome and unfit for use. The consequence of the pores of the skin being obstructed is impeded transpiration, by which its functions, as a respiratory organ, are interfered with or suspended. This adhering pellicle of refuse matter also acts as an irritant, and forms a favorable medium for the absorption, and the transmission into the body, of effluvia, miasmata, poisonous gases, and the infectious and contagious matters of disease. "The greater part of (contagious) poisons are conveyed to us through the external surface of our bodies; and it is fully proved that poison, already communicated, has been by cleanliness removed, before it could actually produce any bad effects. I here allude, in particular, to frequent washing, bathing, rinsing the mouth, combing and brushing the hair, and often changing the linen, clothing, and bedding." (Hufeland.) Such are the immediate effects of neglected ablution of the skin; the further consequences are of an equally serious character. The blood being deprived of one of its sources of oxygen, and one of the outlets for its carbon, the functions of nutrition become imperfect, and the animal temperature lessened. The matters which would be thrown out of the system in the form of perspiration are retained, and must be eliminated by other channels. The lungs, the kidneys, the liver, and the bowels, are each, in their turn, overtasked to perform the functions of another organ. The oppressed viscera suffer from exhaustion, and incipient disease soon follows. Their particular offices are languidly performed, the equilibrium of health is disturbed, and skin diseases, or consumption, diarrh[oe]a, dropsy, liver-complaints, visceral obesity, or some other serious diseases of the vital organs, ensue. When it is added, that no dirty or imperfectly washed skin can long continue healthy, and ceasing to be healthy must also cease to be agreeable and beautiful, the argument in favour of the daily use of water of good quality to the whole surface of the body, when possible, will surely be complete. The inculcation of habits of personal cleanliness cannot be too forcibly emphasized. The fact, however, cannot be overlooked, that in order to introduce habits of cleanliness amongst the poorer classes, a plentiful supply of water, combined with cheap baths, are requisite. Every officer of health should inquire into the amount as well as the character of the water supply in the district over which he has supervision. The body should be washed all over every morning with either cold or lukewarm water and soap. This custom is more necessary for workmen employed in laborious and dirty occupations than for those who live sedentary lives; but all people perspire, and from every drop of perspiration the water evaporates, and leaves a fraction of solid matter on and around the pores that excrete the perspiration. If this solid matter be not washed off, it accumulates and may derange the health. Instances have occurred in which persons suffering from extensive bodily burns have died, not from the effect of the injury, but from the destruction of the pores or excreting vessels, with which the skin is covered. It is well, therefore, to bear in mind that a dirty skin does not always come from without, but also from within. Cold ablution, that has been so indiscriminately recommended, is not half so efficacious, nor so safe, as lukewarm. The German aurists ascribe the presence of the large amount of deafness in England to our habit of washing the head and ears each morning with cold water.

=Ablution.= In _medicine_, the washing the body, externally, as by bathing; or internally, by diluting drinks. In ancient medicine, according to Galen, internal ablution was accomplished by the use of profuse libations of milk-whey; an object now aimed at, by the hydropathists, by the copious administration of pure cold water. To neglect the daily ablution of an infant is to discard one of the greatest aids to its healthy development and physical wellbeing. That disregard of this precaution is a fertile source of most of the skin diseases that affect infants and children there seems little question about amongst medical men. Water at a temperature ranging from 80° to 90° F. should always be used. Mr Chevasse, in his 'Counsel to a Mother,' is emphatic in his advocacy of rain water. He also advises the employment of Castile soap, and of glycerine soap, should there be any excoriation of the skin. Of course the same remarks apply to children as to infants, with this difference, that the ablution is to be performed with water a few degrees colder; and both infants and children should be rubbed dry with a dry soft towel. There are doubtless many persons who deem themselves cleanly washed, if in addition to their hands and arms, neck and face, undergoing duly daily ablution, they wash their feet once a week. These individuals cannot reflect that, because of their less exposure to the depurating influence of the atmosphere, the feet require to be more frequently washed than either the hands or face. See BATHING, BATHS, HYDROPATHY, &c.

=ABNORM'AL.= [Eng., Fr.] _Syn._ ABNOR'MIS, L. In _medicine_ and the _collateral sciences_, contrary to, or without system or rule; irregular; deformed; unnatural. In a diseased or unhealthy state.

=ABORTION IN COWS.= Abortion is the expulsion of the contents of the pregnant womb before the full period of gestation is complete, and occurs much more frequently in cows than in any other of the lower animals. Abortion is often induced by shocks and injuries, feeding on ergotised grasses, but more commonly by causes which are less obvious. Thus, bad smells, pasturing on flooded meadows, rich and stimulating food, and even association with other cows while aborting, are among the exciting causes of this malady. The premonitory signs are an irritable excited state of the animal, a discharge from the vagina, looseness and fulness of the external organs of generation, and, occasionally, sudden enlargement of the udder. These symptoms may continue for several days, and, if noticed before straining or other signs of calving have appeared, the animal should be copiously bled and placed in a comfortable loose-box, kept as quiet as possible, moderately supplied with soft laxative food, and, if the bowels be costive, with a pound or two of treacle daily. Powerful purgatives are too irritant, and must, therefore, be studiously avoided. Two ounces of laudanum, with the same quantity of sweet spirits of nitre, should be given twice a day until all danger is over. To prevent the continuance and spread of the evil, place the cow by herself as soon as she aborts; remove and bury the f[oe]tus beyond the reach of other cows; feed off the cow, if practicable, but if she be again bulled, it ought not to be for several weeks, and until the period of heat is passing off; remove all disagreeable smells, and see that the remainder of the herd are moderately fed and carefully watched, so that the earliest symptoms of abortion may be noticed.

=ABRA'SION.= [Eng., Fr.] _Syn._ ABRA'SIO, L. The rubbing or wearing down of surfaces by friction. In the _arts_, the reduction or figuration of materials by the use of an abrasive tool, or grinder, of which the effective portion is an exact counterpart of the form to be produced.

=Abrasion.= In _numismatics_, the 'wear and tear,' or waste of the substance of coins, in the pocket and circulation. It forms a large item in the expense of a metallic currency. The means employed to obviate, or to reduce it, consist in either alloying the metal to render it tougher and harder, or raising the borders so as to lessen the surface exposed to friction. In well-formed coin both methods are adopted.

=Abrasion.= In _pathology_ and _surgery_--1. A superficial removal or injury of the skin by fretting or friction.

_Treat., &c._ When the injured surface is large, or exposed, it should be protected from dirt and further injury, by applying a piece of lint or soft linen rag, covered with spermaceti cerate, or some other simple ointment; over which a piece of strapping, or bandage of any sort, may be placed to keep it on. In many cases, a piece of common sticking-plaster will be found quite sufficient.

2. A very superficial ulceration or excoriation of the intestinal or other mucous membrane. _Treat_. Aperients of castor oil, demulcents, and a light nutritious diet. See EXCORIATIONS.

=ABRUS PRECATORIUS.= (Ind. Ph.) Indian Liquorice Plant. _Habitat._ Tropical portions of both hemispheres, _Officinal part._ The root (_Abri Radix_, _Indian Liquorice_). Occurs in pieces of various lengths, from 1/2 to 1 inch in diameter; pale brown externally, yellowish internally; inodorous, taste sweetish and mucilaginous, much resembling officinal liquorice root. _Properties and uses._ Similar to those of liquorice, for which it forms an excellent substitute. _Preparation._ EXTRACT OF ABRUS (_Extractum Abri_). Prepared as Extractum Glycyrrhizæ.

=ABSCESS.= A formation of matter or pus, resulting from inflammation, either acute or chronic. The symptoms are pain, swelling, heat, and redness, a conical projection on the swelling, often with a white point at the apex. Abscess or suppuration may come on any part of the body. When the local inflammation does not yield to cold lotions, apply poultices; a pledget of lint dipped in cold water and kept moist by means of oil-silk; a slice of bread softened with boiling water or milk, or linseed meal, make the best poultices. Should the pain be severe add laudanum, and additionally rub it round the swelling. Or apply common white paint by laying it on gently with a brush, or else tincture of marigold or arnica in the same manner. Chronic abscesses in the glands in the neck are usually scrofulous, and should be opened. Abscesses in the breast should not be opened too early, or others are formed. Those in the gums may be cut early, not so if in the tonsils. After opening with a needle or lancet-point external abscesses, continue to poultice till the hardness disappears, then dress with spermaceti ointment spread on lint. When the abscess is of a dangerous nature, lose no time in consulting a medical practitioner.

_Treatment for horses and cattle._ Mr Finlay Dun prescribes fomentations, poultices, counter-irritants, the knife, cauterisation, carbolic-acid dressing, stimulating injections, and the administration of sulphites and chlorate of potash.

=ABSINTHE.= [Fr.] ABSINTHIUM, L.; WORMWOOD, E.; WERMUTH, G. This article is met with in commerce in the form of the dried herb with the flowers of _Artemisia Absinthium_, having a whitish-grey appearance, a soft feel, an aromatic and unpleasant odour, and an extremely bitter and aromatic flavour. The plant is indigenous, and grows in thickets, in mountainous districts, and on waste ground. Its odour is due to its containing an essential oil; its bitterness is referable to _absinthin_, a crystallisable principle which may be extracted from the herb by water or spirit. The name _absinthe_ is also given to an intoxicating liqueur which is extensively drunk on the Continent, and which unfortunately appears to be rapidly attracting consumers in this country. The remarks on this subject by Blyth in his admirable 'Dictionary of Hygiène' are so pregnant with important facts that they will be here produced _verbatim et literatim_. "An analysis recently made at the _Conservatoire des Arts_ shows that absinthe now contains a large quantity of antimony, a poison which cannot fail to add largely to the irritant effects necessarily produced on the alimentary canal and liver by constant doses of a concentrated alcoholic liquid. And we have recently received the results of some experiments made by M. Magnan, of Paris. By means of successive distillations he has been able to isolate various products--(1) a blue oil; (2) a yellowish oil; (3) an oxygenated substance. There was besides a yellowish residue left in the glass. These various substances were tried on animals; ten grammes of the yellow sediment given to a small dog produced no effect; thirty centigrammes of the blue oil produced from eight to ten epileptiform attacks. The oxygenated product proved, however, the most powerful toxic agent. Fifteen centigrammes of it, injected into the veins of a large dog, caused the most violent epileptic attacks, which followed in rapid succession, and ended in death. There was an extraordinary rise of temperature, from 39° to 42° Centigrade, and the _post mortem_ showed various apoplectic centres. Dr Decaisne regards the terrible evil of this almost universal absinthe-drinking as the greatest national calamity that has ever befallen France, and has made an eloquent appeal to the Government to strike at once a decisive blow at the trade in this liqueur. Originally the only important ingredient in its composition besides alcohol was the essential oil of absinthium or wormwood; and though this without doubt added something to the mischievous effects of the liqueur, it would be impossible to trace to it, or to the other comparatively trivial ingredients, the more serious of the special results which are now observed to occur to victims of absinthe, though the habitual drinking even in small doses of _good_ absinthe is believed by Dr Decaisne, sooner or later, to produce disorders in the animal economy. Now various deleterious substances are added, the most important of these being antimony. As at present constituted, therefore, and especially when drunk in the disastrous excess now common in Paris, and taken, as it frequently is, on an empty stomach, absinthe forms a chronic poison of almost unequalled virulence, both as an irritant to the stomach and bowels, and also as a destroyer of the nervous system. The effect of absinthe is to produce a superabundant activity of the brain, a cerebral excitement, which at first is agreeable; intoxication comes on rapidly; the head swims, and the effect produced is nearly the same as that of poisoning by a narcotic, which certainly does not occur with an equal dose of brandy. With the absinthe-drinker, as with the opium-eater, the excitement the spirit produces diminishes daily in intensity. Each day he is obliged to augment the dose in order to bring himself up to the right pitch. The diseases brought on by the excessive drinking of ardent spirits are produced with greater rapidity by the use of absinthe." The amount of absinthe consumed in London has during the last few years been enormously on the increase. See LIQUEURS.

=ABSINTHIN.= C_{16}H_{22}O_{5}. The bitter principle of wormwood (_Artemisia absinthium_). A hard crystalline solid, having an intensely bitter taste; slightly soluble in water, very soluble in alcohol, less so in ether. Its physiological effects resemble those of extract of wormwood. _Dose._ 1/2 gr. to 2 gr., or more; in dyspepsia; as a stomachic, to promote the appetite, &c.; as a substitute for quinine in intermittents; and in worms.

=ABSINTH'IUM.= [L.] See ABSINTHE.

=ABSOLUTE.= _Syns._ ABSOLUTUS, L.; ABSOLU, Fr.; UNDEBINGT, G. In _chemistry_, pure, unmixed; as _absolute alcohol_, pure spirit of wine, _i.e._ free from water.

=ABSORBED'= (-sorbd'). _Syn._ CHILLED; ABSORBÉ, Fr. In _painting_, a term among French connoisseurs, to represent that state of a picture in which the oil has sunk into the canvas or ground, leaving the colours 'flat,' and the touches indistinct. The remedy consists in rubbing the surface of the picture, previously well cleaned, with a soft sponge dipped in a little drying oil, and after some days varnishing it; when it should be kept in a warm room until perfectly dry.

=ABSORB'ENT.= _Syn._ ABSORB'ENS, L.; ABSORBANT, Fr.; ABSORBIREND, Ger. Imbibing; that imbibes or sucks up; variously applied in science and art. (See _below_.)

=Absorbent Ground.= In _painting_, a picture-ground prepared wholly or chiefly in distemper or water colour, in order that the redundant oil in the colours subsequently applied may be immediately 'absorbed,' by which expedition is permitted, and brilliancy imparted to them.

=Absorbent Surfaces.= In the _arts_, these are usually rendered non-absorbent, preliminary to their being bronzed, gilded, painted, or varnished, by giving them one, or more, coats of thin size, so as to destroy their porosity; care being taken to allow each coat to become thoroughly dry before the application of the next one; and also, finally, to remove any unabsorbed excess of size from the surface, by means of a sponge dipped in warm water. This applies to ALABASTER, PAPER, WOOD, PLASTER CASTS, &c.; and to WALLS and CEILINGS which are not exposed to the weather, and which there is not time to prepare with drying oil. See BRONZING, MAPS, VARNISHING, &c.

Absorption and consequent adherence in porous moulds, as those of plaster, are usually prevented by thoroughly saturating the pores of the mould with melted tallow, or a mixture of tallow and bees' wax; or for delicate objects or the electrotype, with white wax. The 'dry moulds' are either heated before the application of these substances, or they are boiled in them; any portion that may finally remain unabsorbed, being carefully removed with cotton-wool or a soft rag. Another method is to wash the moulds over two or three times with drying oil, or to boil them in it; after which they must be exposed to the air for some days, to dry and harden. Before being used for plaster, composition, &c., the surface of these prepared moulds require to be slightly moistened with sweet oil.

_Plaster moulds_ are generally prepared for sulphur, wax, and gutta percha casts, by simply placing them (upright) with the back immersed in a little water, contained in any shallow vessel, as a saucer or plate; and letting them remain there until moisture begins to appear on the surface. The materials to be cast, or moulded, should then be used at the lowest possible temperature, to prevent the formation of air-bubbles.

The adherence of wax or mixtures containing it, and of gutta percha, is best prevented by moistening the surface of the mould (whether of plaster, metal, or gutta percha), immediately before use, with soft soap reduced to the consistence of thin cream with water. See CASTS, MOULDS, ELECTROTYPE, &c.

=ABSORB'ENTS.= In _anatomy_ and _physiology_, two distinct sets of small, delicate, transparent vessels, which imbibe or suck up fluid substances, and convey them to the blood. They are termed lacteals or lymphatics; the former take up the chyme from the alimentary canal, the latter pervade almost every part of the body in which they absorb lymph.

=Absorbents.= In _botany_ and _vegetable physiology_, the origins of the different vessels constituting the vascular tissue, as they are found in the root, where they imbibe or suck up the nutritive fluids from the soil. See PLANTS and VEGETABLES.

=Absorbents.= In _agriculture_ and _chemistry_, substances which possess the power of withdrawing moisture from the atmosphere; as soils, argillaceous earths, &c. Also (but less frequently) substances which neutralise acids; as chalk, lime, and magnesia. Absorbents differ from 'deliquescent salts'; the latter attract moisture and dissolve in it; whilst the former merely suck it into their pores, as a sponge does water. See ABSORPTION.

=Absorbents.= _Syn._ ABSORBEN'TIA, L. In _medicine_ and _pharmacy_, substances which remove acidity from the stomach and bowels. Of these the principal are--magnesia, carbonate and bicarbonate of magnesia, prepared chalk, and the carbonates and bicarbonates of potash, soda, and ammonia. The first four are popularly called earthy absorbents; and the others, alkaline absorbents. See ANTACIDS.

The following absorbent mixtures are taken from Dr Kirby's valuable work, 'Selected Remedies':

1. Infusion of rhubarb, 1-1/2 oz.; compound spirit of ammonia, 1-1/2 dr.; compound infusion of gentian to 6 oz. Two tablespoonfuls to be taken 3 times a day.

2. Bicarbonate of potash, 1-1/2 dr.; syrup, 2 drs.; compound spirit ammonia, 1-1/2 dr.; compound infusion of gentian to 6 oz. Two tablespoonfuls to be taken 3 times a day.

3. Bicarbonate of soda, 1-1/2 dr.; spirits of chloroform, 1-1/2 dr.; infusion of calumba to 6 oz. Two tablespoonfuls to be taken 3 times a day.

=ABSORP'TION.= [Eng., Fr.] _Syn._ ABSORP'TIO, L.; EINSAUGUNG, Ger. The act or the power of absorbing, in various applications. (See _below_.)

=Absorption.= In _agriculture_, the power possessed by soils of absorbing moisture from the atmosphere. The more a soil is divided by labour and vegetation, the greater is its absorbent power, and, consequently, its fertility. Indeed, the latter chiefly depends on its capacity for imbibing moisture, and may be illustrated by reference to recent and disintegrated lava. (Leslie.) The finely divided state, most penetrable by the delicate fibres of plants, appears to derive its superior power of acting on atmospheric vapour from the augmentation of its surface and the multiplication of its points of contact. (Ure.) This method of increasing the fertility of a soil is well known to scientific farmers, and seldom neglected by them. (Loudon.) That soil must be regarded as the most fertile which possesses this power in the greatest degree. Garden-mould has the highest absorbent power of any mineral substance. (Leslie.)

_Process of ascertaining_ the ABSORBENT POWER OF SOILS, _and other substances._ Thoroughly dry the article by the suitable application of a heat not exceeding 212° Fahr., continued for several hours, and transfer it, while still warm, into a clean dry phial furnished with a perfectly tight ground-glass stopper. When cold, quickly and cautiously introduce it, along with a delicate hygrometer, into a large wide-mouthed glass bottle, the atmosphere of which has been previously rendered as damp as possible, by suspending a piece of moistened rag or filtering paper in it. It must now be kept closed for some hours, when the hygrometer will indicate the degree of dryness of the enclosed air, and, consequently, the absorbent power of the substance examined.

_Obs._ Experiments of this nature are only relatively correct, and must be performed under exactly similar circumstances, to furnish reliable comparative results. The whole process, in each case, must be as similar as careful manipulation can possibly make them. With this reserve, they will be found invaluable to the agriculturist.

=Absorption.= In _chemistry_ the passage of gases and vapours into liquid and solid substances. Thus, water absorbs the oxygen of the air, lime absorbs water, charcoal absorbs ammoniacal and other gases.

=Absorption.= In _medicine_ and _toxicology_, see MEDICINES and POISONS.

=Absorption.= In _perfumery_, see ENFLEURAGE.

=Absorption.= In _physics_, see HEAT, LIGHT, REFRIGERATION, &c.

=Absorption.= In _physiology_ (animal and vegetable), the function of sucking, or taking up, of appropriate substances, by the 'absorbent vessels.' It is one of the chief vital functions, the primary object of which is to convey to the circulatory organs the proper supply of the materials necessary for the support and growth of the body; and subsequently, to remove and convey to these organs its effete and useless portions, in order to their ultimate elimination from the system.

=Absorption.= In _surgery_, the natural process by which tumours and their contents, morbid growths, and, sometimes, even healthy glands, &c., are gradually taken up and disappear, by the action of the 'absorbents.'

=Absorption= (of Surfaces, Moulds, &c). See ABSORBENT SURFACES.

=ABSTERG'ENTS.= _Syn._ ABSTERGEN'TIA, L. In _medicine_ and _pharmacy_, substances which cleanse or clear away foulness from the surface of the body or sores; as soap, lotions, &c. See DETERGENT, which has a nearly similar meaning, and is in more general use.

=AC'ARI= (-r[=i]). [L.; prim. Gr.] _Syn._ ACAR'IDANS; ACAR'IDES (d[=e]z); ACARID'IÆ. (-e-[=e]). In _entomology_, a division of arachnidans, including the _mite_ and _tick_. All the species are either microscopic or extremely minute, and possess such tenacity of life as to resist for some time the action of boiling water, and to live with comparative impunity in alcohol. Leuwenhoek had one that lived eleven weeks glued on its back to the point of a needle, without food. The following are well known--ACARUS AUTUMNA'LIS, the _harvest-bug_ or _wheal-worm_; A. DOMES'TICUS, the _domestic tick_; A. DYSENTE'RIÆ, the _dysentery-tick_; A. FARI'NÆ, the _meal mite_ (fig. _a_); A. RI''CINUS (r[)i]c-), the _dog-tick_; A. SAC'CHARI, the _sugar-mite_ (fig. _b_); A. SI''RO, the _cheese-mite_ (fig. _c_); A. SCABIE'I, the _itch-insect_ (fig. _d_).

The irritation of the skin, caused by these vermin, may be relieved by a lotion of equal parts of sal volatile and water; and they may be destroyed by tobacco water, or a lotion or ointment of stavesacre. See ITCH, MANGE, PARASITES, PEDICULI, SCAB, &c.

=Acarus Farinæ=, or _meal-mite_ (fig. _a_). This insect is found only in damaged flour, and is more frequently met with in the flour of the _leguminosæ_ (beans, peas) than in that of the _gramineæ_ (wheat, rye, oat).

Now and then a single acarus may occasionally be found in good flour, but even one should be regarded with suspicion, and the flour should afterwards be frequently examined to see if they are increasing.

=Acarus Sacchari=, or _sugar-mite_ (fig. _b_).

Most of the brown sugars of commerce are infested by this pest, which is of a size sufficiently large to be visible to the naked eye. The following method of proceeding will lead to its detection:

Dissolve 2 or 3 teaspoonfuls of sugar in a large wineglass of tepid water, and let the solution remain for an hour or so, at the expiration of which time the acari may be found, some on the surface of the liquid, some attaching themselves to the sides of the glass, and some at the bottom, mixed up with the copious and dark sediment, made up of fragments of cane, woody fibre, grit, dirt, and starch granules, which usually subside on dissolving even a small quantity of sugar in hot water. When first hatched this acarus is hardly visible.

Acari of all sizes--that is, in all stages of growth--may be met with in most samples of sugar.

Dr Hassall, in seventy-two samples of sugar which he examined, found sixty-nine containing them.

=Acarus Siro=, the _cheese-mite_ (fig. _c_). The dry and powdery parts of decayed cheese, which by careful watching may very frequently be seen in movement, consist almost wholly of this insect and their eggs in different stages of development. The cheese-mite can hardly be seen without the aid of the microscope. They are very tenacious of life, even when kept without food. Mr Blyth says that under these circumstances "it is no uncommon sight to see them killing and devouring each other; and that cheese is rapidly destroyed by them; they crumble it into minute pieces, and emit a liquid substance which causes the decayed parts to spread speedily." They may be destroyed by being exposed to a strong heat, or by putting the cheese for a short time in whisky.

=Acarus Scabiei=, the _itch-insect_ (fig. _d_). The parasitic character of the disease known as the itch was first demonstrated by Dr Bononio, who on turning out the contents of one of the little bladders that show themselves between the fingers of those affected with the complaint, and placing the fluid under the microscope, discovered a minute animal, very nimble in its movements, covered with short hairs, having a short head, a pair of strong mandibles or cutting-jaws, and eight legs, terminating in remarkable appendages, each provided with a sucker and setæ.

It has no eyes; but when disturbed it quickly draws in its head and feet, and then somewhat resembles the tortoise in appearance, its march being precisely the same. It usually lays sixteen eggs, which are carefully deposited in furrows under the skin, and ranged in pairs; these are hatched in about ten days.

"To find the itch-insect," says Mr Jabez Hogg, "the operator must carefully examine the parts surrounding each pustule; he will then see a red line or spot communicating with it; this part, and not the pustule, must be probed with a fine-pointed instrument. The operator must not be disappointed by repeated failures."

=ACCIDENT'AL COLOURS.= See COLOURS (Complementary).

=ACCIDENTS.= _Black eye._ Bathe the eye frequently with a soft piece of linen rag dipped in a lotion composed of one part of tincture of arnica and seven parts of water.

_Burns and Scalds._ Refer to BURNS and SCALDS.

_Charcoal_, _combustion of_, _poisoning by._ Refer to CARBONIC ANHYDRIDE.

_Choking, or suffocation from substances sticking in the throat._ Refer to CHOKING.

_Cut Finger._ Refer to CUTS.

_Precautions against Fires._ Refer to FIRES.

_Precautions against Lightning._ To take refuge under a tree during a thunderstorm accompanied by lightning is to expose oneself to a double danger--firstly, because by keeping the clothes dry these are prevented becoming the non-conductors they would be if damp; and secondly, because the tree, serving as a point of attraction for the lightning, conducts it to the ground, and in doing so frequently rends the trunks or branches, and kills any person or animal who happens to be close to, or in contact with, it at the time.

Never, therefore, if overtaken by a storm of thunder and lightning fly to the dangerous cover of a tree, pillar, hay-rick, wall, or hedge, but seek shelter in the nearest dwelling; or if this is not at hand, get to a part of the road or field where there is no object to attract the lightning, and there remain till the storm has expended itself. Also avoid particularly the proximity of iron gates, palisades, bronze statues, bell wires, iron railings, and such like. When in the house, do not sit or stand near the windows, doors, or walls, but place yourself in the middle of the room, unless there should be a lamp or chandelier hanging from the ceiling. Franklin recommends persons to keep away from the neighbourhood of fireplaces.

_Treatment of persons struck by lightning._ In case of any person being struck by lightning, immediately strip the body and throw bucketsful of cold water over it for ten or fifteen minutes; continued frictions and inhalations of the lungs must also be employed, and electricity should be tried if it be possible.

=Accidents by Poison.= The means to be adopted in cases where poison is taken, if the poison be known, are embodied in the antidotes, which will be found given in this volume under the respective poisons.

Under all circumstances, however, medical aid should be sought as expeditiously as possible, since many of the antidotes themselves being of a dangerous, if not poisonous, character, should only be administered under medical supervision. Pending the arrival of the doctor, no time should be lost in giving an emetic, consisting of a teaspoonful of flour of mustard in half a pint of warm water, supplemented by copious draughts of warm water, and tickling the throat with the finger if necessary.

_Fish poisoning._ It is a not unfrequent occurrence to find fish when eaten giving rise to a species of poisoning of a more or less violent form, such as a sense of weight at the stomach, accompanied with nausea, vertigo, headache, heat about the head and eyes, pains in the stomach, thirst, and often an eruption of the skin resembling nettle-rash. These symptoms may be sometimes due to the nature of the fish itself; sometimes to its being in a state unfit to be taken as food, as, for instance, when it is in a stale or decomposing condition; and occasionally to the peculiarity of constitution of those who partake of it, even if in a perfectly fresh condition. Whenever any of the symptoms above described follow from eating fish, an emetic of mustard and water (a teaspoonful of mustard in half a pint of water) should be administered. If subsequently a rash should appear, it would be well to take a dose of brisk purgative medicine, and, if necessary, a few doses of carbonate of soda 3 or 4 times during the day.

_Poisonous Mushrooms._ The same treatment should be followed as for fish. With some people the edible mushroom acts as a poison.

_Sinks._ See that these be securely trapped, and in the event of any unpleasant smell from them, pour down some disinfectant, such as chloride of lime, carbolic acid, or Condy's fluid. The foul emanations from a sink ought to be regarded as of a most dangerous and pestilential nature.

=Accidents to Children.= Many, if not most, of the casualties to which children are exposed are given above, together with the best course to be pursued in the event of their being overtaken by any of them. There are, however, a few forms of disaster which seem more especially peculiar to children. Of these we may select--

_Swallowing a piece of broken glass._ In this case avoid giving purgatives, but give solid farinaceous food, so as to envelope the glass and enable it to pass through the bowels without causing injury by coming in contact with them.

_Swallowing a coin._ Give a dose or two of castor oil, and examine the stools until the coin is perceived.

_A small coin sticking in the windpipe._ Seize the child by the legs, letting his head hang downwards, then administer several brisk blows on the back with the palm of the hand, when very frequently the coin will be coughed out of the mouth and on to the floor. If this plan do not succeed, send immediately for medical aid.

=ACCLI'MATE=, or =ACCLI'MATISE=. In _botany_ and _zoology_, to inure a plant or animal to a climate to which it is not indigenous. When so inured it is said to be ACCLIMATED. In _medicine_, to habituate the body to a foreign climate, so that it may not be peculiarly liable to its endemic diseases; or to become so habituated. Thus, a person who has resided several years at New Orleans without an attack of yellow fever, or having had an attack has satisfactorily recovered, is said to be ACCLI'MATISED.

=ACCOM'PANIMENTS.= In _cookery_ and _housekeeping_, see TRIMMINGS.

=ACCUMULA'TION.= [Eng., Fr.] _Syn._ ACCUMULA'TIO, L. In _medicine_, a term applied when the effects of the first dose of any substance still continue when the second is administered (accumulation of action); or when several doses of insoluble substances remain inactive in the system until their energy is developed by chemical influence (accumulation of doses). See MEDICINES, POISONS, &c.