Chapter II: REDUCTION OF SOLUTIONS:--The reduction of the solution to the proper (1)

consistence is effected by evaporation. The mode in which this is performed varies for different extracts. The London College directs that, "unless otherwise ordered, the evaporation should be conducted as quickly as possible, in a broad, shallow pan, placed in a water bath, until a proper consistence is acquired for forming pills; stirring assiduously with a spatula towards the end of the operation." The Dublin College orders that "all simple (aqueous) extracts (EXTRACTA SIMPLICIORA), unless otherwise ordered, are to be prepared by boiling the vegetable matter in 8 times its weight of water, till the liquid is reduced to one half; the liquor is then to be expressed, and, after a short time allowed for defecation, to be decanted, filtered, and evaporated in a steam or water bath, until it begins to thicken, and then finally inspissated by a reduced heat, with continual stirring, until a consistence for forming pills be attained." The instructions of the Edinburgh College are similar, with the one important exception, however, of ordering the evaporation to be conducted in a water bath saturated with chloride of sodium.

Though the water bath has the sanction of the London College, it is ill adapted for the purpose to which it is here ordered to be applied, as from its low evaporative power the advantages which are derived from its equable temperature are vastly overbalanced by the lengthened exposure of the solution in a heated state to the action of the atmosphere. It has been shown that a vegetable extract so prepared is inferior in quality to a similar one formed by rapid evaporation in a shallow pan over a naked fire, or placed in a sand bath, provided proper care is taken, and assiduous stirring is adopted during the whole time of the exposure to heat. In practice, however, the use of a naked fire is perfectly inadmissible, as the least neglect on the part of the operator would probably lead to the incineration of the whole. These objections are obviated by the addition of the 1/5th part of salt to the water of the bath, which raises its boiling-point to 218-3/4° Fahr., when the temperature of the contained extract is fully 212°; the remaining 6° being lost by the interposition of the substance of the evaporating vessel.

ON THE LARGE SCALE, the evaporation of infusions or decoctions for extracts is usually conducted in very wide, shallow, copper or tinned-copper pans, having steam-tight jackets of cast iron, and heated by steam 'playing' between the two.

The rapid deterioration which vegetable juices and solutions undergo by exposure to the air, especially at high temperatures, has led to the introduction of apparatus, by which they may be concentrated without contact with the atmosphere, and at a less degree of heat than is required for that purpose in open vessels. Such is the method, commonly called 'Barry's process,' in which the air is removed from certain air-tight refrigerators by the introduction of steam, which is then condensed by the application of cold, by which means a partial vacuum is obtained. Another process for attenuating the atmosphere over the surface of fluids during evaporation is by the action of an air-pump. This plan was introduced by Howard, and is commonly applied to the concentration of syrups in the sugar refineries. Extracts obtained by either of these methods are said to be prepared 'in vacuo,' and are found in practice to be immensely superior to the common extracts of the shops, and consequently require to be exhibited in proportionably small doses.

'The American Journal of Pharmacy' for September, 1877, contains a new process for the preparation of extracts without heat, by Professor Herrara. We extract the following from the Professor's paper:--

"The results of my observations have satisfied me that, when the water partially congeals, the dissolved principles remain in solution in the mother liquors, and that two or three congelations are generally sufficient for obtaining the solutions concentrated enough to finish the extract by exposure upon plates to the heat of the sun, or of a drying closet, heated to about 30° cent. (86° Fahr.). The extracts prepared by this method accurately represent the properties of the plants, and the principles which are changed by the influence of heat remain unaltered; even the volatile constituents are not dissipated, though most of the water be removed by freezing. Owing to the small cost of the necessary apparatus, it appears to me that my process for preparing extracts should be preferable even in those countries where ice is less readily obtainable than combustibles.

"Extract of conium prepared with unpurified juice by the process mentioned, has preserved the characteristic odour of conia, and by dissolving it in water. I have obtained a solution exactly representing the juice of the plant in appearance and properties, and giving when heated an abundant coagulation, proving that even albumen had remained unaltered. 1750 grams of cow's milk at 9° R., left, after three congelations, 750 grams of a liquid having a density of 148, and by evaporation in the sun this left a dry extract of milk, which again formed that liquid on being dissolved in water. A number of other liquids similarly treated, gave corresponding results, and it seems to me, therefore, that medicinal extracts are best prepared by congelation. It may be objected that the medical juices should be previously purified, but it should be remembered that coagulated albumen always encloses a considerable portion of the active principles, and that the heat necessary to effect the coagulation and the evaporation by means of a water-bath is sufficient to change many principles; also that the extracts thus prepared are sometimes inert or less active. The careful experiments made by Orfila and the clinical experience of others demonstrate that extracts prepared with unpurified juice are stronger.

"The apparatus employed by me is the so-called sorbetière;[294] for larger quantities the apparatus of Gougaud is preferable. The frigoric mixture is composed of ice and sodium chloride, or preferably of crystallised calcium chloride. After a large portion of the solution has congealed, the mass is enclosed in a cloth and subjected to pressure, the press-cake of ice is broken and again pressed, to separate the mother liquor as completely as possible, and the congelation is repeated two or three times, with the precaution that it is not carried far enough to cause the precipitation of the sparingly soluble principles. The mother liquor is then put into shallow dishes and exposed to the heat of the sun or of a drying room, the temperature of which does not exceed 30° C. (86° F.) until the extract has attained the desired consistence."

[Footnote 294: An apparatus similar to that used for ice-cream.]

_Obs._ When water, acidulated with acetic acid, is employed in the preparation of extracts, the vegetable substances are usually macerated in it, in the cold, or the dilute acid is sprinkled over the bruised plant in the fresh or recent state, and the whole is then submitted to strong pressure, to expel the juice, which is strained and evaporated in the usual way, but preferably in a well-tinned or plated-copper pan.

ALCOHOLIC and SPIRITUOUS EXTRACTS are prepared by evaporating a filtered concentrated tincture of the ingredients in any suitable vessel, by which the volatilized spirit may be saved. In general, rectified spirit is used as the menstruum; but in some cases proof spirit is employed; and, in others, the substances are first digested in proof spirit, and afterwards in water, and the mixed tincture and infusion evaporated in the usual manner.

ETHEREAL EXTRACTS are obtained in a similar manner to alcoholic ones; but being merely prepared in small quantities at a time, the process may be conveniently performed in glass vessels. When it is required to boil either of the above fluids (alcoholic or ethereal), or any other volatile liquid on the ingredients, a vessel fitted with a long tube, or a Liebig's condenser reversed, as noticed under ether, may be used to prevent any loss of the menstruum.

The INSPISSATED VEGETABLE JUICES (JUICES, E.; SUCCI, L.) of the British Pharmacop[oe]ia are obtained by expressing the juices from the fresh plants, and preserving them by the addition of spirit. "By thus preserving the juice of the plant its properties are not impaired by the action of the air during the time necessary to dry the leaf for tincture, nor by the action of both air and heat during the time necessary to evaporate the juice to the consistence of an extract."--Squire. The directions of the Edinburgh College for preparing their inspissated juices (SUCCI SPISSATI, L.) are--"Beat the fresh substance, and press it strongly through a canvas bag, in order to obtain the juice; which, being put into a wide, shallow vessel, and heated by means of boiling water saturated with sea-salt, is to be reduced to the consistence of honey. The mass, when cold, is to be put into glazed earthen vessels, and moistened with strong alcohol." By operating in this way a considerable portion of the activity of narcotic vegetables is lost. Some of their juices, as that of aconite, are impaired in so short a time as scarcely to compensate for the trouble of preparing them. This deterioration does not, however, take place in any remarkable degree, if the expressed juice from the recent vegetable be evaporated by exposing it in a thin stratum to a current of very dry air, as adopted by Mr Squire. This may be managed by putting the juice into small, flat trays or dishes, placed on shelves in a suitably arranged apparatus, alternated with similar vessels of concentrated sulphuric acid; or by causing a current of very dry air, at the common temperature of the atmosphere, to pass over them. It has been shown that 10 gr. of extract, thus prepared, were more than equal to 20 gr. prepared _in vacuo_; and to more than 60 gr., and in some cases, 90 gr., of those prepared by the common process of boiling down the juice to an extract.

The concluding portion of the process of extract-making, technically termed 'finishing-off,' requires the most scrupulous attention. As the evaporation advances, the heat should be lessened, and as soon as the extract acquires the consistence of thick treacle it should be removed altogether, and the remainder of fluid matter evaporated by the heat retained by the copper pan, the escape of vapour being promoted by assiduous and laborious stirring with a suitably shaped wooden spatula. This part of the process should be continued until a proper consistence is attained and the extract is nearly cold. When high-pressure steam or a chloride of calcium bath is employed, care must be taken to withdraw the heat before stirring the semi-liquid mass; as, if an extract having a temperature of about the boiling-point of water, or even a few degrees below it, is agitated, it becomes full of bubbles, and appears rough and puffy, and this appearance cannot be removed by subsequent stirring, or by any method but redissolving it in water and re-evaporation. This is especially the case with the extracts of sarsaparilla (simple and compound), gentian, liquorice, and most others of a similar class. A good laboratory man knows from experience the proper time for the removal of the heat, but unpractised persons often fail in this particular. In such cases should the heat retained by the evaporating pan, and by the extract, prove insufficient to complete the process, a little more may be cautiously applied. Without assiduous and laborious stirring in the way described, a very smooth and glossy extract cannot be produced. To promote this artificial appearance, some persons add 3% or 4% each of olive oil and gum arabic, dissolved in water, with about 1% or 2% of spirit of wine.

The consistence of the ordinary extracts of the shops is the same as that of electuaries and confections, and is described in the Ph. E. as equal to that of "thick honey." The instructions of the Ph. L. and D., to evaporate the mass "until it acquires a consistence proper for making pills," except in 2 or 3 cases (as _Ext. Colocynth. Comp._, &c.), is not adopted, and, indeed, would be found inconvenient in practice. Extracts evaporated to such a consistence are commonly termed 'pilular extracts,' and when evaporated so that they are quite dry, and brittle when cold, they are called 'hard extracts' (EXTRACTA DURA, L.).

_Pres._ Extracts should be put into pots as soon as taken from the pan, and, after being carefully and securely tied over with bladder, should be 'stored' in a dry situation. The London College orders "a small quantity of rectified spirit to be sprinkled upon all the softer extracts, to prevent them becoming mouldy." A better way is to employ a little spirit, holding in solution a few drops of oil of cloves, or a still less quantity of creasote. This should be added to them the last thing before removing them from the evaporating pan, and when they are nearly cold. The same object is effected by moistening the inside of the bladder (used to tie them over) with a few drops of oil of cloves or creasote. Hard extracts should be kept in bladders or gut skins, placed in stone pots, and well covered over. With care, extracts prepared from recent vegetable substances may be preserved twelve months, or from season to season; and those from dry ingredients, or such as are less inclined to spoil, for perhaps double that time; but beyond these periods their virtues cannot be relied on, and they should consequently be discarded, if remaining unused or unsold.

_Pur., &c._ The quality of an extract cannot be ascertained by mere inspection, nor is it readily discovered by chemical tests. A knowledge of these facts has induced the mercenary and fraudulent manufacturer to employ damaged and inferior drugs in their preparation, alike regardless of the welfare of the patient and the credit of the practitioner. A common practice with some manufacturers is, not only to pick out the least expensive variety of every drug for the preparation of their extracts, but the most inferior and often damaged and worthless portion of this already inferior article. The production of a smooth, bright, and glossy extract is all that is usually attempted by these individuals, and all that is sought after by the mass of purchasers, who mistake the simulation of the mere external signs of good quality for its actual existence. It is a fact, which we can verify from extensive experience in the laboratory, and from years of practical observation on this point, that extracts faithfully prepared from good materials do not possess the sightly and pleasing appearance of those commonly vended by the wholesale druggists. On comparing the extracts prepared by different metropolitan houses, we have found that those which have exhibited a remarkably bright and glossy appearance have been uniformly inferior, and sometimes nearly inert; whilst others, with a less prepossessing appearance, have been generally of good quality. These facts are well established by reference to the extracts of those houses and institutions that are remarkable for the superior quality of their preparations, and by comparing them with the common extracts of the shops supplied by the wholesale trade.

A good extract should be--1. Free from grit, and wholly soluble in 20 parts of the menstruum employed in its preparation, forming a nearly clear solution.--2. It should have a uniform texture and colour, and be of a proper consistence.--3. If a narcotic or active extract, it may be exhibited in proper doses, and its effects watched. Its activity may also be tested on any small animal.--4. An assay for the proximate vegetable principle (alkaloid, &c.) contained in the plant from which it has been prepared may be made. The extracts prepared from the expressed juices of plants, without straining off the coagulated albumen, are, of course, exceptions to the first test. Unfortunately, these tests are not always easily performed, and the last two are inapplicable to those extracts that exercise no very marked physiological action, unless when taken in repeated doses, long continued. This want of a ready means of accurately testing the qualities of extracts has enabled the fraudulent manufacturer to sell inferior articles with impunity, and often without the least fear or danger of detection.

In general, an extract more than six months old contains only half the activity of a similar one newly made. When more than twelve months old they should be rejected as worthless, and the stock renewed.

_Uses, &c._ The extracts of the shops are generally acknowledged to be the most varying, imperfect, and uncertain class of medicines belonging to modern pharmacy. They are mostly used in the same cases as the plants from which they are prepared, but in smaller doses.

_Concluding Remarks._ In the preparation of extracts the great desiderata to be aimed at are--to suit the menstrua and the methods of manipulating to the peculiar characteristics of the active constituents of the vegetable substances operated on. The pharmaceutist should always bear in mind that a perfect extract should be a concentrated, solid mass, representing, as near as possible, in medicinal efficacy, the materials from which it has been prepared, and capable of being redissolved, so as to form a solution closely resembling that from which it has been derived. An extract possessing equal strength to the whole mass of the ingredients from which it has been prepared is almost next to an impossibility, however desirable such a degree of perfection may be. The medicinal properties of all solutions of vegetable matter are injured by being reduced to the solid state; and this deterioration, more or less, takes place, whether the solvent be water, acetic acid, proof spirit, or alcohol. The volatile portions (the essential oils, the aroma, &c.) are nearly or wholly dissipated; and though these do not always form the principal or active ingredients of the vegetables from which extracts are prepared, yet they generally exercise a modifying and controlling influence over the other ingredients, which considerably alters their therapeutical action. The loss of aroma may often be a trifling deficiency, but in the extracts of aconite, henbane, hemlock, belladonna, and other narcotic plants, this is not the case. In these cases it is well known that the inert preparations are wholly deficient of the odour of the recent plant, and that in proportion as the odour is developed, so is their activity preserved. The powerful smell of the recently expressed juice of hemlock, with the scarcely perceptible odour of the extract (EXTRACTUM CONII, Ph. L.), offers an excellent example of this fact. The dose of the one often reaches 20 or 30 gr., whilst that of the other seldom exceeds 5 or 10 drops, or a portion equivalent in dry ingredients to considerably less than 1/2 gr.

When extracts are ordered in prescriptions, those of the 'Pharmacop[oe]ia' should be alone employed by the dispenser, as the substitution of others for them would not only be violating faith with the prescriber, but might also produce consequences alike injurious to the dispenser and the patient. Many medical gentlemen prefer extracts prepared by particular processes or persons, but such intention is always indicated in their prescriptions.

=Extract of Ac'onite.= _Syn._ EXTRACT OF WOLFSBANE, E. OF MONKSHOOD, INSPISSATED JUICE OF ACONITE; EXTRACTUM ACONITI (B. P., Ph. L. E. & U. S.), SUCCUS SPISSATUS ACONITI (Ph. D. 1826), L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Take 112 lbs. of the fresh leaves and flowering tops, bruise them, press out the juice, heat it gradually to 130° F., and separate the green matter by a calico filter. Heat the strained liquor to 200° F. to coagulate albumen, and again filter. Evaporate the filtrate by a water bath to the consistence of a thin syrup; then add to it the green colouring matter previously separated, and stirring the whole together assiduously, evaporate at a temperature not exceeding 140° F. to a pill consistence.--_Dose_, 1 to 2 gr.

2. (Ph. L.) Take of fresh leaves of aconite, 1 lb.; bruise them in a stone mortar, express the juice, and evaporate it, unstrained, to a proper consistence. The formulæ of the Ph. D. & U. S. are similar.

3. (Ph. E.) Beat the fresh leaves of aconite to a pulp, and express the juice, then subject the residuum to percolation with rectified spirit until the latter passes through without being materially coloured; unite the expressed juice and the percolated tincture, filter, distil off the spirit, and evaporate in a vapour or a water bath to a proper consistence. Stronger than the preceding.

_Obs._ A variable and uncertain preparation. Numbness and tingling follow its application to the limbs or tongue when it is of good quality.--_Product._ 1 cwt. of fresh leaves yield between 5 lbs. and 6 lbs. of extract. _Prop._ Anodyne, sudorific, and narcotic; very poisonous.--_Dose_, 1/2 gr. to 2 gr., made into a pill with liquorice powder; once or twice a day, in neuralgic pains, chronic rheumatism, glandular swellings, &c., gradually and cautiously increased to 5 or 6 gr.

4. (Alcoholic; E. A. ALCOHOLICUM, L.)--_a._ (P. Cod.) Aconite (in coarse powder), 1 lb.; proof spirit, 3-1/2 lbs. (say 2-1/2 pints); proceed by the method of displacement, and when all the spirit has penetrated the powdered mass, keep this covered with distilled water, until the liquid begins to cause a precipitate in falling into that which has previously passed through; next distil the spirit from the tincture, and evaporate the residuum to the proper consistence.

_b._ (Ph. U. S.) Aconite 1 lb.; spirit, sp. gr. ·935 (= 13 u. p.), 1 quart, or q. s.; as last.

_c._ (Ph. Baden.) From the tincture prepared with rectified spirit, and by either maceration or displacement. Stronger than the last two.

_d._ (Ph. Bor.) The juice is expressed from the fresh herb, which is then sprinkled with about 1/3 of its weight of water, and again pressed; the mixed and strained liquid is evaporated in a vapour bath, at 122° to 140° Fahr., to about one half; to this, as soon as cold, an equal weight of spirit (sp. gr. ·900) is added, and after frequent agitation for 24 hours, the whole is filtered, with pressure; the marc is treated with fresh spirit (equal to about 1-4th that first used) and again pressed; the mixed liquors are next filtered, and are, lastly, evaporated, as before, to the proper consistence.

_Obs._ Resembles the simple extract, but is much more powerful. It has been exhibited internally in the form of pills, and used externally, combined with ointment or spread on simple plaster.--_Dose_, 1/12 to 1/6 gr. every three hours.

5. (Ammoniated; E. A. AMMONIATUM, L.--Dr Turnbull.) Extract of aconite, 1 dr.; liquor of ammonia (strongest), 10 or 12 drops; mix.

6. (Dried); E. A. SICCUM, L.--P. Cod.) The expressed juice, strained through a sieve or coarse linen, is at once, without depuration, exposed in earthen dishes, in layers of about 2 lines deep, in a stove or current of dry air, to a temperature ranging between 95° and 104° Fahr., until reduced to dryness. The dried extract is to be packed in bottles.

7. (Saccharated; E. A. SACCHARATUM, L.) From extract of aconite (Ph. Bor.), 4 oz.; sugar of milk (in powder), 1 oz.; mix, and dry the mass in a warm place, adding sugar of milk, q. s. to make the whole equal in weight to that of the extract used (4 oz.). An excellent preparation, which keeps well. The other NARCOTIC EXTRACTS, as those of BELLADONNA, HEMLOCK, HENBANE, &c., are to be treated in a similar manner. See ACONITE, and _below_.

=Extract of Aconite Root.= _Syn._ EXTRACTUM ACONITI RADICIS ALCOHOLICUM, L. _Prep._ (Dr Fleming; Dr Turnbull.) From a tincture of the root made with rectified spirit. It is said to be 12 times as strong as the extract of the leaves.

=Extract of Ag'aric=. _Syn._ EXTRACTUM AGARICI, L. _Prep._ (P. Cod.) From the infusion of white agaric (_Polyporus officinalis_) prepared with cold water. Purgative.--_Dose_, 1 to 4 gr.

=Extract of Alcorno'co.= _Syn._ EXTRACTUM ALCORNOCÆ, L. _Prep._ From a decoction of alcornoco bark (South American). Astringent and tonic.--_Dose_, 5 to 20 gr. in phthisis, &c.

=Extract of Al'oes.= _Syn._ PURIFIED ALOES, WASHED A.; EXTRACTUM ALOËS BARBADENSIS (B. P.), EXTRACTUM ALOËS (Ph. L.), E. A. AQUOSUM (Ph. D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Barbadoes aloes, in small pieces, 1 lb.; treated with 1 gall. of boiling water for 12 hours, and the clear liquid evaporated.--_Dose_, 1 to 3 gr. B. P. 2 to 6 gr.

2. (B. P.) Socotrine aloes, 1 lb., treated with 1 gall. of boiling water for 12 hours, and the clear liquid evaporated to dryness.

3. (Ph. D.) Aloes (hepatic), 4 oz.; water, 1 quart; boil till dissolved; when cold, decant the clear liquid, and evaporate as before.

4. (Ph. Bor. 1847.) By macerating powdered aloes in cold water for 48 hours, with frequent agitation, and then evaporating in a water bath at a temperature not exceeding 150° to 165° Fahr., until a pilular consistence is attained.

_Obs._ The second is the form commonly adopted in the laboratory. When made with the juice of borage, burgloss, &c., it forms the old 'ALOES INSUCCATA,'--_Dose_, 5 to 15 gr. See ALOES and EXTRACT OF BARBADOES ALOES.

=Extract of Aloes, prepared with Sulphuric Acid.= _Syn._ EXTRACTUM ALOËS ACIDO SULFURICO CORRECTUM (Germ. Ph.). _Prep._ Dissolve extract of aloes, 8 ounces, in distilled water 32 ounces, then gradually add sulphuric acid, 1 oz. (by weight), and evaporate to a dry extract.

=Extract of Anem'one.= See EXTRACT OF PASQUE FLOWER.

=Extract of Angel'ica.= _Syn._ EXTRACTUM ANGELICÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. Baden.) From a tincture of the root, prepared with spirit sp. gr. ·944 (= 21-1/2 u. p.).

2. (Ph. Bor.) Angelica root and rectified spirit, of each 2 parts; water, 9 parts; digest, strain, and evaporate. Inferior to the preceding.

3. (Dr Moir.) Angelica root, 2 lbs.; rectified spirit, 1 gall.; make a tincture; to the 'marc' add proof spirit, 1 gall., and repeat the digestion; filter the two tinctures separately, mix, distil off the spirit, and evaporate. Balsamic, stomachic, and tonic.--_Dose_, 10 to 20 gr. The last is the most balsamic and agreeable.

=Extract of Ap'ples.= _Syn._ CHALYBEATED E. OF A.; EXTRACTUM FERRI POMATUM, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. Bor.) Crab-apples (unripe), 6 lbs.; peel them and reduce them to a pulp; add iron wire (in small coils), 1 lb.; digest in a vapour bath for about a week, express, strain, decant, and evaporate in a porcelain vessel, with constant stirring, to the consistence of a soft extract; dissolve the residuum in water, 4 parts, strain and evaporate as before.--_Dose_, 5 to 10 gr.; as a chalybeate tonic. The formula of the Ph. Baden is nearly similar.

2. (Ph. Germ.) Reduce 5 lbs. of unripe apples to a pulp; mix them with cut straw, and press. To the strained juice after removal of the sediment add 1-1/2 oz. of reduced iron. When this has dissolved, to the cooled liquid add as much water as will make up 4-3/4 lbs. Filter, and reduce to a thick extract.

=Extract of Ar'nica.= _Syn._ EXTRACT OF ARNICA FLOWERS; EXTRACTUM ARNICÆ FLORUM, L. _Prep._ 1. (P. Cod.) From the dried flowers, as ALCOHOLIC EXTRACT OF ACONITE--P. Cod.

2. (Ph. Græca, 1837.) From a tincture of the flowers, prepared with rectified spirit, 3 parts, and water, 5 parts.--_Dose_, 2 to 6 gr.; as a stimulant in various diseases accompanied with debility, deficient nervous sensibility, paralysis, dropsies, diarrh[oe]a, amenorrh[oe]a, dysentery, &c.

=Extract of Arnica-Root.= _Syn._ EXTRACT OF ARNICA; EXTRACTUM ARNICÆ RADICIS, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. Baden.) As EXTRACT OF ANGELICA--Ph. Baden.

2. (Ph. Græca.) From tincture of the root, prepared as No. 2 (_above_). The form of the Hamburg Codex is nearly similar.--_Dose, &c._ As the last.

=Extract of Art'ichoke.= _Syn._ EXTRACTUM CYNARÆ, L. _Prep._ From the fresh leaves of the artichoke, as EXTRACT OF ACONITE--Ph. L.--_Dose_, 3 to 6 gr., twice or thrice daily; in rheumatism, &c.

=Extract of Aspar'agus.= _Syn._ EXTRACTUM ASPARAGI, L. _Prep._ 1. (Soubeiran.) From the expressed juice of the shoots, clarified and evaporated by a gentle heat.

2. From the juice of the roots, as No. 1. Both are diuretic.--_Dose_, 15 gr. to 1/2 dr., or more.

=Extract of Bael.= _Syn._ EXTRACTUM BELÆ LIQUIDUM, L. B. P. Bael, 1; distilled water, 15; rectified spirit, 1/8; macerate for 12 hours in 5 of the water, pour off the liquid, repeat the operation twice for 1 hour; press, filter, and evaporate to 1, including the spirit. A fluid ounce is equal to a solid ounce.--_Dose_, 1 to 2 dr.

=Extract of Balsam Apple.= _Syn._ EXTRACTUM BALSAMIMÆ. The inspissated juice of the balsam apple.--_Dose_, 5 to 15 drops in dropsy.

=Extract of Bark.= See EXTRACT OF CINCHONA.

=Extract of Belladon'na.= _Syn._ EXTRACT OF DEADLY NIGHTSHADE, INSPISSATED JUICE OF BELLADONNA; EXTRACTUM BELLADONNÆ (B. P., Ph. L. E. & D.), SUCCUS SPISSATUS BELLADONNÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Take 112 lbs. of fresh leaves and tender branches, bruise in a stone mortar or other suitable apparatus, and press out the juice, heat it gradually to 130° F., separate the green colouring matter by a calico filter, heat the strained liquor to 200° F. to coagulate the albumen, and again filter; evaporate the filtrate by a water bath to the consistence of a thin syrup, then add to it the green colouring matter previously separated, and, stirring the whole together assiduously, continue the evaporation at a temperature not exceeding 140°, until the extract is of a suitable consistence for forming pills.--_Dose_, 1/4 to 1/2 gr., gradually increased to 1 or 2 gr.

2. (Ph. E.) Express the juice from the bruised fresh plant, sprinkle the 'marc' with water, and again apply pressure; mix the expressed liquids, filter them, and evaporate the filtered liquor in a vapour bath to the consistence of an extract.

3. (Ph. D.) From the leaves, collected when the plant begins to flower. The expressed juice is allowed to stand for 24 hours, and the clear portion is decanted; the sediment is placed on a calico filter, washed with an equal bulk of cold water, and the filtrate mixed with the expressed juice. The mixed liquid is next heated in a water bath, to coagulate its albumen, and after being skimmed, and filtered through flannel whilst hot, the washed sediment is added, and the whole evaporated, as before.

4. (Ph. U. S.) The expressed juice is heated to the boiling-point, filtered and evaporated (see _below_).

_Obs._ The P. Cod. directs this extract to be made by two different formulæ. The product of the one resembles that of the Ph. L.; that of the other, that of the Ph. E. That of the Ph. L., from retaining the fecula, is the weakest preparation.--_Dose_, 1/2 gr. to 1 gr., gradually increased to 3 or 4 gr.; as an anodyne in neuralgia, tic-douloureux, &c.; as an antispasmodic to relieve rigidity and spasms, in various affections of the uterus, rectum, urethra, bladder, &c., and in hooping-cough; in various maladies of the eyes; and as a resolvent and discutient in several glandular diseases. It has been highly recommended as a preservative against scarlet fever. It is most frequently employed externally, under the form of a plaster, ointment, or lotion. It is poisonous.

5. (Alcoholic; E. B. ALCOHOLICUM, L.)--_a._ (P. Cod.) As ALCOHOLIC EXTRACT OF ACONITE--P. Cod.

_b._ (Ph. U. S.) As the last (nearly), using spirit of ·935 (=about 13 u. p.).

_c._ (Moir.) The expressed juice is coagulated by heat, cautiously applied, and filtered; the filtrate is reduced to the consistence of a syrup, and mixed with an equal volume of nearly anhydrous alcohol (say of 90%); the clear portion is lastly evaporated, as before.

_Obs._ The above is much more powerful than the common extract, and is chiefly used in external applications. See BELLADONNA, and _below_.

=Extract of Belladonna Ber'ries.= _Syn._ EXTRACTUM BACCARUM BELLADONNÆ, L. _Prep._ (P. Cod.) From the expressed juice of the berries, evaporated to the consistence of thick honey.--_Dose_, 1 to 5 gr.

=Extract of Bis'tort.= _Syn._ EXTRACTUM BISTORTÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (P. Cod.) From the dried root of bistort or snake-weed (_Polygonum Bistorta_), by percolation with temperate distilled water.

2. From the infusion made with boiling water, or from the decoction. Astringent and tonic.--_Dose_, 10 gr. to 1/2 dr.

=Extract of Bit'ter-sweet.= _Syn._ EXTRACT OF WOODY NIGHTSHADE; EXTRACTUM DULCAMARÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. From the decoction of the stalks.

2. (Ph. U. S.) From the dried stalks, by percolation with temperate water. Diaphoretic, diuretic, and narcotic.--_Dose_, 3 to 6 gr.; in chronic asthma, rheumatism, and chest diseases; and particularly in chronic skin diseases.

=Extract, Black.= See EXTRACT OF COCCULUS.

=Extract of Black Pepper.= See EXTRACT OF PEPPER.

=Extract of Bladder-wrack.= _Syn._ EXTRACTUM FUCI VESICULOSI. From the dried plant of the bladder-wrack. Given in obesity.

=Extract of Bor'age.= Syn. EXTRACTUM BORAGINIS, L. _Prep._ 1. (P. Cod.) From the dried herb (_Borago officinalis_).

2. (Ph. Lusit.) From the clarified juice of the fresh plant. Exhilarating, restorative, and pectoral.--_Dose_, 10 to 30 gr., or more.

=Extract of Box.= _Syn._ EXTRACTUM BUXI, E. CORTICIS B., L. _Prep._ (P. Cod.) From the tincture of the root bark, prepared (with proof spirit) by displacement, as EXTRACT OF ACONITE--P. Cod.

=Extract of Broom.= _Syn._ EXTRACT OF BROOM TOPS; EXTRACTUM SCOPARII, E. SPARTII SCOPARII, L. From decoction of broom tops. Diuretic and cathartic; and, occasionally, emetic.--_Dose_, 20 gr. to 1 dr.; in dropsy, &c. It is now seldom used.

=Extract of Bry'ony.= _Syn._ EXTRACTUM BRYONIÆ, E. B. ALBÆ, E. RADICIS B. A., L. _Prep._ From the infusion or decoction of the root of white bryony (_Bryonia dioica_). Purgative, diuretic, and emmenagogue.--_Dose_, 10 gr. to 1/2 dr. It was once a favourite remedy in asthma, dropsy, epilepsy, &c.

=Extract of Bu'chu.= _Syn._ EXTRACTUM BUCHU, E. DIOSMÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. From buchu leaves, as the last.

2. (Ethereo-alcoholic; E. B. ÆTHERO-ALCOHOLICUM, L.--W. Procter.) Buchu (in coarse powder), 1 lb.; ether, 4 fl. oz.; alcohol (rectified spirit), 12 fl. oz.; percolate without digestion, adding dilute alcohol until a pint of ethereo-alcoholic tincture is obtained, and suffer this to evaporate spontaneously; treat the residue in the displacer with dilute alcohol, till 2 pints are obtained; evaporate to a syrup, add the product of the first tincture, mix, and complete the evaporation.--_Dose_, 5 to 10 gr.; in diseases of the urinary organs, &c.

3. (Fluid; E. B. FLUIDUM, L.--W. Procter.) Buchu leaves, 8 oz.; rectified spirit, 16 fl. oz.; for a tincture by displacement, adding water, until 12 fl. oz. have passed through; allow this to evaporate spontaneously until reduced to one half; next digest the mass in the percolator with cold water, 1 pint, for 12 hours, express a pint, and evaporate this to 10 fl. oz.; lastly, add the 6 fl. oz. of residual tincture, agitate together, and in a few days filter, or decant the clear portion.--_Dose_, 1 to 2 teaspoonfuls. See DIOSMA.

=Extract of Buck'bean.= _Syn._ EXTRACTUM MENYANTHIS, L. _Prep._ 1. (P. Cod.) From the expressed juice of the fresh plant.

2. (Ph. Bor.) From the infusion made with boiling water. Bitter, tonic and astringent.--_Dose_, 5 to 10 gr. In large doses it is purgative, cathartic, and even emetic.

=Extract of Buck'thorn.= Syn. EXTRACTUM RHAMNI, E. BACCARUM R., L. _Prep._ From the filtered expressed juice of buckthorn berries. Some persons allow it first to run into a state of fermentation; but the quantity of the product is thereby greatly lessened. Hydragogue and purgative.--_Dose_, 15 gr. to 1 dr., or more.

=Extract of Bur'dock.= _Syn._ EXTRACTUM BARDANÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. From the decoction of burdock root.

2. (P. Cod.) As EXTRACT OF BISTORT--P. Cod. In gout, rheumatism, skin diseases, &c.--_Dose_, 10 gr. to 1 dr. Sir Robert Walpole praised burdock root as a gout medicine; and others have considered it an excellent substitute for sarsaparilla. (Lindley.)

=Extract of Butter-nut.= _Syn._ EXTRACTUM JUGLANDIS, L. _Prep._ (Ph. U. S.) From the inner bark of the root of the butter-nut or white walnut (_Juglanda alba_), as EXTRACT OF BITTER SWEET--Ph. U. S. A mild, yet efficacious aperient and vermifuge.--_Dose._ As a laxative, 5 to 10 gr.; as a purgative, 15 to 30 gr.

=Extract of Cainca Root.= _Syn._ EXTRACTUM CAINCÆ. (P. Pharm.) _Prep._ Put 10 oz. of the dried root of cainca into a percolator, pour on it proof spirit q. s. to penetrate the powder in every part, and let it remain 12 hours; then let the liquid drain, and pass successively through the powder in the percolator as much proof spirit as will amount with that previously used to 60 oz. by weight. Distil off the spirit and evaporate to a soft extract.

=Extract of Calabar Bean.= _Syn._ EXTRACTUM PHYSOSTIGMATIS. (B. P.) Calabar bean in coarse powder, 1; rectified spirit, 5; macerate the bean for 48 hours in one fourth of the spirit in a closed vessel, agitating occasionally, then transfer to a percolator, and when the fluid ceases to pass add the remainder of the spirit, so that it may slowly penetrate through the powder; subject the residue of the bean to pressure, adding the pressed liquid to the product of the percolation; distil off the spirit, and evaporate what is left to the consistence of a soft extract by a water bath.--_Dose_, 1/16 to 1/4 gr.

=Extract of Calum'ba.= _Syn._ EXTRACTUM CALUMBÆ, E. RADICIS C., L. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Calumba cut small, 1; water, 5; macerate in half the water for 12 hours, strain, and press; macerate again with the remaining water, strain, and press; mix and filter the liquors, and evaporate with the heat of a water bath to pill consistency.--_Dose_, 2 to 10 gr.

2. (Alcoholic--Ph. Bor.) Nearly as No. 3 (_below_), but using stronger spirit; the evaporation is to be conducted at a heat not above 167° Fahr., until it acquires the consistence of a pill-mass, which, after being rendered quite dry by a very gentle heat, is to be reduced to fine powder. It should have a brownish-yellow colour, and give a turbid solution with water.--_Dose_, 4 to 12 gr. They are all tonic and stomachic.

3. (Spirituous--P. Cod.) As EXTRACT OF BOX. The Ph. Baden orders spirit of ·944 to be used.--_Dose_, 5 to 15 gr.

=Extract of Cannabis Indicæ.= See EXTRACT OF INDIAN HEMP.

=Extract of Canthar'ides.= _Syn._ EXTRACT OF SPANISH FLIES; EXTRACTUM CANTHARIDES, E. LYTTÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (P. Cod.) From the tincture, as EXTRACT OF BOX.

2. (Soubeiran.) From a tincture prepared with spirit of the sp. gr. ·923 (about 2 u. p.).

3. (Acetic; E. C. ACETICUM, L.) From a tincture prepared with acetic acid, sp. gr. 1·048.

4. (Ethereal; E. C. ÆTHEREUM, L.) From the ethereal tincture.

_Obs._ The ether, acid, and spirit distilled from the above must be either thrown away or used to make fresh extract, as it is highly poisonous. They are all for external use only, and should have the consistence of soft butter.

=Extract of Car'damoms.= _Syn._ ETHEREAL E. OF C.; EXTRACTUM CARDAMOMI ÆTHEREUM, L. _Prep._ (W. Procter.) By spontaneous evaporation of the ethereal tincture. It consists of the volatile and fixed oils of the seeds and is used to aromatise pills, powders, &c.

=Extract of Ca'rob Beans.= _Syn._ EXTRACTUM CERATONIÆ, L. Prep. From the decoction of the pods (CAROB, or ALGAROBA BEANS) of the '_Ceratonia siliqua_,' or 'St. John's bread tree.' See ALGAROBA.

=Extract of Caroli'na Pink.= See EXTRACT OF PINK-ROOT.

=Extract of Car'rot.= _Syn._ EXTRACTUM CAROTÆ, E. RADICIS C., L. _Prep._ (Swediaur.) From the clarified expressed juice, evaporated to the consistence of honey. Recommended as an application to ulcerated cancers.

=Extract of Cascaril'la.= _Syn._ EXTRACTUM CASCARILLÆ, E. CORTICIS C., L. _Prep._ 1. (Guibourt.) From the alcoholic (rectified spirit) tincture.

2. (Ph. Baden.) As the last, but using spirit of the sp. gr. ·944.

3. (Ph. L. 1788.) As EXTRACT OF JALAP--Ph. L.

_Obs._ This extract is tonic, aromatic, and stomachic.--_Dose_, 5 to 15 gr., or more, 2 or 3 times a day. 28 lbs. of bark yield about 5-1/4 lbs. of extract.

=Extract of Cas'sia.= _Syn._ EXTRACTUM CASSIÆ, L. See CASSIA PULP.

=Extract of Cat'echu.= _Syn._ EXTRACTUM CATECHU, L. _Prep._ 1. From decoction of catechu.

2. (P. Cod.) From the infusion in boiling water. Astringent and tonic.--_Dose_, 5 to 25 gr. See CATECHU.

=Extract of Cel'andine.= _Syn._ EXTRACTUM CHELIDONII, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. Bor.) From the herb (_Chelidonium majus_), as ALCOHOLIC EXTRACT OF ACONITE--Ph. Bor.--_Dose_, 3 to 10 gr.

2. (Van Mons.) From the expressed juice, coagulated by heat, filtered, and evaporated, towards the end adding the coagulum.--_Dose_, 5 to 15 gr., or more. Used as a drastic hydragogue in dropsies; and in scrofula, &c.

=Extract of Cen'taury.= _Syn._ EXTRACTUM CENTAURII, L. Extracts under this name are prepared from 'American centaury' (_Sabbatia angularis_), and 'common centaury' (_Erythræa Centaurium_). Prep. 1. By evaporating the decoction, or the infusion made with hot water. The dose and properties resemble those of extract of gentian.

2. (Alcoholic; E. C. ALCOHOLICUM, L.) As EXTRACT OF BOX (see _above_).

=Extract of Cevadil''la.= _Syn._ ALCOHOLIC EXTRACT OF SABADILLA; EXTRACTUM SABADILLÆ, L. _Prep._ (Dr Turnbull.) From tincture of cevadilla seeds, made with rectified spirit. Employed by Dr Turnbull as a remedy in painful rheumatic and neuralgic affections, and, generally, as a substitute for VERATRIA.--_Dose_, 1/10 to 1/6 gr. It is extremely poisonous.

=Extract of Cham'omile.= _Syn._ EXTRACTUM ANTHEMIDIS (Ph. E.), E. A. NOBILIS, L. _Prep._ By evaporating the decoction of the flowers to the proper consistence.

_Obs._ This extract contains only the bitter portion of the chamomile, the aromatic volatile oil being dissipated during the evaporation. This, however is remedied in the formulæ given by the British Pharmacop[oe]ia, which is as follows:---

Boil chamomile flowers 1 lb., in one gallon of distilled water, until the volume is reduced to one half; strain, press and filter. Evaporate by a water bath to a proper consistence, adding oil of chamomile, 15 minims at the end of the process.

It is usually prepared from old flowers that have lost their smell and colour, and are thus rendered unsaleable. The extract of chamomile that smells strongly of the flowers, frequently vended by the druggists, is prepared by adding 1 dr. of the essential oil of chamomile to every pound of extract, when nearly cold, and just before removing it from the evaporating pan. This addition, unlike many which are made in the laboratory, vastly increases the medicinal virtues of this article. The mass of extract of chamomile met with in the shops is nothing but extract of gentian scented with a little oil of chamomile. 1 cwt. of chamomiles yields about 48 lbs. of extract.

Extract of chamomile is bitter, tonic, and stomachic.--_Dose_, 10 to 20 gr., made into a pill, either alone or combined with a little rhubarb and ginger. See PILLS, &c.

=Extract of Chenopo''dium.= _Syn._ EXTRACT OF STINKING GOOSE-FOOT; EXTRACTUM CHENOPODII, L. _Prep._ 1. From the stinking orache or goose-foot (_Chenopodium olidum_), as EXTRACT OF ACONITE.--Ph. L.

2. (Mr Houlton.) From the expressed juice by spontaneous evaporation. A better plan is to expose it to heated air. Antihysteric, emmenagogue, and vermifuge.--_Dose_, 5 to 20 gr.

=Extract (Fluid) of Wild Cherry.= _Syn._ EXTRACTUM PRUNI VIRGINIANÆ FLUIDUM. (Ph. U. S.) Wild cherry in fine powder, 16 oz. (troy); glycerin, 4 oz. (old measure); water, 8 oz. (old measure). Mix the glycerin and the water, and digest the wild cherry in 8 oz. of the mixture for 4 days, then pack in a percolator and pour on the remaining 4 oz. of glycerin and water. When this has disappeared from the surface pour on rectified spirit (·817) until 12 oz. (old measure) of fluid have been obtained, and set this portion aside. Then percolate with spirit, until 20 oz. (old measure) more have been obtained; evaporate to 4 oz. (old measure), and mix with the reserved portion.

=Extract of Cincho'na.= _Syn._ EXTRACT OF BARK. Three simple extracts, prepared respectively from YELLOW, PALE, and RED CINCHONA, are given in Ph. L.:--_Prep._ 1. (From CALISAYA or YELLOW BARK:--EXTRACT OF CINCHONA, E. OF YELLOW C., E. OF HEART-LEAVED C.; EXTRACTUM CINCHONÆ, L.)--_a._ EXTRACTUM CINCHONÆ FLAVÆ LIQUIDUM (B. P.). Yellow cinchona bark in coarse powder, 16; distilled water, a sufficiency; rectified spirit, 1; macerate the bark in 40 of water for twenty-four hours, then pack in a percolator, and add water until 240 have passed through, or until the bark is exhausted; evaporate the liquor to 20, at a temperature not exceeding 160°; then filter, and continue the evaporation to 3, or until the sp. gr. of the liquid is 1·200; when cold, add the spirit gradually, constantly stirring. Sp. gr. 1·100.--_Dose_, 10 to 30 minims.

_b._ (Ph. L.) Yellow cinchona (coarsely bruised), 3 lbs.; distilled water (temperate), 4 pints; macerate for 24 hours (constantly stirring), and strain through linen; what remains, again macerate in water, 1 quart, for 24 hours, and strain; evaporate the mixed liquids to a proper consistence.

_Obs._ The aqueous extracts of cinchona bark possess little medicinal virtue, owing to the insolubility of the alkaloids (quinine, cinchonine, &c.) in water, and also from the rapid oxidation of their extractive matter, when exposed in solution to the joint action of heat and atmospheric oxygen.--_Dose_, 5 gr. to 1/2 dr., in mixtures, faintly acidulated with sulphuric acid. Cinchona bark yields from 24% to 30% of aqueous extract.

2. (From PALE BARK:--EXTRACT OF PALE CINCHONA, E. OF PALE BARK, E. OF LANCE-LEAVED B.; EXTRACTUM CINCHONÆ VALLIDÆ, L.)--_a._ (Ph. L.) From pale bark, as EXTRACT OF CINCHONA--Ph. L. (_above_).

_b._ (Ph. L. 1836.) From the decoction.

_Obs._ This forms the EXTRACT OF BARK of the shops. The red and yellow cinchona barks are scarcely ever used for making extracts. Their richness in quinine leads to their almost, exclusive employment for the manufacture of that alkaloid, by which their value is greatly enhanced. As far as our knowledge extends, no other extract of bark than this is either employed or asked for.

3. (From RED BARK:--EXTRACT OF RED CINCHONA, E. OF RED BARK, E. OF OBLONG-LEAVED B.; EXTRACTUM CINCHONÆ RUBRÆ, L.)--_a._ (Ph. L.) From red bark, as EXTRACT OF CINCHONA--Ph. L. (_above_).

_b._ (Ph. L. 1836.) From the decoction.

_Obs._ These extracts are ordered to be kept in two states, the one (SOFT EXTRACT OF CINCHONA; EXTRACTUM CINCHONÆ MOLLE) for making pills, &c.; the other (HARD EXTRACT OF CINCHONA; EXTRACTUM CINCHONÆ DURUM) for powdering.--The dose, &c., of all the above are the same.

4. (Dry:--ESSENTIAL SALT OF BARK; EXTRACTUM CINCHONÆ SICCUM, L.)--_a._ (P. Cod.) From an aqueous infusion of pale bark (prepared by displacement with water at a temperature not above 77° Fahr.), evaporated to the consistence of a thick syrup, and then spread thinly and uniformly on earthenware dishes, or sheets of glass, and dried in a stove, by a very gentle heat. It is separated from the plates with a knife, and preserved in well-closed phials. Prior to spreading it out on the plates, about 4% or 5% of thick mucilage is commonly added.

_b._ (Ph. Bor.) As the above (nearly).

_c._ (Ph. Hann. 1831.) Similar to the above; but the liquid, when it acquires the consistence of treacle, is diluted with water, and again evaporated to a like consistence; and this dilution and evaporation is repeated until, on the addition of water, it forms a clear solution.--_Dose_, 5 to 25 gr. The product of the last formula is nearly inert, and that of the others possesses little activity.

5. (Fluid:--EXTRACTUM CINCHONÆ FLUIDUM, L.)--_a._ See LIQUOR OF CINCHONA.

_b._ (Dr Neligan.) From yellow bark, as FLUID EXTRACT OF BUCHU.

6. (Resinous:--ALCOHOLIC EXTRACT OF BARK; EXTRACTUM CINCHONÆ ALCOHOLICUM, E. CINCHONÆ, L.)--_a._ (Ph. E.) From any variety of cinchona bark (in powder), 4 oz.; proof spirit, 24 fl. oz.; prepare a tincture by displacement, distil off most of the spirit, and evaporate the residuum to the consistence of an extract. This is the only EXTRACTUM CINCHONÆ of the Edinburgh College.

_b._ (Ph. U. S.) Peruvian bark, 1 lb.; rectified spirit, 4 pints; make 4 pints of tincture by displacement; add water to the mass in the percolator, digest, and obtain 6 pints of infusion; distil off the spirit from the tincture, and evaporate the infusion to the consistence of syrup, then mix the two, and complete the evaporation. More active than the aqueous extract.--_Dose_, 5 to 20 gr.

_c._ (Ellis.) Yellow bark, 2 lbs.; hydrochloric acid, 4 fl. dr.; water, 1 gall.; boil, strain, and repeat the decoction with fresh water and acid; mix the decoctions, filter, and agitate it with fresh-slaked lime, 2-1/2 oz.; filter or decant; dry the residuum, and exhaust it with hot alcohol, q. s.; lastly, evaporate the alcoholic tincture to a pilular consistence.--_Dose_, 1 to 5 gr. Some persons have proposed to call this 'ESSENTIAL SALT OF BARK,'

7. (Vinous:--EXTRACTUM CINCHONÆ VINOSUM, L.--Ph. Hesse.) Peruvian bark (in powder), 1 part; white wine (sherry), 8 parts; digest 3 days, express, filter, and evaporate.

=Extract of Coc'culus.= _Syn._ EXTRACT OF COCCULUS INDICUS, BLACK EXTRACT, EXTRACT (Brewer's), BEER STRENGTHENER, HARD MULTUM; EXTRACTUM COCCULI, E. C. INDICI, L. _Prep._ From _cocculus indicus_, by decoction. It is kept in two states--one having the consistence of thick treacle; the other, that of a pilular extract. The first is 'put up' in bladders; the last is made into 1/2-lb. rolls, like lead-plaster-or roll-chocolate. It is narcotic and poisonous, and is employed by fraudulent brewers and publicans to give a false strength to their liquors. See COCCULUS INDICUS, BEER, &c.

=Extract of Col'chicum.= _Syn._ EXTRACT OF MEADOW SAFFRON, E. OF THE CORMS OF COLCHICUM; EXTRACTUM COLCHICI (B. P.). _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) The expressed juice of fresh colchicum corms, cleared of deposit, boiled, strained, and evaporated to a proper consistency at a temperature of 160° Fahr.--_Dose_, 1 to 2 gr.

2. (Wholesale.) From the decoction of the dried corms. _Prod._ 50% to 55%.

_Obs._ This extract is given in the usual cases in which colchicum is employed.--_Dose_, 1 to 4 gr., every third or fourth hour. (Thomson.) "A favorite remedy of Dr Hue, of St. Bartholomew's Hospital, in the early stages of acute rheumatism. The dose is 1 gr. every four hours." (Pereira.)

3. (Acetic; ACETIC EXTRACT OF MEADOW SAFFRON; EXTRACTUM COLCHICI ACETICUM (B. P.)--_a._ (B. P.) Crushed fresh corms, previously peeled, 19; acetic acid, 1; stir together, press, boil, and strain through flannel, and evaporate to a soft extract.--_Dose_, 1 to 2 gr. with an equal weight of liquorice powder.

_b._ (Wholesale.) Dried corms, 14 lbs.; acetic acid (pyroligneous), 6 pints; distilled water, 5-1/4 gall.; digest for 14 days, express, filter, and evaporate. Product, 2-1/2 to 3 lbs.

_Obs._ The above extracts are generally prepared from the dried corms, and hence the very uncertain and inferior quality of those commonly met with. They also possess less activity than pharmacop[oe]ial preparations. They rapidly get dry and crumbly, and, unless a little spirit and oil of cloves are added, will scarcely keep a week in warm weather without becoming mouldy.--_Dose_, 1 to 3 gr. two or three times a day. It is much stronger than the common extract, and contains the acetate of colchicine. Sir C. Scudamore prefers the acetic extract prepared by the formula _b_ (_above_).

4. (Alcoholic; EXTRACTUM COLCHICI ALCOHOLICUM, L.--P. Cod.). As EXTRACT OF BOX. More active than even the acetic extract. All the preparations of colchicum are poisonous in large doses.

=Extract of Colo'cynth.= _Syn._ EXTRACT OF BITTER APPLE; EXTRACTUM COLOCYNTHIDIS (Ph. L. & E.), E. C. SIMPLEX, E. C. MOLLE, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) From colocynth pulp (cut in pieces and the seeds removed), by simple maceration in cold water for 36 hours, frequently pressing it with the hands, and afterwards strongly pressing out the liquor, which must be strained before evaporating it.

2. (Ph. E.) From the decoction. This is the plan adopted at Apothecaries' Hall, and in the laboratory generally. Many houses do not even remove the seeds.

_Obs._ This extract rapidly gets hard, crumbly, and mouldy by keeping. For the remedy, see observations on EXTRACT OF COLCHICUM, _above_.--_Dose_, 5 gr. to 20 gr.; as a cathartic. Colocynth pulp yields above 65% of extract.

3. (Alcoholic; EXTRACTUM COLOCYNTHIDIS ALCOHOLICUM, L.)--_a._ (Ph. Baden.) As EXTRACT OF ANGELICA--Ph. Bad.)

_b._ (P. Cod.) From a tincture prepared with proof spirit. Much more active than the simple extract.--_Dose_, 2 to 7 gr.

4. (Dry; EXTRACTUM COLOCYNTHIDIS SICCUM, L.)--(Ph. Bor.) As the last, but using spirit of the sp. gr. ·900 (about 16 o. p.), digesting at a tepid heat, evaporating to dryness, and powdering.--_Dose_, 1 to 6 gr.

=Extract of Colocynth (Compound).= _Syn._ COMPOUND EXTRACT OF BITTER APPLE, CATHARTIC EXTRACT; EXTRACTUM CATHARTICUM, E. COLOCYNTHIDIS COMPOSITUM, B. P. _Prep._ 1. (B. P.) Colocynth free from seeds, 6; extract of Socotrine aloes, 12; scammony, or resin of scammony in powder, 4; hard soap in powder, 3; cardamoms free from capsules in fine powder, 1; proof spirit, 160. Macerate the colocynth in the spirit for four days, press out the tincture, distil off the spirit, and add to it the extract of aloes, the soap, and the scammony; then evaporate the residue by a water bath to a pilular consistence, adding the cardamoms towards the end of the process.--_Dose_, 2 to 5 gr., with 2 or 3 gr. of extract of hyoscyamus to prevent griping.

2. (Ph. L. 1836.) Colocynth pulp (sliced, without the seeds), 6 oz., proof spirit, 1 gal.; digest with a gentle heat for 4 days, express, strain, and add, of extract of aloes (Ph. L. 1836), 12 oz., powdered scammony, 4 oz., Castile soap (cut small), 3 oz., and evaporate (distil) to a proper consistence; adding, towards the last, powdered cardamoms, 1 oz.