Chapter LXVII: Part 2 (28)

The ‘Compte Rendus’[181] describes a new specific gravity apparatus, the invention of M. Pisani. The apparatus in question consists of a glass vessel about 5 c.c. capacity, closed with a perforated stopper like an ordinary specific gravity bottle. To the side of the vessel is joined a tube, coming off at an angle of about 45°, about 25 cm. long, and 4 mm. internal diameter, and graduated at 50ths of a c.c. The vessel is filled with water, the level of which is read off in the tube held vertically, the finger being held over the hole in the stopper; 2 or 3 grams of a mineral are then placed in the flask, the stopper is replaced, care being taken to lose no water, and the level is again read off in the graduated tube, held vertically as before. The difference in the two readings gives the volume of the mineral taken.

[Footnote 181: lxxxvi, 350-352 (‘Journ. Chem. Soc.’)]

=SPEC′TACLES.= See EYE, VISION, &c.

=SPEC′TROSCOPE.= An instrument devised for examining the spectra of flames. (See _below_.)

=SPEC′TRUM ANAL′YSIS.= See ANALYSIS, SPECTRUM.

=SPEC′ULUM MET′AL.= _Prep._ 1. Take of copper, 64 parts; pure tin, 69 parts; melt them separately under a little black flux; next incorporate them thoroughly by stirring with a wooden spatula, and run the metal into the moulds, so that the face of the intended mirror may be downwards; lastly, allow the whole to cool very slowly.

2. Pure copper, 2 parts; pure tin, 1 part. Used to make the mirrors of reflecting telescopes. The addition of a little metallic arsenic renders it whiter.

=SPEL′TER.= See ZINC.

=SPERMACE′TI.= _Syn._ CETACEUM (B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.), L. A concretion prepared from the oily matter of the head of the _Physeter macrocephalus_, or spermaceti whale. It is demulcent and emollient; chiefly used in ointments and cerates.

=SPHEROID′AL STATE.= It is found that water, or any other volatile liquid, thrown on a metallic plate heated to dull redness, is not resolved into vapour, but, assuming a somewhat globular form, remains intact, until the temperature becomes sufficiently lowered to allow of contact between the liquid and the heated surface. It is then immediately volatilised. M. Boutigny, who fully investigated this subject, has also shown that the same thing happens when a solid body containing water is substituted for the liquid in the above and similar experiments. Thus, the finger or hand, under certain restrictions, may be thrust, with perfect impunity, into a stream of molten metal, and ice may be produced by throwing water into a red-hot crucible. This last experiment, as performed by MM. Boutigny and Prevostaye, is essentially as follows:——A thick platinum crucible, of the capacity of 1 fl. oz., is heated to redness over a powerful spirit lamp, and some liquid anhydrous sulphurous acid (a very volatile substance) poured into it by means of a pipette; the acid assumes a spheroidal form, and does not evaporate; a few drops of water are now introduced into the sulphurous acid in the same way; the diluted and slightly cooled acid instantly flashes off in vapour, and, robbing the water of its caloric, leaves the latter in a frozen state; and, if the operator seizes the right moment, a solid lump of ice may be thrown out of the red-hot crucible.

By substituting for anhydrous sulphurous acid a mixture of solid carbonic anhydride and ether, and for water a few grains of quicksilver, this latter may be reduced to the solid condition, and may be turned out of the red-hot crucible in the form of a small frozen mass.

The spheroidal condition of “liquids is a complicated result of at least four distinct causes. Of these the most influential is the repulsive force which heat exerts between objects which are closely approximated towards each other. When the temperature reaches a certain point actual repulsion between the particles ensues.

“Besides this repulsive action occasioned by heat, the other causes which may be mentioned as tending to produce the assumption of the spheroidal condition by the liquid are these:——

“1. The temperature of the plate is so high that it immediately converts any liquid that touches it into vapour, upon which the spheroid rests as on a cushion.

“2. This vapour is a bad conductor of heat, and prevents the rapid conduction of heat from the metal to the globule.

“3. The evaporation from the entire surface of the liquid carries off the heat as it arrives, and assists in keeping the temperature below the points of ebullition. The drop assumes the spheroidal form as a necessary consequence of the action of cohesion among the particles of the liquid, and the simultaneous action of gravity on the mass.”[182]

Boutigny found that, when a liquid in a state of ebullition was brought into contact with a surface heated to such a degree as to cause the liquid to assume the spheroidal state, its temperature immediately fell 3° or 4° C. below the boiling point.

All liquids are capable of assuming the spheroidal condition; but, as the temperature necessary for this purpose, varies with the boiling point of each liquid (the lower the boiling point the lower the temperature necessary, and _vice versâ_), it follows that the conducting surface requires to be differently heated for each liquid. The exact temperature to which the plate should be heated to produce the spheroidal condition in any liquid, depends partly upon the conducting power of the plate, and partly upon the latent heat of the vapour; the less this is, the more nearly the temperature of the plate approximates to the boiling point of the liquid.

Boutigny believed that the temperature of each liquid, when in the spheroid condition, was as invariable as that of its boiling point; but Boutan has demonstrated that this is a not quite accurate statement, since the temperature of the same liquids, when assuming the spheroidal form, is liable to slight divergence.

The following table, showing the lowest temperature of the plate and the temperature of the spheroid for certain liquids, is given by Boutigny:——

+-----------------------+-----------------------+--------------------------+
| | Temperature of Plate. | Temperature of Spheroid. |
| +-----------+-----------+-------------+------------+
| Liquid employed. | °F. | °C. | °F. | °C. |
+-----------------------+-----------+-----------+-------------+------------+
| Water | 340 | 171 | 205·7 | 96·4 |
| Alcohol | 273 | 134 | 167·9 | 75·5 |
| Ether | 142 | 61 | 93·6 | 34·2 |
| Sulphurous anhydride | ... | ... | 13·1 | 10·5 |
+-----------------------+-----------+-----------+-------------+------------+

Solids may also be made to assume the spheroidal condition, as when, for instance, some crystals of iodine are thrown upon a red-hot platinum disc, or into a platinum crucible similarly heated.

[Footnote 182: Miller.]

The nature of the plate or crucible employed appears to be immaterial, provided it is a good conductor. Platinum, silver, copper, and iron answer equally well; indeed, Tomlinson has shown that one liquid may even be made to assume the spheroidal state, on the surface of another, as when water, alcohol, and ether are placed upon hot oil. If the experiment be conducted with water it must be carefully managed, since, if the water be allowed to sink in the oil, it soon becomes converted into steam, with the result of scattering about the hot oil to the danger of the operator.

Boutigny has advanced the opinion that the property of water to assume the spheroidal state under the conditions we have specified will account for certain cases of explosion in steam-boilers. Thus we can imagine a boiler, which has run dry of water, to have become intensely overheated. Under these circumstances, when fresh water was admitted it would at first assume the spheroidal state; and as more cold water flowed into it, the boiler would become thereby reduced in temperature until it reached the point at which its conversion into steam would take place; the sudden generation, large volume, and elastic force of which would lead to the rupture of the boiler, accompanied with explosive violence.

=SPICE.= A general name for vegetable substances possessing aromatic and pungent properties, and employed for seasoning or flavouring food.

=Spice, Horse.= _Syn._ COW SPICE; SPECIES EQUINUS, L. _Prep._ 1. Aniseed, allspice, cumin seed, ginger, liquorice, and turmeric, equal parts.

2. Turmeric and cumin seed, of each 5 lbs.; ginger, 2-1/2 lbs. Used by farriers.

=Spice, Kit′chen.= _Syn._ MIXED SPICE, KITCHEN PEPPER, &c. _Prep._ From black pepper, 2 lbs.; ginger, 1 lb.; cinnamon, allspice, and nutmegs, of each 8 oz.; cloves, 1 oz.; dry salt, 6 lbs.; well ground together. Useful to flavour gravies, soup, &c.

=Spice, Mixed.= As the last, omitting half the salt.

=Spice, Pease.= See POWDER.

=Spice, Ragout.= _Prep._ From dry salt, 1 lb.; flour of mustard, black pepper, and grated lemon peel, of each 1/2 lb.; cayenne pepper, 2 oz.; allspice, and ginger, of each 1 oz.; nutmeg, 1/2 oz.; all separately powdered.

=Spice, Sausage (French).= _Syn._ EPICE FINES, Fr. _Prep._ From black pepper, 5 lbs.; ginger, 2-1/2 lbs.; cloves and nutmegs, of each 1 lb.; aniseed and coriander seeds, of each 1/2 lb.; powder and mix them.

=Spice, Sa′′voury.= _Prep._ 1. (Kidder’s.) From cloves, mace, nutmegs, pepper, and salt, equal parts. Used by cooks.

2. (Dr Kitchener’s.) See SPICE, RAGOUT (_above_).

=Spice, Soup.= _Syn._ KITCHENER’S SOUP-HERB POWDER, KITCHENER’S VEGETABLE RELISH, &c. _Prep._ From parsley, lemon thyme, sweet marjoram, and winter savoury, of each, dried, 2 oz.; sweet bazil and yellow peel of lemon, of each, dried, 1 oz.; mix, and powder.

=Spice, Sweet (Kidder’s).= _Prep._ From cinnamon, cloves, mace, nutmegs, and sugar, equal parts. Used in pastry.

=SPIGE′LIA.= _Syn._ CAROLINA PINK ROOT; SPIGELIA (Ph. E.), L. The root of _Spigelia Marilandica_, or worm grass. It is purgative, narcotic, and vermifuge.——_Dose_, 10 to 40 gr., in powder or infusion, night and morning, until the worms are expelled. Rhubarb or calomel is commonly added to it.

=SPIRIT.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS, L. Under this term are included all the inflammable and intoxicating liquors obtained by distillation, and used as beverages, as BRANDY, GIN, RUM, &c., each of which is noticed in its alphabetical order. Spirit may also be obtained by fermentation and distillation from all vegetable juices or solutions that contain sugar.

The spirit used in pharmacy and chemistry is distinguished by names which have reference to its richness in alcohol. (See TABLES.)

Spirituous liquors, like all other fluids at common temperatures, expand when they are heated, and diminish in volume when they are cooled. It is found that 1000 galls. of proof spirit, measured at the temperature of 50° Fahr., will, if re-measured at 59°, be found to have increased in bulk to full 1004-1/4 galls.; whilst 1000 galls. of the same spirit, measured at 77° Fahr., will be only equal to 991-1/4 galls. at 59°. These changes are still more marked at higher strengths, and at extreme temperatures, and, from not being recognisable by the hydrometer, often lead to serious losses in trade, and to serious fluctuations in ‘stock,’ which, to those unaware of the action of temperature, are perfectly unaccountable. A gallon of proof spirit only weighs 9-1/5 lbs. at 60° Fahr. At a higher temperature it will weigh less——at a lower one more; but as this weight constitutes the standard gallon at the temperature the proof is calculated for, it is manifest that any variations from it must result in loss either to the buyer or seller. Hence the equity of buying and selling liquors by weight instead of by measure. The stock-keeper in every wholesale house should be aware of this fact, and on ‘taking stock’ should as regularly enter the temperature of his liquors in his stock-book as he does the ‘dip’ or ‘wet inches.’ See ALCOHOL, ALCOHOLOMETRY, SPECIFIC GRAVITY, SPIRITS (Medicinal), SPIRITS (Perfumed), &c.

=Spirit of Acetic Ether.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS ÆTHERIS ACETICI. (Prus. Ph.) _Prep._ Acetic ether, 1 oz.; rectified spirit, 3 oz.

=Spirit, Alexiterius.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS ALEXITERIUS, AQUA ALEXITERIA SPIRITUOSA. (Ph. L. 1746). _Prep._ Mint, 1/2 lb.; Angelica root, 4 oz.; tops of sea wormwood, 4 oz.; proof spirit, 1 gall. (old wine measure); water, a sufficient quantity. Distil 1 gall.

=Spirit, Amy′lic.= See FUSEL OIL.

=Spirit of Angelica.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS ANGELICÆ. _Prep._ Sliced angelica root, 2 oz.; sliced valerian, 1/2 oz.; bruised juniper berries, 1/2 oz. Put into a retort, and pour on 9 oz. of rectified spirit by weight, and 15-1/2 oz. of water, and macerate for 24 hours; then draw out 12-1/2 oz. (by weight), in which dissolve 1/4 oz. of camphor.

=Spirit of Ants.= SPIRITUS FORMICARUM. (Ph. G.) _Prep._ Ants freshly collected, and bruised, 2 lbs.; spirit of wine (at ·830), 3 lbs.; water, 3 lbs. Macerate for 2 days. Distil 4 lbs.——_Dose_, 20 to 60 drops, also used outwardly.

I. TABLE _of the Pharmacopœial Spirits_.

Sp. gr.
_Alcohol_, Ph. B. (absolute) 0·795 { nearly
” Ph. E. 0·796 { pure
{ Alcohol.
” Ph. D. 1826 0·810 or 70% o. p.
” Ph. L. 1836 0·815 ” 68% ”
_Stronger Spirit_ (Spiritus Fortior), } 0·818 ” 66% ”
Ph. D. }
[183]_Rectified Spirit_ (Spirit of Wine);} 0·838 ” 56% ”
(Spiritus Rectificatus), B. P. }
_Rectified Spirit_ Ph. D. 0·840 or 54-3/4% o. p.
_Proof Spirit_ (Spiritus Tenuior), } 0·920 ” ——
Ph. B. }
_Alcohol_ (absolu), P. Cod. 0·797 ” ——
” (at 40°) ” 0·810 ” 70% ”
” (du commerce), P. Cod. 0·863 ” 41% ”
” (faible) ” 0·923 ” 2-1/2% u. p.

[Footnote 183: “This spirit can be reduced to the standard of the weaker (or proof) spirit, by adding, to every 5 pints of it, 3 pints of distilled water, at 62° Fahr.” (Ph. L.)]

II. TABLE _of the Principal Spirituous Liquors sold
in England, with their usual Strengths, &c._

KEY:

Headings:

A. Denomination.
B. Revenue Mark.
C. Import Strength.
D. Legal Limits of Strength.
E. Usual Selling Strength.
F. By _Permit_.
G. Contains Alcohol of 0·825.
H. Contains absolute Alcohol.
I. Specific gravity at 60% Fahr.

A. Denominations:

1. Gin (_strongest_)[184]
2. Do. (_best ordinary_)[184]
3. Do. (_cordial_)[185]
4. Do.[185]
5. Peppermint[186]
6. Do.[186]
7. Cloves[186]
8. Bitters[186]
9. Raspberry[186]
10. Noyau[186]
11. Cinnamon[186]
12. Tent[186]
13. Aniseed[186]
14. Caraway[186]
15. Loveage[186]
16. Usquebaugh[186]
17. Orange Cordial[186]
18. Citron[186]
19. Rum
20. Rum Shrub[186]
21. Do.[186]
22. French Brandy
23. Spirit of Wine[187]
24. Malt, grain, or molasses spirit (_sent out by British distillers_)
25. Hollands
26. Whiskey (_Irish_)
27. Do. (_Scotch_)

[Footnote 184: Frequently retailed at 25 to 35 u. p.]

[Footnote 185: Though ‘permitted’ at 22 to 24, are generally from 25 to 35 u. p., or even weaker.]

[Footnote 186: These, though ‘permitted’ at 60 or 64 u. p., are generally 75 or 80 u. p.]

[Footnote 187: Usual strength 54 to 60 o. p.]

+------+----------+-----------+-------------+----------------------------------+
| | | | | E. |
| | | | +--------+------+-----+------------+
| A. | B. | C. | D. | F. | G. | H. | I. |
+------+----------+-----------+-------------+--------+------+-----+------------+
| | | | | | | | |
| 1. |X(17 u.p.)| ..... |Not stronger |17 u.p. |..... | 40% | 0·9395 |
| | | |than 25 o.p. | | | | |
| 2. |X(22 u.p.)| ..... | do. |22 u. p.|..... |37·4%| 0·9445 |
| 3. |X(22 u.p.)| ..... | do. |22 u. p.|..... | do. |[188]0· |
| 4. |X(24 u.p.)| ..... | do. |24 u. p.|..... |36·5%|[188]0· |
| 5. |X mint. | ..... | do. |60 u. p.|..... | 21% |[188]0· |
| 6. | do. | ..... | do. |64 u. p.|..... | 18% |[188]0· |
| 7. }| | | | | | | |
| 8. }| | | | | | | |
| 9. }| | | | | | | |
| 10. }| | | | | | | |
| 11. }| | | | | | | |
| 12. }|X(64 u.p.)| ..... | do. |64 u. p.|..... | do. |[188]1·065 |
| 13. }| | | | | | | to |
| 14. }| | | | | | | 1·080 |
| 15. }| | | | | | | |
| 16. }| | | | | | | |
| 17. }| | | | | | | |
| 18. }| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | |
| 19. | R. | About | No limit. |11 u. p.|..... | 43% | 0·9329 |
| | |10 o.p. to | | | | | to |
| | | 43 o.p. | | | | | 0·8597 |
| 20. | R. Sh. | ..... | do. |64 u. p.|..... | 18% |[188]0· |
| 21. | do. | ..... | do. |60 u. p.|..... | 21% |[188]0· |
| | | | | | | | |
| 22. | F. | About | do. |10 u. p.|..... | 44% | 0·9318 |
| | |5 o.p. to 8| | | | | |
| | |or 10 u.p. | | | | | |
| 23. | S. W. | ...... |Not less than|54 to 64|..... |.....| 0·8415 |
| | | | 43 o.p. | o.p. | | | to |
| | | | | | | | 0·8221 |
| 24. | P. S. | ...... |Not stronger | ..... |..... |.....| 0·8669 to|
| | | |than 25 o.p. | | | | 0·9318 |
| | | | | | | | |
| 25. | Geneva. | ...... | No limit. | ..... |51·60%|40·5%| 0·9358 |
| | | | | | | | |
| 26. | P. S. | ...... } |Not stronger |{..... | 54% | 50% | |
| 27. | P. S. | ...... } |than 25 o.p. |{..... |54·3% |50·2%| |
+------+----------+-----------+-------------+--------+------+-----+------------+

[Footnote 188: The specific gravity is no guide when sugar is present, as in compounds.]

=Spirit, Blue.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS CŒRULEUS. (Ham. Ph.) _Prep._ Wormwood, scordium, savin, lavender flowers, of each 2-1/2 oz.; proof spirit, 5 pints; distil 2-1/2 pints, and add 6 dr. of verdigris and water of ammonia, 9 oz. For outward use.

=Spirit of Bryony (Compound).= _Syn._ SPIRITUS BRYONÆ COMPOSITUS. (Ph. E. 1744.) _Prep._ Bryony, 1/2 lb.; valerian, 2 oz.; pennyroyal, 3 oz.; rue, 3 oz.; mugwort feverfew flowers, savin tops, of each 4 dr.; orange peel, 1 oz.; loveage seeds, 1 oz.; brandy, 1 gall. Distil. Without the bryony this preparation is known as _Aqua hysterica_.——_Dose_, 1 oz.

=Spirit of Cajeput.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS CAJEPUTI. (B. P.) _Prep._ Dissolve 1 fl. oz. of oil of cajeput in 39 fl. oz. of rectified spirit.

=Spirit of Cardamom.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS CARDAMOMI. (Ph. L. 1746.) _Prep._ Cardamom seed, 5 troy oz.; proof spirit, 1 gall.; water a sufficient quantity. Distil 1 gall.

=Spirit of Chloroform.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS CHLOROFORMI. (B. P.) _Prep._ Dissolve 1 fl. oz. of chloroform in 19 fl. oz. of rectified spirit. Sp. gr. ·871.

=Spirit of Cloves.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS CARYOPHYLLI. (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Cloves, 10 oz.; spirit (·864), 80 oz., by weight; draw over all the spirituous part.

=Spirit of Coriander.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS CORIANDRI. (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Coriander seed, 1 oz.; spirit (·0864), by weight, 8 oz. Distil to dryness.

=Spirit, Dyer’s.= See TIN MORDANTS.

=Spirit, Febrifuge, of Clutton.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS FEBRIFUGUS CLUTTONI. See SPIRIT OF HYDROCHLORIC ETHER. _Prep._ The original form is——oil of sulphur by the bell, oil of vitriol and sea salt, of each 1 oz.; spirit of wine, 6 oz. Let them digest for a month, then distil to dryness.

=Spirit, Fioravanti.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS FIORAVANTI. (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Swiss turpentine, 5 oz.; eleme, 1 oz.; resin of tacamahaca, 1 oz.; amber, 1 oz.; liquid styrax, 1 oz.; galbanum, 1 oz.; myrrh, 1 oz.; aloes, 1/2 oz.; bay berries, 1 oz.; galanga root, 1/2 oz.; ginger, 1/2 oz.; zedoary root, 1/2 oz.; cinnamon, 1/2 oz.; cloves, 1/2 oz.; nutmeg, 1/2 oz.; leaves of cretum marum, 1/2 oz. Macerate 6 days and distil over a water bath till 35 oz. come over.

=Spirit of Flower Sage.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS SALVIÆ. _Prep._ Flower sage, 1 lb.; rectified spirit, 3 lbs.; water, 1 lb. Distil 3 lbs.

=Spirit of French Wine.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS VINI GALLICI, BRANDY.

=Spirit of Lemon Peel.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS CITRI CORTICIS. With lemon peel as spirit of orange peel.

=Spirit of Marjoram.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS MARJORAMÆ. _Prep._ Sweet marjoram, 1 lb.; rectified spirit, 3 lb.; water, 1 lb.; distil 3 lbs.

=Spirit of Mastic (Compound).= _Syn._ SPIRITUS MASTICHES COMPOSITUS. _Prep._ Mastic, 1 oz.; myrrh, 1 oz.; olibanum, 1 oz.; rectified spirit, 1 pint. Distil.

=Spirit, Meth′ylated.= Spirit of wine to which one tenth of its volume of wood naphtha (strength not less than 60° o. p.) has been added, the object of such addition being that of rendering the mixture unpotable through its offensive odour and taste. The purification of this mixed spirit, or the separation of the two alcohols, though often attempted, has always proved a failure. It might be supposed that, owing to the low boiling-point of methylic alcohol, simple distillation would effect this; but experience has shown that both spirits distil over simultaneously. This is, no doubt, due to the difference of their vapour densities. Methylated spirit, being sold duty free, can be employed by the chemical manufacturer as a solvent in many processes for which, from its greater cost, duty-paid spirit would be commercially inapplicable. But in the preparation of medicines, containing spirit, as the vehicle or menstruum by which more active substances are administered, the employment of methylated spirit is highly improper. The Council of the Pharmaceutical Society obtained from the Pharmacopœia Committee of the Medical Council, the decided opinion that “the substitution of ‘methylated’ for ‘rectified’ spirit in any of the processes of the Pharmacopœia should be strictly prohibited.”

The use of methylated spirit in the preparation of tinctures, sweet spirit of nitre, common ether, or any medicine to be used internally, is now prohibited by law.

=Spirit of Orange Peel.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS AURANTII. (P. Cod.) _Prep._ The yellow part of fresh orange peel, 1 lb.; spirit of wine (·864), 6 lbs.; macerate for 2 days, and distil by water bath to dryness.

=Spirit of Origanum.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS ORIGANI. _Prep._ Wild marjoram, 1 lb.; rectified spirit, 3 lbs.; water, 1 lb. Distil 3 lbs.

=Spirit of Para Cress.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS SPILANTHI. (Beral.) _Prep._ Bruised Para cress (_Spilanthes oleracea_), in flower, 1 part; spirit (·863), 2 parts. Macerate 2 or 3 days, and distil 2 parts.

=Spirit, Proof.= See ALCOHOL.

=Spirit, Pyroace′tic.= _Syn._ ACETONE; SPIRITUS PYROACETICUS, L.; ACÉTONE, ESPRIT PYROACETIQUE, Fr. An inflammable volatile liquid obtained with carbonic acid and other products when the metallic acetates in an anhydrous state are subjected to destructive distillation. The acetate of lead is the most eligible salt for this purpose.

_Prep._ 1. Dried acetate of lead is carefully distilled in a large earthen or coated-glass retort, by a heat gradually raised to redness, the volatile products being passed through a condenser well supplied with cold water. The distillation is continued until nothing but finely divided lead (lead pyrophorus) remains in the retort. The receiver contains crude acetone, which is to be saturated with carbonate of potassa, and afterwards rectified in a water bath from chloride of calcium.

2. By passing the vapour of strong acetic acid through an iron tube heated to dull redness, and condensing the acetone thus formed.

_Obs._ In both of the above processes carbonic acid and other permanent gases are produced, consequently the receiver must not fit too closely to the tube of the condenser.

_Prop._ Colourless, limpid, of peculiar odour, and very inflammable, giving a brilliant flame, without smoke; boiling point 132° Fahr.; sp. gr. ·792. It dissolves resins and essential oils. See MESITILOL, MESITYL, METACETONE, &c.

=Spirit, Pyroxyl′ic.= _Syn._ PYROLIGNEOUS SPIRIT, WOOD S., MEDICINAL NAPHTHA, WOOD N., HYDRATED OXIDE OF METHYL; SPIRITUS PYROXYLICUS (Ph. D.), L. A light volatile liquid, discovered by P. Taylor, in 1812, among the limpid products of the distillation of dry wood. It has been shown by Dumas and Peligot to be “really a second alcohol, forming an ether, and a series of compounds (MYTAYL-SERIES) exactly corresponding with those of vinous spirit, and, in some points, even more complete than the latter.”

_Prep._ Crude pyroligneous acid (which contains about 1% of the spirit) is subjected to distillation, and the first or more volatile portion which passes over is neutralised with hydrate of lime. After repose the clear liquid is separated from the oil which floats on the surface, and from the sediment at the bottom of the vessel; this, when redistilled, forms the wood spirit of commerce. It may be strengthened in the same manner as ordinary alcohol, by rectification, and ultimately rendered pure by careful distillation from quicklime by the heat of a water bath. Berzelius recommends the crude spirit to be agitated with a fatty oil, to remove empyreumatic matter, and then to rectify it, first, from recently burnt charcoal, and next with chloride of calcium.

_Prop., &c._ Pure pyroxylic spirit is a transparent colourless liquid, having a penetrating ethereal smell, and a hot disagreeable taste; it is very inflammable, burning with a pale blue flame. It is neutral to test paper; mixes with water, alcohol, and ether, in all proportion; and boils at 152° Fahr.; sp. gr. ·798 at 68° Fahr. (Regnault and Liebig.) Dr Ure states the sp. gr. to be ·824 at 60°; the Dublin College makes it ·846. That of the latter must therefore have contained a little water. It does not dissolve india rubber and gutta percha, like mineral or true naphtha.

Pyroxylic spirit is distinguished from acetone or pyroacetic spirit by the character of its flame, and by freely dissolving chloride of calcium, which is quite insoluble in the latter. In a mixture of these two liquids two distinct strata are formed when this substance, either in powder or concentrated solution, is added.

Pyroxylic spirit is distinguished from vinous spirit by Nessler’s test (which _see_), by its forming a solid crystalline salt (methylic oxalate) when distilled with an oxalate and sulphuric acid, and by its lower boiling point. The presence of alcohol, in a mixture of the two, is readily detected by distilling the suspected sample with sulphuric acid. The formation of common ether indicates ethylic alcohol, and from the amount formed the proportion of alcohol may be determined.

_Uses, &c._ Chiefly to dissolve resins and volatile oils, especially shell-lac, and as a substitute for alcohol in spirit lamps. As a medicine it is anodyne and sedative; and has been beneficially employed by Drs Christison, Hastings, and Neligan, to allay the harassing cough, troublesome vomiting, and excessive expectoration, in phthisis and some other affections.——_Dose_, 5 to 30 drops, thrice a day, in water.

=Spirit, Rai′sin.= _Prep._ From raisins fermented along with water, and the wash distilled by a quick fire. Used to give a brandy flavour to malt spirit. 1 gall. added to 150 gall. of plain spirit, along with some colouring, and a little catechu, either with or without a little acetic ether, makes a very decent “British brandy.”

=Spirit of Raspberries.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS RUBRI IDÆI. _Prep._ Raspberries, 3 lbs.; rectified spirit, 2 lbs.; distil 2 lbs.

=Spirit, Rec′tified.= See ALCOHOL, and Table I, under SPIRIT.

=Spirit of Salt†.= Hydrochloric acid.

=Spirit of Sassafras.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS SASSAFRAS. _Prep._ Sassafras, troy, 1 lb.; rectified spirit (·863), 8 lbs. Macerate 4 days, and distil nearly to dryness.

=Spirit of Scurvy Grass.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS COCHLEARIA. (Ph. G.) _Prep._ Fresh leaves of flowering scurvy grass, 8 lbs.; rectified spirit, 3 lbs.; water, 3 lbs. Distil 4 lbs.

=Spirit of Scurvy Grass (Compound).= _Syn._ SPIRITUS COCHLEARIÆ COMPOSITUS. (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Fresh scurvy grass, 5 lbs.; spirit (·0864), 6 lbs.; horseradish, 10-1/2 oz. Distil 5 lbs.

=Spirit of Soot.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS FULIGINIS. An empyreumatic spirit was formerly distilled from wood soot, in the same manner as hartshorn. An alcoholic spirit is also made from 1 part of wood-soot, 5 of proof spirit, 15 of water. Distil 4 parts.

=Spirit of Soup-herbs.= As essence of soup-herbs, but substituting 1 quart of brandy or proof spirit for the rectified spirit.

=Spirit of Sweet Flag Root.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS CALAMUS. (P. Cod.) _Prep._ Calamus, 1 lb., troy, spirit of wine (·863), 8 lbs.; macerate 4 days, and distil nearly to dryness.

=Spirit of Thyme.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS THYME. From lime, as spirit of sage.

=Spirit of Turpentine, Ethereal.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS TEREBINTHINÆ ÆTHEREUS. (Van Mons.) _Prep._ Spirit of nitric ether, with as much rectified oil of turpentine as it will dissolve. Rectified oil of turpentine is also termed “Ethereal Spirit of Turpentine.”

=Spirit of Wine.= See ALCOHOL, and Table I, under SPIRIT.

=Spirit of Wormwood (Compound).= _Syn._ SPIRITUS ABSINTHII COMPOSITUS VEL AQUA. (Ph. L. 1720.) _Prep._ Dried wormwood, 1/2 lb.; cardamom seed, 1/2 oz.; coriander seed, 1-1/2 oz.; brandy, 1 gall. Distil.

=Spirit of Vanilla.= See ESSENCE OF VANILLA.

=SPIRITS (Medic′inal).= _Syn._ SPIRITUS MEDICINALES, L. The spirits of pharmacy are either prepared by macerating the bruised seeds, flowers, herbs, &c., in the spirit, for 2 or 3 days before distillation, and then drawing it off by a gentle heat; or extemporaneously, by adding a proper proportion of essential oil to pure spirit of the prescribed strength.[189] This latter plan is very generally adopted in the Ph. D. In the first method, when a naked fire is employed, a little water is put into the still along with the spirit, to prevent empyreuma. These spirits are principally employed as aromatics and stimulants, or as adjuvants in draughts and mixtures.

[Footnote 189: In the British Pharmacopœia, for most distilled spirits is substituted a solution of 1 part of volatile oil in 49 of rectified spirit.——ED.]

The following are the principal medicinal spirits:——

=Spirit of Ammo′′nia.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS AMMONIÆ (Ph. E.). _Prep._ 1. (Ph. E.) Take of quicklime, 12 oz.; shake it with water, 6-1/2 fl. oz.; add of finely powdered chloride of ammonium, 3 oz.; and distil in a glass retort furnished with a tube reaching nearly to the bottom of a bottle containing rectified spirit, 2 pints, and kept well cooled. A sand heat is to be employed, and the distillation continued as long as anything passes over. The product has a sp. gr. about ·845, and should not effervesce with acids. The alkali is here in the caustic state, and in this respect it resembles the spirit of ammonia, Ph. U. S., and Dzond’s caustic spirit of ammonia, Ph. Bor.

2. (Ph. L. 1836.) Chloride of ammonium, 10 oz.; carbonate of potassa, 16 oz.; rectified spirit and water, of each 3 pints; mix, and let 3 pints distil.

3. (Ph. D. 1826.) Dissolve 3-1/2 oz. of carbonate of ammonia, in rectified spirit, 3 wine pints.

_Obs._ The ammonia in the last two preparations exist in the carbonated state. They are chiefly employed to make other preparations.

4. (ANISATED SPIRIT OF AMMONIA; LIQUOR AMMONIÆ ANISANUS, SPIRITUS A. A.——Ph. Bor.) Rectified spirit, 12 oz.; oil of aniseed, 3 dr.; dissolve, and add of caustic solution of ammonia (·960), 3 oz.

5. (AROMATIC SPIRIT OF AMMONIA, SPIRIT OF SAL VOLATILE; SPIRITUS AMMONIÆ AROMATICUS——B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.)——_a._ (Ph. L.). Take of hydrochlorate of ammonia, 6 oz.; carbonate of potassa, 10 oz.; cinnamon and cloves, of each, bruised, 2-1/2 dr.; fresh lemon peel, 5 oz.; rectified spirit and water, of each 2 quarts; mix, and distil 3 quarts. Sp. gr. ·918.

_b._ (Ph. E.) Spirit of ammonia, 8 fl. oz.; oil of rosemary, 1-1/2 fl. dr.; oil of lemon peel, 1 fl. dr.; mix.

_c._ (Ph. D.) Rectified spirit, 3 pints; oil of lemon, 1/2 fl. oz.; oil of nutmeg, 2 fl. dr.; oil of cinnamon, 1/2 fl. dr.; dissolve and add of stronger solution of ammonia, 6 fl. oz. Sp. gr, ·852.

_d._ (B. P.). Carbonate of ammonia, 8 oz.; strong solution of ammonia, 4 oz.; volatile oil of nutmeg, 4 dr.; oil of lemon, 6 dr.; rectified spirit, 6 pints; water, 3 pints; distil 7 pints.——_Dose_, 20 to 60 minims in camphor water.

_Obs._ The ammonia exists in the state of neutral carbonate in the product of the _a_ formula, but in the caustic state in those of the others.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 1 fl. dr., in water or, any bland liquid; as a diffusible stimulant and antacid, in debility, low spirits, dyspepsia, heartburn, flatulent colic, hysteria, &c. The spirit of sal volatile of the shops is generally a spurious compound of little more than half the above strength.

6. (FETID SPIRIT OF AMMONIA; SPIRITUS AMMONIÆ FŒTIDUS——B. P., Ph. L., E., & D.), L.——_a._ (Ph. E.) Hydrochlorate of ammonia, 10 oz.; carbonate of potassa, 16 oz.; assafœtida, 5 oz.; rectified spirit and water, of each 3 pints; mix well, then slowly distil 3 pints. Sp. gr. ·861.

_b._ (Ph. E.) Spirit of ammonia, 10-1/2 fl. oz.; assafœtida (broken small), 1/2 oz.; digest for 12 hours, then distil 10-1/2 fl. oz., by the heat of a vapour (water) bath.

_c._ (Ph. D.) Assafœtida, 1-1/2 oz.; rectified spirit, 1-1/2 pint; digest for 24 hours, then distil off the whole of the spirit, and mix the product with stronger solution of ammonia, 3 fl. oz. Sp. gr. ·849.

_d._ (B. P.) Strong solution of ammonia, 2; assafœtida, in small pieces, 1-1/2; rectified spirit, sufficient; macerate the assafœtida in 15 of the spirit for 24 hours, distil, add the distillate to the ammonia, and make up with spirit to 20.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 1 dr.

_Obs._ The dose, &c., are the same as those of the last, but it is preferred for hysterical and spasmodic affections.

=Spirit, Amyl′ic.= _Syn._ Alcohol amylicum (Ph. D.), L. See FUSEL OIL.

=Spirit of An′iseed.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS ANISI (Ph. D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Oil of aniseed, 3 fl. dr.; proof spirit, 1 gall.; dissolve. Carminative.——_Dose_, 1/2 fl. dr. to 4 fl. dr.

2. (ESSENTIA ANISI——Ph. D.) Oil of aniseed, 1 fl. oz.; rectified spirit, 9 fl. oz.; mix with agitation. Chiefly used to make aniseed water.

3. (COMPOUND SPIRIT OF ANISEED; SPIRITUS ANISI COMPOSITUS——Ph. D. 1826.) Aniseed and angelica seed, of each 1/2 lb.; proof spirit, 1 gall.; water, q. s.; distil 1 gallon. When coloured with saffron, or sap green, it closely resembles the Irish usquebaugh. (Montgomery.)——_Dose_, 1 to 4 fl. dr.

=Spirit, Arquebusade′.= See VULNERARY SPIRIT (_below_).

=Spirit of Balm (Compound).= _Syn._ BALM WATER, CARMELITE W.; AQUA MELISSÆ COMPOSITA, SPIRITUS M. COMPOSITUS, L.; EAU DES CARMES, EAU DE MELISSE DES CARMES, Fr. _Prep._ 1. (P. Cod.) Fresh flowering tops of balm, 24 oz.; fresh lemon peel, 4 oz.; cinnamon, cloves, and nutmegs, of each 2 oz.; coriander seed and dried angelica root, of each 1 oz.; rectified spirit, 8 lbs.; macerate for 8 days and distil in a water bath to dryness. The spirit is much esteemed in France as a stomachic, a cosmetic, and a stimulant.

=Spirit, Bath′ing.= Soap liniment.

=Spirit of Cam′phor.= _Syn._ CAMPHORATED SPIRIT; SPIRITUS CAMPHORÆ; (B. P., Ph. L.), TINCTURA CAMPHORÆ, SPIRITUS CAMPHORATUS, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Camphor, 5 oz.; rectified spirit, 1 quart; dissolve.

2. (B. P.) Camphor, 1; rectified spirit, 9; dissolve.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 minims, in milk or on sugar. Used as an application to chilblains, and in chronic rheumatism, cholera, &c. See ESSENCE and TINCTURE.

=Spirit of Car′away.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS CARUI (Ph. L. & E.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Oil of caraway, 2 fl. dr.; proof spirit, 1 gall.; dissolve.

2. (Ph. E.) Caraway seeds (bruised), 1/2 lb.; proof spirit, 7 pints; macerate for 2 days in a covered vessel, then add of water, 1-1/2 pint, and distil 7 pints. Aromatic and carminative.——_Dose_, 1 to 4 fl. dr. A similar spirit, “sweetened with sugar,” is drunk in Germany as a dram (KÜMELLIQUEUR; KÜMELBRANDTWEIN).

3. (ESSENTIA CARUI——Ph. D.) Oil of caraway, 1 fl. oz.; rectified spirit, 9 fl. oz. Used to make caraway water.

=Spirit of Cas′sia.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS CASSIÆ (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ From coarsely powdered cassia, 1 lb.; proof spirit, 7 pints; water, 1-1/2 pint, or q. s.; draw off 7 pints.——_Dose_, &c., as the last. It is almost universally substituted for spirit of cinnamon.

=Spirit of Cin′namon.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS CINNAMOMI (Ph. L. & E.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Oil of cinnamon, 2 fl. dr.; proof spirit, 1 gall.; dissolve.

2. (Ph. E.) From cinnamon, as spirit of cassia.——_Dose_, 1 to 4 fl. dr.

3. (ESSENTIA CINNAMOMI——Ph. D.) Oil of cinnamon, 1 fl. oz.; rectified spirit, 9 fl. oz. Used to make cinnamon water, &c.

=Spirit of E′ther.= _Syn._ SPIRIT OF SULPHURIC ETHER, SWEET SPIRIT OF VITRIOL†; SPIRITUS ÆTHERIS (B. P.), SPIRITUS ÆTHERIS SULPHURICI (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ 1.——_a._ (Ph. E.) Sulphuric ether, 1 part; rectified spirit, 2 parts. Sp. gr. ·809. _Obs._ This preparation should be neutral to test paper, mix (clear) with water, and, when shaken with twice its volume of concentrated solution of chloride of calcium, 28% of ether should separate.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2 or 3 fl. dr.; as a stimulant and anodyne.

_b._ (B. P.) Ether, 1; rectified spirit, 2; mix.——_Dose_, 30 to 60 minims.

2. COMPOUND SPIRIT OF ETHER, HOFFMANN’S ANODYNE LIQUOR; SPIRITUS ÆTHERIS COMPOSITUS (Ph. L.), S. ÆTHERIS OLEOSUS (Ph. D.), L.——_a._ (Ph. L.) Ether, 8 fl. oz.; rectified spirit, 16 fl. oz.; ethereal oil, 3 fl. dr.; mix.

_b._ (Ph. D.) Mix in a glass matrass, oil of vitriol, 1-1/2 pint, with rectified spirit, 1 pint; connect this with a Liebig’s condenser, apply heat, and distil until a black froth begins to rise; then separate the upper stratum of the distilled liquid, and, having exposed it to the air for 24 hours, let the oil be transferred to a moist paper filter, and washed with a little cold water; lastly, dissolve it in a mixture of rectified spirit, 1/2 pint; sulphuric ether, 5 fl. oz.

_Obs._ This compound is anodyne and antispasmodic, and was once held in very great repute.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2 fl. dr.

3. AROMATIC SPIRIT OF ETHER, A. S. OF SULPHURIC E., SWEET ELIXIR OF VITRIOL†; SPIRITUS ÆTHERIS AROMATICUS, L. _Prep._ (Ph. L. 1824.) Bruised cinnamon, 3 dr.; cardamoms, 1-1/2 dr.; long pepper and ginger, of each 1 dr.; rectified spirit, 10 fl. oz.; sulphuric ether, 5 fl. oz.; mix, and digest 14 days. The last two preparations are also frequently called ‘sweet elixir of vitriol.’

=Spirit of Harts′horn.= _Syn._ LIQUOR OF SPIRITUS VOLATILIS CORNU CERVI, L. Originally distilled from hartshorn. Dilute liquor ammonia is now generally sold for spirit of hartshorn.

=Spirit of Horserad′ish (Compound).= _Syn._ SPIRITUS ARMORACIÆ COMPOSITUS (B. P., Ph. L.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Sliced horseradish and dried orange peel, of each 20 oz.; bruised nutmegs, 5 dr.; proof spirit, 1 gall.; water, 1 quart, or q. s.; distil 1 gall. Stimulant and diuretic.——_Dose_, 1 to 4 fl. dr.; in dropsies, when there is much debility. It is usually combined with infusion of juniper berries or foxglove.

2. (B. P.) Fresh root, sliced, 20; dried orange peel, 20; nutmeg, bruised, 1/2; proof spirit, 160; water, 40; mix, and distil over 160.——_Dose_, 1 to 3 dr.

=Spirit of Hydrochlo′′ric Ether.= _Syn._ SPIRIT OF MURIATIC ETHER, CLUTTON’S FEBRIFUGE SPIRIT; ÆTHER HYDROCHLORICUS ALCOHOLICUS, SPIRITUS ÆTHERIS MURIATICI, L. _Prep._ 1. From hydrochloric ether and rectified spirit, equal parts, mixed together.

2. (Ph. E. 1744.) Hydrochloric acid, 1 part; rectified spirit, 3 parts; digest some days, and distil in a sand bath.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 3 fl. dr.; in dyspepsia, liver complaints, hectic fever, &c.

=Spirit of Juni′′per.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS JUNIPERI (B. P.). _Prep._ English oil of juniper, 1; rectified spirit, 49; dissolve.——_Dose_, 30 to 60 minims.

=Spirit of Juniper (Compound).= _Syn._ SPIRITUS JUNIPERI COMPOSITUS (Ph. L., E., & D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Oil of juniper, 1-1/2 fl. dr.; oils of caraway and fennel, of each 12 drops; proof spirit, 1 gall.; dissolve.

2. (Ph. L. 1836.) Juniper berries, bruised, 15 oz.; caraway and fennel seed, of each, bruised, 2 oz.; proof spirit, 1 gall.; water, 1 quart, or q. s.; distil 1 gallon.

_Obs._ This spirit is stimulant and diuretic.——_Dose_, 2 to 4 fl. dr. Mixed with twice or thrice its w eight of proof spirit, and sweetened with a little sugar, it makes no bad substitute for Hollands gin.

=Spirit of Lav′ender.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS LAVANDULÆ (B. P., Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ 1. From fresh lavender, 2-1/2 lbs.; rectified spirit, 1 gall.; water, 1 quart, or q. s.; distil 1 gallon (7 pints——Ph. E.).

2. (Wholesale.) From Mitcham oil of lavender, 3 oz.; rectified spirit, 1 gall.; dissolve. Cordial and fragrant.

3. (B. P.) English oil of lavender, 1; rectified spirit, 49; dissolve.——_Dose_, 30 to 60 minims. See SPIRITS (Perfumed), TINCTURE, &c.

=Spirit of Ni′tric Ether.= _Syn._ SPIRIT OF NITROUS ETHER, SWEET SPIRIT OF NITRE, NITROUS ETHEREAL SPIRIT, NITRE DROPS; SPIRITUS ÆTHERIS NITRICI (B. P., Ph. L., & E.), SPIRITUS ÆTHERIS NITROSUS (Ph. D.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Take of rectified spirit, 1 quart; nitric acid, 3-1/2 fl. oz.; add the acid, by degrees, to the spirit; then mix them, and let 28 fl. oz. distil over. An earthenware still and condensing worm should be employed. Sp. gr. ·834.

2. (Ph. E.) Pure hyponitrous ether (Ph. E.), 1 part; rectified spirit, 4 parts (both by volume); mix. Sp. gr. ·847.

3. (Ph. D.) Nitrous or hyponitrous ether (which has been washed with half of its volume of liquor of ammonia), 4 fl. oz.; rectified spirit, “in 42 fl. oz.; mix, and preserve the compound in small, strong, and accurately-stopped bottles.”

4. (B. P.) Nitric acid (sp. gr. 1·42), 3; sulphuric acid, 2; copper, in fine powder (No. 25), 2; rectified spirit, a sufficiency; to 20 of the spirit add gradually the sulphuric acid, stirring them together; then add to this, also gradually, 2-1/2 of the nitric acid. Put the mixture into a retort or other suitable apparatus, into which the copper has been introduced, and to which a thermometer is fitted. Attach now an efficient condenser, and, applying a gentle heat, let the spirit distil at a temperature commencing at 170° and rising to 175°, but not exceeding 180°, until 12 have passed over and been collected in a bottle kept cool, if necessary, with ice-cold water; then withdraw the heat, and, having allowed the contents of the retort to cool, introduce the remaining 1/2 of nitric acid, and resume the distillation as before, until the increased product has been increased to 15. Mix this with 40 of the rectified spirit, or as much as will make the product correspond to the tests of specific gravity and per-centage of ether separated by chloride of calcium. Preserve it in well-closed vessels.

_Char. and Tests._ Transparent, and nearly colourless, with a very light tinge of yellow, mobile, inflammable, of a peculiar penetrating apple-like odour, and sweetish, cooling, sharp taste. It effervesces feebly, or not at all, when shaken with a little bicarbonate of soda. When agitated with solution of sulphate of iron and a few drops of sulphuric acid, it becomes deep olive-brown or black. If it be agitated with twice its volume of a saturated solution of chloride of calcium in a closed tube, 2% of its original volume will separate in the form of nitrous ether, and rise to the surface of the mixture. Sp. gr. ·845.——_Dose_, 1 to 2 fl. dr.

_Pur., &c._ Pure spirit of nitric ether boils at about 160° Fahr., scarcely reddens litmus paper, and “gives off no bubbles of carbonic acid gas on the addition of carbonate of soda.” (Ph. L.) “When agitated with twice its volume of concentrated solution of chloride of calcium, 12% of ether slowly separates.” (Ph. E.)——_Dose_, 1/2 to 3 fl. dr., as a febrifuge, a diaphoretic, diuretic, antispasmodic, &c.; in various affections.

_Obs._ The mass of the sweet spirits of nitre of the shops is of very inferior quality, and is scarcely, if ever, made directly from spirit that has paid the duty. One, and a very large portion, is obtained from Scotland; another, from the manufacturers of fulminating mercury; and a third, and, in fact, the principal part, from certain persons in the neighbourhood of the metropolis who employ contraband spirit for its preparation, as this article is not under the excise. Recently methylated spirit has been employed for the purpose.

Sweet spirits of nitre, sp. gr. ·850, is now commonly and publicly sold, in quantity, at a price which is only about 2-3rds that of the spirit in it, if the latter had paid duty. The spirit obtained from the manufacturers of fulminating mercury frequently contains no inconsiderable quantity of hydrocyanic acid.

The mere admixture of nitric or hyponitrous ether with alcohol does not afford an officinal SPIR. ÆTHER. NITR., as this always contains aldehyde, which, according to Prof. Liebig, is an essential constituent of the officinal compound.

=Spirit of Nitrous Ether.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS ÆTHERIS NITROSI (B. P.). See SPIRIT OF NITRIC ETHER.

=Spirit of Nut′meg.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS MYRISTICÆ (B. P., Ph. L., & E.), S. NUCIS MOSCHATÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L. & E.) Bruised nutmegs, 2-1/2 oz.; proof spirit, 1 gall.; water, 1 pint, or q. s.; distil a gallon. Cordial and carminative.——_Dose_, 1 to 4 fl. dr.; chiefly used to flavour mixtures and draughts.

2. (ESSENTIA MYRISTICÆ MOSCHATE——Ph. D.) Oil of nutmegs, 1 fl. oz.; rectified spirit, 9 fl. oz. Used in dispensing.

3. (B. P.) Volatile oil of nutmeg, 1; rectified spirit, 49; dissolve.——_Dose_, 30 to 60 minims.

=Spirit of Pennyroy′al.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS PULEGII (Ph. L.), S. MENTHÆ PULEGII, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Oil of pennyroyal, 3 fl. dr.; proof spirit, 1 gall.; dissolve. Stimulant, antispasmodic, and carminative.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2 fl. dr.

2. (ESSENTIA MENTHÆ PULEGII——Ph. D.) Oil of pennyroyal, 1 fl. oz.; rectified spirit, 9 fl. oz. Used chiefly in dispensing.

=Spirit of Pep′permint.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS MENTHÆ PIPERITÆ (B. P., Ph. L.), S. MENTHÆ (Ph. E.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) Oil of peppermint, 3 fl. dr.; proof spirit, 1 gall.; dissolve.

2. (Ph. E.) Green peppermint, 1-1/2 lb.; proof spirit, 7 pints; macerate 2 days; add of water, q. s., and distil 7 pints.——_Dose_, 1/2 to 2 dr.

3. (ESSENTIA MENTHÆ PIPERITÆ——Ph. D.) Oil of peppermint, 1 fl. oz.; rectified spirit, 9 fl. oz. See ESSENCE OF PEPPERMINT.

4. (B. P.) English oil of peppermint, 1; rectified spirit, 49; dissolve.——_Dose_, 30 to 60 minims, or, for children under five years, 1 to 3 minims.

=Spirit of Pimen′to.= _Syn._ (SPIRIT OF ALLSPICE; SPIRITUS PIMENTÆ——Ph. L. & E.), L. _Prep._ 1 (Ph. L.) Oil of pimento, 2 fl. dr.; proof spirit, 1 gall.; dissolve.

2. (Ph. E.) From pimento, bruised, 1/2 lb.; and proof spirit, 7 pints; as spirit of caraway. Carminative and stomachic.——_Dose_, 1 to 4 fl. dr.; in flatulent colic, dyspepsia, &c.

3. (ESSENTIÆ PIMENTÆ——Ph. D.) Oil of pimento, 1 fl. oz.; rectified spirit, 9 fl. oz. Used to make pimento water, and in dispensing.

=Spirit of Pine-tops.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS TURIONUM PINI, L. See BALSAM, RIGA.

=Spirit of Rose′mary.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS ROSMARINI (B. P., Ph. L., & E.), L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) As SPIRIT OF PIMENTO.

2. (Ph. E.) Rosemary tops, 2-1/2 lbs.; rectified spirit, 1 gall.; as SPIRIT OF LAVENDER. Fragrant and stimulant.

3. (ESSENTIA ROSMARINI——Ph. D.) As ESSENCE OF PIMENTO.

4. (B. P.) Oil of rosemary, 1; rectified spirit, 49; dissolve.——_Dose_, 10 to 30 minims.

=Spirit of Spear′mint.= _Syn._ SPIRITUS MENTHÆ VIRIDIS (Ph. L.), S. MENTHÆ SATIVÆ, L. _Prep._ 1. (Ph. L.) As SPIRIT OF PEPPERMINT——Ph. L.

2. (ESSENTIA MENTHÆ VIRIDIS——Ph. D.) As ESSENCE OF PEPPERMINT——Ph. D. The uses and doses are also the same.

=Spirit of Sulphu′ric E′ther.= See SPIRIT OF ETHER (_above_).

=Spirit of Vitriol (Sweet).= See AROMATIC SPIRIT OF ETHER (_above_).

=Spirit, Vul′nerary.= _Syn._ VULNERARY WATER, ARQUEBUSADE; SPIRITUS VULNERARIUS, L.; EAU D’ARQUEBUSADE, Fr. _Prep._ 1. Dried tops of sage, wormwood, fennel, hyssop, marjoram, savory, thyme, rosemary, calamint, balm, peppermint, and scordium, fresh leaves of angelica and basil, and lavender flowers, of each 4 oz.; proof spirit, 2 galls.; digest for 14 days, and distil over 1-1/2 gall.

2. Rosemary leaves, 1-1/2 lb.; leaves of thyme and summits of millefoil, of each 1/2 lb.; juniper berries, 3 oz.; proof spirit, 2 galls,; distil over 5 quarts.

_Obs._ This preparation is stimulant and vulnerary, and is in great repute on the Continent as a cosmetic and cordial.

=SPIRITS (Perfumed).= _Syn._ SPIRITUS ODORIFERI, ODORES SPIRITUOSI, L. The odoriferous spirits of the perfumer are, for the most part, prepared from various aromatic and odorous substances, by a similar process to that described under ESSENCES and SPIRITS (Medicinal); but in this case a perfectly pure, flavourless, and scentless spirit must be employed. The distillation should also be preferably conducted by steam, or the heat of a water bath, and the distilled spirit should be kept for some time in a cellar, or other cold situation, previously to being used. When simple solution of an essential oil in the spirit is adopted, cart should be taken that the oil is pale and new; or, at least, has not been much exposed to the air; as in that case it would contain resin, which would make the perfumed spirit, or essence, liable to stain delicate articles of clothing to which it may be applied. Most of the ‘eaux’ and ‘esprits’ of the perfumers are prepared by one or other of the above methods. It is found, however, that the perfumed spirits of some of the more delicate flowers cannot be well obtained by either infusion or distillation, or by the simple solution of their essential oils in spirit; or, at least, they are not usually so prepared by the foreign perfumers. The spirits of orange flowers, jasmin, tuberose, jonquille, roses, and of some other flowers, and of cassia, vanilla, &c., are commonly prepared by digesting pure rectified spirit for 3 or 4 days on half its weight of the respective pommades or oils, obtained by infusion or contact. The operation is performed in a closed vessel placed in a water bath, and frequent agitation is employed for 3 or 4 days, when the perfumed spirit is decanted into a second digester, containing a like quantity of oil to the first. The whole process is repeated a second and a third time, after which the spirit is allowed to settle and is then decanted. It now forms the most fragrant and perfect odoriferous spirit (extrait) of the Continental perfumer. The product is called ‘esprit’ or ‘extrait of the first infusion.’ The three portions of oil are then treated again with fresh spirit in the same manner, and thus spirits or essences of inferior quality are obtained, which are distinguished by the perfumers as No. 2, 3, 4, &c., or ‘esprits’ or ‘extraits of the first, second, third,’ &c., operation or infusion. In some, though only a very few cases, the spirits are afterwards distilled.

The strength of the spirit for the concentrated essences should not be less than 56 o. p. (sp. gr. ·8376); that for eaux, esprits, and extraits, not less than 35 o. p. (sp. gr. ·8723). The strength of the second quality of the last three must be fully proof (sp. g. ·920). See ALCOHOL, DISTILLATION, ESSENCE, OILS, POMMADE, &c., and _below_.

=Eau d’Ambre Royale.= [Fr.] From essences of ambergris and musk, of each 1 fl. oz.; spirit of ambrette and orange-flower water, of each 1 pint; rectified spirit, 1 quart; mix.

=Eau d’Ange.= [Fr.] From flowering tops of myrtle (bruised), 1-1/2 lb.; rectified spirit, 7 pints; water, 3 pints; digest a week, add of common salt, 2 lbs., and distil 1 gall.

=Eau d’Arquebusade.= [Fr.] See VULNERARY SPIRIT (_back_).

=Eau de Bouquet.= [Fr.] From spirits of rosemary and essence of violets, of each 1 fl. oz.; essences of bergamot and jasmin, of each 1 fl. dr.; oils of verbena and lavender, of each 1/2 fl. dr.; orange-flower water, 1 fl. oz.; eau de rose, 1/2 pint; rectified spirit, 1 quart; mix.

=Eau de Bouquet de Flore.= [Fr.] From spirits of rosemary and roses and essence of violets, of each 1/2 fl. oz.; oil of cedra and essence of ambergris, of each 1 fl. dr.; orange-flower water, 5 fl. oz.; rectified spirit, 1 pint.

=Eau des Carmes.= [Fr.] See SPIRIT OF BALM (COMPOUND).

=Eau de Cologne.= [Fr.] _Syn._ COLOGNE WATER; AQUA COLONIENSIS, A. C. SPIRITUOSA, SPIRITUS COLONIENSIS, L. For the production of good eau de Cologne it is absolutely essential that the spirit be of the purest description, both tasteless and scentless, and that the oils be not only genuine, but recently distilled, as old oils are less odorous, and contain a considerable quantity of resin and camphor, which prove injurious. When flowers and the flowering tops of plants are ordered, it is also necessary that they be either fresh gathered or well preserved, without drying them. To produce an article of the finest quality, distillation should be had recourse to. A very excellent eau de Cologne may, however, be produced by simple solution of the oils or essences in the spirit, provided they be new, pale coloured, and pure. The mass of the eau de Cologne prepared in England, some of which possess the most delicate fragrance, and is nearly equal to the best imported, is made without distillation. In the shops two kinds of this article are generally kept——French and German. That prepared by Farina of Cologne is esteemed the best, and is preferred in the fashionable world.

_Prep._ 1. From essences of bergamot and lemon, of each 1 fl. dr.; oil of orange, 1/2 dr. oil of neroli, 20 drops; oil of rosemary, 10 drops; essence of ambergris and musk, of each 1 drop; rectified spirit, 1/2 pint; mix.

2. Essence of bergamot, 3 fl. oz.; essence of lemon, 3 fl. dr.; essence of cedrat, 2 fl. dr.; oils of neroli and rosemary, of each 1-1/2 fl. dr.; oil of balm, 1/2 fl. dr.; rectified spirit, 1-1/2 gall.; mix.