Chapter IX: Part 9

The common aperient medicine known as black draught is made in the
following manner:

i. Take of senna leaves six drachms, bruised ginger half a drachm,
sliced liquorice root four drachms, Epsom salts two and a half
ounces, boiling water half an imperial pint. Keep this standing on
the hob or near the fire for three hours, then strain, and after
allowing it to grow cool, add of sal volatile one drachm and a half,
of tincture of senna, and of tincture of cardamoms, each half an
ounce. This mixture will keep a long time in a cool place. _Dose_, a
wineglassful for an adult; and two tablespoonfuls for young persons
about fifteen years of age. It is not a suitable medicine for
children.

656. Tonic Aperient.

The following will be found a useful medicine for persons of all ages.

i. Take of Epsom salts one ounce, diluted sulphuric acid one drachm,
infusion of quassia chips half an _imperial_ pint, compound tincture
of rhubarb two drachms. _Dose_, half a wineglassful twice a day.

657. Infants' Aperient.

The following may be used with safety for young children.

i. Take of rhubarb five grains, magnesia three grains, white sugar a
scruple, grey powder five grains; mix. _Dose_, for an infant from
twelve to eighteen months of age, from one-third to one-half of the
whole.

ii. A useful laxative for children is composed of calomel five
grains, and sugar a scruple, made into five powders. _Dose_, half of
one of these for a child from birth to one year, and a whole one
from that age to three years.

658. Flour of Brimstone

is a mild aperient in doses of about a quarter of an ounce; it is best
taken in milk. Flour of brimstone, which is also called sublimed
sulphur, is generally put up in ounce packets at 7d.; its wholesale
price is 4d. per pound.

[A SPARK MAY RAISE AN AWFUL BLAZE.]

659. Medicines.

Preparations of them.--The following directions are of the utmost
value in connection with the DOMESTIC PHARMACOPOEIA, DISEASES,
PRESCRIPTIONS, and POISONS.

_They will be found most important to emigrants, attendants upon the
sick, and persons who reside out of the reach of medical aid, sailors,
&c., &c. They contain instructions not only for the compounding of
medicines, but most useful hints and cautions upon the application of
leeches, blisters, poultices, &c._

660. Articles Required for Mixing Medicines.

_Three glass measures_, one to measure ounces, another to measure
drachms, and a measure for minims, drops, or small doses.

A _pestle and mortar_, both of glass and Wedgwood-ware.

A glass funnel.

Glass stirring rods.

A _spatula_, or flexible knife, for spreading ointments, making pills,
&c.

_A set of scales and weights_.

_A small slab of marble_, or porcelain, for making pills upon, mixing
ointments, &c.

661. Medicine Weights and Measures.--_Weights_.

When you open your box containing the scales and weights, you will
observe that there are several square pieces of brass, of different
sizes and thicknesses, and stamped with a variety of characters. These
are the weights, which may now be explained.

662. Troy Weight.

Medicines are made up by troy weight, although drugs are bought by
avoirdupois weight. There are twelve ounces to the pound troy, which
is marked lb.; the ounce, which contains eight drachms, is marked
[*ounce]i. [looks like a z on top of a 3]; the drachm, containing
three scruples, is marked [*drachm]i. [looks like a 3]; and the
scruple of twenty grains is marked [*scruple]i. [looks like a
backwards C with a horizontal cross-bar]. The grain weights are marked
by little circles, thus:

-------
|o o|
Five | o | Grains
|o o|
-------

Each of the grain weights, in addition to the circles denoting their
several weights, bears also the stamp of a crown. Care must be taken
not to mistake this for one of the numerals. Besides these weights
there are others marked [*scruple]ss, which means half a scruple;
[*drachm]ss, meaning half a drachm; and [*ounce]ss, meaning half an
ounce. When there are ounces, drachms, or scruples, the number of them
is shown by Roman figures, thus:--i. ii. iii. iv. v., &c., and
prescriptions are written in this style.

663. Measures.--Liquid

Liquid medicines are always measured by the following table:

60 minims......... \ / 1 fluid drachm.
8 fluid drachms | are | 1 fluid ounce.
20 fluid ounces... | contained | 1 pint.
8 pints.......... / in \ 1 gallon.

And the signs which distinguish each are as follows:--c. means a
gallon; o a pint; _fl_ [*ounce], a fluid ounce; _fl_ [*drachm], a
fluid drachm; and m, a minim, or drop. Formerly drops used to be
ordered, but as the size of a drop must necessarily vary, minims are
always directed to be employed now for any particular medicine,
although for such medicines as oil of cloves, essence of ginger, &c.,
drops are frequently ordered.

664. Specific Measuring Vessels.

In order that Medicines may be measured Accurately, there are
graduated glass vessels for measuring ounces, drachms, and minims.

665. Approximate Measures.

When proper measures are not at hand, it is necessary to adopt some
other method of determining the quantities required, and therefore the
following table has been drawn up for that purpose:

A tumbler ....... \ / 10 ounces.
A teacup ........ | | 6 "
A wineglass .... | usually | 2 "
A tablespoon..... |- contains -| 4 drachms.
A dessertspoon... | about | 2 "
A teaspoon....... / \ 1 "

These quantities refer to ordinary sized spoons and vessels. Some cups
hold half as much more, and some tablespoons contain six drachms. A
medicine glass, which is graduated so as to show the number of
spoonfuls it contains, should be kept in every family.

[TO-DAY, MAN LIVES IN PLEASURE, WEALTH AND PRIDE.]

666. Process of Making Medicines.

To Powder Substances.--Place the substance in the mortar, and strike
it _gently_ with direct perpendicular blows of the pestle, until it
separates into several pieces, then remove all but a small portion,
which bruise gently at first, and rub the pestle round and round the
mortar, observing that the circles described by the pestle should
gradually decrease in diameter, and then increase again, because by
this means every part of the powder is subjected to the process of
pulverization. In powdering substances, making emulsions, and whenever
using a mortar, the pestle should always travel _from the right to the
left_.

667. Preparation and Assistance.

Some substances require to be prepared in a particular manner before
they can be powdered, or to be assisted by adding some other body. For
example, camphor powders more easily when a few drops of spirits of
wine are added to it; mace, nutmegs, and such oily aromatic substances
are better for the addition of a little white sugar; resins and
gum-resins should be powdered in a cold place, and if they are
intended to be dissolved, a little fine well-washed white sand mixed
with them assists the process of powdering. Tough roots, like gentian
and calumba, should be cut into thin slices; and fibrous roots, like
ginger, cut slanting, otherwise the powder will be full of small
fibres. Vegetable matter, such as peppermint, loosestrife, senna, &c.,
requires to be dried before it is powdered.

668. Care of the Mortar.

Be careful not to pound too hard in glass, porcelain, or Wedgwood-ware
mortar; they are intended only for substances that pulverize easily,
and for the purpose of mixing or incorporating medicines. Never use
acids in a marble mortar, and be sure that you do not powder galls or
any other astringent substances in any but a brass mortar.

669. Sifting.

Sifting is frequently required for powdered substances, and this is
usually done by employing a fine sieve, or tying the powder up in a
piece of muslin, and striking it against the left hand over a piece of
paper.

670. Filtering.

Filtering is frequently required for the purpose of obtaining clear
fluids, such as infusions, eye-washes, and other medicines; and it is,
therefore, highly important to know how to perform this simple
operation. First of all take a square piece of white blotting paper,
and double it over so as to form an angular cup. Open out this filter
paper very carefully, and having placed it in a funnel, moisten it
with a little water. Then place the funnel in the neck of the bottle,
and pour the liquid gently down the side of the paper, otherwise the
fluid is apt to burst the paper.

671. Maceration.

Maceration is another process that is frequently required to be
performed in making up medicines, and consists simply in immersing the
medicines in _cold water_ or spirits for a certain time.

672. Digestion.

Digestion resembles maceration, except that the process is assisted by
a gentle heat. The ingredients are placed in a flask, such as salad
oil is sold in, which should be fitted with a plug of tow or wood, and
have a piece of wire twisted round the neck. The flask is held by
means of the wire over the flame of a spirit lamp, or else placed in
some sand warmed in an old iron saucepan over the fire, care being
taken not to place more of the flask below the sand than the portion
occupied by the ingredients.

673. Infusion.

Infusion is one of the most frequent operations required in making up
medicines, its object being to extract the aromatic and volatile
principles of substances, that would be lost by decoction, or
digestion; and to extract the soluble from the insoluble parts of
bodies. Infusions may be made with cold water, in which case they are
weaker, but more pleasant. The general method employed consists in
slicing, bruising, or rasping the ingredients first, then placing them
in a common jug (which should be as globular as possible), and pouring
boiling water over them. Cover the jug with a cloth folded six or
eight times, but if there be a lid to the jug so much the better. When
the infusion has stood the time directed, hold a piece of _very
coarse_ linen over the spout, and pour the liquid through it into
another jug.

[TO-MORROW, POOR--OR LIFE ITSELF DENIED.]

674. Decoction.

Decoction, or boiling, is employed to extract the mucilaginous or
gummy parts of substances, their bitter, astringent, or other
qualities, and is nothing more than boiling the ingredients in a
saucepan with the lid slightly raised. Be sure never to use an iron
saucepan for astringent decoctions, such as oak-bark, galls, &c., as
they will turn the saucepan black, and spoil the decoction. The
enamelled saucepans are very useful for decoctions, but an excellent
plan is to put the ingredients into a jar and boil the jar, thus
preparing it by a water bath, as it is technically termed; or by using
a common pipkin, which answers still better. No decoction should be
allowed to boil for more than ten minutes.

675. Extracts.

Extracts are made by evaporating the liquors obtained by infusion or
decoction, but these can be bought much cheaper and better of chemists
and druggists, and so can tinctures, confections, cerates and
plasters, and syrups: but as every one is not always in the
neighbourhood of druggists, we shall give recipes for those most
generally useful, and the method of making them.

676. Precautions to be observed in Giving Medicines.

677. Sex.

Medicines for females should not be so strong as those for males,
therefore it is advisable to reduce the doses about one-third.

678. Temperament.

Persons of a phlegmatic temperament bear stimulants and purgatives
better than those of a sanguine temperament, therefore the latter
require smaller doses.

679. Habits.

Purgatives never act so well upon persons accustomed to take them as
upon those who are not, therefore it is better to change the form of
purgative from pill to potion, powder to draught, or aromatic to
saline. Purgatives should never be given when there is an irritable
state of the bowels.

680. Use of Alcohol.

Stimulants and narcotics never act so quickly upon persons accustomed
to use spirits freely as upon those who live abstemiously.

681. Climate.

The action of medicines is modified by climate and seasons. In summer,
certain medicines act more powerfully than in winter, and the same
person cannot bear the dose in July that he could in December.

682. General Health.

Persons whose general health is good bear stronger doses than the
debilitated and those who have suffered for a long time.

683. Idiosyncrasy.

By this is meant a peculiar temperament or disposition not common to
people generally. For example, some persons cannot take calomel in the
smallest dose without being salivated, or rhubarb without having
convulsions; others cannot take squills, opium, senna, &c.; and this
peculiarity is called the patient's idiosyncrasy, therefore it is
wrong to _insist_ upon their taking these medicines.

684. Forms best suited for Administration.

Fluids act quicker than solids, and powders sooner than pills.

685. Best Method of Preventing the Nauseous Taste of Medicines.

Castor oil may be taken in milk, coffee, or spirit, such as brandy;
but the best method of covering the nauseous flavour is to put a
tablespoonful of strained orange juice in a wineglass, pour the castor
oil into the centre of the juice, and then squeeze a few drops of
lemon juice upon the top of the oil. The wineglass should first be
dipped, rim downwards, into water, so that the interior may be wetted.
Cod liver oil may be taken, like castor oil, in orange juice.
Peppermint water neutralizes, to a great extent, the nauseous taste of
Epsom salts; a strong solution of extract of liquorice, that of aloes;
milk, that of cinchona bark; and cloves that of senna.

[TO-DAY, LAYS PLANS FOR MANY YEARS TO COME.]

686. An Excellent Way to Prevent the Taste of Medicines

is to have the medicine in a glass, as usual, and a tumbler of water
by the side of it; take the medicine, and retain it in the mouth,
which should be kept closed, and if drinking the water be then
commenced, the taste of the medicine is washed away. Even the
bitterness of quinine and aloes may be prevented by this means. If the
nostrils are firmly compressed by the thumb and finger of the left
hand, while taking a nauseous draught, and so retained till the mouth
has been washed out with water, the disagreeable taste of the medicine
will be almost imperceptible.

687. Giving Medicines to Persons.

Medicines should be given in such a manner that the effect of the
first dose shall not have ceased when the next dose is given,
therefore the intervals between the doses should be regulated
accordingly.

688. Doses of Medicine for Different Ages.

It must be plain to every one that children do not require such
powerful medicine as adults or old people, and therefore it is
desirable to have some fixed method of determining or regulating the
administration of doses of medicine. Now let it be supposed that the
dose for a full-grown person is one drachm, then the following
proportions will be suitable for the various ages given; keeping in
view other circumstances, such as sex, temperament, habits, climate,
state of _general health_, and idiosyncrasy.

Age. Proportion. Proportionate Dose.

7 weeks one-fifteenth or grains 4
7 months one-twelfth or grains 5
Under 2 years one-eighth or grains 7-1/2
" 3 " one-sixth or grains 10
" 4 " one-fourth or grains 15
" 7 " one-third or scruple 1
" 14 " one-half or drachm 1/2
" 20 " two-fifths or scruples 2
Above21 " the full dose or drachm 1
" 65 " The inverse gradation

689. Drugs, with their Properties and Doses.

The various drugs have been arranged according to their properties,
and the doses of each have been given. Many, however, have been
necessarily omitted from each class, because they cannot be employed
except by a medical man. The _doses_ are meant for adults.

690. Classes of Drugs.

Medicines have been divided into four grand classes

1. General stimulants;
2. Local stimulants;
3. Chemical remedies;
4. Mechanical remedies.

691. General Stimulants.

General stimulants are subdivided into two classes, diffusible and
permanent stimulants: the first comprising narcotics and
antispasmodics, and the second tonics and astringents.

692. Narcotics.

Narcotics are medicines which stupefy and diminish the activity of the
nervous system. Given in small doses, they generally act as
stimulants, but an increased dose produces a sedative effect. Under
this head are included alcohol, camphor, ether, the hop, and opium.

693. Alcohol.

Alcohol, or rectified spirit, is a very powerful stimulant, and is
never used as a remedy without being diluted to the degree called
proof spirit; and even then it is seldom used internally. It is _used
externally_ in restraining bleeding, when there is not any vessel of
importance wounded. It is also used as a lotion to burns, and is
applied by dipping a piece of lint into the spirit, and laying it over
the part. Freely diluted (one part to eighteen) with water, it forms a
useful eye-wash in the last stage of ophthalmia.

_Used internally_, it acts as a very useful stimulant when diluted and
taken moderately, increasing the general excitement, and giving energy
to the muscular fibres; hence it becomes very useful in certain cases
of debility, especially in habits disposed to create acidity; and in
the low stage of typhus fevers.

_Dose_.--It is impossible to fix anything like a dose for this remedy,
as much will depend upon the individual; but diluted with water and
sweetened with sugar, from half an ounce to two ounces may be given
three or four times a day. In cases of extreme debility, however, much
will depend upon the disease.

_Caution_.--Remember that alcohol is an irritant _poison_, and that
daily indulgence in its use originates dyspepsia, or indigestion, and
many other serious complaints. Of all kinds of spirits the best as a
tonic and stomachic is _brandy_.

[TO-MORROW, SINKS INTO THE SILENT TOMB.]

694. Camphor.

Camphor is not a very steady stimulant, as its effect is transitory;
but in large doses it acts as a narcotic, abating pain and inducing
sleep. In moderate doses it operates as a diaphoretic, diuretic,
antispasmodic, increasing the heat of the body, allaying irritation
and spasm.

It is _used externally_ as a liniment when dissolved in oil, alcohol,
or acetic acid, being employed to allay rheumatic pains; and it is
also useful as an embrocation in sprains, bruises, chilblains, and,
when combined with opium, it has been advantageously employed in
flatulent colic, and severe diarrhoea, being rubbed over the bowels.

_When reduced to a fine powder_, by the addition of a little spirit of
wine and friction, it is very useful as a local stimulant to indolent
ulcers, especially when they discharge a foul kind of matter; a pinch
is taken between the finger and thumb, and sprinkled into the ulcer,
which is then dressed as usual.

_When dissolved in oil of turpentine_, a few drops placed in a hollow
tooth and covered with jeweller's wool, or scraped lint, give almost
instant relief to toothache. _Used internally_, it is apt to excite
nausea, and even vomiting, especially when given in the solid form.

_As a stimulant_ it is of great service in all low fevers, malignant
measles, malignant sore throat, and confluent small-pox; and when
combined with opium and bark, it is extremely useful in checking the
progress of malignant ulcers, and gangrene.

_As a narcotic_ it is very useful, because it allays pain and
irritation, without increasing the pulse very much.

_When powdered and sprinkled_ upon the surface of a blister, it
prevents the cantharides acting in a peculiar and painful manner upon
the bladder.

_Combined with senna_, it increases its purgative properties; and it
is also used to correct the nausea produced by squills, and the
irritating effects of drastic purgatives and mezereon.

_Dose_, from four grains to half a scruple, repeated at short
intervals when used in small doses, and long intervals when employed
in large doses.

_Doses of the various preparations_.--Camphor mixture, from half an
ounce to three ounces; compound tincture of camphor (_paregoric
elixir_), from fifteen minims to two drachms.

_Caution_.--When given in an overdose it acts as a poison, producing
vomiting, giddiness, delirium, convulsions, and sometimes death. Opium
is the best antidote for camphor, whether in excess or taken as a
poison. _Mode of exhibition_.--It may be rubbed up with almond
emulsion, or mucilage, or the yolk of eggs, and by this means
suspended in water, or combined with chloroform as a mixture, in which
form it is a valuable stimulant in cholera and other diseases. (_See_
Mixtures, 556-564).

695. Ether.

Ether is a diffusible stimulant, narcotic and antispasmodic.

696. Sulphuric Ether

Sulphuric Ether is used _externally_ both as a stimulant and a
refrigerant. In the former case its evaporation is prevented by
covering a rag moistened with it with oiled silk, in order to relieve
headache; and in the latter case it is allowed to evaporate, and thus
produce coldness: hence it is applied over scalded surfaces by means
of rags dipped in it.

_As a local application_, it has been found to afford almost instant
relief in earache, when combined with almond oil, and dropped into the
ear.

It is used _internally_ as a stimulant and narcotic in low fevers and
cases of great exhaustion.

_Dose_, from fifteen minims to half a drachm, repeated at short
intervals, as its effects soon pass off. Give in a little camphor
julep, or water.

697. Nitric Ether

Nitric Ether is a refrigerant, diuretic, and antispasmodic, well known
as "_sweet spirit of nitre_."

_Used externally_, its evaporation relieves headache, and it is
sometimes applied to burns. It is used _internally_ to relieve nausea,
flatulence, and thirst in fevers; also as a diuretic.

_Dose_, from ten minims to one drachm. The smaller dose taken in a
little warm water or gruel is useful as a sudorific in cases of cold
and chill, to induce and promote the proper action of the skin which
has been checked. If a larger dose be taken, it acts as a diuretic and
not as a sudorific, and so fails to produce the desired effect.

[TO-DAY, HIS FOOD IS DRESSED IN DAINTY FORMS.]

698. Compound Spirit of Sulphuric Ether

Compound Spirit of Sulphuric Ether is a very useful stimulant,
narcotic, and antispasmodic.

_Used internally_ in cases of great exhaustion, attended with
irritability.

_Dose_, from half a drachm to two drachms, in camphor julep. When
combined with laudanum, it prevents the nauseating effects of the
opium, and acts more beneficially as a narcotic.

699. The Hop

The Hop is a narcotic, tonic, and diuretic; it reduces the frequency
of the pulse, and does not affect the head, like most anodynes.

_Used externally_, it acts as an anodyne and discutient, and is useful
as a fomentation for painful tumours, rheumatic pains in the joints,
and severe contusions. A pillow stuffed with hops acts as a narcotic.
When the powder is mixed with lard, it acts as an anodyne dressing in
painful ulcers.

_Dose_, of the _extract_, from five grains to one scruple; of the
_tincture_, from half a drachm to two drachms; of the _powder_, from
three! grains to one scruple; of the _infusion_, half an ounce to one
and a half ounce.

700. Opium

Opium is a stimulant, narcotic, and anodyne.

_Used externally_ it acts almost as well as when taken into the
stomach, and without affecting the head or causing nausea. Applied to
irritable ulcers in the form of tincture, it promotes their cure, and
allays pain. Cloths dipped in a strong solution, and applied over
painful bruises, tumours, or inflamed joints, allay pain. A small
piece of solid opium stuffed into a hollow tooth relieves toothache. A
weak solution of opium forms a valuable collyrium in ophthalmia. Two
drops of the wine of opium dropped into the eye acts as an excellent
stimulant in bloodshot eye; or after long-continued inflammation, it
is useful in strengthening the eye. Applied as a liniment, in
combination with ammonia and oil, or with camphorated spirit, it
relieves muscular pain. When combined with oil of turpentine, it is
useful as a liniment in spasmodic colic.

_Used internally_, it acts as a very powerful stimulant: then as a
sedative, and finally as an anodyne and narcotic, allaying pain in the
most extraordinary manner, by acting directly upon the nervous system.
In acute rheumatism it is a most excellent medicine when combined with
calomel and tartrate of antimony; but its exhibition requires the
judicious care of a medical man.

_Doses of the various preparations._--. _Confection of opium_, from
five grains to half a drachm; _extract of opium_, from one to five
grains (this is a valuable form, as it does not produce so much after
derangement of the nervous system as solid opium); _pills of soap and
opium_, from five to ten grains; _compound ipecacuanha powder_
("Dover's Powder"), from ten to fifteen grains; _compound kino
powder_, from five to fifteen grains; _wine of opium_, from ten minims
to one drachm. _Caution._--Opium is a powerful _poison_ when taken in
too large a quantity (_See_ POISONS, _pars._ 1340-1367), and thus
should be used with extreme caution. It is on this account that we
have omitted some of its preparations. The best antidote for opium is
camphor.

701. Antispasmodics.

Antispasmodics are medicines which possess the power of overcoming the
spasms of the muscles, or allaying any severe pain which is not
attended by inflammation. The class includes a great many, but the
most safe and serviceable are ammonia, assafoetida, galbanum,
valerian, bark, ether, camphor, opium, and chloroform; with the
minerals, oxide of zinc and calomel.

702. Ammonia.

Ammonia, or Sal Volatile, is an antispasmodic antacid, stimulant and
diaphoretic.

_Used externally_, combined with oil, it forms a cheap and useful
liniment, but it should be dissolved in _proof_ spirit before the oil
is added. One part of this salt, and three parts of extract of
belladonna, mixed and spread upon leather, makes an excellent plaster
for relieving rheumatic pains. As a local stimulant it is well known,
as regards its effects in hysterics, faintness, and lassitude, when
applied to the nose, as common smelling salts.

It is used _internally_ as an adjunct to infusion of gentian in
dyspepsia or indigestion, and in moderate doses in gout.

_Dose_, from five to fifteen grains. _Caution_.--Overdoses act as a
narcotic and irritant poison.

[TO-MORROW, IS HIMSELF A FEAST FOR WORMS.]

703. Bicarbonate of Ammonia

Bicarbonate of Ammonia is used internally the same as _sal volatile_.

_Dose_, from six to twelve grains. It is frequently combined with
Epsom salts.

704. Solution of Sesoquicarbonate of Ammonia,

Solution of Sesoquicarbonate of Ammonia, used the same as _sal
volatile_.

_Dose_, from half a drachm to one drachm, combined with some milky
fluid, like almond emulsion.

705. Asafoetida

Asafoetida is an antispasmodic, expectorant, excitant, and
anthelmintic.

_Used internally_, it is extremely useful in dyspepsia, flatulent
colic, hysteria, and nervous diseases; and where there are no
inflammatory symptoms, it is an excellent remedy in hooping cough and
asthma.

_Used locally_ as an enema, it is useful in flatulent colic, and
convulsions that come on through teething.

_Doses of various preparations_.--_Solid gum_, from five to ten grains
as pills; _mixture_, from half an ounce to one ounce; _tincture_, from
fifteen minims to one drachm; _ammoniated tincture_, from twenty
minims to one drachm.

_Caution_.--Never give this drug when inflammation exists.

706. Galbanum

Galbanum is stimulant, antispasmodic, expectorant, and deobstruent.

_Used externally_, it assists in dispelling tumours when spread upon
indolent leather as a plaster, and is useful in weakness of the legs
from rickets, being applied as a plaster to the loins.

_Employed internally_, it is useful in chronic or old-standing
rheumatism and hysteria.

_Doses of preparations_.--Of the _gum_, from ten to fifteen grains as
pills; _tincture_, from fifteen minims to one drachm. It may be made
into an emulsion with mucilage and water.

707. Valerian

Valerian is a powerful antispasmodic, tonic, and excitant, acting
chiefly on the nervous centres.

_Used internally_, it is employed in hysteria, nervous languors, and
spasmodic complaints generally. It is useful in low fevers.

_Doses of various preparations_.--_Powder_, from ten grains to half a
drachm, three or four times a day; _tincture_, from two to four
drachms; _ammoniated tincture_, from one to two drachms; _infusion_,
from two to three ounces, or more.

708. Peruvian Bark

Bark, or, as it is commonly called, Peruvian bark, is an
antispasmodic, tonic, astringent, and stomachic.

_Used externally_, it is an excellent detergent for foul ulcers, and
those that heal slowly.

_Used internally_, it is particularly valuable in intermittent fever
or ague, malignant measles, dysentery, diarrhoea, intermittent
rheumatism, St. Vitus's dance, indigestion, nervous affections,
malignant sore throat, and erysipelas; its use being indicated in all
cases of debility.

_Doses of its preparations_.--_Powder_, from five grains to two
drachms, mixed in wine, water, milk, syrup, or solution of liquorice;
_infusion_, from one to three ounces; _decoction_, from one to three
ounces; _tincture_ and _compound tincture_, each from one to three
drachms.

_Caution_.--If it causes oppression at the stomach, combine it with an
aromatic; if it causes vomiting, give it in wine or soda water; if it
purges, give opium; and if it constipates give rhubarb.

709. Sulphuric Ether

Sulphuric Ether is given internally as an antispasmodic in difficult
breathing and spasmodic asthma; also in hysteria, cramp of the
stomach, hiccough, locked jaw, and cholera. It is useful in checking
sea-sickness.

_Dose_, from twenty minims to one drachm.

_Caution_.--An overdose produces apoplectic symptoms.

[TO-DAY HE'S CLAD IN GAUDY, RICH ARRAY]

710. Camphor (2)

Camphor is given internally as an antispasmodic in hysteria, cramp in
the stomach, flatulent colic, and St. Vitus's dance.

_Dose_, from two to twenty grains.

711. Opium (2)

Opium is employed internally in spasmodic affections, such as cholera,
spasmodic asthma, hooping cough, flatulent colic, and St. Vitus's
dance.

_Dose_, from one-sixth of a grain to two grains of the solid opium,
according to the disease.

712. Oxide of Zinc

Oxide of Zinc is an antispasmodic, astringent, and tonic.

_Used externally_, as an ointment, it forms an excellent astringent in
affections of the eyelids, arising from relaxation; or as a powder, it
is an excellent detergent for unhealthy ulcers.

_Used internally_, it has proved efficacious in St. Vitus's dance, and
some other spasmodic affections.

_Dose_, from one to six grains twice a day.

713. Calomel

Calomel is an antispasmodic, alterative deobstruent, purgative, and
errhine.

_Used internally_, combined with opium, it acts as an antispasmodic in
locked jaw, cholera, and many other spasmodic affections. As an
alterative and deobstruent, it has been found useful in leprosy and
itch, when combined with antimonials and guaiacum, and in enlargement
of the liver and glandular affections. It acts beneficially in
dropsies, by producing watery motions. In typhus it is of great
benefit when combined with antimonials; and it may be given as a
purgative in almost any disease, provided there is not any
inflammation of the bowels, irritability of the system, or great
debility.

_Dose_, as a deobstruent and alterative, from one to five grains,
daily; as a cathartic, from five to fifteen grains; to produce
ptyalism, or salivation, from one to two grains, in a pill, with a
quarter of a grain of opium, night and morning.

_Caution_.--When taking calomel, exposure to cold or dampness should
be guarded against, as such an imprudence would bring out an eruption
of the skin, attended with fever. When this does occur, leave off the
calomel, and give bark, wine, and purgatives; take a warm bath twice a
day, and powder the surface of the body with powdered starch.

714. Tonics.

Tonics are given to improve the tone of the system, and restore the
natural energies and general strength of the body. They consist of
bark, quassia, gentian, camomile, wormwood, and angostura bark.

715. Quassia

Quassia is a simple tonic, and can be used with safety by any one, as
it does not increase the animal heat, or quicken the circulation.

_Used internally_, in the form of infusion, it has been found of great
benefit in indigestion and nervous irritability, and is useful after
bilious fevers and diarrhoea.

_Dose_, of the _infusion_, from one and a half to two ounces, three
times a day.

716. Gentian

Gentian is an excellent tonic and stomachic; but when given in large
doses, it acts as an aperient.

It is _used internally_ in all cases of general debility, and when
combined with bark is used in intermittent fevers. It has also been
employed in indigestion, and it is sometimes used, combined with sal
volatile, in that disease; but, at other times alone, in the form of
infusion. After diarrhoea, it proves a useful tonic. Its infusion is
sometimes applied _externally_ to foul ulcers.

_Dose_, of the _infusion_, one and a half to two ounces; of the
_tincture_, one to four drachms; of the _extract_, from ten to thirty
grains.

717. Camomile.

The flowers of the camomile are tonic, slightly anodyne,
antispasmodic, and emetic.

They are _used externally_ as fomentations, in colic, faceache, and
tumours, and to unhealthy ulcers.

They are _used internally_ in the form of infusion, with carbonate of
soda, ginger, and other stomachic remedies, in dyspepsia, flatulent
colic, debility following dysentery and gout. Warm infusion of the
flowers acts as an emetic; and the powdered flowers are sometimes
combined with opium or kino, and given in intermittent fevers.

_Dose_, of the _powdered_ flowers, from ten grains to one drachm,
twice or thrice a day; of the _infusion_, from one to two ounces, as a
tonic, three times a day: and from six ounces to one pint as an
emetic; of the _extract_, from five to twenty grains.

[TO-MORROW, SHROUDED FOR A BED OF CLAY.]

718. Wormwood

Wormwood is a tonic and anthelmintic.

It is _used externally_ as a discutient and antiseptic.

It is used _internally_ in long-standing cases of dyspepsia, in the
form of infusion, with or without aromatics. It has also been used in
intermittents.

_Dose_, of the _infusion_, from one to two ounces, three times a day;
of the _powder_, from one to two scruples.

719. Angostura Bark

Angostura Bark, or Cusparia, is a tonic and stimulant. It expels
flatulence, increases the appetite, and produces a grateful warmth in
the stomach.

It is _used internally_ in intermittent fevers, dyspepsia, hysteria,
and all cases of debility, where a stimulating tonic is desirable,
particularly after bilious diarrhoea.

_Dose_, of the _powder_, from ten to fifteen grains, combined with
cinnamon powder, magnesia, or rhubarb; of the _extract_, from three to
ten grains; of the _infusion_, from one to two ounces.

_Caution_.--This drug should never be given in inflammatory diseases
or hectic fever.

720. Astringents.

Astringents are medicines given for the purpose of diminishing
excessive discharges, and to act indirectly as tonics. This class
includes catechu, kino, oak bark, log wood, rose leaves, chalk, and
white vitriol.

721. Catechu

Catechu is a most valuable astringent.

It is _used externally_, when powdered, to promote the contraction of
flabby ulcers. As a local astringent it is useful in relaxed uvula, a
small piece being dissolved in the mouth; small, spotty ulcerations of
the mouth and throat, and bleeding gums, and for these two affections
it is used in the form of infusion to wash the parts.

It is _given internally_ in diarrhoea, dysentery, and hemorrhage from
the bowels.

_Dose_, of the _infusion_, from one to three ounces; of the
_tincture_, from one to four drachms; of the _powder_, from ten to
thirty grains.

_Caution_.--It must not be given with soda or any alkali; nor metallic
salts, albumen, or gelatine, as its property is destroyed by this
combination.

722. Kino

Kino is a powerful astringent.

It is _used externally_ to ulcers, to give tone to them when flabby,
and discharging foul and thin matter.

It is _used internally_ in the same diseases as catechu.

_Dose_, of the powder, from ten to fifteen grains; of the _tincture_,
from one to two drachms; of the _compound powder_, from ten to twenty
grains; of the _infusion_, from a half to one and a half ounce.

_Caution_.--Kino is used in combination with calomel, when salivation
is intended, to prevent, by its astringency, the action of the calomel
on the bowels, and thereby insure its affecting the constitution.--
(See CATECHU [para. 721]).

723. Oak Bark

Oak Bark is an astringent and tonic.

It is _used externally_ in the form of decoction, to restrain bleeding
from lacerated surfaces. As a local astringent, it is used in the
form of decoction, as a gargle in sore throat and relaxed uvula.

It is _used internally_ in the same diseases as catechu, and when
combined with aromatics and bitters, in intermittent fevers.

_Dose_ of the _powder_, from fifteen to thirty grains; of the
_decoction_, from two to eight drachms.

724. Logwood

Logwood is not a very satisfactory astringent.

It is _used internally_ in diarrhoea, the last stage of dysentery, and
a lax state of the intestines.

_Dose_, of the _extract_, from ten grains to one drachm; of the
_decoction_ from one to three ounces, three or four times a day.

725. Rose Leaves

Rose Leaves are stringent and tonic.

They are _used internally_ in spitting of blood, hemorrhage from the
stomach, intestines, &c., as a gargle for sore throat, and for the
night sweats of consumption. The infusion is frequently used as a
tonic with diluted sulphuric acid (oil of vitriol), after low fevers,
or in combination with Epsom salts and sulphuric acid in certain
states of the bowels.

_Dose_ of _infusion_, from two to four ounces.

[TO-DAY, ENJOYS HIS HALLS, BUILT TO HIS MIND.]

726. Chalk

Chalk, when prepared by washing, becomes an astringent as well as
antacid.

It is _used internally_ in diarrhoea, in the form of mixture, and
_externally_ as an application to burns, scalds, and excoriations.

_Dose_ of the _mixture_, from one to two ounces.

727. White Vitriol

White Vitriol, or Sulphate of Zinc, is an astringent, tonic, and
emetic.

It is _used externally_ as a collyrium for ophthalmia (See DOMESTIC
PHARMACOPEIA, _par. 475 et seq._), and as a detergent for scrofulous
ulcers, in the proportion of three grains of the salt to one ounce of
water.

It is _used internally_ in indigestion, and many other diseases; _but
it should not be given unless ordered by a medical man, as it is a
poison._

728. Local Stimulants.

Local stimulants comprise emetics, cathartics, diuretics,
diaphoretics, expectorants, sialogogues, errhines, and epispastics.

729. Emetics.

Emetics are medicines given for the purpose of causing vomiting, as in
cases of poisoning. They consist of ipecacuanha, camomile, antimony,
copper, zinc, and several others.

730. Ipecacuanha

Ipecacuanha is an emetic, diaphoretic, and expectorant.

It is _used internally_ to excite vomiting, in doses of from ten to
twenty grains of the powder, or one to one and a half ounce of the
infusion, every half hour until vomiting takes place. To make it act
well and easily, the patient should drink half pints of warm water
after each dose of the infusion. As a diaphoretic, it should be given
in doses of three grains, mixed with some soft substance, such as
crumbs of bread, and repeated every four hours.

_Dose_ of the _wine,_ from twenty minims to one drachm as a
diaphoretic, and from one drachm to one and a half ounces as an
emetic.

_Caution._--Do not give more than the doses named above, because,
although a safe emetic, yet it is an acrid narcotic poison.

731. Mustard

Mustard is too well known to require describing. It is an emetic,
diuretic, stimulant, and rubefacient.

It is _used externally_ as a poultice. Mustard poultices are made of
the powder, bread crumbs, and water; or of one part of mustard to two
of flour; or, especially for children, of linseed meal, mixed with a
little of the powder, or having some of the powder slightly sprinkled
on the surface. Sometimes a little vinegar is added under the idea
that it increases the strength of the poultice, but this is not
necessary. In all cases where a stimulant is required, such as sore
throats, rheumatic pains in the joints, cholera, cramps in the
extremities, diarrhoea, and many other diseases. When applied it
should not he left on too long, as it is apt to cause ulceration of
the part. From ten to thirty minutes is quite long enough.

When _used internally_ as an emetic, a large teaspoonful mixed with a
tumbler of warm water generally operates quickly and safely,
frequently when other emetics have failed. In dropsy it is sometimes
given in the form of whey, which is made by boiling half an ounce of
the bruised seeds in a pint of milk, and straining off the curd.

From three to four ounces of this is to be taken for a dose three
times a day.

732. Cathartics.

Cathartics are divided into laxatives and purgatives. Manna,
tamarinds, castor oil, sulphur, and magnesia are _laxatives;_ senna,
rhubarb, jalap, colocynth, buckthorn, aloes, cream of tartar,
scammony, calomel, Epsom salts, Glauber's salts, sulphate of potash,
and Venice turpentine are _purgatives._

733. Manna

Manna is a very gentle laxative, and therefore used for children and
delicate persons.

_Dose for children,_ from one to two drachms; and for _adults,_ from
one to two ounces, combined with rhubarb and cinnamon water.

734. Tamarinds

Tamarinds are generally laxative and refrigerant. As it is agreeable,
this medicine will generally be eaten by children when they will not
take other medicines.

_Dose,_ from half to one ounce. As a refrigerant beverage in fevers it
is extremely grateful.

[TO-MORROW, IN A COFFIN IS CONFINED.]

735. Castor Oil

Castor Oil is a most valuable medicine, as it generally operates
quickly and mildly.

It is _used externally,_ combined with citron ointment, as a topical
application in common leprosy.

It is _used internally_ as an ordinary purgative for infants, as a
laxative for adults, and in diarrhoea and dysentery. In colic it is
very useful and safe; and also after delivery.

_Dose_ for _infants,_ from forty drops to two drachms; for _adults,_
from half an ounce to one and a half ounces.

736. Sulphur.

Sublimed sulphur is laxative and diaphoretic.

It is _used externally_ in skin diseases, especially itch, both in the
form of ointment and as a vapour bath.

It is _used internally_ in hemorrhoids, combined with magnesia, as a
laxative for children, and as a diaphoretic in rheumatism.

_Dose,_ from one scruple to two drachms, mixed in milk or with
treacle. When combined with an equal proportion of cream of tartar, it
acts as a purgative.

737. Magnesia.

_Calcined magnesia_ possesses the same properties as the carbonate.

_Dose,_ from ten to thirty grains, in milk or water.

_Carbonate of magnesia_ is an antacid and laxative, and is very useful
for children when teething, and for heartburn in adults.

_Dose,_ from a half to two drachms, in water or milk.

_Fluid Magnesia_ is a useful preparation by whose use is avoided the
grittiness that is inseparable from magnesia when taken in the form of
powder.

738. Senna

Senna is a purgative, but is apt to gripe when given alone; therefore
it is combined with some aromatic, such as cloves or ginger, and the
infusion should be made with _cold_ instead of hot water. It usually
acts in about four hours, but its action should be assisted by
drinking warm fluids.

_Dose,_ of the _confection,_ commonly called _"lenitive electuary,"_
from one to three or four drachma at bedtime; of the _infusion,_ from
one to two ounces; of the _tincture,_ irom one to two drachms; of the
_syrup_ (used for children), from one drachm to one ounce.

_Caution._--Do not give senna, in any form except confection, in
hemorrhoids, and never in irritability of the intestines.

739. Rhubarb

Rhubarb is a purgative, astringent and stomachic.

It is _used externally_ in the form of powder to ulcers, to promote a
healthy action.

It is given _internally_ in diarrhoea, dyspepsia, and a debilitated
state of the bowels. Combined with a mild preparation of calomel, it
forms an excellent purgative for children.

_Dose,_ of the _infusion,_ from one to two ounces; of the _powder,_
from one scruple to half a drachm as a purgative, and from six to ten
grains as a stomachic; of the _tincture_ and _compound tincture,_ from
one to four drachms; of the _compound pill,_ from ten to twenty grains.

740. Jalap

Jalap is a powerful cathartic and hydrogogue, and is therefore apt to
gripe.

_Dose,_ of the _powder,_ from ten to thirty grains, combined with a
drop or two of aromatic oil; of the _compound powder,_ from fifteen to
forty grains; of the _tincture,_ from one to three drachms; of the
_extract,_ from ten to twenty grains. The watery extract is better
than the alcoholic.

741. Colocynth

Colocynth is a powerful drastic cathartic, and should never be given
alone, unless ordered by a medical man, as its action is too violent
for some constitutions.

_Dose,_ of the _extract,_ from five to fifteen grains; of the
_compound extract,_ from five to fifteen grains; of the _compound
colocynth pill,_ the best of all its preparations, from ten to twenty
grains.

742. Buckthorn

Buckthorn is a brisk purgative for children in the form of syrup.

_Dose_ of the _syrup,_ from one to six drachms.

743. Aloes

Aloes is a purgative and cathartic in large, and tonic in smaller
doses.

_Dose,_ of _powder,_ from two to ten grains, combined with soap,
bitter extracts, or other purgative medicines, and given in the form
of pills; of the _compound pill,_ from five to twenty grains; of the
_pill of aloes_ and _myrrh_ from five to twenty grains; of the
_tincture_, from four drachms to one ounce; of the _compound
tincture_, from one to four drachms; of the _extract_, from six to ten
grains; of the _compound decoction_, from four drachms to two ounces.

[TO-DAY, HE FLOATS ON HONOUR'S LOFTY WAVE.]

744. Cream of Tartar

Cream of Tartar is a purgative and refrigerant.

It is _used internally_ in dropsy, especially of the belly, in doses
of from one scruple to one drachm. As a refrigerant drink it is
dissolved in hot water, and sweetened with sugar, and is used in
febrile diseases, care being taken not to allow it to rest too much
upon the bowels.

_Dose_, as a _purgative_, from two to four drachms, as a _hydrogogue_,
from four to six drachms, mixed with honey or treacle.

_Caution._--Its use should be followed by tonics, especially gentian
and angostura.

745. Scammony

Scammony is a drastic purgative, generally acting quickly and
powerfully; sometimes producing nausea, and even vomiting, and being
very apt to gripe.

It is _used internally_, to produce watery evacuations in dropsy, to
remove intestinal worms, and correct the slimy motions of children.

_Dose_, of the _powder_, from five to sixteen grains, given in
liquorice water, treacle, or honey; of the _confection_, from twenty
to thirty grains.

_Caution._--Do not give it in an irritable or inflamed state of the
bowels.

746. Epsom Salts

Epsom Salts is a purgative and diuretic. This medicine generally
operates quickly, and therefore is extremely useful in acute diseases.
It is found to be beneficial in dyspepsia when combined with infusion
of gentian and a little ginger. It forms an excellent enema with olive
oil.

_Dose_, from a half to two ounces, dissolved in warm tea or water.
Infusion of roses partially covers its taste and assists its action.

_Note_, that with regard to Epsom salts, the _larger in reason_ is the
amount of water in which they are taken, the _smaller_ the dose of
salts required: thus, half an ounce properly dissolved may be made a
strong dose. The action and efficacy of Epsom salts may be greatly
increased by adding one grain of tartar emetic to a dose of salts.

747. Glauber's Salt

Glauber's Salt is a very good purgative.

_Dose_, from a half to two ounces, dissolved in warm water.

748. Sulphate of Potash

Sulphate of Potash is a cathartic and deobstruent. It is _used
internally_, combined with aloes or rhubarb, in obstructions of the
bowels, and is an excellent saline purgative in dyspepsia and
jaundice.

_Dose_, from ten grains to one drachm.

749. Venice Turpentine

Venice Turpentine is cathartic, diuretic, stimulant, and anthelmintic.

It is _used externally_ as a rubefacient, and is given _internally_ in
flatulent colic, in tapeworm, rheumatism, and other diseases.

_Dose_, as a _diuretic_, from ten grains to one drachm; as a
_cathartic_, from ten to twelve drachms; as an _anthelmintic_, from
one to two ounces every eight hours, till the worm be ejected.

750. Diuretics.

Diuretics are medicines which promote an increased secretion of urine.
They consist of nitre, acetate of potassa, squills, juniper, oil of
turpentine, and others, vegetable and mineral.

751. Nitre

Nitre is a diuretic and refrigerant.

It is _used externally_ as a detergent when dissolved in water, and as
a lotion to inflamed and painful rheumatic joints.

It is given _internally_ in doses of from ten grains to half a drachm,
or even one drachm; in spitting blood it is given in one drachm doses
with great benefit. It is beneficial in sore throat, a few grains
being allowed to dissolve in the mouth.

752. Acetate of Potassa

Acetate of Potassa is diuretic and cathartic.

It is given _internally_ as a diuretic, in combination with infusion
of quassia; in dropsy, in doses of from one scruple to one drachm,
every three or four hours.

_Dose_, as a _cathartic_, from two to three drachms.

753. Squills

Squills is diuretic and expectorant when given in small doses; and
emetic and purgative when given in large doses.

It is _used internally_ in dropsy, in combination with calomel and
opium; in asthma, with ammoniacum; in catarrh, in the form of oxymel.

_Dose_, of the _dried bulb powdered_, from one to two grains every six
hours; of the _compound pill_, from ten to fifteen grains; of the
_tincture_, from ten minims to half a drachm; of the _oxymel_, from a
half to two drachms; of the _vinegar_, from twenty minims to two
drachms.

[TO-MORROW, LEAVES HIS TITLE FOR A GRAVE.]

754. Juniper

Juniper is diuretic and stomachic.

It is given _internally_ in dropsy.

_Dose_, of the _infusion_, from two to three ounces every four hours,
of the _oil_, from one to five minims.

755. Oil of Turpentine

Oil of Turpentine is a diuretic, anthelmintic, and rubefacient.

It is _used externally_ in flatulent colic, sprinkled over flannels
dipped in hot water and wrung out dry.

It is _used internally_ in the same diseases as Venice turpentine.

_Dose_, from five minims to two drachms.

756. Diaphoretics.

Diaphoretics are medicines given to increase the secretion from the
skin by sweating. They comprise acetate of ammonia, calomel, antimony,
opium, camphor, sarsaparilla.

757. Solution of Acetate of Ammonia

Solution of Acetate of Ammonia is a most useful diaphoretic.

It is _used externally_ as a discutient, as a lotion to inflamed
milk-breasts, as an eye-wash, and a lotion in scald head.

It is given _internally_ to promote perspiration in febrile diseases,
which it does most effectually, especially when combined with camphor
mixture. This is the article so frequently met with in prescriptions,
and called spirits of mindercrus.

_Dose_, from a half to one and a half ounces every three or four hours.

758. Antimony.--_Tartar emetic_

_Tartar emetic_ is diaphoretic, emetic, expectorant, alterative, and
rubefacient.

It is _used externally_ as an irritant in white swellings and
deep-seated inflammations, in the form of an ointment.

It is given _internally_ in pleurisy, bilious fevers, and many other
diseases, but its exhibition requires the skill of a medical man, to
watch its effects.

_Dose_, from one-sixth of a grain to four grains.

_Caution_.--It is a _poison_, and therefore requires great care in
its administration.

759. Antimonial Powder

Antimonial Powder is a diaphoretic, emetic, and alterative.

It is given _internally_, in febrile diseases, to produce
determination to the skin, and is useful in rheumatism, when combined
with opium or calomel.

_Dose_, from three to ten grains every four hours, taking plenty of
warm fluids between each dose.

760. Sarsiparilla

Sarsiparilla is diaphoretic, alterative, diuretic, and tonic.

It is given _internally_ in cutaneous diseases, old-standing
rheumatism, scrofula, and debility.

_Dose_, of the _decoction_, from four to eight ounces; of the
_compound decoction_, from four to eight ounces; of the _extract_,
from five grains to one drachm.

761. Expectorants.

Expectorants are medicines given to promote the secretion from the
windpipe, &c. They consist of antimony, ipecacuanha, squills,
ammoniacum, and tolu.

762. Ammoniacum

Ammoniacum is an expectorant, antispasmodic, diuretic, and
deobstruent.

It is _used externally_ as a discutient, and is given _internally_,
with great benefit in asthma, hysteria, and chronic catarrh.

_Dose_, from ten to twenty grains.

763. Tolu

Tolu is an excellent expectorant, when there are no inflammatory
symptoms.

It is given _internally_ in asthma and chronic catarrh.

_Dose_, of the _balsam_, from five to thirty grains, combined with
mucilage and suspended in water; of the _tincture_, from a half to one
drachm; of the _syrup_, from a half to four drachms.

764. Sialogogues.

These are given to increase the flow of saliva or spittle. They
consist of ginger and calomel, pellitory of Spain, tobacco, the acids,
and some others.

765. Ginger

Ginger ia a sialogogue, carminative, and stimulant.

It is _used internally_ in flatulent colic, dyspepsia, and to prevent
the griping of medicines. When chewed, it acts as a sialogogue, and is
therefore useful in relaxed uvula.

_Dose_, from ten to twenty grains of the _powder_; of the _tincture_,
from ten minims to one drachm.

[TO-DAY, HIS BEAUTEOUS VISAGE WE EXTOL.]

766. Epispastics and Rubefacients.

These are remedies which are applied to blister and cause redness of
the surface. They consist of cantharides, ammonia, Burgundy pitch, and
mustard.

767. Cantharides, or Spanish flies

Cantharides, or Spanish flies, when used internally, are diuretic and
stimulant; and epispastic and rubefacient when applied externally.